England Tops OECD Rankings for Overqualified Workers, Study Finds

A new report by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) highlights that nearly two in five workers in England (37%) are overqualified for their current roles, the highest rate among the 31 countries and economies surveyed.

The OECD Survey of Adult Skills, which assesses the literacy, numeracy, and problem-solving abilities of adults, found that England significantly outpaces the OECD average of 23% for overqualified workers.

Overqualification comes with notable economic and social implications. In England, overqualified workers earn 18% less on average than peers in roles that align with their educational qualifications, the report revealed.

The study defines overqualification as a worker holding qualifications above the level typically required for their job. The mismatch not only affects wages but also poses challenges for productivity and job satisfaction, the OECD said.

The findings, based on data from 160,000 adults aged 16-65 collected between 2022 and 2023, were unveiled during an event in London. Skills Minister Jacqui Smith addressed the event, emphasizing the importance of aligning skills with workforce demands to tackle this issue.

This study underscores the need for policies and initiatives that better match workers’ qualifications with job requirements, ensuring fair compensation and optimal use of talent in England’s labor market.