How much does the UK spend on education?
The UK government spent £126 billion on education in 2025-26: 9% of all government spending and 4.1% of GDP, about £1,809 for every person in the UK.
On education, 2025-26.
Of £1,360bn total government spending.
A year, across 69.5 million people.
Spending on education over the last few years
Figures are in cash terms, not adjusted for rising prices, and for the whole UK public sector. See all spending →
| Financial year | Spent | Share of GDP | Share of spending | Change on the year before |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025-26 | £125.7bn | 4.1% | 9.2% | +2.2% |
| 2024-25 | £123.0bn | 4.2% | 9.5% | +7.7% |
| 2023-24 | £114.2bn | 4.1% | 9.3% | – |
See how MPs have voted on education →
Questions people ask
How much does the UK spend on education?
£126 billion in 2025-26, which is 9% of government spending and 4.1% of GDP.
Is education spending the same across the UK?
No. Education is a devolved responsibility, so England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland each decide their own budgets.
Is this adjusted for inflation?
No. The figures are in cash terms, so a rise can partly reflect higher prices. See the inflation page for how fast prices have risen.
Sources: HM Treasury, Public Expenditure Statistical Analyses (PESA), and the ONS, 2025-26. Latest published outturn; it can be revised. Updated every night.
See also: Votes by subject · All UK government spending · Where the money comes from and goes