an analysis conducted in December 2025 by Censuswide for Ygam and Gamstop revealed that university students engaging in gambling activities are facing average weekly losses exceeding £50. This amount represents a significant increase from the previous year’s average. The findings are important as they reflect ongoing trends in the student demographic’s gambling habits, underscoring both regulatory challenges and market pressures.
The survey, part of Ygam and Gamstop’s fifth annual Student Gambling Survey, engaged 2,000 students and found that 65% had participated in gambling over the past year. This is a decrease in participation from 78% in 2022. However, despite fewer students participating, those who do appear to be spending more intensely. Male students were more likely to gamble than female students, with participation rates at 75% and 55% respectively. There were also differences across ethnic groups, with 50% of Asian students and 72% of White students reporting gambling activities.
The National Lottery was identified as the most popular gambling activity, participated in by 31% of respondents. This was closely followed by online sports betting at 29%, which highlighted a notable gender disparity; 41% of male students engaged in sports betting compared to 17% of female students. Gambling frequency varied, with sports bettors participating approximately 116 days per year and online slot players about 103 days annually.
Analysis of spending patterns revealed that the average student gambler’s expenditure had nearly doubled to £50.33 per week, compared to £27.24 the previous year. The trend towards increased financial exposure among active gamblers aligns with broader data indicating heightened gambling intensity despite a general decline in participation. Notably, 23% of students reported spending over £50 per week, with male students spending more on average than their female counterparts (£64.89 compared to £30.93).
The motivations for student gambling were diverse, with the primary reason for 53% being financial gain, up from 45% in 2024. Other reasons included socializing and seeking thrills, while a minority (4%) admitted gambling due to compulsive behavior. Students primarily funded their gambling through earnings (52%), savings (37%), and student loans (21%).
A separate Nationwide survey conducted earlier this year highlighted that among UK gamblers, the top 10% of spenders averaged a monthly expenditure of approximately £745. Despite rising expenditures among students, problem gambling rates have shown a decline. Using the Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI), 18% of student gamblers were classified as problem gamblers, a reduction from 24% in 2023. Nonetheless, 30% were identified at moderate risk, and 16% at low risk, with male students and ethnic minorities reporting higher problem gambling scores.
The impact of gambling on students’ university experiences was significant, with nearly half reporting negative effects such as financial strain affecting food affordability (15%), missing social events (14%), and academic issues. Additionally, 7% of students sought hardship loans, and 6% considered deferring or dropping out due to gambling-related issues.
Fiona Palmer, CEO of Gamstop, stated that the survey highlights a concerning lack of awareness about gambling risks in the student community but commended the increased awareness of available support. Gamstop’s self-exclusion register saw a 75% rise in under-25 registrations over five years, with a notable 40% increase in the second half of 2025 alone.
Social media emerged as a significant influence on gambling behavior, cited by 34% of students, reflecting the growing exposure to gambling content via digital platforms. This trend coincided with increased spending levels and more frequent gambling among students. Encouragingly, awareness of university support services for gambling issues improved, with 58% of students aware of available resources—a rise from 53% the previous year.
The study also found that 37% of students engaged in cryptocurrency investments, with a notable gender divide (51% of men vs 25% of women). Video gaming was ubiquitous (85%), and among these gamers, 75% had purchased random chance items like loot boxes. Over half (57%) viewed these purchases as a form of gambling.
Ygam and Gamstop emphasize the financial pressures facing students, which may drive gambling as a means of financial relief. They advocate for universities to address gambling harms with the same rigor as other risky behaviors. Data from Gamcare supports this concern, with nearly 2,000 individuals seeking financial guidance for gambling-related issues in 2025, and a record number of referrals to the Money Guidance Service in early 2026.
As the situation evolves, stakeholders in the gambling industry are urged to consider the implications of these findings. The need for enhanced regulatory measures and support systems within educational institutions is increasingly apparent. The next steps will likely involve ongoing monitoring, potential policy adjustments, and efforts to bolster awareness and support frameworks for students.
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