Аннотация: The article reveals the main stages of the development of the Russian education system based on the perception of the value of higher education. The differences in the assessment of the value of higher education among young people and the older generation, urban and rural youth in the period from the 90s and taking into account modern times are described. The preferences of young people about the degree and state of satisfaction with the quality of educational services, and value orientations in their employment are determined.