University students have unrealistic expectations about how much they are likely to earn.
A Colmar Brunton survey of 220 students found that 22% expect to be earning more than $100,000 a year by the time they are 30.
Three-quarters expect to earn at least $60,000 by that time.
However, the latest figures from Statistics New Zealand show the average wage for those with a bachelor's degree or higher was $43,000 per year.
When income from other sources such as investments and self-employment are included, the number is $57,000 per year.
Colmar Brunton says students today are ambitious - which is no surprise, considering the rising cost of education.
