Understanding trends and patterns in the occupational values of students serves as the foundation for establishing socially sound and sustainable occupational values. “What I like to do” and “what I’m good at” are the two major criteria for students, although they make career decisions based on various other factors. A comparison of elementary, middle, and high school students’ criteria for selecting occupations in 2018 and 2022 showed that the number of students who answered that they value financial compensation increased in the 2022 study. The number of students who said they wish to become doctors or legal professionals for financial compensation and social recognition also increased from 2018 to 2022. A wide range of policy efforts are required to help students form healthy occupational values considering the diversity of occupational values and the social responsibilities of licensed professions.