was wondering about the education backgrounds of those that applied and especially those that have passed the first interview; is it heavily stressed by the airline/interviewers?
I don't think so. I know of someone who made it through, and he didn't have any tertiary education qualifications. Besides, if they didn't like your academic qualifications they would not have invited you to the Initial Test or any of the subsequent stages. It's all about convincing them that your education background will help (or at least not hinder) your path towards professional flying. Hope this helps, and good luck.