Most educated country in the world? This is a question people often ask when comparing nations. Developed countries focus on expanding higher education and host many of the world’s leading universities. At the same time, developing and underdeveloped countries continue to focus on basic literacy and school access. The International Standard Classification of Education (ISCED) offers a structured way to answer this question by comparing education levels across countries using a common framework.
ISCED divides education into stages so that learning outcomes can be measured globally.
|
Education level |
What it includes | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Below upper secondary | Primary and middle school | Basic literacy and foundation |
| Upper secondary | High school | Prepares for jobs or college |
| Tertiary education | College, university, vocational training | Advanced knowledge and skills |
GLOBAL RISE IN HIGHER EDUCATION
Higher education has expanded rapidly over the past two decades.
According to UNESCO, the number of students in higher education increased from 100 million in 2000 to 207 million in 2014. This growth reflects the increasing demand for skilled workers.
Many countries have expanded universities, technical institutes and vocational programmes to meet this demand.
The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) ranks countries based on the percentage of adults aged 25–64 who have completed tertiary education.
| Rank | Country | Adults with tertiary education |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Canada | 63% |
| 2 | Japan | 56% |
| 3 | Ireland | 54% |
| 4 | South Korea | 53% |
| 5 | United Kingdom | 52% |
| 6 | United States | 50% |
| 7 | Australia | 50% |
| 8 | Finland | 49% |
| 9 | Norway | 48% |
| 10 | Luxembourg | 47% |
Canada ranks first due to strong college and vocational systems. Japan and South Korea have expanded higher education as part of economic growth.
YOUNGER GENERATIONS ARE MORE EDUCATED
Education levels are rising faster among younger people.
| Country | Age 55–64 | Age 25–34 |
|---|---|---|
| South Korea | 45% | 69.8% |
| Canada | 50% | 64.4% |
| Japan | 44.5% | 61.5% |
| Ireland | 39% | 58.4% |
| UK | 39.4% | 55.8% |
WHY EDUCATION LEVELS MATTER
Education affects economic growth and employment.
According to the Global Partnership for Education, higher education improves job opportunities, income levels and overall quality of life. It also supports economic development.
Countries with higher education levels often have stronger economies.
The gap between developed and developing countries
EDUCATION ACCESS REMAINS UNEVEN
Developed countries have higher college completion rates. Developing countries are still expanding access to secondary and higher education. In many underdeveloped countries, basic schooling itself remains limited.
This gap affects economic opportunities and national development.
The global data shows that education is expanding worldwide. More countries are investing in universities and skill training.
The most educated countries are those where a large share of the population completes higher education.
As economies become more dependent on skills and technology, education continues to shape the future of nations.
