Top 10 Educated Countries in the World

Education is an investment in human capital formation and plays an important role in a country’s economic growth. A well-educated workforce is more productive, leading to increased economic output. According to the World Bank, increasing the average years of schooling by one year can increase a country’s GDP growth by 0.37%

In this article, we will look into the top 10 educated countries in the world in detail.

List of Top 10 Educated Countries in the World

The most educated countries in the world are all role models for other countries. They show that investing in education is essential for economic growth and social development. These countries are all leaders in innovation and economic development. They have strong economies, high standards of living, and low levels of poverty. They are also all democracies with strong social safety nets.

The below table lists the top 10 educated countries in the world:

Country	Education Percentage
South Korea	69.29%
Canada	66.36%
Japan	64.81%
Luxembourg	63.13%
Ireland	62.88%
Russia	62.09%
Lithuania	57.48%
United Kingdom	57.47%
Netherlands	55.60%
Norway	55.03%

Let’s learn about them in detail.

10. Norway

Education in Norway is characterized by its accessibility, high quality, and egalitarian principles. Tertiary education rate in Norway is 55.03%.

• The Norwegian government places a strong emphasis on providing free education for all, from early childhood through university level.
• This commitment to universal education has contributed majorly to the country’s high literacy rates and overall educational attainment.
• One of the key features of the Norwegian education system is its focus on equality. Regardless of socio-economic background, all Norwegian citizens have equal access to education.

9. Netherlands

The Netherlands is the ninth most educated country in the world, with 55.60% of its population having tertiary education.

• The Netherlands’ education system is divided into schools for different age groups, including: Elementary school (basic school) – Children attend this school between the ages of four and twelve, Secondary education (voortgezet onderwijs): This education is compulsory until the age of 18.
• The Netherlands’ higher education system offers 1,560 international study programs and courses, of which 1,543 are taught entirely in English. The Dutch teaching style is interactive and student-centered.
• The Netherlands is known for its well-recognized higher education quality, lower tuition fees, and cost of living compared to English-speaking countries. It also offers many scholarship opportunities.

8. United Kingdom

The United Kingdom (UK) is ranked eighth among the world’s most educated countries, with a tertiary education attainment rate of 57.47%.

• Institutions such as the University of Oxford, the University of Cambridge, and Imperial College London consistently rank among the top universities globally, attracting students and scholars from around the world.
• The UK offers a comprehensive educational structure that spans from early childhood education to higher education and beyond.
• The primary and secondary education systems aim to provide students with a strong foundation in core subjects while encouraging critical thinking and creativity.
• Also, initiatives such as the National Curriculum and standardized assessments ensure educational standards are maintained across the country.

7. Lithuania

Lithuania is one of the most educated countries in the world, with 57.48% of its population having a tertiary education. Lithuania’s education system is free and compulsory for children between the ages of 6 or 7 and 16.

• Lithuania’s education system includes:
  • Secondary education: Children attend secondary schools, gymnasiums, and vocational schools for two years.
  • Vocational training: Children can start vocational training at age 14.
  • Special education: Children with special needs can receive free assistance from specialists.
  • Adult education: People over 18 can continue their education in general education schools and centers for adults.
• Lithuania also offers excellent academic institutions, innovative facilities, and more than 350 English-taught study programs for international students.
• Education in Lithuania is highly valued and is considered a top priority for both the government and the society at large.

6. Russia

Russia is ranked sixth in the world for education, with 62.09% of its population having tertiary qualifications. Russia has a strong tradition of literacy and education, and its education system is multi-lingual.

• Russian schools and universities place major focus on core subjects such as mathematics, science, literature, and the arts, aiming to build well-rounded individuals with a deep understanding of various disciplines.
• Higher education in Russia is highly regarded both domestically and internationally. The country is home to some of the world’s leading universities, known for their strong academic programs and research contributions.
• In addition to its focus on traditional academic disciplines, Russia also places a strong emphasis on technical and vocational education.

5. Ireland

Ireland is the 5th most educated country in the world, with tertiary education rate of 62.88%.

• There are a number of factors that have contributed to Ireland’s high level of education. One is the country’s strong economy. Ireland has a prosperous economy, which has allowed the government to invest heavily in education.
• Another factor is the country’s commitment to education. The Irish government has a long history of supporting education, and it has made education a top priority.
• Ireland’s education system is also very well-developed. The country has several schools and universities, and the quality of education is very high. Irish universities are ranked among the best in the world, and they attract students from all over the globe.

4. Luxembourg

Luxembourg is the fourth most educated country in the world, with 63.12% of its population having tertiary education.

• Luxembourg’s education system is multilingual and includes fundamental, secondary, and higher education. Most schools are run by the state and are free, and attending school is mandatory from ages 4 to 16.
• Luxembourg’s investment in education and youth includes:
  • Free public schooling: All children, including those from immigrant families, have access to free public schooling from elementary school to university.
  • Financial support: The Luxembourg government finances education for its population.
  • Opportunities: Luxembourg invests in its youth and education to give them every opportunity to integrate into society.
• Luxembourg’s tertiary education prowess is also highlighted in the Global Talent Competitiveness Index, where it is ranked 11th in the world for global knowledge skills. Luxembourg is also ranked first in the world for tertiary education spending, with a perfect score of 100%.

3. Japan

Japan is one of the most literate and technically advanced countries in the world. In 2023, Japan’s tertiary education rate was 64%.

• 65% of Japanese people aged 25 to 34 have some form of tertiary education qualification. 34.2% of the Japanese population aged 25 to 64 have a bachelor’s degree.
• Japan also has a literacy rate of 52.7%. Most Japanese citizens can read and write subjects like math and science. Japan also has a long history of valuing education and lifelong learning.
• One of the defining features of Japanese education is its emphasis on discipline, hard work, and dedication to learning.
• At the primary and secondary levels, education in Japan is compulsory and provided free of charge to all children. The curriculum emphasizes not only academic subjects but also moral and ethical values, instilling in students a strong sense of responsibility and respect for others.

2. Canada

Canada is the second most educated country in the world, with a tertiary education attainment rate of 66.36%.

• Canada is known for its universities and educational system, and is known for providing accessible education. Canada’s education system is considered high-quality and provides a lot of education for people between the ages of 5 and 19 at a relatively low cost.
• Canada’s graduation numbers are also better than the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) average. In 2021, about 94% of adults in Canada had at least a high school education.
• Education in Canada is primarily the responsibility of individual provinces and territories, resulting in a diverse and decentralized education system.

1. South Korea

South Korea is one of the most educated countries in the world. In 2022, almost 70% of its population aged between 25 and 34 had attained tertiary education, which is the highest percentage of tertiary education graduates among OECD countries.

• South Korea is also known for its high standards of education, which has come to be called “education fever”.
• The South Korean education system is very competitive, and students are expected to work hard from a young age. The school day is long, and there is a lot of pressure to succeed.
• However, the system also produces very high-quality results. South Korean students consistently perform well in international tests, such as the PISA test.

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FAQs on Top 10 Educated Countries in the World

What criteria are used to determine the most educated countries?

Criteria often include factors such as literacy rates, educational attainment levels, enrollment in higher education, and investment in education.

Why is education important for a country’s development?

Education is essential for encouraging innovation, driving economic growth, reducing poverty, and promoting social mobility within a society.

How does a country’s education system impact its global competitiveness?

A strong education system produces a skilled workforce, promotes innovation, and enhances a country’s ability to compete in the global economy.

What are some common characteristics shared by the top 10 most educated countries?

Common characteristics include accessible and high-quality education systems, a focus on lifelong learning, and a commitment to innovation and research.

What steps can other countries take to improve their education systems?

Other countries can invest in teacher training, curriculum development, infrastructure, and access to education, while also prioritizing equity and inclusivity in their educational policies.