Education is universally acknowledged as fundamental to a country’s development, enabling citizens to acquire the knowledge, skills, and capabilities needed to bolster economies, spur innovation, and engage actively in democratic processes.
As a multifaceted and indispensable driver of progress and prosperity, education fuels economic growth, mitigates poverty, and enhances human capital, among other critical benefits.
According to the latest report from Best Diplomats, here are the ten most-educated countries in 2024:
1. South Korea
South Korea leads globally in education with an impressive literacy rate of 97.9% in 2024. Known for its rigorous “education fever,” the country boasts the highest percentage of higher education graduates among OECD nations, with about 70% of 25 to 34-year-olds having completed college.
2. Canada
Canada secures the second spot as one of the world’s most educated countries, achieving a tertiary education attainment rate of 66.36%. Renowned for its accessible and high-quality education system, Canada offers comprehensive learning opportunities from primary through secondary education at reasonable costs, significantly boosting tertiary education rates and enhancing overall literacy levels.
3. Japan
Japan ranks third globally in education for 2024, boasting a tertiary education rate of 64%. With 65% of 25 to 34-year-olds holding tertiary qualifications and 34.2% of 25 to 64-year-olds possessing bachelor’s degrees, Japan stands out for its commitment to educational excellence and innovation in lifelong learning.
4. Luxembourg
Luxembourg claims the fourth spot globally with 63.12% of its population having completed postsecondary education. Its multilingual education system, spanning fundamental to higher education, ensures inclusivity and accessibility with state-run and free schooling from ages 4 to 16, underpinned by government initiatives supporting societal development.
5. Ireland
Ireland ranks fifth globally with a tertiary education rate of 62.88%, underscoring its robust economy and substantial investments in education. Renowned for its diverse and high-quality education system, Irish universities attract international students, contributing to Ireland’s reputation as a global education leader.
6. United Kingdom
The United Kingdom secures its place among the most educated nations with a stellar literacy rate of 99% and a tertiary education attainment rate of 57.47%. Focused on fostering critical thinking and creativity, UK institutions like Oxford and Cambridge play a pivotal role in shaping a highly skilled population.
7. Lithuania
Lithuania is recognized globally for its education system, boasting a tertiary education rate of 57.48%. The country emphasizes accessibility and compulsory education from ages 6 or 7 to 16, with vocational training and adult education programs enhancing knowledge acquisition and intellectual growth.
8. Netherlands
The Netherlands ranks ninth globally with a tertiary education rate of 55.60%. Known for its inclusive educational practices and high-quality higher education taught in English, the Netherlands empowers individuals to excel in a competitive global landscape.
9. Norway
Norway’s education system, pivotal to its high literacy rate of 100%, ranks among the world’s most literate nations with a tertiary education rate of 55.03%. The government’s commitment to free education fosters high educational attainment across diverse socio-economic backgrounds.
10. Australia
Australia rounds out the top 10 as a highly educated country, emphasizing quality education and workforce development. With a 99% literacy rate and a tertiary education rate of 54% among young adults, Australia’s educational system prepares students for global success in various disciplines.