Tertiary school enrollment by Country (% gross) 2024

Tertiary education, which includes universities, colleges, and vocational training institutions, is a critical factor in driving innovation, economic growth, and global competitiveness. According to the World Bank, the global School Enrollment, Tertiary (% Gross) in 2023 stood at 43%, highlighting that less than half of the world’s eligible population is currently enrolled in higher education. This figure emphasizes the disparities in access to tertiary education between different countries and regions.

The School Enrollment, Tertiary (% Gross) is defined as the total enrollment in tertiary education, regardless of age, expressed as a percentage of the population within the official age group for tertiary education. This metric can exceed 100% in countries with a high number of non-traditional students, such as older adults returning to education or international students enrolling in large numbers.

In this article, we examine global trends in tertiary education enrollment, highlighting the top 10 countries with the highest gross enrollment percentages. We also provide a full table comparing enrollment rates by country, offering insights into global access to higher education.

Top 10 Countries with the Highest Tertiary School Enrollment

1. Greece: 167%
2. Macao: 129%
3. Turkey: 128%
4. Argentina: 107%
5. Australia: 106%
6. Finland: 105%
7. South Korea: 103%
8. Hong Kong: 100%
9. Chile: 99%
10. Cyprus: 98%

Greece leads with an astonishing 167% gross enrollment ratio, driven by a robust higher education system that attracts both traditional and non-traditional students. Macao SAR, China, and Turkiye also have high rates, benefiting from government incentives and cultural emphasis on education. Argentina and Australia reflect strong participation in tertiary education, supported by accessible university systems. Finland and South Korea, known for their advanced education systems, maintain high enrollment rates due to significant investments in education. Hong Kong SAR, Chile, and Cyprus complete the list, showcasing diverse strategies to expand access to higher education.

Full Table (Source: World Bank)

Why Tertiary Education Matters

• Global Trends in Higher Education: Countries with high tertiary enrollment rates often prioritize investments in education infrastructure, scholarships, and teacher training. These nations recognize the importance of creating a highly skilled workforce capable of meeting modern challenges in technology, healthcare, and global trade.

• The Role of Non-Traditional Students: In many countries, high gross enrollment ratios are driven by non-traditional students, including working adults and international students. These groups highlight the growing importance of lifelong learning and global mobility in education systems.

The global landscape of tertiary education enrollment is dynamic and reflects a nation’s commitment to educational access and inclusivity. While countries like Greece and Macao SAR lead the pack, every nation faces unique challenges and opportunities in expanding higher education. By understanding these trends, policymakers and educators can work toward creating a more equitable and effective global education system.

Source

• School enrollment, tertiary (% gross) – World Bank