Top 9 Most Educated Populations by University Graduation Rates

1. South Korea: A Nation Obsessed with Higher Learning

South Korea has continued to dominate global education charts, with more than 70% of young adults (aged 25-34) holding a university degree as of 2024, according to the OECD. This staggering rate is driven by the country’s intense focus on academic achievement and fierce competition for top jobs.

The government’s heavy investment in education and a culture that highly values university credentials make graduation nearly a rite of passage. In recent years, even as the population shrinks, the graduation rate remains impressively high.

Students often attend private academies, known as "hagwons," to secure their place in top universities. The outcome is a workforce known for both discipline and high skill levels.

2. Canada: Diversity and Access Fuel Success

Canada’s university graduation rate for adults aged 25-34 stood at 64% in 2024, according to Statistics Canada and the OECD. The country’s education system is lauded for its accessibility, relatively low tuition (compared to the U.S.), and multicultural approach.

With robust government funding and a focus on inclusivity, more young Canadians are earning bachelor’s degrees than ever before. Universities in Canada attract students from across the world, further boosting graduation numbers.

Recent policy changes to support Indigenous and first-generation students have made an impact. The result is a country where the majority of young adults are university graduates.

3. Japan: Tradition Meets Modern Excellence

Japan’s university graduation rate reached 63% for the 25-34 age group in 2024, as per the Ministry of Education and OECD figures. Education is deeply woven into the fabric of Japanese society, and parents often save for years to ensure their children can attend top universities.

In the last two years, the Japanese government has ramped up efforts to internationalize its universities, drawing in foreign students and faculty. This has contributed to slightly higher graduation rates and a broader skill set among graduates.

Rigorous entrance exams and a strong sense of community drive students to finish their degrees.

4. Ireland: Rapid Climb in European Rankings

Ireland has surged ahead in university graduation stats, now boasting a 61% graduation rate for young adults, according to Eurostat’s 2024 report. The government’s push to make higher education more affordable, including reduced tuition for EU citizens, has paid off.

Ireland’s tech boom and thriving pharmaceutical sector also encourage students to complete university degrees. Universities have expanded their offerings in STEM fields, and international student enrollment is at an all-time high.

Education is seen as a ticket to high-paying jobs, especially in Dublin and other urban centers.

5. United Kingdom: World-Class Universities, High Attainment

The United Kingdom’s higher education system is renowned, and its graduation rate has climbed to 59% in 2024, per the UK Higher Education Statistics Agency. The expansion of university places and flexible study options have helped more students achieve degrees.

There has been a marked increase in first-generation university students, reflecting wider access. The Russell Group universities, in particular, continue to draw applicants from around the globe.

Post-Brexit, the UK has launched new initiatives to attract international students, further boosting graduation numbers.

6. United States: Large Numbers, Growing Diversity

The United States reported a university graduation rate of 57% among 25-34-year-olds in 2024, based on U.S. Department of Education and OECD data.

Although the country is vast and diverse, graduation rates have ticked up thanks to online learning and expanded community college transfers. Initiatives aimed at increasing minority and low-income student completion have started to show results.

The sheer scale of the U.S. higher education system means millions of graduates each year.

Many states have introduced “free college” programs for community colleges, making it easier for students to complete four-year degrees.

7. Australia: International Students Drive Graduation Boom

Australia’s graduation rate rose to 56% for young adults in 2024, according to the Australian Department of Education and the OECD. The country’s universities attract a record number of international students, who now account for over a third of all university graduates.

The government’s focus on job-ready skills and practical degrees has made graduation rates climb steadily. Flexible pathways and recognition of prior learning help non-traditional students earn degrees.

Education remains one of Australia’s top exports, fueling both the economy and graduation rates.

8. Switzerland: Elite Education, High Completion

Switzerland has a university graduation rate of 55% among 25-34-year-olds, based on data from the Swiss Federal Statistical Office and the OECD for 2024. Known for its prestigious universities and well-funded research institutions, Switzerland offers both academic and vocational tracks.

The country’s focus on multilingual education and close ties to industry mean that university graduates are highly sought after. International students make up a significant portion of the student body, pushing completion rates higher.

Swiss universities consistently rank among the best in Europe for both teaching and research output.

9. Norway: Social Equality and Universal Access

Norway’s graduation rate for the 25-34 age group reached 54% in 2024, according to Statistics Norway and the OECD. The country’s tuition-free model for public universities removes a major barrier to entry.

Norway’s emphasis on lifelong learning and adult education helps keep graduation rates high, even as the population ages. Recent investments in digital learning platforms have made university education more accessible than ever.

The government’s commitment to gender equality means women now outnumber men among university graduates. Higher education is widely viewed as a public good, ensuring strong participation across all social groups.

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