Germany's School System Hits 25-Year Low in International PISA Test
German 15-year-olds achieved their worst-ever scores in reading, mathematics, and science in the PISA 2025 study released September 8. One-third lack basic proficiency, and inequality between advantaged and disadvantaged students is widening.
The latest Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) results, released on September 8, reveal a stark decline in German education performance. Germany's 2025 results are the lowest ever measured by PISA in all three subjects in the country since the study began in the year 2000.
Germany's 15-year-olds scored 486 in science, 465 in reading, and 464 in mathematics in PISA 2025, the lowest results since assessments began and approximately the OECD average. Around one in three 15-year-olds did not reach the basic proficiency level in reading or mathematics, while roughly one in four fell below that level in science.
The Decline and Inequality
Performance has generally declined since 2015, with the trend particularly pronounced in mathematics. German pupils scored more than 500 PISA points in mathematics in 2015, compared with 464 in 2025. Worryingly, the correlation between young people's science skills and their families' socioeconomic status is stronger than ever before, indicating that educational inequality is intensifying.
Chancellor Friedrich Merz has called for urgent reforms, though the timing is politically difficult with major elections looming. The results echo the "PISA shock" of 2000, which prompted major education reforms then—now, policymakers face the challenge of reversing a decade-long downward spiral.
What This Means for Expats and Families
If you have school-aged children in Germany or are considering moving with children, these results underscore the importance of evaluating individual schools carefully. Quality varies significantly by state and school type. Non-EU citizens often rely on private or international schools; while state school performance is a concern, many well-resourced international schools maintain strong standards. Parents should research local school options and consider language support, as reading and language skills are central to PISA's assessment.
Sources
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