The performance of 15-year-old students in Germany across the areas of science, reading, and mathematics has fallen to a historical low, according to the results of the 2025 PISA study, which were presented in Berlin on Tuesday.
The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) found that Germany is currently only meeting the average standard of OECD countries. Furthermore, approximately one in five students lacks sufficient basic competencies in at least one of the three subject areas.
The relationship between students’ scientific competence and their family’s socioeconomic status has also strengthened to an unprecedented degree. This correlation reached its highest level since the PISA studies began in Germany. High competence is achieved by only 2% of students from disadvantaged socioeconomic backgrounds, compared to roughly 25% of students from privileged families.
Researchers recommend identifying needs for support early and focusing on targeted interventions for young children. Additionally, schools should be strengthened to meet their respective support demands. Samuel Greiff, an education researcher at TUM and head of the German contingent of the PISA study, noted that while the results are concerning, they do not represent a “fate.” He added that education systems are capable of changing, a reality Germany demonstrated after the PISA shock 25 years ago.
