France Hits Record Low in PISA 2025 With Steep Decline in Student Performance

The 2025 PISA assessment results reveal an unprecedented decline in French students’ academic performance, marking the lowest scores recorded in over 20 years. France ranks 34th in mathematics and 28th in reading comprehension, with significant setbacks in sciences, mathematics, and reading comprehension that have alarmed education experts and policymakers alike.

According to reports, French students have seen a decline of 43 points in sciences and 35 points in mathematics over the past decade, with current scores reflecting levels not seen since 2000. This decline is mirrored internationally, with comparable countries experiencing similar downturns, indicating a global trend. The OECD notes a persistent drop in students’ reading and comprehension skills worldwide, attributed in part to increasing distractions from screens, social media, and reliance on AI tools like ChatGPT, which may detract from traditional learning engagement.

Several factors contribute to this alarming situation in France: attitudes toward learning have shifted, the COVID-19 pandemic’s long-term educational impact remains significant, and parental disengagement has intensified. Social and gender inequalities in the French education system also persist, exacerbating educational challenges.

In response, candidates for the upcoming presidential election have proposed diverse reforms including a 20% salary increase for teachers, reducing class sizes to under 20 students, reinstating a sixth-grade entrance exam, and revamping school infrastructure. However, experts caution against abrupt or contradictory reforms, advocating instead for evidence-based strategies. The Council of Economic Analysis recommends adopting a long-term plan with clear objectives, scientifically validated teaching methods, improved teacher training, individualized support, regular assessment, and targeted tutoring programs.

France’s experience offers hope, as other nations such as the UK have demonstrated that PISA rankings can improve with sustained, carefully designed interventions. As the nation confronts the urgency of this decline, education stakeholders stress that meaningful and cohesive reforms will be essential to reverse the trend and enhance student learning outcomes.