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Pisa study 2025 Switzerland remains strong, but loses in reading and mathematics
CH🏛️ PoliticsCenter9/8/2026

Pisa study 2025 Switzerland remains strong, but loses in reading and mathematics

The 2025 PISA study results show Switzerland maintaining strong performance in 'model-based problem solving' with a score of 520, placing it at its highest level. In natural sciences, Switzerland scored 501 points, and in mathematics, it ranked among the top 10 with 499 points. However, reading scores were significantly lower at 470 points, indicating a decline compared to previous years. The study highlights that while there are no significant gender differences in science performance, disparities exist based on social background, migration status, and home language. The report also notes that Switzerland remains above the OECD average across all tested areas and is among the top 20 performing countries globally.

The Swiss education system continues to perform well internationally, particularly in science and mathematics, but shows declining trends in reading skills among 15-year-olds. According to the latest PISA 2025 study, Switzerland ranks highly in science with 501 points, placing it among the top European countries. In mathematics, the country scores 499 points, significantly above the OECD average of 463. However, reading proficiency has declined, with students scoring 470 points, just slightly above the OECD average of 461. This trend mirrors similar declines observed in many comparison countries. The PISA study evaluates the educational performance of 15-year-olds across 91 countries, focusing on competencies in science, reading, mathematics, and newly introduced areas such as model-based problem solving. In the new category of model-based problem-solving, Switzerland achieved its highest score yet at 520 points, surpassing the OECD average of 500. Only Estonia scored higher among comparison countries. These results highlight strengths in critical thinking and digital tool usage, which are increasingly vital in modern education. Despite these achievements, the study reveals persistent challenges. Since 2015, the proportion of Swiss students meeting the minimum level of competence across all domains has dropped from 73.3 percent to 65.4 percent. This decline underscores growing concerns about the overall consistency of academic performance. While the country maintains a strong position compared to neighboring nations, the downward trend in core subjects like reading and mathematics raises questions about long-term educational stability. The PISA 2025 findings were based on data collected from approximately 7,600 students across 275 schools in Switzerland. The study was conducted under the supervision of the Federal Department of Education, Research and Innovation (SBFI) and the Conference of Cantonal School Directors (EDK). Results contribute to the national education monitoring system and are integrated into the annual education report, offering insights into both strengths and weaknesses within the Swiss education system. Switzerland’s comparative standing is influenced by a carefully selected group of reference countries, including Austria, Belgium, Canada, Germany, Estonia, Finland, France, Italy, and Luxembourg. These countries share geographical, linguistic, or educational policy similarities with Switzerland, making them relevant benchmarks. Overall, the Swiss education system remains among the top-performing in the OECD, with more than half of its students achieving high levels of competency. Notably, there are disparities in student performance based on social background, migration status, and home language. While gender differences in performance are minimal, socioeconomic factors play a significant role in shaping educational outcomes. The study also highlights the increasing integration of artificial intelligence in learning processes, with over 70 percent of students using AI tools for tasks such as summarizing texts, conducting preliminary research, or drafting essays. Eighty-five percent of students consider AI a helpful learning aid, indicating early adaptation to emerging technologies. The PISA study does not recommend specific actions or policies but provides valuable data for ongoing analysis. As part of the broader educational discourse, the findings will inform discussions on improving equity and addressing skill gaps. With continued focus on digital literacy and problem-solving abilities, Switzerland aims to maintain its competitive edge while addressing the challenges posed by evolving educational demands.

How this report was made. Objective News wrote this report from 3 source articles, using AI-assisted synthesis under our methodology. It is our own text, not a copy of any single outlet. Read our methodology.

Responsible editor: Matej BašaSpotted an error? Report it

3 reports

SRF News logoSRF NewsState / PublicCenterFactual 85Objective 809/8/2026
Pisa study 2025 Switzerland remains strong, but loses in reading and mathematics

The 2025 PISA study results show Switzerland maintaining strong performance in 'model-based problem solving' with a score of 520, placing it at its highest level. In natural sciences, Switzerland scored 501 points, and in mathematics, it ranked among the top 10 with 499 points. However, reading scores were significantly lower at 470 points, indicating a decline compared to previous years. The study highlights that while there are no significant gender differences in science performance, disparities exist based on social background, migration status, and home language. The report also notes that Switzerland remains above the OECD average across all tested areas and is among the top 20 performing countries globally.

Bias read (Center): The article presents factual data from the PISA study without overtly favoring any political ideology. While it acknowledges declining performance in reading, it does not attribute this to specific political policies or parties. The focus is on statistical outcomes and educational trends rather than

Why factuality (85): This article provides detailed scores for Switzerland in science (501), mathematics (499), and reading (470), placing it in the top rankings globally and within Europe. It cites the OECD and mentions participation numbers (7600 students). These facts are consistent with the cross-source consensus an

Why objectivity (80): The article presents information objectively, citing sources like OECD and providing numerical data. It highlights areas where Switzerland excels and where it struggles, without overt bias. However, the phrasing 'deutlich schwächer fiel das Resultat beim Lesen aus' (reading performance was significa

Le Temps logoLe TempsIndependent🔒CenterFactual 75Objective 759/8/2026
In graphs PI PISA 2025: Swiss educational attainment continues to decline, but remains higher than in neighbouring countries

The article reports on the results of the PISA 2025 study conducted by the OECD, which evaluates the academic performance of 15-year-olds in science, reading, and mathematics. While Switzerland’s scores remain high compared to the OECD average, scoring 501 in science, 499 in mathematics, and 470 in reading, the article notes a continued decline in educational standards. Despite this trend, Swiss performance still outperforms neighboring countries. The piece highlights the importance of maintaining strong educational outcomes while acknowledging ongoing challenges.

Bias read (Center): The article presents factual data from the OECD PISA 2025 report without overtly criticizing or praising the Swiss education system. It acknowledges both the decline in performance and the country’s relative success compared to others, offering a balanced view without clear ideological leaning.

Why factuality (75): The French article confirms similar PISA 2025 results for Switzerland, including scores in science (501), math (499), and reading (470). It compares these to OECD averages and positions Switzerland above neighboring countries. The article also mentions the OECD's role and the frequency of the study.

Why objectivity (75): The article maintains a balanced tone, acknowledging both the strengths and relative weaknesses of Swiss education. It uses neutral language and focuses on comparative data rather than expressing personal opinion. There is no clear bias toward any particular viewpoint.

watson logowatsonIndependentCenterFactual 65Objective 709/8/2026
Where Switzerland is at the top of the PISA comparison and where skills continue to decline

The article discusses results from the PISA study focusing on the educational performance of 15-year-olds in Switzerland across various subjects. While Switzerland maintains strong positions in mathematics and natural sciences within Europe, there is a noted decline in reading proficiency compared to other countries. The study also introduces new areas such as digital media consumption and artificial intelligence usage among students. It highlights that while Swiss students perform well in math and science, their reading skills lag behind some top-performing nations like Singapore. Additionally, the use of AI by students is widespread, indicating a growing integration of technology into education.

Bias read (Center): The article presents factual data from the PISA study without overtly favoring any particular political stance. It reports on educational outcomes and trends without advocating for specific policies or political ideologies. The focus remains on presenting comparative data rather than promoting a pro

Why factuality (65): The article reports on PISA results from 2025, noting that Switzerland performs well in science but has declining reading skills. It mentions specific percentages (65.4% vs 73.3%) and references the focus on natural sciences. While these figures align with the cross-source consensus, the article lac

Why objectivity (70): The tone remains neutral, presenting both strengths and weaknesses of Swiss education. However, there is a slight emphasis on the decline in reading skills, which may subtly highlight concerns about educational quality. The article avoids strong emotional language but frames the findings as a matter

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