Global AveragesGlobal Averages

    Global Average School Dropout Rate

    Last updated: February 12, 2026

    8.5%

    %

    The global primary school dropout rate is approximately 8.5%, meaning nearly 60 million children leave school early. Sub-Saharan Africa has the highest rate at ~20%, while most developed nations are below 1%. Girls and children from poor families are disproportionately affected.

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    Why This Average Exists

    School dropout rates indicate educational access and equity. Each additional year of schooling increases lifetime earnings by approximately 10%.

    Factors That Affect Global Average School Dropout Rate

    • Poverty
    • Child labor
    • Distance to school
    • Gender norms
    • Conflict
    • Quality of instruction

    Methodology & Data Sources

    The data presented on this page is compiled from publicly available datasets published by international organizations including the World Bank, World Health Organization (WHO), International Labour Organization (ILO), United Nations, NASA, and national statistical agencies.

    Global averages are calculated using population-weighted or arithmetic means depending on the metric. Country-level data reflects the most recent available figures, typically from 2023–2024. Where gaps exist, the latest available data point is used.

    All figures are subject to revision as source organizations update their datasets. For the most authoritative data, we encourage consulting the original sources linked in the table above.

    Further Reading