The results of most internationally comparable mathematics, reading, and science exams for primary and secondary students reveal a considerable gap not only between advanced and developing countries, but also across the developing world. According to the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study, South Korea had the highest average score (590) in 2011 on the science test for secondary students, while Ghana scored the lowest (306).
教育质量的巨大差距（往往以学生在国际考试中的成绩来衡量）在国内各地和各国间显而易见。最具国际可比性的中小学生数学、阅读和科学测试结果显示不仅发达和发展中国家间、甚至就连发展中国家之间也差距显著。《国际数学和科学研究趋势》显示韩国在2011年中学科学测试中平均分最高（590），而加纳最低（306）。