Maths and science:
Some developing countries score high

In addition, Thailand achieved higher scores in maths than wealthier countries such as Denmark, Germany, Spain and the United States, and performed almost as well in science. Iran, with relatively low scores, is close to Denmark in science. Six of the top 15 places in both maths and science went to students from Eastern European countries, while some wealthier industrialized countries, including France, Germany and the United States, were not in the top 20. 

The tests were given to the students as part of the Third International Mathematics and Science Study. Comparisons of factors such as class size, spending per pupil and class time spent on subjects indicate that none of these alone determines how well students perform. 

National wealth clearly does not always predict educational performance. Six countries with per capita GNPs of less than $5,000 had maths scores higher than other countries with per capita GNPs 5 times greater. 
 
 

Slovakia achieved the fourth-highest math score among countries with per capita GNP below $5,000.

Note: Countries are listed in order of combined maths and science scores. There are two UK entries, England and Scotland, and two entries for Belgium, Flanders and Wallonia.

*Study carried out prior to Hong Kong's reunification with China.
**Lativan-speaking students.

Source: Reports from the Third International Mathematics and Science Study 1994-1995, November 1996