Brazil's PISA 2025 Results Show Progress Amid Global Educational Declines

The 2025 Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) results reveal that Brazil continues to face challenges in education but has made notable progress in closing the gap with wealthier OECD nations.

Brazil scored 408 in reading, 377 in mathematics, and 409 in science, all below the OECD averages of 466, 469, and 486, respectively. Despite these gaps, the difference in reading performance between Brazil and developed countries has narrowed from 102 points in 2006 to 58 points in 2025. The study assessed 30,140 Brazilian 15-year-olds, chiefly from urban state schools, with an emphasis on science literacy this year. Brazil also outpaced OECD countries in recovering academically post-pandemic, regaining and surpassing previous science performance levels.

However, the math results remain a concern, with Brazil ranked 71st among 91 countries, and 72% of students failing to meet basic proficiency. Additionally, just 49% and 48% of Brazilian students reach basic proficiency in reading and science, respectively. The global context is troubling, as PISA reports a record decline in math, reading, and science scores across OECD countries, attributing part of this to increased social media and artificial intelligence use, which can both aid and hinder learning. Less than 46% of OECD students verify information credibility, underscoring a need for critical thinking skills.

The 2025 assessment also introduced a new "Learning in the Digital World" domain, with Brazil scoring 406 points compared to the OECD average of 500. Notably, 81% of Brazilian students attended schools with cell phone restrictions, a major increase from 37% in 2022, reflecting tighter digital controls.

Brazilian students exhibited strong engagement and positive attitudes toward education: 72% reported curiosity and 59% perseverance in challenges, while 84% believe they can impact the environment positively, surpassing OECD averages. Despite ongoing issues, Brazil's educational stability over the last decade is seen as a hopeful foundation for future improvements, echoed by examples from other countries who have successfully enhanced learning outcomes.

These findings highlight Brazil's gradual improvements in international assessment performance amid global educational setbacks, emphasizing the critical role of systemic reforms and digital literacy in achieving broader educational equity and success.