Singapore consistently ranks among the top performers in global math assessments such as PISA and TIMSS.
Several East Asian and European countries also show strong math achievement at school and competitive levels.
India has recently strengthened its presence on the global math stage, notably at the International Mathematical Olympiad.
Mathematics can create engineers, scientists, economists, etc., and turn them into future innovators for countries. The worldwide rankings for 2025 suggest that countries which have well-developed education systems that teach and promote problem-solving capabilities are able to use this strength as an asset in the international arena.
Singapore has been recognized globally for its superior academic achievement in a classroom environment, while India's ever-growing presence in the world of competitive mathematics illustrates the global nature of measuring and sustaining mathematical excellence.
Singapore has gained a reputation as the best country in mathematics and has consistently ranked first in almost all major global assessments. The 15-year-olds in Singapore on the PISA (Programme for International Student Assessment) scored 575, far above the OECD average, showing deep understanding of the concept and strong problem-solving skills.
Singapore was also the first to appear in the TIMSS (Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study) at the 4th and 8th grade levels, achieving the highest scores globally.
Mathematics has always been a strong point of China, particularly in international competitions. At the 2025 International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO), China ranked first with the highest team score, and its team was among the most skillful problem-solvers at the highest level of youth competition.
While Olympiads are well-known for the strength of their regions, not all Chinese regions perform exceptionally well in general assessments; in fact, PISA/TIMSS 2025 data vary significantly across regions.
South Korea has maintained its position as a top reference in academic evaluations and math competitions for quite a long time. The country was ranked third in the 2025 IMO results, indicating a considerable level of skill in advanced mathematical reasoning. South Korea has also been a consistent performer across TIMSS and PISA tests, highlighting a strong foundation across school systems.
Japan is another country that often comes to the forefront of global math rankings. Apart from the top PISA and TIMSS scores, Japanese students also placed fourth at the 2025 IMO.
The reason behind the country’s very effective and consistent mathematics education is its comprehensive curriculum and students’ continuous practice, both of which are part of the process.
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India is not among the top-ranked countries in the PISA/TIMSS assessments (it faces various systemic challenges). Still, it has remarkably improved its math skills to an international competitive level. At the International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO) 2025, India secured 7th place worldwide with three gold, two silver, and one bronze medals, its best result ever.
This is the third year in a row that India has entered the IMO top 10, indicating a substantial increase in the problem-solving skills of the country's young elite mathematicians.
Global mathematics excellence is a combination of broad educational outcomes and top-tier performance. Singapore holds the top spot in the world for basic math skills, according to PISA and TIMSS. China, South Korea, and Japan among the other East Asian countries are close behind. At the same time, India is being recognized as a mathematical power, thanks to the outstanding achievements of its participants in the International Mathematical Olympiad. It shows that Indian talent is on par with the best in the world.
1. How are countries ranked for math performance globally?
Through assessments like PISA and TIMSS, and elite competitions such as the International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO).
2. Why does Singapore consistently top global math rankings?
Because of its strong curriculum design, teacher training, and focus on conceptual problem-solving.
3. Is China the best country at math?
On the one hand, China has successfully participated in high-profile competitions such as the IMO; on the other hand, Singapore has the best overall school performance worldwide.
4. Where does India stand in the current status of global mathematics?
India's 7th position in the IMhO 2025 reflects robust development in advanced mathematical skills.
5. Do PISA and IMO measure the same math skills?
PISA, however, examines the ability to use math in real-life situations, while IMO practically assesses the skills to solve complex theoretical problems.
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