2 – Japan
SPI Index: 64.7
Japan has a basic education that is free for everyone and nationalized. The curriculum is equal everywhere and controlled by the ministry of education. Given its focus on equal access, Japan has a really high rate, but the pressure that is put on students in order to enter top universities has lead to a meritocracy system at higher education that is not accessible to everyone. Still, Japan ranks really high due to its mandatory elementary and high school education and its rigorous curriculum.
