Repeatedly, in education, American learners end up performing in the middle or lower tiers compared to other developed nations in mathematics and science. Findings from the Program for International Student Assessment (PISA), conducted by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), consistently indicate that U.S. students trail many of their global peers in key academic benchmarks.
The US education system remains unchanged. Many public and private institutions continue to operate under outdated schedules and structures inherited from an agrarian era. Today’s system, marked by mechanised and rigid routines, produces graduates who often feel directionless and inadequately equipped.
Yet repeating the problem does not solve it. The entire educational pipeline—spanning from early grades to doctoral studies—requires a complete overhaul. It will take more than well-meaning celebrity initiatives to achieve such a sweeping transformation.
Many Americans are familiar with the stereotype of East Asian diligence: the relentless studying, repetition, and narrow focus. Countries such as China, Singapore, and Japan frequently dominate global rankings in math and science. Some commentators argue that this intense approach is what the U.S. should emulate—work longer, study harder, sacrifice more. The data shows these nations outperforming the U.S., but there may be healthier alternatives.
Finland often emerges as a compelling model. Over the years, it has implemented practical, thoughtful reforms that have dramatically reshaped its education system. Finnish students now surpass their American counterparts and are steadily catching up with leading East Asian nations.
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Do Finnish students exhaust themselves under harsh routines? No. Do they stress over government-imposed standardised exams? Absolutely not. Finland excels because it applies straightforward strategies and fosters a holistic, equity-driven learning culture. Below are ten reasons Finland’s system continues to outperform the United States and much of the world.
No standardised testing
The U.S. relies heavily on standardised tests—bubble sheets, uniform questions, and scantron scoring—to gauge mastery. This often reduces learning to test preparation, with students cramming and teachers teaching solely for exam success. Genuine education becomes secondary.
Finland, on the other hand, does not use standardised tests. Their only national exam—the National Matriculation Exam—is voluntary and taken at the end of upper-secondary school. All other assessments are personalised and designed by each child’s teacher. The Ministry of Education carries out broader monitoring through sample-based evaluations.
Accountability for teachers (not externally enforced)
Teachers often receive criticism in the U.S., sometimes fairly. But Finland sets such a high professional standard that external accountability systems become unnecessary. Pasi Sahlberg, director within the Finnish Ministry of Education and author of Finnish Lessons: What Can the World Learn from Educational Change in Finland?, explains:
“There’s no word for accountability in Finnish… Accountability is something that is left when responsibility has been subtracted.” — Pasi Sahlberg.
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Every teacher must earn a master’s degree before joining the profession, and teaching programs are among the most selective in the nation. If a teacher struggles, it is the principal’s immediate responsibility—not that of bureaucratic oversight panels—to intervene.
The traditional mentor–apprentice relationship between teacher and student cannot be captured through standardised evaluations.
Co-operation, not competition
While the U.S. views education as a competitive arena, Finland embraces collaboration. Sahlberg cites writer Samuli Paronen:
“Real winners do not compete.” — Samuli Paronen.
This philosophy has propelled Finland to the top of global rankings. There are no merit lists, no ranked schools, and no competition-driven environments. Co-operation is the foundation.
Prioritising the basics
In the race to boost math and science scores, many education systems forget what makes a thriving, well-balanced student. Finland once faced serious challenges as well. Its reforms, however, focused on core values rather than test performance—creating a more equitable and humane environment.
Since the 1980s, Finnish education has emphasised essentials such as:
- Using schools to reduce social inequality.
Starting school later
Finnish children begin formal schooling at age seven. Their early years are protected from rigid academic expectations. Only nine years of education are mandatory, ending at age sixteen.
Psychologically, this reduces pressure. Many children globally feel trapped in school routines; Finland avoids this by allowing more freedom and readiness before intensifying formal education.
Multiple pathways beyond traditional college
In the U.S., the conventional K-12-to-college pipeline often leaves students directionless or burdened with debt. Many do not need a university degree but lack viable alternatives.
Finland resolves this by offering respected and practical choices:
- Upper Secondary School: a three-year program leading to the Matriculation Test and potential university entry.
- Vocational Education: another three-year track offering career training, with the option to take the Matriculation Test later.
Both paths are valued equally.
Later school start times and lighter schedules
Early mornings, long days, and packed extracurriculars drain American students. Finnish schools typically begin between 9:00 and 9:45 AM, supported by research showing early start times harm health and learning. School often ends around 2:00–2:45 PM, with extended breaks and longer class blocks designed for deeper, calmer learning.
Long-term teacher-student relationships
With smaller class sizes, Finnish students often remain with the same teacher for up to six years. These long-term relationships build trust, foster mentorship, and provide a strong understanding of each learner’s needs.
Teachers can tailor instruction because they truly know each child—no constant handovers or annual resets.
Relaxed and supportive school environments
In Finland, students typically have just a few classes per day and multiple opportunities to rest, eat, play, and decompress. Short breaks—15 to 20 minutes—are built into the schedule to allow movement and fresh air.
Teachers also benefit from dedicated lounge spaces where they can prepare, relax, and connect with colleagues, recognising that teacher well-being directly influences student success.
Minimal homework
OECD data shows Finnish students receive the least homework globally. They average about 30 minutes per night and rarely use tutors—yet still outperform students in high-pressure systems.
By completing most of their work in school, Finnish learners avoid the stress and burnout tied to excessive academic expectations, allowing them to focus on genuine understanding and personal growth.
By Joseph Mambili
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