How well prepared are upper secondary students to succeed in tertiary education?

The OECD’s How well prepared are upper secondary students to succeed in tertiary education? is a 2026 policy brief that examines how education systems can better support students as they move from upper secondary education into tertiary education. The brief highlights that as access to tertiary education expands across OECD countries, student success depends not only on admission but also on whether students receive strong preparation, clear pathways, and effective support before and during the transition. It focuses on challenges such as early dropout, differences in admission and assessment systems, financial incentives, uncertainty among young people, and the growing diversity of educational pathways. By emphasizing career guidance, flexible routes into tertiary education, and equitable access to support, the brief connects student preparedness to broader questions of educational equity and completion.