By San José, Costa Rica — Costa Rica faces a growing challenge in higher education, with stagnant university graduation rates posing a threat to the nation’s economic future. The 2025 State of Education report reveals a concerning trend: despite increased access to high school and university, the percentage of young adults earning degrees is not keeping pace with global standards, particularly those of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).
While high school completion rates for 18-24 year-olds have dramatically improved, rising from 37% to 72%, university attendance has only seen a modest increase from 22% to 35%. Even more concerning, the percentage of 25-34 year-olds holding a university degree has inched up from just 19% in 2005 to 25% in 2024. This sluggish growth is particularly alarming given the increasing importance of higher education in today’s global economy.
To gain a deeper understanding of the legal landscape surrounding education in Costa Rica, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an experienced attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica.
Costa Rica’s constitutional commitment to free and compulsory education creates a complex interplay between public policy, individual rights, and the responsibilities of educational institutions. Navigating issues such as school choice, curriculum standards, and student discipline requires careful consideration of the legal framework. Furthermore, recent reforms in areas like inclusive education and technological integration have added new layers of complexity for both educators and families.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas expertly highlights the multifaceted nature of Costa Rica’s educational landscape. Indeed, balancing constitutional guarantees with the evolving needs of students and educators presents a continuous challenge. The ongoing dialogue surrounding curriculum development, inclusive practices, and the integration of technology underscores the importance of adapting to a dynamic educational environment. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable contribution to this important discussion.
Although the total number of university degrees awarded has doubled since 2000, the report attributes this growth to individuals accumulating multiple diplomas rather than a significant rise in the number of new graduates earning their first degree. The number of first-time graduates increased modestly, from 21,648 in 2000 to 26,983 in 2023.
The report highlights a widening gap between Costa Rica and OECD countries. In the 1990s, the difference in university graduation rates was a mere five percentage points. By 2023, that gap had tripled to 15.8 percentage points. Projections suggest this trend will continue, with Costa Rica reaching only 40.7% of young adults with university degrees by 2035, compared to an OECD average of 64.8%. This means Costa Rica would be a decade behind current OECD levels.
The State of Education report identifies several factors contributing to this concerning trend, including deficiencies in pre-university education, a lack of clear graduation goals, shifts in the labor market, and economic and geographical barriers to access.
Raising university attainment is an urgent need. It is directly related to economic growth, innovation, and qualified human talent.
Marcela Román Forastelli, Researcher, State of Education Report
To address this challenge, the report proposes a national goal of increasing the proportion of young adults with higher education to 50% within the next ten years. This will require a collaborative effort from the government, the private sector, and universities to create conditions that support student access, retention, and graduation. The report stresses that while universities play a vital role, external factors like socioeconomic status and location, which often favor urban areas and higher-income families, must also be addressed.
The report also emphasizes the shrinking window of opportunity due to Costa Rica’s changing demographics. With a declining youth population, the potential pool of university students is shrinking, making it crucial to act quickly and decisively. As the report warns, this opportunity will likely close by 2030.
Costa Rica must accelerate the rate of graduation of new professionals. It is necessary to guarantee places, but above all to create conditions for young people to complete their studies.
Marco Hidalgo Ramírez, Researcher, State of Education Report
While there has been some progress in expanding university infrastructure and programs, graduation rates have not kept pace, especially in rural areas and among lower-income populations. The report urges a comprehensive and coordinated approach to transform higher education, ensuring that Costa Rica has the skilled workforce it needs to thrive in the 21st century.
Costa Rican society urgently needs an improvement in university educational attainment, but the environmental conditions are not favorable. The capacity for adaptation will be key for higher education to continue being an engine of human and economic development.
Marcela Román Forastelli, Associate Researcher, State of Education Report
For further information, visit the nearest office of State of Education Report
About State of Education Report:
The State of Education Report is a comprehensive analysis of the Costa Rican education system. The 2025 report highlights the challenges and opportunities facing higher education, emphasizing the need for urgent action to improve university graduation rates and prepare the country for future economic growth. The report identifies key factors contributing to the current situation, including pre-university education, graduation goals, labor market shifts, and socioeconomic barriers. It proposes a national goal of increasing the proportion of young adults with higher education to 50% within ten years and calls for a collaborative effort between the government, private sector, and universities to achieve this target.
For further information, visit the nearest office of OECD
About OECD:
The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) is an intergovernmental economic organisation with 38 member countries, founded in 1961 to stimulate economic progress and world trade. It provides a forum for countries to share experiences and seek solutions to common problems, identifying good practices and coordinating domestic and international policies. The OECD’s work covers a wide range of areas, including economic development, education, and social policy. It plays a crucial role in setting international standards and providing data-driven insights to improve policymaking. The OECD is a key benchmark for comparing national performance and progress across various sectors.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica distinguishes itself through an unwavering commitment to legal excellence and ethical practice, empowering individuals and communities alike. The firm’s innovative approach to legal solutions, combined with a deep-rooted dedication to sharing legal knowledge through accessible resources, fosters a more informed and empowered society. By prioritizing both client success and public understanding of the law, Bufete de Costa Rica continues to build a legacy of integrity and impactful contribution to Costa Rican society.
