International Comparisons

We have a long and successful history of delivering large-scale international assessments and benchmarking studies, which draws on our unique, multi-disciplinary expertise in assessment, evaluation, statistics, research operations and policy mapping.

International comparisons between the policies, structures, participants and beneficiaries of different education systems, when used appropriately, can offer valuable insights for anyone seeking to better understand and improve outcomes. Our rigorous and independent approach, reliable survey infrastructure, understanding of complex survey designs and secondary analysis experience ensure our findings are internationally respected.

NFER has partnered with the IEA and OECD in the design and delivery of a wide range of ground breaking international studies such as PISA, TIMSS and PIRLS. We have also published analyses and reports using international datasets to provide insights to inform and challenge policy. NFER is a founder member of IEA and AEA Europe.

We carry out international policy and system-mapping projects that support evidence-based decision making and help to put international study findings into context. For example, from 1980 to March 2020 we provided the National Unit for England, Wales and Northern Ireland in Eurydice, an information network on lifelong learning systems and policies in Europe. We also developed and managed the INCA (International Review of Curriculum and Assessment Frameworks) website and represented the UK in the Youth Wiki, Europe's online encyclopedia of national youth policies.

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Eurydice

NFER provided the Eurydice National Unit for England, Wales and Northern Ireland until March 2020. Find out more about our work on this page.

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TIMSS

TIMSS assesses the knowledge and skills of pupils aged 9-10 and 13-14 in over 60 countries and provides data about trends in mathematics and science achievement over time.

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PIRLS

NFER PIRLS is a worldwide research project that takes place every five years and looks at trends in children's reading literacy achievement over time.

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PISA

NFER is delivering PISA 2025 in Scotland on behalf of the Scottish Government.

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IELS 2018

NFER is responsible for overseeing IELS in England, on behalf of the Department for Education. NFER is a leading independent provider of education research and insights, including research in the early years.

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