International Standard Classification of Education ISCED 2011

Abstract

The ISCED 2011 classification was adopted by the UNESCO General Conference at its 36th session in November 2011. Initially developed by UNESCO in the 1970s, and first revised in 1997, the ISCED classification serves as an instrument to compile and present education statistics both nationally and internationally. The framework is occasionally updated in order to better capture new developments in education systems worldwide. ISCED 2011 includes improved definitions for types of education and clarifies their application to ISCED. Categories have been added to the classification of levels in recognition of the expansion of early childhood education and restructuring of tertiary education. New features also include: i) the introduction of educational qualifications as a related statistical unit alongside the education programme; ii) three-digit coding schemes for the levels of education programmes and educational attainment; iii) a section on ISCED governance; and iv) an expanded glossary.