Education is a fundamental right of every child, but the structure and intensity of schooling vary significantly across the world. In different countries, students spend anywhere between 4.5 to 10 hours per day in school, with Asian nations often having the longest academic hours. While Indian students face rigorous academic schedules, the trend is not exclusive to India—many Asian countries have longer school hours, additional coaching classes, and intense academic competition.
Top Countries with the Longest School Hours
According to World Population Review data, the list of countries with the longest school hours is dominated by Asian nations. Here’s a look at the top 10 countries where students spend the most time in school:
| Rank | Country | Average School Hours (Per Day) |
| 1. | Thailand | 9.5 hours |
| 2. | Cambodia | 8.75 hours |
| 3. | Bangladesh | 8.5 hours |
| 4. | Myanmar | 8.5 hours |
| 5. | Taiwan | 8.5 hours |
| 6. | Chile | 8.33 hours |
| 7. | South Korea | 8 hours |
| 8. | Ghana | 8 hours |
| 9. | Nepal | 7.75 hours |
| 10. | Kenya | 7.5 hours |
Although India is not officially on the list, reports indicate that students in metropolitan cities spend around 7-8 hours in school, with some reaching up to 10 hours daily.
Moreover, in countries like South Korea, students also attend private tutoring centers (hagwon), often studying up to 12 hours per day. Despite government-imposed curfews, many students continue studying late into the night to prepare for competitive exams.
Why Do Asian Countries Dominate the List?
Several factors contribute to the longer school hours and intense study culture in many Asian nations:
- Intense Academic Competition
Asian countries emphasize academic excellence, with high-stakes exams determining career and educational opportunities. According to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), many Asian nations have rigorous entrance exams that shape students’ futures.
- Cultural Emphasis on Education
Education in Asia is often linked to success, stability, and family honor. Many societies believe that academic achievement determines a student’s social and professional future, leading to greater emphasis on studying.
- Education Policies Encouraging Extra Study Hours
Governments in many Asian countries support after-school tutoring programs. Examples include:
- South Korea’s “Hagwon” (private academies)
- Japan’s “Juku” (cram schools)
- Competitive University Entrance Exams
Students across Asia prepare for challenging entrance exams from an early age. Much like India’s JEE and NEET, students in China, South Korea, and Japan spend years preparing for highly competitive university admissions.
Balancing Education and Well-being
While longer study hours can contribute to academic success, they also raise concerns about mental health, stress, and the overall development of students. A balanced approach—integrating creativity, rest, and extracurricular activities—is essential for nurturing well-rounded individuals.
As countries continue striving for academic excellence, ensuring that students have adequate time to rest, play, and explore their interests is just as important as achieving high test scores.
