The bar chart illustrates the proportion of female school-leavers entering higher education in five countries in 1980 and 2015.
Overall, it is evident that participation of women in tertiary education increased significantly in most countries over the period, with the most dramatic growth observed in South Korea and the UK. Australia, meanwhile, maintained consistently high levels, while the United States and France experienced more moderate rises.
In 1980, the highest percentage of women entering higher education was seen in Australia, at slightly above 50%, followed closely by the USA and France, both around 40-45%. The UK and South Korea lagged behind at below 40% and 20% respectively.
By 2015, figures had risen in all five countries. The UK saw the sharpest climb, reaching over 55%. South Korea more than doubled its proportion, rising from under 20% to about 40%. France also experienced steady growth, surpassing 50%. Australia continued to perform strongly, maintaining just above 55%, while the USA also recorded a modest increase to roughly the same level.
In summary, although the initial levels varied considerably, the gap among the five countries narrowed by 2015, with most nations achieving participation rates close to or above half of female school-leavers.