Italy school dropout rate hits 8.2%, meeting EU target early

Italy has reached a significant educational milestone, with the national school dropout rate falling to 8.2% in 2025. This figure meets the European Union's target of 9% five years ahead of the 2030 deadline. However, significant regional and social disparities persist.

In Bari, the dropout rate stands at 13.8%, with extreme concentrations in specific neighborhoods. The San Nicola district reports a 26.6% dropout rate, closely linked to high levels of economic hardship. Other areas with high rates include San Paolo (22.2%) and Libertà (22%). Among foreign populations in Bari, the dropout rate averages 60%, reaching 100% in San Nicola.

While early school leaving is decreasing, “implicit dispersion”—where students graduate without minimum required competencies—is rising, particularly in Southern Italy and the islands, reaching 12.5%. Challenges in the South include a lack of school cafeterias, which limits full-time schooling opportunities, and lower teacher salaries compared to OECD averages. Despite these issues, some regions like Campania are showing improved results compared to others like Tuscany.