Women’s attainment of college- and university-level qualifications rose sharply between 2015 and 2025, widening their lead over men.
Women in Canada have made major gains in higher education over the past decade. Statistics Canada data show that 71 percent of women aged 25 to 64 had a college- or university-level degree in 2025.
The figure was 61 percent in 2015. This means the share of women with higher education qualifications increased by 10 percentage points over the decade.
Women also continued to lead men in educational attainment. In 2025, 57 percent of men aged 25 to 64 had college- or university-level qualifications, compared with 71 percent of women.
University education drives growth
University-level education made the largest contribution to the rise in women’s educational attainment, according to Statistics Canada. The increase included women earning bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees.
The growth reflects a broader change in Canada’s education system. More women are reaching higher levels of formal education and gaining qualifications that can support professional careers.
Men have also made progress during the same period. Their rate of college- or university-level educational attainment increased from 49 percent in 2015 to 57 percent in 2025.
However, the pace of growth among women has been stronger. Women were 14 percentage points ahead of men in 2025.
Overall education levels also rise
Canada has seen a wider increase in educational attainment among its working-age population. In 2025, 64 percent of people aged 25 to 64 had college- or university-level qualifications.
That figure stood at 55 percent in 2015. The increase shows that higher and college-level education has become more common across the country over the past decade.
The data also point to different education patterns between women and men. Men have shown comparatively greater interest in skills-based education and training linked to workplace needs.
What the trend means
Women’s gains in education can support employment, professional skills and economic capacity. Higher levels of education can also expand access to professional opportunities and specialised careers.
However, educational progress does not by itself ensure equality in the workplace. Equal opportunities, fair pay and stronger participation by women in science and technology remain important areas of focus.
For Bangladeshi readers, the Canadian figures offer a clear example of how women’s participation in higher education can change the wider education landscape. The latest data show that women have moved well ahead of men in college- and university-level attainment.
Statistics Canada’s 2025 figures provide the latest snapshot of this trend. Future progress will also depend on how these education gains translate into employment and workplace opportunities.
