Discover What Students Wear to School Around the World

Take a journey around the world to explore the unique school uniforms that students wear in different countries.

Cuban children proudly display their allegiance to the Communist Party with their distinctive school uniforms: maroon and white with a neckerchief in either blue or red. But only the most dedicated students receive the coveted red scarf – a symbol of their commitment to their country. 

Chinese students take school uniforms to the next level with five different uniforms for different seasons and occasions! From traditional matching outfits to modern designs tailored to each student’s tastes, these uniforms are anything but boring. 

Every child deserves the right to a primary education, and the Ghanaian government is striving to make sure this is possible. In 2010, it launched a free school uniform policy for elementary-level pupils, making sure no family had to worry about affording the required clothing. 

The vibrant culture of Sierra Leone is reflected in its school uniforms, which are notably different from those of other countries. The blue dresses, neckerchiefs and unique headwear make for a smart, unified look that resonates with school children all over the world. 

In 2003, the government of Syria decided to bring a splash of color to their school uniforms. In an effort to promote peace in the Middle East, elementary pupils now wear all blue, while intermediate students add pink to their outfits. Secondary school students have a choice of blue, pink, or grey. 

Step back in time with Bhutan’s traditional school uniform! Boys must wear a knee-length robe, known as a “gho”, complete with a handy pocket in front. Girls, on the other hand, wear ankle-length dresses comprised of a blouse and a “kira”, a piece of rectangular cloth. 

The school uniforms of Sri Lanka are a sight to behold! A predominantly white color scheme with only a hint of blue for contrast, boys wearing white trousers and girls donning strictly white items of clothing. 

Japanese school uniforms are a unique cultural phenomenon, with the girls’ sailor-style outfits being particularly iconic. Drawing inspiration from military wear from the Meiji-period, these uniforms are still in use in some schools today, while others have opted for a more Western-style look. 

The United Kingdom takes a unique approach to school uniforms, allowing individual schools to decide amongst themselves what their students should wear in the classroom. 

Dressing up for school can be a daunting task in Australia. With uniforms being mandatory in most schools, it is up to each school to decide what exactly the uniform should be. Despite the heat, most boys are not allowed to wear shorts past the age of 13. 

North Korea is a notoriously oppressive state, yet one thing that it shares with other countries is its compulsory school uniforms. Students are required to wear a plain white blouse or shirt and dark trousers or skirts, accompanied by the iconic red scarf, reflecting the color of the ruling party. 

In India, having the right uniform is essential for students. With shirts, trousers, skirts and ties forming the basis of most school uniforms, students must always be smartly presented. Those from certain religious backgrounds may also be allowed to wear turbans or veils. 

In South Africa, there are no hard and fast rules on school uniforms. With no legislation on gender-neutrality, there are often distinct differences between what boys and girls wear. Yet despite the differences, students can take comfort in the fact that their school uniform is seasonally adaptable. 

From the Mekong Delta to the North, school uniforms in Vietnam are anything but uniform! Students in most schools can be seen wearing a white shirt with dark trousers, while private schools may also include skirts, blazers and ties in their dress codes. Girls in the Mekong Delta often don the traditional áo dài, consisting of a white tunic and trousers, as everyday attire. 

A school uniform can be a barrier to education for many children in Nepal. To attend elementary school, kids must wear the correct uniform consisting of a sweater, shirt, and tie, trousers for boys, and skirts for girls. As pictured, the typical Nepalese school uniform is smart and neat. 

Since Ukraine’s independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, school uniforms have undergone drastic changes. Whereas in the past all students within the U.S.S.R. were required to wear the same uniform, nowadays it’s largely up to individual schools. 

In sunny Nigeria, where temperatures often soar, boys can opt for shorts as part of their uniform. To ensure no child is deprived of an education, initiatives have been launched to provide uniforms for those from the poorest families. 

From the traditional braces in the girls’ uniforms, to the sailor suits of kindergarten kids, Hong Kong is home to some of the most unique and stylish school uniforms in the world. As a former British colony, it’s no surprise that the uniforms in Hong Kong are often similar to those of the UK. 

Schools in the Philippines may vary in some ways, but one tradition has remained the same for many years – wearing a uniform. Usually, this consists of a white top with dark trousers or a checkered skirt for girls. To complete the look, some schools also require a blazer and neckerchief. 

Say goodbye to dull uniforms, and say hello to the uniform revolution in Uzbekistan! In 2017, the Uzbekistan government announced plans to introduce a single, cohesive uniform for the entire nation, involving both parents and experts in its design. 

Haiti is well known for its unique French-based education system. Most primary schools are privately owned and operated, and students are required to wear uniforms consisting of brightly colored short-sleeved shirts. For instance, in Terre Blanche, elementary students might wear a light blue gingham-checked top with pants or a skirt. 

School uniforms in Turkey are diverse and interesting. Middle school boys wear gray uniforms with white shirts, while girls wear white shirts and skirts. Elementary school students wear one-piece black or navy blue uniforms, though each school may have its own dress code. 

When it comes to schoolwear, Malaysian students have plenty of options! Little girls can opt for a classic look with a navy blue apron and a white shirt, or a white tunic over a skirt. Boys can choose between long or short pants, depending on the weather. 

Ensuring your child looks their best for school doesn’t have to be a challenge in this Asian country where uniforms are mandated for all students. Boys in elementary school can don khaki, black, or navy blue pants and short-sleeved shirts, ankle socks, and black or brown shoes. Girls in elementary school don baggy shirts with a bow in front and calf-length skirts – both with the child’s name embroidered on the front. 

Take a stroll through the streets of Jakarta and you’ll be amazed at the vibrant uniforms worn by the students. Elementary school students have the option of wearing either red skirts or pants, while in the first years of middle school, navy blue is a popular choice. Traditional and conservative, these uniforms are required by all schools in Indonesia.