Why is GER always higher than NER?

Why is GER always higher than NER? (a) because of no restriction of official age (b) because of not restricted education level (c) because of no restriction of official age and restricted education level (d) none of above ✅ Correct option: (a) because of no restriction of official age Explanation (200+ words) Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER) is always higher than Net Enrollment Ratio (NER) because GER includes students of all ages enrolled at a particular level, whereas NER only includes students within the official age group for that level. GER counts over-age and under-age students, which inflates the enrollment figure. In Pakistan, late school entry, grade repetition, and early enrollment are common, leading to a higher GER. NER, on the other hand, is a stricter indicator that reflects age-appropriate participation and system efficiency. For example, a primary GER of 90% and an NER of 72% indicates that many children are enrolled outside the official age group. PPSC frequently tests this conceptual difference because it is fundamental to understanding education statistics. 10 PPSC-Relevant Facts 1. GER includes all ages 2. NER age-specific indicator 3. GER ≥ NER always 4. Over-age enrollment common 5. Late entry inflates GER 6. NER shows efficiency 7. UNESCO uses both indicators 8. GER can exceed 100% 9. Conceptual MCQs common 10. Key education statistics topic