Financial education has always been important for consumers in helping them budget and manage their income, save and invest efficiently, and avoid becoming victims of fraud. As financial markets become increasingly sophisticated and as households assume more of the responsibility and risk for financial decisions, financial education is increasingly necessary for individuals, not only to ensure their own financial well-being but also to ensure the smooth functioning of financial markets and the economy. This book, the first major study of financial education at the international level, contributes to the development of consumer financial literacy by providing information to policymakers on effective financial education programmes. It is also intended to promote the exchange of views and the sharing of experience in the field of financial education. It analyses financial literacy surveys in member countries, highlights the economic, demographic and policy changes that make financial education increasingly important, and describes the different types of financial education programmes currently being offered in OECD countries. Finally, this book evaluates the effectiveness of financial education programmes and suggests actions policymakers can take to improve financial education and awareness.