Classroom of the Elite

Classroom of the Elite (original title: Youkoso Jitsuryoku Shijou Shugi no Kyoushitsu e) is a psychological thriller anime set in the elite Tokyo Metropolitan Advanced Nurturing High School (also called Koudo Ikusei Senior High School), a government-established institution that promises nearly 100% of its graduates top universities or dream jobs.

The school operates on a brutal merit-based system: students are divided into four ranked classes—A (elite/top), B, C, and D (lowest/problem children)—and compete fiercely to climb the ranks over their three years. Classes earn "points" (equivalent to real money for spending on campus luxuries like shopping, food, etc.) based on performance, behavior, and special exams. Class A graduates get the best privileges, while lower classes fight to rise or simply survive.

The story follows Kiyotaka Ayanokōji, a seemingly average, low-key, and socially distant student placed in the bottom-tier Class 1-D. He hides exceptional intelligence, strategic thinking, and physical abilities, preferring to stay under the radar and live a "normal" school life. Things change when he gets involved with:

• Suzune Horikita: A cold, ambitious, and highly capable classmate determined to reach Class A (often believing her placement in D was a mistake).
• Kikyō Kushida: The friendly, popular "class idol" who wants to befriend everyone (but has hidden layers).

The series features mind games, betrayals, class competitions, special survival-style exams (like island challenges), and psychological manipulation as Class D tries to overcome its deficits and challenge higher classes. Ayanokōji often pulls strings from the shadows while keeping his true capabilities secret.

It's known for its tense atmosphere, strategic battles, and exploration of human nature in a cutthroat environment rather than typical school-life fluff.