Primary, secondary and upper secondary school

“Education for all” is the basic principle of the Norwegian education system. According to the law every child is ensured a minimum of 13 years education, regardless of his/her social or cultural background, and possible special needs. The Norwegian government is determined to make the Norwegian education system into one of the best in the world, based on the framework of lifelong learning.

Primary and secondary system
Compulsory schooling in Norway is ten years and children start school at the age of six. Everyone between the ages of 16 and 19 has had a statutory right to three years’ upper secondary education leading either to higher education, or to vocational qualifications or partial qualifications.

Norway has a uniform upper secondary school, combining general theoretical education and vocational training and giving equal status to practical and theoretical education. General theoretical education and vocational training are offered side by side, often in the same school building. During the first year, students take one of 15 foundation courses. Specialised courses are offered in the second and third year (advanced courses I and II) and in apprenticeships.