National education system (in 1998)

After one year of school preparation, which is compulsory, children completing at least 6 years and 6 months (exceptionally at least 6 years) in June of their school entering year start with basic education in primary school in autumn that year. It lasts 8 years and is divided into 2 stages: the first 4-year class stage and the next 4-year subject stage. A successful completion of the 8-year elementary school enables pupils to proceed to the secondary school of their choice.

Vocationally oriented secondary schools provide various kinds of vocational and technical education. They usually end with a final examination. There are 2-year lower vocational schools for pupils who completed at least 6 years of compulsory education. Students who completed up to 3-year secondary vocational schools can enter the labour market or proceed with their studies within the secondary technical stream in the so called (3)+2 programme, which guarantees the same final qualification as the programmes of 4-year (exceptionally 5-year) secondary technical schools. These programmes enable a choice between the matura and the final exam, depending on whether students would like to enter the labour market or continue their education at post-secondary vocational or professional colleges at the higher education level.

The general streamline of secondary education is offered by 4-year gimnazije ending by external matura exams, which provide access to university programmes.

Two gimnazije offer the International Baccalaureate programme.

Post-secondary vocational education represents the highest level of vocational education in the Republic of Slovenia. It is separated from higher education. Post-secondary vocational programmes have been provided by post-secondary vocational colleges since 1996-97. The admission requirements are: either a matura certificate or a final examination certificate of a 4-year secondary technical school or a completed 3-year vocational programme, 3 years of work experience and a successfully completed special exam. After the completion of the study programmes, which are markedly practically oriented, students are awarded a diploma stating the name of the programme and the title of the vocational qualification. A post-secondary vocational diploma enables students to start work in specific occupations.

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