Utdanningssystemet

Utdanningssystemet in Norway is a comprehensive and publicly funded system that aims to provide equal educational opportunities for all citizens. It is structured into several stages, beginning with barnehage (kindergarten) for children aged one to five, which is not compulsory but widely attended. Following kindergarten is grunnskole (primary and lower secondary school), which is compulsory for ten years, from ages six to sixteen. This stage is divided into barnetrinn (grades 1-7) and ungdomstrinn (grades 8-10).

After completing grunnskole, students can choose to enter videregående opplæring (upper secondary education). This is a three-year program, typically for students aged 16 to 19, offering both general academic studies (studiespesialisering) leading to university entrance and vocational training (yrkesfag) preparing students for specific trades and professions. Successful completion of videregående opplæring can lead to higher education.

Higher education in Norway is primarily offered by universities and university colleges. These institutions provide a wide range of bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees. Public higher education institutions are tuition-free for Norwegian and EU/EEA students, making higher education accessible to a broad population. The Ministry of Education and Research is responsible for the overall administration and development of the Norwegian educational system, ensuring its quality and relevance.