gymnasie

Gymnasie is the term used in Sweden for the upper secondary education that follows compulsory schooling. It typically covers three years and is designed for students aged roughly 16 to 19. The gymnasie comprises a range of programs, divided into general (academic) and vocational tracks. General programs prepare students for higher education and focus on core subjects such as languages, mathematics, sciences, and social studies, while vocational programs combine classroom study with practical training in an industry, often including apprenticeship components. Students choose a specific gymnasieprogram, which determines their curriculum and the courses required to graduate.

Completion of a gymnasie program leads to a gymnasieexamen (gymnasium diploma) or a slutbetyg for those who meet the requirements. Most general programs grant eligibility to apply for higher education, while vocational programs may require additional qualifications or supplementary courses to enable university access. The exact entrance requirements are defined by Skolverket (the Swedish National Agency for Education) and higher education institutions.

Gymnasieskolor are publicly funded in Sweden and offered by both municipal and independent schools. The national framework sets the programs and standards, while schools have some flexibility in course options and local profiles within those guidelines.

The concept originated in the history of Swedish secondary education and has been adapted through reforms in the 20th and 21st centuries. In other Nordic countries, similar upper secondary structures exist under local terms comparable to gymnasie, reflecting a shared aim of preparing youth for higher education and skilled work.