gymnasieskolans

Gymnasieskolan refers to Sweden’s upper secondary education system, a three-year program for students typically aged 16 to 19 that follows the end of compulsory grundskola. It is voluntary, but remains the principal route for continuing to higher education or to skilled work. The aim is to prepare students either for university studies or for practical professions, depending on the chosen program.

The system offers national programs, divided into vocational programs (yrkesprogram) and higher education preparatory programs (högskoleförberedande). Programs are structured around mandatory courses and program-specific subjects, with students accumulating points (poäng) over the three years. A typical program totals around 900 points. In addition to program content, students study core subjects such as Swedish, English, and mathematics, though the mix varies by program.

Upon completion, students earn a gymnasieexamen (upper secondary school diploma). This diploma can confer eligibility for higher education if the student has met the required courses and points. Vocational programs may also lead to a yrkesexamen or other trade certificates, which prepare graduates for the labor market.

Governance and operation are handled by municipalities under national legislation and guidelines from Skolverket, the Swedish National Agency for Education. The gymnasieskolan system has undergone reforms aimed at improving equity, relevance to the labor market, and smoother transitions to higher education, while preserving a broad range of national programs with local flexibility.