secundaria

Secundaria, or educación secundaria, is the stage of formal education that follows primary education and precedes higher education. It is used in Spanish-speaking countries to refer to a broad set of programs whose purpose is to continue general education and prepare students for university, technical training, or entry into the workforce. The term and its structure vary by country, but secundaria is often publicly funded and may be compulsory for a period.

Typically it covers early adolescence, with students roughly between 12 and 18 years old. Some systems divide secundaria into lower secondary (educación secundaria básica) and upper secondary (bachillerato or technical tracks); others organize it as a single cycle with optional tracks. Core subjects usually include language and literature, mathematics, sciences, social studies, and physical education, with foreign languages commonly added. Many curricula offer electives or specialized tracks such as science, humanities, arts, or formación profesional (vocational training).

At the end of secundaria, students may obtain a terminal certificate or complete standardized examinations, which can lead to higher education admission or direct entry into professional training. The exact requirements and pathways depend on the country and education system.

Examples of variation exist across regions. In Spain, Educación Secundaria Obligatoria (ESO) lasts four years (approximately ages 12–16); after ESO, students may pursue Bachillerato or Formación Profesional de Grado Medio. In Mexico, secundaria generally lasts three years. In many Latin American countries, the structure includes cycles or streams that lead to university access or vocational qualifications.

Governance typically falls under national or regional authorities, with curricula and teacher qualifications defined or approved by the state. The overarching aim of secundaria is to build foundational knowledge, critical thinking, and skills for higher education or the labor market.