General Education
The general education programme consists of primary, lower-secondary education, and upper-secondary education. General education begins at the age of 7, or in some cases, at the age of 6.
The primary education programme lasts for 4 years (grades 1-4), followed by the 6-year lower-secondary education programme (grades 5-10), which is mandatory until the age of 16 (usually until grade 10). Upper-secondary education lasts an additional 2 years (gymnasium grades III-IV).
How to submit an application for admission to educational programmes?
Currently, the Centralised Information System for Admission to Educational Programmes (CPIS) is in development and testing phase. Therefore, the CPIS information system is not yet available for public use.
Planned CPIS roll-out date: 2026
If you wish to submit an application for admission to educational programmes, you shall follow the instructions provided by the administration of your city or district municipality.
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Relevant data of 2022-2023
121 495
Primary school pupils
177 695
Secondary school (lower-secondary) pupils
45 230
Secondary school (upper-secondary) pupils
What is CPIS?
CPIS is a Centralised Information System for Admission to Education Programmes that ensures equal opportunities for everyone to access effective admission to education programmes services tailored to individual needs. The admission services follow a one-stop shop principle.
For whom CPIS is intended?
CPIS is intended for education participants at all levels – students (14 years old and older), education providers, municipal administrations and other related institutions.
What purpose does CPIS serve?
The CPIS information system covers all stages of admission to educational programmes—from submitting an application to signing a study contract.
Who determines the admission procedures for schools?
The admission procedures for state and municipal general education schools are determined by the municipal councils or the Ministry of Education, Science, and Sport. Private schools set their own admission conditions.