Educational System in Slovakia

Relocating to a new country can be a daunting experience, especially when it comes to understanding the educational system for your children. Slovakia, a central European country known for its rich history and beautiful landscapes, has a unique educational structure that may differ from what you're used to. This guide aims to provide expats with a comprehensive overview of the Slovak educational system, including the main stages of education, enrollment procedures, language requirements, public and private schooling options, and alternative education methods such as homeschooling and online schooling.

What are the main stages of education in Slovakia?

The Slovak educational system is divided into four main stages: Preschool (Materská škola), Primary School (Základná škola), Secondary School (Stredná škola), and Tertiary Education (Vysoké školy).

Preschool (Materská škola)

Preschool in Slovakia is for children aged 3 to 6 and focuses on basic social skills and pre-academic learning. Attendance is not mandatory, but it is highly recommended to prepare children for primary school.

Primary School (Základná škola)

Primary school is compulsory and caters to children aged 6 to 15. It is divided into two stages: the first stage for ages 6 to 10, focusing on basic literacy and numeracy, and the second stage for ages 10 to 15, which introduces more complex subjects.

Secondary School (Stredná škola)

Secondary school is for students aged 15 to 19 and is divided into general academic schools (gymnázium) and vocational schools (odborná škola). The choice depends on the student's future career plans.

Tertiary Education (Vysoké školy)

Tertiary education includes universities and colleges. Admission is based on secondary school performance and entrance exams. Slovakia has both public and private tertiary institutions.

How does a newcomer from a different country enroll their kids in school?

Expats can enroll their children in Slovak schools by submitting an application to the chosen school, along with the child's birth certificate, proof of residence, and previous school records. Some schools may require a health certificate or vaccination records.

Can children still learning Slovak enroll in a public school?

Yes, children who are still learning Slovak can enroll in public schools. They may be placed in preparatory classes where they receive intensive Slovak language instruction.

Are there public bilingual schools?

Yes, Slovakia has several public bilingual schools, particularly in larger cities like Bratislava. These schools offer instruction in Slovak and another language, often English or German. Admission procedures vary, but generally require a language proficiency test.

What types of private schools are common in Slovakia?

Private schools in Slovakia include international schools, bilingual schools, and religious schools, particularly Catholic schools. These schools often offer a more diverse curriculum and smaller class sizes.

Do expats typically send their children to public or private school?

Many expats choose private schools, particularly international schools, due to the language barrier in public schools. However, some expats prefer public schools for their children to fully immerse in the local culture and language.

How expensive are Private schools in Slovakia?

Private school fees vary widely, but they are generally more expensive than public schools. International schools can cost anywhere from €5,000 to €15,000 per year, depending on the school and the child's age.

Are you allowed to homeschool while living in Slovakia?

Yes, homeschooling is legal in Slovakia for children aged 6 to 16, but it requires approval from the local school authority and adherence to the national curriculum.

May kids attend online school instead of a local school while living in Slovakia?

Yes, online schooling is an option in Slovakia, particularly in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, it's important to ensure that the online school is accredited and meets Slovak educational standards.