Educational System in Albania

Albania, a country in Southeast Europe, has a unique educational system that is designed to provide quality education to all its citizens. The system is divided into several stages, each with its own focus and age group. For expats moving to Albania, understanding the educational system can be a crucial part of ensuring a smooth transition for their children. This guide will provide an overview of the main stages of education in Albania, the process of enrolling children in school, the availability of bilingual schools, the types of private schools, and the options for homeschooling and online schooling.

What are the main stages of education in Albania?

The Albanian educational system is divided into four main stages: pre-school education, primary education, secondary education, and higher education. Pre-school education is optional and caters to children aged 3 to 6 years. Primary education is compulsory and covers children aged 6 to 14 years. Secondary education is divided into general and vocational education, and higher education includes bachelor, master, and doctoral studies.

Pre-school Education

Pre-school education in Albania is optional and caters to children aged 3 to 6 years. It focuses on the overall development of the child, including cognitive, emotional, social, and physical development. The curriculum includes activities that promote creativity, curiosity, and a love for learning.

Primary Education

Primary education in Albania is compulsory and covers children aged 6 to 14 years. It focuses on basic literacy and numeracy skills, as well as the development of critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. The curriculum includes subjects like Albanian language, mathematics, science, social studies, arts, and physical education.

Secondary Education

Secondary education in Albania is divided into general and vocational education. General education provides a broad knowledge base and prepares students for higher education, while vocational education provides specialized skills for specific occupations. The curriculum includes a wide range of subjects, with a greater emphasis on specialization in the later years.

Higher Education

Higher education in Albania includes bachelor, master, and doctoral studies. Universities offer a wide range of programs in various fields, including arts, sciences, engineering, and business. Admission is based on the results of the Matura exam, which is taken at the end of secondary education.

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

Newcomers can enroll their children in Albanian schools by submitting an application to the school of their choice. The application should include the child's birth certificate, proof of residence, and previous school records. If the documents are not in Albanian, they should be translated and notarized.

My children are still learning Albanian, can they enroll in a public school?

Yes, children who are still learning Albanian can enroll in public schools. However, they may need additional language support to help them adjust to the new environment. Some schools offer Albanian language classes for non-native speakers.

Are there public bilingual schools?

Yes, there are public bilingual schools in Albania. These schools offer instruction in both Albanian and a foreign language, usually English, French, or Italian. Admission is based on a language proficiency test.

What types of private schools are common in Albania?

Private schools in Albania offer a variety of educational programs. Some of the most common types include international schools, which follow an international curriculum; bilingual schools, which offer instruction in both Albanian and a foreign language; and religious schools, which incorporate religious education into their curriculum.

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

Many expats in Albania choose to send their children to private schools, particularly international schools, due to the language barrier and the difference in educational systems. However, some expats prefer public schools for their affordability and cultural immersion.

How expensive are Private schools in Albania?

The cost of private schools in Albania varies greatly depending on the type of school and the specific services it offers. On average, tuition fees can range from a few hundred to several thousand euros per year.

Are you allowed to homeschool while living in Albania?

Yes, homeschooling is allowed in Albania. However, parents who choose to homeschool their children must follow the national curriculum and ensure that their children take the same exams as their peers in traditional schools.

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

Yes, children can attend online school while living in Albania. This can be a good option for families who are only staying in the country for a short period of time, or for those who prefer a more flexible learning environment. However, it's important to ensure that the online school is accredited and that the credits will be recognized in your home country.