Educational System in Belarus

Belarus, a landlocked country in Eastern Europe, is known for its strong educational system. The country places a high emphasis on education, with a literacy rate of nearly 100%. The educational system in Belarus is divided into several stages, each designed to cater to the specific needs of students at different ages. This guide aims to provide expats with a comprehensive understanding of the educational system in Belarus, including the main stages of education, enrollment procedures, language requirements, availability of bilingual schools, types of private schools, homeschooling and online schooling options, and costs associated with private education.

What are the main stages of education in Belarus?

The Belarusian educational system is divided into four main stages: pre-school education, general secondary education, vocational education, and higher education. Pre-school education is optional and caters to children aged 1 to 6. General secondary education is compulsory and is divided into primary (grades 1-4), basic (grades 5-9), and senior secondary (grades 10-11) stages. Vocational education offers professional training after basic secondary education, while higher education includes undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral studies.

Pre-school Education in Belarus

Pre-school education in Belarus is optional and caters to children aged 1 to 6. It focuses on the overall development of the child, including physical, emotional, and social development. The curriculum includes activities that promote cognitive development, language skills, and creativity. Pre-schools in Belarus are either state-run or private, with the latter offering more flexible programs and smaller class sizes.

General Secondary Education in Belarus

General secondary education in Belarus is compulsory and is divided into primary, basic, and senior secondary stages. The primary stage (grades 1-4) focuses on basic literacy and numeracy skills. The basic stage (grades 5-9) introduces students to a broader range of subjects, while the senior secondary stage (grades 10-11) prepares students for university entrance exams. The curriculum includes subjects like Belarusian language and literature, foreign languages, mathematics, natural sciences, social sciences, arts, and physical education.

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

Newcomers can enroll their children in Belarusian schools by submitting an application to the chosen school, along with the child's birth certificate, proof of residence, and medical records. If the child has previously attended school in another country, academic transcripts or certificates may also be required. It's advisable to contact the school directly for specific enrollment procedures.

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

Yes, children who are still learning Belarusian can enroll in public schools. However, they may need additional language support as the medium of instruction in most public schools is Belarusian or Russian. Some schools offer additional language classes or tutoring to help non-native speakers.

Are there public bilingual schools?

There are a few public bilingual schools in Belarus, mainly in larger cities like Minsk. These schools offer instruction in both Belarusian and another language, usually English. Admission procedures vary, so it's best to contact the school directly for information.

What types of private schools are common in Belarus?

Private schools in Belarus include international schools, bilingual schools, and schools offering specific curricula like the International Baccalaureate (IB). These schools often have smaller class sizes, a wider range of extracurricular activities, and more individualized attention compared to public schools.

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

Many expats in Belarus choose to send their children to private schools, particularly international schools, due to the language barrier in public schools and the desire for a more international curriculum. However, some expats do choose public schools, especially if they plan to stay in Belarus long-term and want their children to fully integrate into the local culture.

How expensive are Private schools in Belarus?

Private school fees in Belarus vary widely depending on the school and the specific program. On average, annual tuition fees can range from a few thousand to several thousand dollars. Additional costs may include application fees, uniforms, textbooks, and extracurricular activities.

Are you allowed to homeschool while living in Belarus?

Homeschooling is allowed in Belarus under certain conditions. Parents must have a higher education degree and must follow the state curriculum. Regular assessments are conducted by the local education department to ensure that the child is making satisfactory progress.

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

Online schooling is an option in Belarus, particularly for expat families who may be in the country temporarily or who prefer a more flexible schooling option. However, it's important to ensure that the online school is accredited and that it meets the educational standards of your home country if you plan to return there in the future.