Educational System in Jordan

Relocating to a new country can be a daunting experience, especially when it comes to understanding the educational system for your children. In Jordan, the education system is well-structured and offers a variety of options for expats. This guide will provide an overview of the main stages of education in Jordan, the process of enrolling your children in school, language requirements, the availability of bilingual schools, common types of private schools, the costs associated with private education, and the possibilities of homeschooling or online schooling.

What are the main stages of education in Jordan?

The Jordanian education system is divided into four main stages: Kindergarten, Basic Education, Secondary Education, and Higher Education. Kindergarten is for children aged 4-5, Basic Education is for ages 6-15, Secondary Education is for ages 16-18, and Higher Education is for students aged 18 and above. Each stage focuses on different areas of learning and development, with a strong emphasis on academic achievement and personal growth.

Kindergarten

Kindergarten in Jordan is for children aged 4-5 and focuses on basic literacy, numeracy, and social skills. It is not mandatory but is highly recommended to prepare children for the next stage of education.

Basic Education

Basic Education, also known as primary and lower secondary education, is compulsory and free for all Jordanian children aged 6-15. The curriculum includes subjects like Arabic, English, mathematics, science, social studies, and physical education. At the end of this stage, students take a national exam to move on to secondary education.

Secondary Education

Secondary Education is for students aged 16-18 and is divided into two streams: academic and vocational. The academic stream prepares students for university, while the vocational stream provides practical skills for the job market. At the end of this stage, students take the General Secondary Education Certificate Examination (Tawjihi).

Higher Education

Higher Education in Jordan includes universities, community colleges, and vocational training centers. Admission is based on the Tawjihi scores. Jordan has both public and private universities, with a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs.

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

Newcomers can enroll their children in Jordanian schools by providing necessary documents like birth certificates, previous school records, and immunization records. It's advisable to contact the desired school directly for specific enrollment procedures.

Can my children enroll in a public school if they are still learning Arabic?

Yes, children who are still learning Arabic can enroll in public schools in Jordan. However, since the medium of instruction is Arabic, it might be challenging for them. Some schools offer Arabic as a second language programs to help non-native speakers.

Are there public bilingual schools?

Yes, there are public bilingual schools in Jordan where instruction is in both Arabic and English. Admission for international students is based on availability and the student's proficiency in both languages.

What types of private schools are common in Jordan?

Private schools in Jordan include international schools, bilingual schools, and religious schools. International schools follow foreign curriculums like the American, British, or International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum. Bilingual schools offer instruction in both Arabic and English. Religious schools, mainly Christian and Islamic, provide education based on their respective religious teachings along with the standard curriculum.

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

Expats in Jordan typically prefer private schools, especially international schools, due to the language of instruction and the curriculum that is often similar to their home country.

How expensive are Private schools in Jordan?

Private school fees in Jordan vary widely depending on the school and the curriculum. International schools are generally more expensive, with fees ranging from 3,000 to 10,000 JOD per year. It's advisable to contact the school directly for accurate fee structures.

Are you allowed to homeschool while living in Jordan?

Yes, homeschooling is allowed in Jordan. However, it's not very common due to the strong emphasis on formal education. Parents choosing to homeschool their children should follow the Jordanian curriculum or an internationally recognized curriculum.

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

Yes, online schooling is an option in Jordan, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, it's important to ensure that the online school is accredited and recognized by the Jordanian Ministry of Education.