Educational System in Luxembourg

As an expat in Luxembourg, understanding the local educational system is crucial for your children's academic journey. Luxembourg boasts a multilingual and multicultural educational system, reflecting the country's diverse population. The system is divided into several stages, each designed to cater to different age groups and educational needs. This guide will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the educational system in Luxembourg, including the main stages, enrollment procedures, language requirements, public and private schooling options, and homeschooling and online schooling possibilities.

What are the main stages of education in Luxembourg?

The Luxembourgish educational system is divided into four main stages: early childhood education (éducation précoce), primary education (enseignement primaire), secondary education (enseignement secondaire), and higher education (enseignement supérieur). Each stage is designed to cater to the specific educational needs of different age groups.

Early Childhood Education (Éducation Précoce)

Early childhood education in Luxembourg is optional and caters to children aged 3 to 4. This stage focuses on the child's overall development, including social, emotional, and cognitive skills. It also introduces children to the Luxembourgish language, preparing them for the multilingual education system.

Primary Education (Enseignement Primaire)

Primary education in Luxembourg is compulsory and caters to children aged 4 to 11. It is divided into two cycles: early cycle (cycle 1) for ages 4-6 and primary cycle (cycle 2-4) for ages 6-11. The curriculum includes Luxembourgish, German, and French languages, mathematics, discovery of the world, arts, and physical education.

Secondary Education (Enseignement Secondaire)

Secondary education in Luxembourg is for students aged 12 to 18 and is divided into two types: classical secondary education (enseignement secondaire classique) and general secondary education (enseignement secondaire général). The former prepares students for higher education, while the latter focuses on vocational training.

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

To enroll your child in a Luxembourgish school, you need to contact the Service de la Scolarité at the commune where you reside. You will need to provide your child's birth certificate, proof of residence, and a school report from your child's previous school. If your child is entering secondary education, they may need to take a placement test.

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

Yes, children who are still learning Luxembourgish can enroll in public schools. Luxembourg's educational system is multilingual, and language support is provided to non-native speakers. In primary schools, children start with Luxembourgish, then progressively learn German and French.

Are there public bilingual schools in Luxembourg?

Yes, Luxembourg offers public bilingual schools. The International School of Luxembourg is a notable example, offering an English-French curriculum. Admission for international students typically involves an application process and potentially an entrance exam or interview.

What types of private schools are common in Luxembourg?

Private schools in Luxembourg include international schools, Montessori schools, and religious schools. International schools often offer curricula from other countries, such as the British or American curriculum, and are popular among expats. Montessori schools follow the Montessori method of education, focusing on child-centered learning. Religious schools, often Catholic, provide education based on religious principles.

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

Expats in Luxembourg choose between public and private schools based on their personal preferences and circumstances. Some prefer public schools for their multilingual education and cultural diversity, while others opt for private schools, particularly international schools, for their familiar curricula and language of instruction.

How expensive are Private schools in Luxembourg?

Private school fees in Luxembourg can vary widely, depending on the school and the level of education. On average, annual tuition fees can range from €10,000 to €20,000. Some schools may also charge additional fees for enrollment, materials, and extracurricular activities.

Are you allowed to homeschool while living in Luxembourg?

Homeschooling is legal in Luxembourg, but it is not common due to the strict regulations. Parents who wish to homeschool their children must obtain authorization from the Ministry of Education and undergo regular inspections to ensure the quality of education.

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

Yes, online schooling is an option in Luxembourg, especially in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, it is recommended to check with the Ministry of Education or your local commune for specific regulations and available online schooling platforms.