How to Enroll Your Children in School in Armenia

Enrolling your child in a public school in Armenia as an expat can be a complex process, especially if you are unfamiliar with the local education system and language. It requires careful preparation and a good understanding of the necessary paperwork and procedures. This includes obtaining the necessary documents such as your child's birth certificate, proof of residence, and immunization records. It's also important to understand the structure of the Armenian education system, the language of instruction, and the school calendar. This guide will provide you with a step-by-step process to help you navigate this important task.

1. Research the Armenian Education System: The first step is to familiarize yourself with the Armenian education system. Public education in Armenia is divided into primary (grades 1-4), middle (grades 5-9), and high school (grades 10-12). Schooling is mandatory until the age of 16.
2. Choose a School: Depending on your location and preferences, you may have a choice of schools. Some schools in Armenia offer instruction in different languages, including Russian and English, in addition to Armenian. Visit the schools, meet with the administrators, and choose the one that best fits your child's needs.
3. Prepare the Necessary Documents: You will need to provide several documents to enroll your child in a public school in Armenia. These typically include your child's birth certificate, proof of residence in Armenia (such as a rental agreement or utility bill), and your child's immunization records. All documents not in Armenian must be translated and notarized.
4. Submit the Application: Once you have chosen a school and prepared the necessary documents, you can submit your application. This is typically done in person at the school. It's advisable to do this as early as possible, as schools may have limited spaces.
5. Attend an Interview: Some schools may require an interview with the child and/or parents as part of the admission process. This is a good opportunity to ask any questions you may have about the school's curriculum, teaching methods, and support for non-Armenian speaking students.
6. Wait for Confirmation: After submitting your application and attending an interview, you will need to wait for confirmation of your child's enrollment. This can take a few weeks, so it's important to plan accordingly.
7. Prepare for the First Day: Once your child's enrollment is confirmed, you can start preparing for the first day of school. This may involve buying school supplies, arranging transportation, and helping your child adjust to the new environment.