Educational System in Jordan

Moving to a new country can be a challenging task, especially when it comes to understanding the educational system. Jordan offers a variety of educational options for expats, ranging from public to private and international schools. The education system in Jordan is administered by the Ministry of Education and is compulsory for children aged 6 to 16. Understanding the structure and offerings of the Jordanian educational system will help expats make informed decisions for their children. Here is a comprehensive guide to help expats navigate the educational system in Jordan.

What are the main stages of education in Jordan and what are the names of those stages?

The educational system in Jordan is divided into several main stages. The first stage is Kindergarten (KG), which is not compulsory and caters to children aged 3 to 5. This is followed by the compulsory stages: Primary or Elementary School, Middle School (also known as Preparatory School), and Secondary School. After completing these stages, students can choose to pursue higher education at universities or colleges.

Kindergarten

Kindergarten in Jordan is not mandatory and serves children aged 3 to 5. It focuses on preparing children for primary school through play-based learning, socialization, and basic skill development. Both public and private kindergartens are available.

Primary or Elementary School

Primary or Elementary School is the first compulsory stage of education in Jordan, catering to children aged 6 to 12. This stage lasts for six years and focuses on foundational subjects such as Arabic, English, mathematics, science, social studies, art, and physical education. Public elementary schools are free for Jordanian citizens and offer a standard curriculum.

Middle School (Preparatory School)

Middle School, also known as Preparatory School, is the second compulsory stage and caters to students aged 12 to 15. This stage lasts for three years and builds on the curriculum from elementary school, offering more specialized subjects in addition to the core curriculum. Public middle schools are free for Jordanian citizens.

Secondary School

Secondary School is the final compulsory stage and caters to students aged 15 to 18. This stage lasts for three years and is divided into academic and vocational streams. Students in the academic stream prepare for the General Secondary Education Certificate Examination (Tawjihi), which is required for university admission. Public secondary schools are free for Jordanian citizens.

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

To enroll their children in a public school, expats need to visit the nearest school with the required documents, which typically include the child's passport, residence permit, birth certificate, vaccination records, and previous school reports. It is recommended to contact the school in advance to confirm the specific requirements. For private and international schools, the enrollment process may vary, and it is advisable to contact the schools directly for detailed information.

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

Public schools in Jordan primarily teach in Arabic, but some schools may offer Arabic as a Second language (ASL) programs for non-native speakers. It is important to check with individual schools to determine the availability of such programs. Alternatively, expats may consider enrolling their children in private or that offer bilingual education or follow an international curriculum taught in English or another language.

Are there public bilingual schools? (Where are they and how do international students get admitted?)

Public bilingual schools are not common in Jordan. However, there are a few public schools that offer additional language programs, such as English or French. These programs are typically found in urban areas like Amman. Admission for international students may depend on the school's capacity and the availability of such programs. It is recommended to contact the Ministry of Education or the specific schools for up-to-date information on bilingual programs.

What types of private schools are common in Jordan?

Jordan offers a variety of private schools, including international schools, bilingual schools, and religious schools. International schools follow curricula from countries like the United States, United Kingdom, or France and are popular among expats. Bilingual schools offer education in Arabic and another language, usually English. Religious schools, such as Islamic or Christian schools, provide education with a religious focus. Private schools typically charge tuition fees, which can vary significantly depending on the school's reputation and facilities.

Do expats typically send their children to public or private school? How expensive are Private schools in Jordan?

Expats in Jordan often choose private or international schools for their children due to the language of instruction, curriculum, and cultural familiarity. Private schools can be expensive, with tuition fees ranging from a few thousand to tens of thousands of Jordanian Dinars per year, depending on the school's reputation and facilities. Additional costs may include registration fees, uniforms, textbooks, and transportation.

Are you allowed to homeschool while living in Jordan?

Homeschooling is not widely recognized or regulated in Jordan. The Ministry of Education requires all children to attend a registered school. However, some expats may choose to homeschool their children using foreign curricula. It is important to note that homeschooling may not be legally recognized, and families may face challenges when attempting to transfer credits or reintegrate into the traditional school system.

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

Online schooling is an option for expats living in Jordan, especially for those who prefer to follow a specific curriculum or have limited access to suitable schools. However, it is essential to ensure that the online school is accredited and meets the educational requirements of the family's home country. Additionally, families should be aware of the time zone differences and potential challenges with internet connectivity.