Educational System in Lithuania

Moving to a new country can be a challenging yet rewarding experience, and understanding the educational system is crucial for expats with children. Lithuania, a Baltic country known for its rich history and cultural heritage, offers a well-structured education system that might differ from what you're familiar with. This guide aims to provide an overview of the Lithuanian educational system, the types of schools available, and how to enroll your children as an expat.

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

The Lithuanian educational system is divided into several main stages. These include Pre-primary Education (Ikiškolinis ugdymas), Primary Education (Pradinis ugdymas), Basic Education (Pagrindinis ugdymas), Secondary Education (Vidurinis ugdymas), and Tertiary Education (Aukštasis ugdymas). Each stage has its own focus and caters to specific age groups.

Pre-primary Education (Ikiškolinis ugdymas)

Pre-primary education is designed for children aged 3 to 6 years old and is not compulsory. It focuses on the social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development of children, preparing them for primary education. Kindergartens and pre-schools offer this stage of education.

Primary Education (Pradinis ugdymas)

Primary education is compulsory and caters to children aged 6 to 10 years old. It focuses on basic literacy, numeracy, and social skills. This stage lasts for four years, typically from grades 1 to 4.

Basic Education (Pagrindinis ugdymas)

Basic education follows primary education and is designed for children aged 10 to 16 years old. It is compulsory and covers a broad range of subjects, including Lithuanian language, mathematics, science, social studies, and arts. This stage lasts for six years, from grades 5 to 10.

Secondary Education (Vidurinis ugdymas)

Secondary education is not compulsory and is intended for students aged 16 to 18 years old. It prepares students for tertiary education or the workforce. This stage lasts for two years, from grades 11 to 12, and offers both academic and vocational programs.

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

To enroll your children in a Lithuanian school, you will need to visit the local municipality's education department. Required documents typically include the child's birth certificate, passport, residence permit, and health records. If your child has attended school in another country, you may also need to provide academic transcripts.

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

Yes, children who are still learning Lithuanian can enroll in public schools. Some schools offer additional language support for non-native speakers. However, it's important to note that the language of instruction in public schools is Lithuanian, so your child may face initial challenges.

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

Lithuania has a limited number of public bilingual schools, primarily in larger cities like Vilnius and Kaunas. These schools offer instruction in Lithuanian and another language, such as English, Russian, or Polish. Admission criteria may vary, but generally, international students need to follow the standard enrollment procedure through the local municipality's education department.

What types of private schools are common in Lithuania?

Private schools in Lithuania include international schools, Catholic schools, and other private institutions offering specific educational philosophies. International schools, particularly in Vilnius, cater to the expat community and offer instruction in English or other languages.

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

The choice between public and private schools depends on personal preferences and circumstances. Many expats opt for private or due to the language of instruction and familiar curricula. Private school tuition fees can vary significantly, ranging from around 2,000 to 10,000 EUR per year.

Are you allowed to homeschool while living in Lithuania?

Homeschooling is not widely recognized or supported by the Lithuanian educational system. Compulsory education must be completed in a formal educational institution, either public or private.

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

Online schooling is not a standard practice in Lithuania, and compulsory education requires attendance at a registered educational institution. However, during exceptional circumstances, such as the global pandemic, temporary distance learning measures may be implemented.