Primary and Secondary Education in Colombia
A 11-year system of education with children starting school at age 6. In addition there is one year of Preschool Education.
- Primary education (Educación Primaria) in Colombia is five years in duration, and runs from grade one through five.
- Lower Secondary Education (Educacion Secundaria Básica) is 4 years (ages 11-14) Grades 6-9
- Upper Secondary Education (Educación Media) is 2 years (ages 15-16) Grades 10-11. During this stage, students choose between two different tracks: Academic and technical.
- Upon completion of secondary school, students are awarded the title of Baccalaureate (Título de Bachiller), which gives access to higher education. This credential is equivalent to U.S. high school graduation.
Most schools follow the academic year that begins in February and runs through November lasting for 38 weeks. It consists of two semesters of instruction. Schools are in operation five days a week (Monday through Friday), 198 days a year. There are a total of twelve years of education preceding post-secondary education – grades 10 and 11 (equivalent to 11 and 12 in U.S.). The curriculum guidelines outline a 35-hour school week at the Bachillerato level.
The Ministry of National Education is responsible for implementing education policy and regulations.
Grade conversion scale for Colombia:
Grade Scale |
U.S. Grade Equivalence |
8.5-10.0 |
A |
7.5-8.4 |
B |
6.0-7.4 |
C |
| 1.0-5.9 | F |
Credentials:
- Certificado de Educación Primaria
- Certificado de Estudios de Bachillerato Básico
- Título de Bachiller
