Primary and Secondary Education in Nepal
Currently a 12-year system of general education is in effect, with children starting school at age 6.
- Primary/Basic Education is 8 years (ages 6-14) Grades 1-8.
- Secondary Education is 4 years (ages 15-18) Grades 9-12. Secondary Education Examination (SEE), previously called School leaving Certificate (SLC) examination is held at the end of Grade 10. It is administered by the Department of Education. Grade 12 culminates in the National Examination Board Examination Certificate issued by the National Examinations Board. Students also have the option of enrolling in university-preparatory programs offered by universities that lead to a “Proficiency Certificate” that gives access to tertiary education.
Academic year begins in April and ends in March. Education in public schools is conducted mainly in Nepali, while private schools use English.
The Department of Education under the Ministry of Education and Sports, is responsible for implementing education policy and regulations.
Grade conversion scale for Nepal:
Grade Scale |
Grade Point |
Grade Description |
U.S. Grade Equivalence |
A+ (90-100) |
3.6 |
Outstanding |
A |
A (80-89) |
3.2 |
Excellent |
A |
B+ (70-79) |
2.8 |
Very Good |
B |
B (60-69) |
2.4 |
Good |
B |
C+ (50-59) |
2.0 |
Above Average |
C |
C (40-49) |
1.6 |
Average |
C |
D (25-39) |
0.8 |
Below Average |
D |
E (1-24) |
0 |
Insufficient |
F |
N (0) |
Null |
F |
Credentials:
- Secondary Education Examination Certificate
- National Examination Board Examination Certificate
- Proficiency Certificate
