Primary and Secondary Education in Sri Lanka
Currently a 13-year system of general education is in effect, with children starting school at age 5.
- Primary Education is 5 years (ages 5-9) Grades 1-5
- Junior Secondary Education is 4 years (ages 10-13) Grades 6-9
- Senior Secondary Education is 2 years (ages 14-16) Grades 10-11. Culminates in the GCE O-Levels.
- Collegiate Level is 2 years (ages 16-18/19) Grades 12-13. Culminates in the GCE A-Levels which is required for university entrance.
The academic year can run from December to November or from January to December, but can also start in October. Education is conducted in Sinhala, Tamil and English. Secondary education is free and compulsory until the ninth grade.
The Ministry of Education is responsible for implementing state education policy and regulations.
Grade conversion scale for Sri Lanka:
Grade Scale |
Grade Description |
U.S. Grade Equivalence |
A (75-100) |
Distinction |
A |
B (65-74) |
Very Good |
B+ |
C (55-64) |
Credit |
B |
S (40-54) |
Ordinary Pass |
C |
F (0-39) |
Fail |
F |
Credentials:
- Sri Lankan General Certificate of Education Ordinary Level (GCE “O” level)
- Sri Lankan General Certificate of Education Advanced Level (GCE “A” level)
