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The cost of education in Maldives varies depending on the type of institution and the student's residency status, with public education being largely subsidized by the government, while private and international schools offering a range of tuition fees.
Quick Facts
Education System Overview
The education system in Maldives is divided into public and private sectors, with the public sector being the largest provider of education. Public schools in Maldives offer free education to all citizens, with the government covering the costs of tuition, textbooks, and other educational materials. The language of instruction in public schools is Dhivehi, with English being taught as a second language. The public education system is generally considered to be of good quality, with a strong emphasis on Islamic studies and Maldivian culture. However, private schools in Maldives offer a more diverse range of curricula, including International Baccalaureate and Cambridge International Examinations, and are often preferred by expatriate families and those seeking a more Western-style education.
The compulsory education years in Maldives are from age 6 to 16, with students attending primary school from age 6 to 11 and secondary school from age 12 to 16. After completing secondary school, students can pursue higher education at one of the several public universities or private colleges in the country. International schools are also available in Maldives, particularly in the capital city of Male, and offer a range of curricula and programs for students from preschool to high school. These schools are often accredited by international organizations and offer a high-quality education that is recognized globally.
School Fees
| School Type | Annual Fee (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Public Primary | $0 (free) | High-quality education, emphasis on Dhivehi and Islamic studies |
| Private Primary | $1,500-$3,000 | Range of curricula, including International Baccalaureate and Cambridge |
| Public Secondary | $0 (free) | Emphasis on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) |
| Private Secondary | $2,500-$5,000 | Range of curricula, including International Baccalaureate and Cambridge |
| International School | $5,000-$10,000 | Curriculum types include International Baccalaureate, Cambridge, and American |
University Tuition
| Institution Type | Annual Tuition - Local (USD) | Annual Tuition - International (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public University | $1,000-$2,000 | $2,000-$4,000 | Emphasis on business, tourism, and marine science |
| Private University | $2,000-$4,000 | $4,000-$6,000 | Range of programs, including engineering, health sciences, and social sciences |
| Top-Ranked University | $3,000-$5,000 | $5,000-$8,000 | Maldives National University offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs |
Other Education Costs
| Item | Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Preschool / Daycare (monthly) | $100-$300 | Range of options, including government-subsidized and private centers |
| Private Tutoring (per hour) | $20-$50 | Available for a range of subjects, including math, science, and languages |
| Language Course (monthly) | $100-$300 | Options include Dhivehi, English, and other languages |
| School Supplies (annual) | $100-$200 | Includes textbooks, uniforms, and other educational materials |
| School Uniform | $50-$100 | Required for all students, including public and private schools |
Education Quality & Tips
- The Maldives National University is considered one of the top universities in the country, offering a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
- Expatriate families often prefer international schools in Maldives, which offer a range of curricula and programs for students from preschool to high school.
- Scholarships are available for Maldivian students pursuing higher education, both locally and internationally.
- Online learning options are becoming increasingly popular in Maldives, with several institutions offering online courses and degree programs.
- The education system in Maldives is generally considered to be of good quality, with a strong emphasis on Islamic studies and Maldivian culture.
- Language courses are available for students who wish to learn Dhivehi or other languages, including English and Arabic.