Iran

The precollege educational system in the Islamic Republic of Iran has not changed significantly since the rule of the Pahlavis and is modeled after the French system. It consists of one year of preprimary education at age 5, five years of primary education (from age 6 to 11), three years of lower secondary, or guidance, school (from age 11 to 14), and three years of secondary school (from age 14 to 17). Students who wish to enroll in a university have to take one year of pre-university training and pass the National Entrance Examination. Secondary vocational and technical education is also available. At all levels, the language of instruction is Farsi, except at the University of Shiraz, where English is used. In accordance with Article 30 of the IRI constitution, education through age 11 is both free and compulsory. The official length of the academic year for preprimary to lower secondary levels is 10 months, but the official starting date is subject to change. Traditionally it has run from September to June. Most universities operate on a similar time frame. The grading system through all levels of education is based on a 20-point scale, with an A being worth four points and an F worth zero points. To graduate, a C average in all courses is required.