Primary school

Primary school education (comprehensive school) is mandatory in Sweden. Here are all children for nine years. Most start in the fall the year they reach 7 years. Each academic year consists of two semesters, a fall and a spring semester.

If you are an asylum seeker, you have a right to education in the same way as any other children in Sweden but obligatory school attendance does not apply to asylum seekers.

When a child is new in Sweden, it is common that they will begin with a preparatory class before they begin ordinary classes.

Primary school is free of charge. That means you do not pay any money for teaching, books and other school materials. Even food is given to children free of charge. Students are entitled to health, study and career advice as well as a school library.

Children's guardians have a right to choose which school their child will go to. School principals can accept a child from outside their cathment area if they have a place available. However, if you choose a school of your own choice you lose the right to school transport.

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