Education in Armenia
Armenia offers a broad spectrum of educational opportunities within its comprehensive education system, accessible to both local and foreign residents. This page provides an in-depth look at navigating the educational landscape in Armenia, focusing on the legal and practical steps for foreign residents to make the most of these opportunities.
Stay informed with our newsletter—get the latest news, legal updates, and expert advice on citizenship
Legal Foundations of Education
In Armenia, the right to education is safeguarded by national laws and international agreements, ensuring that it extends equally to all residents, including foreigners. In Armenia, compulsory education spans 12 years, ensuring that all children receive a foundational education. This commitment to educational equality is rooted in Armenia’s adherence to international standards and human rights conventions, which advocate for universal access to education, regardless of nationality, immigration status, or other potential barriers.
Armenia’s Educational Policy Framework
Armenian educational policy, as outlined in the Law on Education, stipulates that access to education cannot be restricted based on an individual’s country of origin or residency status. The Armenian school system is designed to be inclusive, providing equal access to education for all residents. This inclusivity guarantees that foreign residents can access the same quality of education as Armenian citizens. Furthermore, the Armenian Constitution reinforces this by declaring that every individual has the right to education, upheld in a non-discriminatory manner.
Government Initiatives for Education
The Armenian government has implemented initiatives to strengthen the education sector, with a focus on improving infrastructure, teaching quality, and access to technology. The Armenian higher education system has undergone significant reforms to enhance access, quality, and equity. These initiatives aim to establish Armenia as a regional educational hub, benefiting foreign students seeking a modern and high-quality learning environment.
Advantages for Foreign Graduates
Armenian legislation offers a unique benefit: foreign citizens who have graduated from Armenian schools within the last three years can apply to higher educational institutions under the same conditions as Armenian citizens. These conditions include passing the required entrance exams, submitting high school certificates, and meeting any additional criteria set by the educational institution. This provision allows foreign graduates to pursue further education or professional qualifications without facing bureaucratic challenges common in other jurisdictions.
Access to Educational Programs
For foreign nationals residing in Armenia, the legal framework allows them to enroll in a wide array of educational programs, including primary, secondary, vocational, and higher education. Students obtain a basic education certificate upon completing basic schooling, which is essential for advancing to higher levels of secondary education or vocational training. This access applies to both public and private institutions under the same conditions as Armenian nationals.
Contact Us for Assistance
Whether you have a specific concern or just need some preliminary advice, our team is here to help. Fill out the form below, and one of our experts will reach out to you shortly. No strings attached, and absolutely free.
Prefer to talk instead? Click the button below to book a free call with one of our experts at a time that works for you.
Your Privacy Matters to Us
Rest assured, any information you provide will be treated with the utmost confidentiality. We firmly believe in the principle of data privacy. That means we will not sell, rent, or lease our contact lists to any third party, and your personal details will never be handed over to individuals, government agencies, or companies.
Primary and Secondary Education Options
Primary and secondary education in Armenia is mandatory, with curricula adhering to national standards. Primary schools in Armenia play a crucial role in imparting basic literacy and mathematical skills to students. Many schools offer programs in multiple languages, making education accessible to foreign families residing in Armenia.
Public schools in Armenia are free, but instruction is primarily in Armenian. Additionally, there are private schools that charge tuition, including the aforementioned English-language options.
CIS Armenia offers educational programs for children aged 3 to 18 years old, providing a comprehensive learning experience from early years through high school. The Early Years program, which includes Preschool, Nursery, and Reception, is available for children at a tuition fee of 8,900 USD. For Primary School students in Year 1 to Year 6, the tuition fee is 15,100 USD. The Secondary School program, covering Year 7 to Year 9, has a tuition fee of 16,100 USD. For older students pursuing IGCSE and A-Level qualifications in Year 10 to Year 13, the tuition fee is 17,100 USD. To learn more about their programs and enrollment, visit their official website.
QSI International School of Yerevan (QSIY) welcomes students from ages 3 to 11 (US Grade 6) without prior experience in English, with admission for children aged 6 to 11 dependent on availability in the Intensive English (IE) program. For students aged 12 and older, admission requires demonstrated English proficiency, assessed through an English language evaluation administered at the school. The annual tuition fees are structured as follows: For Preschool (ages 3-4), there is a registration fee of $300 and a tuition fee of $6,500, totaling $6,500. For students in Kindergarten to Grade 12 (ages 5 and above), the costs include a registration fee of $300, a capital fund fee of $1,600, a tuition fee of $26,000, and a student activity fee of $200, bringing the total to $27,800. All fees are quoted and payable in U.S. dollars. For additional details about their offerings, visit QSIY's website.
The British International School of Armenia offers a variety of educational programs for middle and high school students. The KS3 program, designed for middle schoolers aged 10 to 12, spans three years with a tuition fee of 75,000 AMD (USD 190) per month. For students aged 13 to 14, the IGCSE program runs for two years at a monthly fee of 95,000 AMD (USD 240), while the Armenian program for high schoolers in the same age group costs 130,000 AMD (USD 330) per month over two years. High schoolers aged 15 to 17 can enroll in the AL Level program, which lasts three years with a monthly tuition of 160,000 AMD (USD 405). Additionally, the school offers a Combined Program for high schoolers aged 15 to 17, also over three years, with a monthly fee of 280,000 AMD (USD 710). For more information on their academic programs, visit the British International School of Armenia's site.
Regarding higher education, Armenia has both public and private universities, although education is mostly paid. Scholarships are available, but competition for them is quite high. While the primary language of instruction is Armenian, institutions like the American University also offer programs in English.
Vocational Education and Training
Beyond university programs, Armenia provides various vocational training options in fields like technology, hospitality, and business, offering practical skills and quicker employment paths for foreign students. In the medical field, clinical residency programs provide advanced training for medical practitioners, enhancing both theoretical and practical knowledge.
Specialized Programs for International Students
Some Armenian institutions offer tailored programs for international students, often including courses in English and cultural immersion activities. These programs provide a supportive environment, helping students adapt to academic and cultural expectations in Armenia.
Navigating Admissions Requirements
To exercise their educational rights, foreign students need to understand specific requirements and procedures. While the law guarantees access, certain programs may require documentation such as language proficiency certificates or equivalency documents for foreign qualifications. Knowing these requirements helps prevent hurdles in the admission process.
Admissions Processes for Higher Education Institutions
Armenia boasts a diverse range of higher education institutions, each offering specialized academic programs to cater to a wide array of academic interests. From prestigious universities to dedicated institutes, Armenia’s higher education landscape is designed to meet the needs of students pursuing various fields of study. Such renowned universities include Yerevan State University (YSU), the American University of Armenia (AUA), and the French University in Armenia (UFAR).
Language Proficiency for Admission
Depending on the primary language of instruction, language proficiency is a key admission requirement. For instance, AUA requires English proficiency, typically demonstrated through TOEFL or IELTS, while UFAR may require French proficiency, assessed through tests like the DELF or DALF. YSU may require proficiency in either Armenian or English.
Validating Academic Qualifications
Foreign students must ensure their academic qualifications are recognized in Armenia. This usually involves submitting diplomas and transcripts for evaluation by the Armenian Ministry of Education, Science, Culture, and Sports or by the university’s admissions department to ensure eligibility for the program.
Additional Admission Criteria
Some programs may have additional requirements, such as entrance exams, interviews, or prerequisite courses, especially in technical fields. Meeting these requirements is essential for a successful application.
Temporary Residence Permit for Education
Foreign nationals studying in Armenia can apply for a one-year temporary residence permit, which can be renewed annually. This permit facilitates the legal stay of international students during their academic tenure and reflects Armenia’s welcoming policy toward international students.
Eligibility and Application for Residence Permits
To apply for a temporary residence permit, students must first secure admission to an accredited institution. The application, submitted to the Migration and Citizenship Service, involves completing forms and providing documents like an admission letter, proof of identity, and financial means for living expenses. Processing typically takes about 30-60 days.
Financial Assistance for Foreign Students
Several Armenian universities offer scholarships and grants specifically for foreign students, helping to reduce tuition costs and make higher education more accessible.
Pathways to Long-Term Residency
Successfully completing studies and holding consecutive temporary residence permits can open doors to long-term residency or citizenship applications. This pathway is appealing to foreign nationals looking to establish careers or permanent residency in Armenia.
Support Services for International Students
Many Armenian universities provide support services designed to assist international students, such as academic advising, career counseling, language support, and cultural adjustment help. These services foster a welcoming and integrated experience for foreign students.
Professional Growth and Employment Opportunities
An Armenian education enhances professional development. Graduates acquire skills and a degree that open up diverse employment opportunities within Armenia and internationally, preparing them for careers in competitive global markets.
