Official compulsory-school-age definition.
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Education in Brunei
DATACURRENT
Compulsory above age 6 to under 15 · 7-year primary including pre-school · 5-year secondary
Brunei Darussalam's Compulsory Education Act defines compulsory school age as above age six and below age fifteen, subject to the Act's conditions. The Ministry of Education describes a minimum twelve-year school pathway comprising seven years in primary education, including one pre-school year, followed by five years of secondary education.
Compulsory age
Above 6 to under 15
Primary
7 years
Secondary
5 years
Sixth form
2 years
Brunei Education System
| Stage / measure | Structure or value | Current interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-school | 1 year within primary pathway | Government primary-school pre-school |
| Primary | 7 years including pre-school | Ministry minimum pathway |
| Secondary | 5 years | Follows primary |
| Sixth form | 2 years | Progression depends on results |
* Reference period is shown with the figure.
Compulsory school age
The Compulsory Education Act defines a child of compulsory school age as one above age six who has not yet reached age fifteen and who meets the specified conditions for primary and lower-secondary education.
A twelve-year minimum pathway
The Ministry describes a minimum of twelve years of education: seven years in primary education including one year of pre-school, followed by five years in secondary education.
Progression after secondary
Students may continue to two years of sixth form depending on their results and chosen progression route.
Academic calendar
For the 2025 academic year, government and private primary and secondary schools under the Ministry of Education began the first term on 2 January 2025, while government primary-school pre-schools began on 6 January.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the compulsory school-age range?
Above age 6 and below age 15, subject to the Compulsory Education Act.
How long is the primary pathway?
Seven years including one year of pre-school.
How long is secondary education?
Five years in the Ministry's minimum pathway.
What can follow secondary education?
Two years of sixth form for students taking that route.
Is pre-school included in the Ministry's seven-year primary pathway?
Yes.
Which law sets compulsory education?
The Compulsory Education Act, Chapter 211.
Sources and Methodology
Official description of the minimum school pathway.
Official 2025 school-calendar notice.