Compulsory education: Ages 6 to 16

A school’s mission is to:

1. Provide instruction: Teach knowledge, skills and abilities
2. Socialize: Teach how to live together and display respect and tolerance for one another
3. Provide qualifications: Issue certification (a diploma) to help students find a job

In Quebec, all children aged 6 to 16 must attend school. Educational services are available to everyone and promote equality of opportunity. Quebec’s schools strive to help all children succeed.

Schooling is divided into four major phases (the first two are mandatory):

1. Elementary: Kindergarten to grade 6
2. Secondary: Secondary 1 to 5
3. College or vocational: 1 to 3 years depending on the program
4. University: 3 years or more depending on the program