Until 1950, there was monastic education in Bhutan. As part of first Five Year Plan, the government in 1961 has adopted the western education system. Within short span of four decades government built 447 schools including primary schools to tertiary institutes. The Ministry of Education of Bhutan Government has the full responsibility to promote and build education in the country. The ministry also carries the responsibility of maintaining quality and standard of education, be it primary education or higher, technical or vocational education. The UNESCO – United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, is an Apex Body of education that works closely with the Ministry of Education of Bhutan for promotion of education.

The minimum age for admission into pre primary schools is 6 years. After completion of Primary education, students appear for the national level All Bhutan Class Six Examinations conducted by the individual schools. The question papers are still prepared by the Bhutan Board of Examinations. After passing class 6, students get enrolled into lower secondary schools and further into higher secondary schools. There are 16 higher secondary schools providing education at class 11th and 12th level. Admission to higher schools is subject of performance in class 10th examination.

Thus to sum up, education in Bhutan consists of 7 years of primary schooling, 6 years of secondary schooling comprises 2 years each for lower, middle and higher secondary. After passing secondary school examinations students may take admission into three-year degree programs leading to Bachelors degree. A four year degree program is also available as part of higher technical education.