Education in Samoa
Samoa, a Pacific island nation, runs a British/New-Zealand-influenced education system using Samoan and English. Literacy is high, and education is provided through government, mission (church), and private schools, with higher education offered locally and through the regional university.
Structure & stages
The system is organized as:
- PrimaryTaught in Samoan and English
- SecondaryLeading to national and regional examinations
Compulsory education & enrolment
Education is compulsory from about age 5 to 14 and free at the primary level. The school year runs roughly January to December.
Public schools
Most children attend government and mission (church-run) schools, with Samoan used in early grades and English increasingly the medium of instruction.
Private & international schools
Church organizations run many schools in Samoa, alongside government and a smaller number of private schools.
Curriculum & language of instruction
The curriculum covers Samoan, English, mathematics, sciences, and social studies, with early instruction in Samoan moving toward English.
Exams & qualifications
Students take national and regional (Pacific) examinations in secondary school, which govern progression and higher study.
Higher education
Higher education centers on the National University of Samoa, along with a University of the South Pacific (USP) presence and teacher/technical colleges. Many students also study in New Zealand and Australia.
Studying in Samoa from abroad
Samoa is not a major destination for international students; higher education is largely regional.
- USP & National UniversityServe local and regional students in English
- AbroadMany students study in New Zealand and Australia on scholarships
- LanguageEnglish is used in later schooling and higher education
Special education & support
Special-education provision is limited, delivered through a small number of programs with church and NGO involvement.
Homeschooling
Homeschooling is not an established route; education is school-based.
Costs & funding
Primary education is free. Church and private schools may charge fees, and higher study through USP or abroad involves fees. The currency is the Samoan Tala (WST).
Key facts for families
- LanguagesSamoan and English
- StructurePrimary + secondary
- CompulsoryAges 5–14
- Higher edNational University of Samoa, USP presence
- School yearJanuary to December
Where to verify the details
This guide is a starting point, not the final authority. For current details: