In Puerto Rico, the education system mirrors the U.S. system but includes local cultural and language elements. The island provides several types of education, ranging from early childhood to higher and specialized education.
1. Early Childhood Education
- Preschool/Pre-Kindergarten (Edad Temprana)
- For children ages 3–5
- Mostly private or federally funded (e.g., Head Start programs)
2. Primary and Secondary Education (K–12)
These are compulsory and provided free in public schools.
a. Elementary School (Escuela Elemental)
- Grades K–6
- Basic education in math, science, Spanish, English, and social studies
b. Intermediate/Middle School (Escuela Intermedia)
- Grades 7–9
- Includes more structured courses and introduction to electives
c. High School (Escuela Superior)
- Grades 10–12
- Focused on preparation for college or vocational paths
Diploma awarded: High School Diploma (Diploma de Escuela Superior)
3. Postsecondary Education
a. Public Universities
- Operated by the University of Puerto Rico (UPR) system, which has multiple campuses
- Offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees
b. Private Universities
- Popular ones include:
- Universidad del Sagrado Corazón
- Interamerican University
- Ana G. Méndez University System
4. Vocational and Technical Education
- Focus on practical skills for employment (e.g., mechanics, cosmetology, nursing)
- Offered at both high school and postsecondary levels
- Institutions include:
- Puerto Rico Technical College
- Instituto de Banca y Comercio
5. Special Education
- Tailored for students with physical, emotional, or learning disabilities
- Provided in both public and private institutions
6. Adult Education
- For adults needing to complete high school or learn new job skills
- Includes GED (General Educational Development) programs, ESL, and literacy training
7. Bilingual and International Schools
- Offer instruction in both English and Spanish
- Popular among expats and diplomats
- Some follow U.S. or international curricula (e.g., IB – International Baccalaureate)
