School education in Lithuania progresses from primary education through lower and upper secondary education. General education schools are commonly called mokyklos, while some older pupils study at a gimnazija. Vocational education and training, known as profesinis mokymas, prepares learners for an occupation through a vocational provider, workshops or company-based practice. Its apprenticeship form, pameistrystė, is available in some programmes but does not describe every vocational programme. Higher education is offered mainly by universities, called universitetai, and colleges of applied sciences, called kolegijos. Universities generally place more emphasis on academic and research-based study, while kolegijos focus more strongly on professional practice. Learning can continue after initial education through adult learning, workplace training, short courses and continuing vocational training, known as tęstinis profesinis mokymas. The suitable option depends on the intended qualification, practical experience, previous education, language of instruction and whether the goal is general education, occupational entry, a higher-education degree or updated skills.
Learning in Lithuania
Learning in Lithuania covers general school education, vocational training, higher education, language learning and adult skills development. The main distinction is whether a learner is completing general education, preparing for an occupation, pursuing an academic or applied degree, or updating existing skills. Lithuanian is the main language of public education, although some schools and learning providers also use minority or foreign languages.
Tip
Choose the learning option in Lithuania by starting with the result you need: general education, occupational preparation, a higher-education degree or updated skills. Compare the required level of study, practical emphasis and language of instruction before committing to a provider.