Pre-primary and primary education

The primary education level is from year 1 to year 5. The primary curriculum is a competency based curriculum developed by the National Curriculum and Textbook Board (NCTB). The Directorate of Primary Education (DPE) implements the curriculum and also manages the system of primary education. There is no nationwide examination at the end of the fifth year. However, the government education boards conduct a scholarship examination at the end of year 5.

Secondary and higher secondary education

On completion of primary education, students (11+) enroll for junior secondary education that spans 3 years. At the end of this phase of education, some students branch out to join the vocational stream, offered at Vocational Training Institutes (VTI) and Technical Training Centers (TTC) run by the Ministry of Education, and the Ministry of Labor and Employment respectively. Students in the mainstream continue in government and non-government secondary schools for a two-year secondary education in their respective areas of specialization, i.e. humanities, science, commerce, etc. At the end of their secondary education, the students sit for their first public examination (SSC) under the supervision of six education boards.

The students of religious education and English medium streams also sit for their respective public examinations, Dakhil and 'O' level, conducted by the Madrasah Education Board, and London/Cambridge University respectively, facilitated by the British Council in case of the latter.

Higher secondary education

After 10 years of schooling at primary and secondary level, students (16+) who succeed in passing the Secondary School Certificate (SSC) examination have the option of joining a college for a two-year higher secondary education in their respective areas of specialization, or enrolling in technical or polytechnic institutes. After the two-year higher secondary education, one has to sit for another public examination called Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) Examination conducted by the Education Boards to qualify for further education.

Students of religious and English medium streams also sit for their respective public examinations, Alim and 'A' level, conducted by the Madrasah Education Board and London/Cambridge University respectively to qualify for further education

Undergraduate education

Undergraduate education of various duration (two to four years) is offered to age 18+ students at a number of public and private universities, degree and honors colleges, technical colleges, and specialized institutions. Successful completion of a degree course is a prerequisite for appointment to a white-collar civilian job.

Post-graduate education

Post-graduate education, normally of a one- to two-year duration, is provided at universities and affiliated colleges and institutions under National University.