Uzbek schoolchildren to study for 12 years under new education reform

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Uzbekistan has launched the transition to a 12-year general secondary education system, Deputy Minister of Preschool and School Education Sardor Rajabov announced.

The additional academic year will be introduced at the pre-school preparation stage: one year of preparatory education and four years of primary school, followed by five years of basic general education and two years of upper secondary education (grades 10–11).

At present, preparatory groups for school enrollment operate across the country, covering nearly all six-year-old children. These groups are gradually being integrated into the school system in line with international standards. Instruction will take place directly within schools, with specialized training programs developed for teachers.

The transition to 12-year education will allow graduates to avoid the need for foundation courses when entering foreign universities, while preserving the academic year.