The Council of Education was established during 1936. During the year 1956, the Kuwait Government divided education into four main categories: Kindergarten, with a duration of two academic years, Primary education with an academic duration of four years, Intermediate education, with a duration of another four years, and secondary education with a duration of four academic years.

All Schools and institutes in Kuwait, whether private or public, are subject to regulations formulated by the Ministry of Higher Education and Ministry of Education. All foreign schools in Kuwait are supervised by the Private Education Department of Ministry of Education, and have to be registered with the department.

Kindergarten

The Ministry of Education offers free kindergartens for Kuwaiti children in the age group of four to six. There are also a number of expatriate schools for expatriate children of this age group.

Primary, Intermediate and Secondary Education

It is mandatory for all Kuwaiti children of the age group six to fourteen to attend primary and intermediate schools. The Arabic private schools operate through governmental support, based on the academic requirements of the State of Kuwait. The private schools meant for expatriate and non-Arab children follow the curriculum of their home countries. The academic year begins during mid-September and ends during mid-June. The school week is Saturday to Wednesday.

University Education

Kuwait University was established during 1966 with an intention of providing professional, academic and technical rehabilitation, and to supply the country with qualified manpower, specialized in different fields. The Kuwait University is also open to expatriate students, and the admissions are carried out based on their grades.

There are various private institutions also in the country that offer full time and part time courses in various fields.

Qualitative Education

This is categorized as Special Education, Religious Education and Adult Education. Religious education comprises eighty one institutes of intermediate and secondary levels. Special education is provided by the Ministry to the disabled children in the state. Adult education targets the eradication of illiteracy among adults..