Overview
Serenissima Repubblica di San Marino (The Most Serene Republic of San Marino) is a land-locked, independent enclave located in northeastern Italy. The population is 29,973 and the literacy rate is 96%. Italian is the official language. San Marino is the 3rd smallest state in the world and claims to be the world’s oldest republic.
Tradition says that San Marino was founded in 301AD by Marinus, a Christian stonecutter from the island of Rab in Croatia, who was fleeing Roman persecution of Christians. The independence of the San Marino was recognized by the Pope in 1631. San Marino joined the Council of Europe 1988 and the United Nations in 1992. It is not a member of the European Union.
Education
Currently, San Marino’s Ministero dell’Istruzione dell’Università e della Ricerca oversees the country’s education system.
Primary and Secondary Education
Education is free and compulsory from ages 6 to 16. Scuola elementare (Primary/elementary school) is 5 years beginning at age 6. At the end of the 5th year, students are awarded a Licenza Elementare.
Scuola medie inferiore (Lower secondary school) is 3 years and leads to the Diploma Di Scuola Medie Inferiore. Upper secondary school is 2-3 years, depending on the educational track, and leads to the Diploma di Maturità.
Post-Secondary Education
Post-secondary programs are offered at the Università degli Studi della Repùbblica di San Marino. First-level programs are 3 years and lead to the Laurea di 1° Nivello. Programs leading to a Master are 1 year following a Laurea di 1° Nivello. Doctoral programs are at least 3 years following a Master. Upon successful defense of a dissertation, students are awarded a Dottorato di Ricerca (Doctor of Research).
Teacher Training
San Marino does not have teacher training programs, and prospective teachers are trained in Italy.
