Overview of the General Education System

The education system in Saskatchewan, a province of Canada, has developed under the supervision of the Ministry of Education. The provincial agency implements policy, curriculum, teacher certification, early learning, literacy, and libraries across the province.

Schooling is structured into elementary (Kindergarten–Grade 8) and secondary education (Grades 9–12). Educational institutions have a total of 27 school divisions that include public, Catholic (separate), and Francophone schools. The public system is arranged into 18 school districts and provides free education.

Saskatchewan is officially bilingual in its schooling approach, with English as the primary medium of instruction and French offered both as a first and second language. French-language instruction is available across the province by means of the French Immersion and Core French programs, as well as the Conseil des écoles fransaskoises, which provides first-language French education.

On the other hand, the province places strong emphasis on literacy and inclusivity, which is why programs are supporting Indigenous learners, adult education, vocational training, and special education. The Ministry collaborates with schools, communities, and Indigenous educational institutions, including the First Nations University of Canada, to ascertain equitable access.

The school calendars run from September to June, with about 195 school days. Recent reforms emphasize culturally relevant curricula and expanded early learning, to reinforce the province’s commitment to preparing a highly skilled and literate population.

School attendance is mandatory for children aged seven to 16 under Saskatchewan law. Education begins with Kindergarten, followed by Grades 1–8 (elementary) and Grades 9–12 (secondary). Although Kindergarten provides foundational early childhood learning, it is not strictly compulsory before age seven. Transition from elementary to secondary education occurs at Grade 9, where students begin earning credits toward graduation. The system ensures that students develop core competencies in literacy, numeracy, and life skills before moving to higher education or vocational training.

Saskatchewan offers a higher education sector that includes universities, polytechnics, regional colleges, Indigenous institutions, and vocational schools. The province has three universities, such as the University of Saskatchewan (USask), which is a research-intensive institution known for its strengths in agriculture, engineering, environment, and medicine. There is also the University of Regina, which is recognized for its heightened co-op programs in business, engineering, and computer science as well as the First Nations University of Canada, which provides culturally grounded Indigenous higher education.

Moreover, Saskatchewan Polytechnic holds four campuses in Regina, Saskatoon, Prince Albert, and Moose Jaw, which all offer applied training in technology, health, and trades. Universities are rigorous on research, while polytechnics and colleges focus on applied, hands-on learning. Regional colleges extend access to rural communities, whereas private vocational institutions contribute to training in business and trades.

Admission into these institutions requires completion of secondary school (Grade 12) or equivalent, though older students may be admitted through alternate routes. The higher education framework of the province supports several degree pathways, such as Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctorates, as well as technical diplomas, certificates, and apprenticeships. The Ministry of Advanced Education supervises accreditation and regulation to maintain quality standards across institutions.