The first three years of secondary school are compulsory and tuition is free. Senior middle school is not compulsory and students must pay minimal tuition fees. Private secondary schools often offer specialised education and have a more vocational bent, but the qualifications they offer are considered to be on the same level as those of State-run middle schools. However, graduates from secondary professional schools are seen to have achieved a higher level in some ways akin to a university education. Students graduating from junior middle schools usually go on to senior middle schools, although some move to vocational high schools or secondary professional schools for 3-5 years of study.
Higher education is offered in universities, colleges, institutes, and vocational colleges.
These institutions conduct academic and scientific research and provide social services as well as offering courses to students. To enter a university or college, students have to take the national entrance examination, which takes place every July and is now open to people of all ages. Selection is based on each students marks in this exam, and due to the number of people sitting the exam, getting into university is highly competitive. Those who fail to get selected have to go to private colleges if they want to continue their education. Tuition at such colleges is more expensive than at the State-run universities.