Liechtenstein is a constitutional, hereditary monarchy based on democratic and parliamentary principles; the power of the state is embodied in the Reigning Prince and in the people. Liechtenstein comprises eleven political municipalities with around 40,000 inhabitants over an area of around 160 km2.

Liechtenstein's education system is in the responsibility of the state, i.e. state schools as well as private schools are under the supervision of the state. School attendance is compulsory. The structure of Liechtenstein's education system has been clearly influenced by the neighbouring education systems, especially the one from Switzerland. The main characteristics of Liechtenstein's education system are therefore similar (e.g. types of school and terminology). Differences can be seen, among other things, in the details of the organisation and in the development of the education system.

In Liechtenstein, education is possible from primary school to university level, although the theoretical vocational training takes place in Swiss vocational schools. Due to the small size of the country, the higher the school level, the less broad the range of options. Depending on the field of study, Liechtenstein students often obtain their further qualifications at higher vocational schools and universities in Switzerland, Austria and Germany.

Especially in the fields of schooling in vocational education and training, in advanced vocational education, and in higher education (tertiary education) Liechtenstein often cooperates with the neighbouring countries, first of all with Switzerland, i.e. Liechtenstein participates with financial contribution. Places to study at universities and higher schools are obtained with the help of a range of agreements with foreign ministries and departments.

Bibliography:

• Biedermann Klaus, Büchel Donat, Burgmeier Markus (2012): Wege in die Gegenwart. Vaduz: Amtlicher Lehrmittelverlag
• Brunhart, Arthur et al (2013): Historisches Lexikon des Fürstentums Liechtenstein, Band 1 und 2, Zürich: Chronos Verlag
• Martin, Graham (1984): Das Bildungswesen des Fürstentums Liechtenstein. Zürich: Sabe; Aarau; Frankfurt am Main: Sauerländer
• Vogt, Paul (1990): Brücken zur Vergangenheit. Vaduz: Amtlicher Lehrmittelverlag