The academic year in higher education in North Macedonia is organised by higher education institutions in accordance with national legislation.

It is typically divided into two semesters: a winter semester and a summer semester. Each semester includes periods for teaching, examinations and holidays.

The academic year usually begins in October and ends in September of the following year. Teaching is organised in semesters, followed by examination periods.

Organisation of vocational upper secondary education and training

Vocational upper secondary education and training (VET) in North Macedonia is provided in vocational schools and Regional Centres for Vocational Education and Training. It is organised at ISCED level 3 and includes programmes of different duration.

Validation of non-formal and informal learning is an important component of the adult education system in North Macedonia. It enables individuals to have their knowledge, skills and competences recognised, regardless of how they were acquired.

The system for validation is currently under development and further consolidation. Efforts are focused on strengthening institutional capacities and establishing clear procedures and standards for validation.

Adult education and training in North Macedonia includes formal, non-formal and informal learning pathways.

Formal adult education leads to recognised qualifications within the National Qualifications Framework. It is mainly provided through vocational schools and Regional Centres for Vocational Education and Training.

Adult education and training in North Macedonia is provided by a range of public and private institutions.

The main providers include adult education centres, vocational schools and Regional Centres for Vocational Education and Training. These institutions deliver formal and non-formal programmes and are required to be licensed in accordance with national legislation.