The education system in Turkey is divided into four main levels: pre-primary, primary, secondary and higher education. Pre-primary education is optional and is not considered part of the formal education system, but is provided by a variety of institutions such as kindergartens and nursery schools. Primary education is compulsory and free for all children between the ages of 6 and 14. It consists of eight grades and is usually completed in eight years. Secondary education is also compulsory and free and lasts four years. Higher education in Turkey is provided by universities, which offer a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. The Ministry of National Education is responsible for overseeing and regulating the education system in Turkey. Overall, the education system in Turkey has undergone significant reforms in recent years, with a focus on improving the quality and accessibility of education for all students.