Students can choose between secular public schools (managed by the Ministry of Education) and Islamic schools ( Madrasahs , managed by the Ministry of Religious Affairs).

The Indonesian education system follows a structured path mandated by law: 12 years of compulsory education (6 years primary, 3 years junior secondary, 3 years senior secondary), preceded by early childhood education.

High-stakes national exams often cause significant stress for students and teachers alike.