Financing for equity in higher education

1. Education resources to subnational governments

Introduction

Key financing indicators (UIS Data)

In 2024, the gross enrolment ratio for tertiary education for both sexes (UIS) was 43.1%. The initial government funding per tertiary student as a percentage of GDP per capita (UIS) was 38.91% in 2007. The initial household funding per tertiary student (UIS) is not reported.

Tuition-free status

Under Article 73 of the Constitution (2019), the state is responsible for providing tuition-free higher education, including postgraduate studies. Higher education is tuition-free for citizens and foreigners alike.

Governance

In Cuba, higher education is entirely funded by central government. The Ministry of Higher Education/Ministerio de Educación Superior (MES), is responsible for managing and distributing the state budget for higher education that is approved by the Ministry of Finance and Prices. The MES allocates budgets for each university for staff salaries, operational costs, and building maintenance. Although some higher education institutions are affiliated (or “attached”) to other ministries, such as the Ministry of Health for medical training institutes, the MES retains overall authority for setting policy.

1. Education resources to subnational governments

Higher education funding is highly centralised in Cuba and does not flow through subnational governments.

2. Education resources to institutions

Funding for private universities in the absence of public institutions

There are no private higher education institutions in Cuba.

Allocation and equity

The budgeting process takes into account historical spending patterns and applies spending norms. No documentation of equity financing formulas were identified, however the government has made an effort to increase access to higher education by opening and distributing branch campuses across municipalities, paying particular attention to developing institutional capacity in the eastern region. The state has also developed distance learning options.

3. Education resources to students

Admission for vulnerable groups

Admissions for higher education in Cuba is largely determined by an entrance examination and interview. No specific support was identified for the admission of domestic vulnerable groups. However, Cuba has a strong programme for admitting students from other developing countries, especially for medical training.