Financing for equity in primary and secondary education
1. Education resources to subnational governments
2. Education resources to schools
3. Education resources to students and families
4. Social policies and family support programmes
Introduction
In Liechtenstein, the education system is primarily centralised, with the Ministry of Infrastructure and Education overseeing policy, funding, and overall governance. Within the ministry, the Office of Education (Schulamt) plays a key administrative role, handling school planning, development, and the management of student support programs such as scholarships. Public schools are financed directly through the national budget, with the Office of Education administering resources, rather than relying on direct transfers from municipalities. While the central government provides the bulk of education funding, municipalities contribute modestly, particularly to the infrastructure and operational costs of primary schools. International transfers also provide limited supplementary support.
1. Education resources to subnational governments
Education funding is centralised but shared with municipalities, particularly for primary education. The Ministry of Infrastructure and Education, through the Office of Education, oversees overall financing. Municipalities cover 50% of teacher salary costs and fund school infrastructure at the primary level, while the state fully finances secondary education, including both operational and capital expenses. Funding is based on direct cost-sharing arrangements.
2. Education resources to schools
In basic education, school funding is shared between the state and municipalities. The state fully funds secondary schools, including teacher salaries and facility investments, while primary schools operate under a cost-sharing model, with municipalities covering infrastructure and 50% of teacher salaries.
Liechtenstein provides tailored support for students with special educational needs in mainstream schools under the Ordinance on School Support Measures. This includes academic, therapeutic, and psychological services to aid integration. Although there is no formal equity-based funding formula, schools with special needs students receive extra support, staff, and infrastructure, effectively targeting resources where needed.
3. Education resources to students and families
No information was found.
4. Social policies and family support programmes
Economic Social Assistance System
Liechtenstein’s Economic Social Assistance System supports low-income families by covering essential living expenses, including a range of education-related costs. Managed locally by the Office of Social Services under the Ministry of Social Affairs and Culture, the programme helps with expenses such as school supplies, uniforms, transportation, extracurricular activities, and childcare for younger siblings to ensure regular school attendance. Tailored to individual family needs, it aims to reduce financial barriers and support children’s continued participation in education, helping to promote equal opportunities for all students.
5. School meal programmes
No information was found.
