Education is compulsory for children ages 6 to 16 years under the Education Act. Most children in Gabon start their school lives by attending nurseries (Crèche), then kindergarten (Jardins d'Enfants).

 At age 6, they are enrolled in primary school (École Primaire) which is made up of six grades.

 The next level is secondary school (École Secondaire), which is made up of seven grades. The intended age at graduation is 19 years. 

Graduates of secondary school can apply for universities or other institutions of higher learning, such as engineering schools or business schools.

Approximately 9.6% of Gabon's government budget goes to education. The school life expectancy is 13 years, from Grade 1 to Grade 13. The baccalaureate is the second diploma of value. French is the language of education.