The Ministry of Education (MoE) has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to the strict enforcement of the 2024/2025 National Academic Calendar and the standardized graduation protocols across all public and private schools in Liberia.
With the academic year drawing to a close, the Ministry has issued a nationwide directive requiring full compliance with approved policies. The guidelines focus particularly on graduation eligibility, uniform fee structures, and a ban on unauthorized financial charges.
Graduation Eligibility Standards
To be eligible for graduation, 12th grade students must pass a minimum of five subjects, including English Language and Mathematics.
In cases where students successfully complete all internal academic requirements but do not meet the benchmark for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), schools must still award diplomas in recognition of the students’ academic progress and achievement.
Standardized Graduation Fees
To promote affordability and transparency, the Ministry has introduced a graduation fee ceiling for all school levels:
Grade 12
Public Schools: L$5,000
Private Schools: US$100
Grades 6 and 9
Public Schools: L$3,500
Private Schools: L$6,000
Kindergarten
Public Schools: L$2,500
Private Schools: L$5,000
Prohibited Charges
The MoE strictly prohibits any additional or unofficial fees related to graduation. Schools are not permitted to charge for the following:
Flexibility fees
Camping fees
Class party or dinner fees
Such charges, the Ministry states, place an unfair financial burden on students and their families and will not be tolerated.
Graduation Dress Code Policy
All students must graduate in their standard school uniforms.
Graduation gowns are optional and may only be worn if they are already owned by students or are provided free of charge by the institution.
No student should be required to pay for a gown under any circumstance.
Enforcement and Penalties
The Ministry has made it clear that any school found violating these guidelines will face strict penalties, including:
A mandatory administrative fine of L$150,000
Possible suspension or revocation of the school’s operating license
Academic Year Closure Dates
The official closing period for students in Grades 1 to 11 will begin on Thursday, July 17, 2025, and end on Thursday, July 31, 2025.
All schools are expected to align their academic activities accordingly.
A Call for Fairness and Equity in Education
The Government of Liberia remains steadfast in its mission to eliminate financial exploitation in the education sector.
“No student should be denied the opportunity to learn, graduate, or participate in school programs due to illegal or excessive financial demands,” the Ministry emphasized.
The MoE expressed its appreciation to all stakeholders, including school administrators, teachers, parents, students, community leaders, and development partners, for their continued support and cooperation.
“We are confident that Liberia’s educational community, known for its professionalism and commitment, will uphold these regulations and contribute to a fair, inclusive, and learner-centered academic environment,” the statement concluded.
