Secondary education, in accordance with the Law on Secondary Education (Official Gazette of the Republic of Macedonia No. 44/95 from 20.09.1995), is implemented based on study plans and programs for: gymnasium, vocational, secondary art education and secondary education for students with special educational needs. The secondary education enables the students to acquire knowledge and develop skills for work and further education. Gymnasium and secondary art education last for four years, while secondary vocational education lasts either 3 or 4 years. Vocational education and training may also be implemented according to study plans and programs for two-year vocational training.

With the Law on changes and amendments to the Law on Secondary Education (Official Gazette of the Republic of Macedonia No. 49 from 18.04.2007) secondary education is compulsory for every citizen under equal conditions defined by the Law. In accordance with this Law secondary education in public schools is provided free of charge.