The Spanish education system consists of four main levels: pre-school, primary education, compulsory secondary education (ESO), and post-compulsory schooling (Bachillerato). School is compulsory between ages 6-16. ESO is for ages 12-16 and provides a basic education. Students can then pursue Bachillerato for ages 16-18 to prepare for university or vocational training programs. The vocational training programs include middle grade cycles for technicians or superior grade cycles for related university degrees.