In the pre soviet era, Azerbaijani children were introduced to Islamic religious training since early childhood. This education started when a child attains age of 5 and continues until age 20. During 17th and 18th centuries madrasahs were established as separate institutions of learning. The first technical high school and first women’s high school were established in Baku city in 1865. Secular elementary schools were started flourishing in late 19th century. Most of the Azerbaijani children received no education at all during this period. The literacy rate was very low and lowest among women, few women were allowed to attend schools.

During Soviet rule, the level of education in Azerbaijan rose significantly. According to soviet data released in 1970, 100 percent males and females aged between 9 to 49 years were educated. In Russian era, the language of instruction was Russian at large. The use of Russian language started declining during 1988.

Azerbaijan has more than 5000 secondary schools. The study duration is 11 years; primary schooling is from 1 to 4 year, and incomplete secondary education until 9 years. More than 100 000 Azerbaijani children leaves secondary schools every year.

Azerbaijan has number of schools for providing higher, technical and higher technical education. In 1991, there were 105 000 enrollment in higher and higher technical education. Most of the Azerbaijanis earn technical education, as Azerbaijan is industry driven economy.