The Italian education and training system is based on the principles of subsidiarity and the autonomy of school institutions. 

The State holds exclusive legislative authority over the ‘general rules on education’ and is responsible for setting  the essential levels of services that must be ensured throughout the country. The State also defines the fundamental principles that the Regions must follow when exercising their own powers. 

Regions have concurrent legislative powers in the field of education and have exclusive legislative powers in the field of vocational training. 

State educational institutions have autonomy in teaching, organization and research, experimentation and development. Italian law establishes that education is compulsory for at least 10 years, with reference to the age group 6-16.