Eighteenth Call, Sweden

Maternity leave is more concerned with doing what is right for the child rather than economic factors. If a child is adopted, maternity leave will not be altered. Many fathers may take care of the child in a sort of "parent leave." High school lasts three years. In high school one chooses the "group" of classes, such as sciences or social sciences. Math, English, Swedish, and specific group classes are required. Grades and tests are comparable. Students usually graduate at 19. Public schools are more common. Schools do not have to be payed for, even private schools. No extracurricular activities, the are only provided by the local government. Large competition for academic programs. Tuition is free in Sweden. Housing availability is quite low. Public transportation is the main mode of transport.