The educational system in Bangladesh is three-tiered and subsidized by the government. It consists of primary, secondary, and higher secondary levels, as well as tertiary education provided by over 150 universities. The primary education system is one of the largest in the world, with over 37,000 government primary schools. Secondary education consists of three streams and concludes with the SSC exam. Higher secondary education lasts two years and prepares students for higher education or employment. Tertiary education requires completion of higher secondary school and provides bachelor's, master's and PhD programs.