State schools or public schools are generally primary or secondary schools which are mandated to offer education to all children without charge, and they are funded in whole or in part by taxation.While such schools exist in virtually every country of the world, there are significant variations in their structure and educational programs. State education generally encompasses primary and secondary education (4 years old to 18 years old). In the context of Higher education (post 18 years) it may be used to distinguish state schools from other educational institutions such as universities, colleges, and technical schools that are funded and overseen by governments rather than private entities, or religious groups.