This volume endeavors to provide comprehensive factual information on the Soviet system of education. Chapter 1 offers basic information on the Soviet Republics. Chapter 2 describes the foundations of Soviet Education. Chapter 3 describes preschool through upper secondary education including academic calendars and curriculum. Chapter 4, "Vocational, Specialized and Technical Education" includes colleges, and bridge programs. Chapter 5, "Higher Education," examines history; governance; institutional structure and types; access; university, polytechnic and institute programs; research institutes; research at universities, polytechnics and pedagogical institutes; and libraries. Chapter 6, "The Arts," describes education in architecture, fine arts, and music. Chapter 7, "Health Professions," includes dentistry, medicine, paramedical education, nursing, and physical therapy. Chapter 7, "Teacher Training," covers teacher status, teacher training institutions, pedagogical readings, and reforms in teacher training. Chapter 9, "Other Forms of Education," describes adult education, free and open universities, Patrice Lumumba People's Friendship University, private and religious schools, and military education. Chapter 10 contains guidance for admissions officers in the United States on changes since 1985, academic credentials, translations, authenticity of documents, and English language testing (TOEFL). Appendixes contain information on the grading system, specialties offered at some institutions, sample credentials, and useful addresses. A glossary, index and bibliography are included. (Contains 20 references.) (JB)