* Public schools (state schools, government schools): These are funded by the government and are free to attend for eligible residents. This is the most common model in many countries, including much of Europe, Canada, and Australia.
* Charter schools (in some countries): While charter schools are publicly funded, they operate with more autonomy than traditional public schools. Free secondary education is often a feature, though not universally guaranteed across all charter schools globally. Their funding and availability differ by region.
* Some private schools (with scholarships or financial aid): While private schools typically charge tuition, many offer scholarships, grants, and financial aid packages that effectively make secondary education free for students who qualify based on financial need or academic merit.
It's important to note that even in countries where secondary education is nominally "free," there might be associated costs like uniforms, books, supplies, and extra-curricular activities. These hidden costs can still present a barrier to access for some families.