Navigating the education system in a foreign country can be quite overwhelming, especially when it comes to ensuring the best for your child’s future. As parents, you may be eager to understand everything about the local education system. And why not? After all, it forms the foundation of your child’s growth and development.
If you are an international family recently relocated to Germany with your family, then this blog post is the perfect place to begin with understanding the unique German school system, which is quite different from those of many other countries. By the end of this post, you will have a clear overview of the structure and key features of the German education system so you and your child can be well-prepared for the transition.
Compulsory schooling and general regulation
In Germany, school attendance is strictly compulsory for all children – home schooling is not permitted, unlike in some other countries. Compulsory schooling in Germany usually begins at the age of 6 and ends at the age of 15 or 16. This means that school must be attended dutifully for at least 9 years.
Due date and school start
In Germany, the so-called ‘cut-off date’ (Stichtag) determines the start of compulsory schooling and varies depending on the federal state. For example, in Saxony all children who turn 6 by June 30 will start school in the same year.
Therefore, a distinction is made between ‘mandatory’ and ‘optional’ children (Muss- und Kann-Kind): Mandatory children are already 6 years old on the cut-off date and must start school in the same year. Optional children only reach the age of 6 after the cut-off date. Parents must submit an application for early school enrolment and have their child’s school readiness checked if they wish to do so. Otherwise, children who turn 6 after the cut-off date will not start school until the following school year.
Structure of the school system
The school system is divided into different grade levels. Children spend the first four years in primary schools (Grundschule). After the 4th grade, i.e. when they are 10 years old, teachers consult with parents and help to decide which secondary school is best suited for them. The choice of secondary school depends on a few factors, which vary according to the federal state. In Saxony the recommendation for grammar school (Abitur) is based on the school grades. If this recommendation is not given, the child can still take an aptitude test and, if successful, attend grammar school. In most federal states, the teacher’s recommendation is not binding, so the choice of school type is up to the parents, who can make the right decision together with their child.
Here you can find a short overview of the different school types and levels in Germany:
Secondary level 1 (Grade 5th to 10th ):
After final exams in grade 9 of Hauptschule children receive their secondary school leaving certificate and can start an apprenticeship (Ausbildung).
After final exams in grade 10 of Realschule and Grammar School children receive their secondary school leaving certificate, which allows them to:
- attend specialized upper secondary school (Fachoberschule)
- attend specialized upper secondary school (Fachoberschule)
Secondary level 2 (Grade 11th to 13th ):
After final exams in grade 12 or 13, students receive their Grammar School diploma (Abitur), which allows them to:
- Attend a university / University of Applied Sciences (Universität / Hochschule)
- Start an apprenticeship (Ausbildung)
Fees and school hours
One of the benefits of the German education system is that most schools are state-funded and therefore free of charge. However, there are also private and international schools that charge fees, with costs varying depending on the institution. In primary schools classes often end around midday, but many schools offer after-school programs, where children can receive help with homework, play, and enjoy meals.
International and special schools
For children who do not yet speak German, there are also international schools that offer an English-language curriculum. They usually lead to the International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma and enable children to gain internationally recognized qualifications after grade 12.
Children and young people with disabilities are also expected to attend school and complete their mandatory education. Depending on their specific educational needs, they may either learn in general schools or attend specialized schools that cater to additional support requirements. In recent years, a shift in the perception of disability, along with a focus on inclusion and accessibility, has highlighted the role of general schools in supporting all students, regardless of disability.
Enrolment and support for non-German speaking children
If you come from abroad, you must register your child with the State Office for Schools and Education. They will check individually what educational opportunities are available for your child and whether it makes sense to attend a preparatory class. In these classes, children who do not yet speak German, they learn the language and are prepared for the transition to a regular class.
To register, you should make an appointment with the educational counselling service. A school examination will also be carried out to assess your child’s readiness for school. This examination includes physical tests and playful tasks that cover important areas of development. Important: A parent or guardian must always be present at the examination.
