You may feel like the German school system will be a labyrinth to navigate, but it’s quite straightforward once you understand the main elements. Moreover, a high quality of education makes it worth investing the time to explore the opportunities especially if you're planning to move to Germany with children who are of school age.
Consider this article your introductory guide to the school system in Germany, covering everything from early childhood schooling to higher and adult education.
Early childhood education and care in Germany
Germany offers a diverse range of early childhood education and care options, catering to various family needs and preferences. Notably, early childhood education is not mandatory, giving parents the flexibility to choose the best care for their children.
For babies and children under the age of 3 Kinderkrippen (nurseries) offer a nurturing and safe environment where young children can develop social, emotional, and cognitive skills through play and interaction with peers and caregivers. However, Krippen are not free, and the costs can vary depending on the location, the quality of the facility, and the services provided.
Kindergarten, typically for children between the ages of 3 and 6, provides a structured yet flexible environment that balances play and learning. Activities are varied and can include arts and crafts, music, outdoor play, storytelling, and basic academic concepts. The rates for kindergarten are based on the parents' income, making it accessible to families from different economic backgrounds. Despite not being mandatory, Kindergarten in Germany is very popular.
The year before children enter primary school, they typically visit Vorschule. It provides a relatively relaxed, playful environment where children begin to learn foundational concepts in mathematics, literacy, and other subjects through engaging and interactive activities. While Vorschule is not mandatory, it is highly recommended as it helps ease the transition to primary school.
What is compulsory education in Germany?
It's mandatory for German students to attend school from the age of 6 until they complete 9 years of schooling at the Gymnasium or 10 years of schooling at other general education schools. Compulsory education ensures that all children in Germany receive a comprehensive education that prepares them for higher education or entry into the workforce. It also promotes equal opportunity for all students, regardless of background.
If your child is sick or has an important doctor's appointment, you have the option of excusing them from school. In the case of serious and chronic illness, compulsory education may be suspended or adapted. Parents must provide medical certificates and the school authorities will decide on possible measures, such as homeschooling or education in a special facility.
Is homeschooling allowed in Germany?
No, homeschooling is generally not allowed in Germany. The country has compulsory school attendance laws that require all children to attend a recognized school. There are very few exceptions to this rule, such as severe health issues that prevent a child from attending school. Parents who choose to homeschool their children without permission can face legal consequences, including fines and, in extreme cases, the loss of custody.
Primary school – the first part of compulsory education in Germany
In primary school (Grundschule), lessons aim to give children a solid educational foundation and get them used to homework. Subjects like literacy, mathematics, foreign languages, religion, science, and even computer skills add up to 20 to 30 tuition hours a week, alongside about half an hour of homework daily.
School entry health check
The long and complicated word "Einschulungsuntersuchung" or "Schuleingangsuntersuchung" means a (medical) examination of your child before he or she starts school. This examination consists of several tests to make sure your child is healthy and ready for the Grundschule.
First, height and weight are measured, and vision and hearing are tested. Simple movement exercises are used to evaluate coordination and motor skills. Then the doctor will check your child's speech and language development, and mental skills such as concentration, memory, and social development.
For this school entry health check, you and your son or daughter will be invited to an appointment at the local Gesundheitsamt (health department).
German primary school districts
Many federal states have defined catchment areas (Einzugsgebiete) for public primary schools (with the exception of North Rhine-Westphalia and Hamburg). The catchment area is also known as the school district: Children who live near a particular school are automatically assigned to that school. You will find out which catchment area is responsible for you in a letter from the local education authority (Schulamt) informing you of your child's forthcoming enrolment. This regulation does not apply to private schools or secondary schools.
Private vs. public schools in Germany
There is no state monopoly on schools in Germany. In addition to state and municipal schools (publicly funded schools), there are also independent schools, i.e. private schools. These often offer alternative educational concepts, different teaching methods, curricula or educational goals.
Examples of such private schools are Waldorf schools, which are based on the anthroposophical pedagogy of Rudolf Steiner and follow a holistic educational approach, and Montessori schools, which work according to the concept of Maria Montessori and focus on the individual learning process of the students. There are also international schools, which offer classes in several languages and often follow an international curriculum.
Primary school enrollment
Schools in Germany have specific registration periods, usually in the spring before the school year begins in August or September. Parents should check with their local school for exact dates. For primary schools, you may need to fill out an enrollment form provided by the school or local Schulamt.
Time for Einschulung – What age do Germans start school?
Children usually experience their Einschulung (official school entry) when they are 6 years old. There are cut-off dates for when a child can enter primary school depending on the birthday of the child. Generally, if a student turns six before June 30th, they're eligible to begin school that year. If they're younger, it's up to the administrators to determine if they'll accept the child.
See the German Education System for more information on Muss-Kinder (children who must enter school) and Kann-Kinder (children who could enter school but don't have to legally based on their age).
The Traditional German Schultüte
In Germany, it is a cherished tradition for a child to receive a Schultüte on their first day of school. That large, decorated paper cone is filled with candy, school supplies, small toys, and other treats. Typically, parents or grandparents present the Schultüte to the child on the morning of their first school day.
The tradition dates back to the early 19th century and is a unique aspect of German culture, symbolizing the importance of education and the support of family during this pivotal time in a child's life.
It’s your turn: Parents' Evening and Parental Involvement in German Schools
The excitement of Einschulung is also the beginning of your parental involvement in school. There are regular meetings held to facilitate communication between parents and teachers called Elternabend. At least once or twice a year the class teacher presents an overview of the curriculum, upcoming projects, school events, and any changes in school policies. It is also an opportunity to discuss the class's overall progress and address any concerns or suggestions parents might have.
In addition to the regular Elternabend, there may also be individual parent-teacher conferences (Elternsprechtag) which focus on your child’s progress and development.
Other aspects of parental involvement include Elternarbeit like:
- Parent Councils (Elternbeirat): Elected groups representing parents' interests, collaborating with school administrations.
- Class Representatives (Elternsprecher): Act as liaisons, coordinating communication and activities between teachers and parents.
- Volunteering: Parents participate in school events, field trips, and classroom support, fostering a supportive community.
Secondary school – diverse pathways for further education
Now, this is where it gets interesting because there are different types of secondary school. According to German concepts of education, there is real value in starting to "sort" students according to their natural (and somewhat chosen) proclivities for academics at high-school age.
There is, of course, some flexibility – just because you choose one stream does not mean you cannot cross over and opt for a traditionally more academic or vocational stream later.
For secondary school (Sekundarschule), parents and students will receive advice and recommendations from the primary school as to which type is most appropriate. You need to apply to the secondary school of your choice, but since you may not always get into your first choice, it is important to indicate a first, second and third choice. This ensures that alternative options are available if your preferred school cannot accommodate your child.
Types of secondary school graduation in Germany
Depending on a child’s academic performance and the length of time he or she has spent at the secondary school (typically a Gesamtschule, a Gemeinschaftsschule or a Gymnasium), the student can either obtain the ESA (Erster allgemeinbildender Schulabschluss), the MSA (Mittlerer Schulabschluss) or the Abitur.
Upon completion of one of the lower secondary school levels (ESA or MSA), it is possible to either continue one's education in a general school, e.g. to obtain a university entrance qualification (Abitur), or to complete vocational training.
Aimed at students who plan to go for tertiary or university-level education, Gymnasium schools typically offer rigorous levels of academic education. Here, you study from the 5th to 12th or 13th grade of education depending on which German federal state you live in (except in Berlin and Brandenburg, where children attend primary school until they finish 6th grade). Once they've hit grade 11, their intended preparation begins: students enter the Gymnasiale Oberstufe, which is a two-year prep level for their final exams. These lead to the Abitur; the qualification students need to graduate from Gymnasium and go on to university.
Vocational schools in Germany
German vocational schools provide specialized education and training for students who have completed their general secondary education (ESA or MSA level). These institutions combine classroom lessons with practical placements, known as the dual system, to prepare students for specific careers.
There are several types of vocational schools in Germany:
- Fachoberschule: A two-year program for MSA holders, leading to “Fachhochschulreife” for universities of applied sciences. An optional 13th year can lead to “Fachgebundene Hochschulreife” or “Abitur.”
- Berufsoberschule: Enhancing vocational knowledge, leading to vocational qualifications or “Abitur” with a second foreign language. Offers three to four-year dual vocational and higher education courses.
- Berufsfachschule: Provides training for specific professions requiring formal recognition or vocational qualifications.
- Berufsschule: Offers practical, interdisciplinary education, preparing students for further vocational training or professions in the dual system.
- Berufliches Gymnasium: A three-year secondary education program leading to the “Abitur” qualification.
Inclusion in German schools
The German education system is guided by the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which Germany ratified in 2009. This legal framework mandates that students with disabilities should have access to inclusive education in mainstream schools. To facilitate inclusion, German schools employ special education teachers, school psychologists, and other support staff. These professionals work together to create Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) for students with special needs, ensuring that they receive tailored support.
Schools are increasingly equipped with accessible facilities such as ramps, elevators, and adapted classrooms to accommodate students with physical disabilities. In addition, learning materials are being made available in multiple formats, including Braille and digital resources, to ensure that all students have access to the curriculum.
In addition to physical and cognitive disabilities, German schools also focus on the inclusion of students from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds. This includes language support programs, intercultural training for teachers, and activities that promote cultural awareness and sensitivity among students.
Supportive education for foreign children in German schools
In response to increasing diversity, German schools have implemented various programs to support the integration and education of non-native German-speaking students. Two key initiatives in this regard are the establishment of Willkommensklassen (welcome classes) and Förderunterricht (specialized support classes).
Welcome classes are designed to help newly arrived children who do not speak German to quickly acquire language skills and adapt to the local education system. These classes focus primarily on intensive German language instruction, along with some basic subject teaching.
Förderunterricht refers to special support classes aimed at assisting students who need additional help to meet academic standards. This can include students with learning difficulties, those who need help with specific subjects, or students who require language support.
FAQ on German schools
