THE GERMAN EDUCATION SYSTEM
In Germany, responsibility for education is shared between the federal government and the federal states (Länder). The federal government plays only a minor role, while the Länder enjoy a high degree of autonomy. Consequently, the education system varies from one state to another, with differences in the school calendar, types of schools, curricula and teaching methods.
EDUCATION IN GERMANY
Children start compulsory education at the age of 6 and attend school for 9 or 10 years, depending on the state.
- Primary school covers the first years of study: Years 1–4 (Years 1–6 in Berlin and Brandenburg).
- Lower secondary (Gymnasium level) is designed for pupils aged 10 to 15/16, covering Years 5/7 to 9/10.
Upper secondary (Lycée) is for pupils aged 15/16–18 who have completed lower secondary and wish to continue to university or obtain a vocational qualification.
GRADING SYSTEM
Grades are awarded on a scale from 1 to 6, where: 1 = Very good, 2 = Good, 3 = Satisfactory, 4 = Adequate, 5 = Poor, 6 = Very poor.
TYPES OF SECONDARY SCHOOLS
After primary school, where all students study the same general subjects in mixed-ability classes, students are placed in one of three types of secondary school. Placement is based on their academic ability, teachers’ recommendations and parents’ preferences.
HAUPTSCHULE
Students follow a curriculum similar to the other schools but at a slower pace, with a stronger focus on vocational subjects.
At the age of 15–16, after a final examination, they receive the Hauptschulabschluss (school-leaving certificate). They may then continue in a vocational school combined with an apprenticeship.
REALSCHULE
This type of school provides a more in-depth education with a vocational orientation. At the end of Year 10, students sit examinations and obtain the Realschulabschluss.
Students with good results may transfer to the Gymnasium.
GYMNASIUM
This pathway prepares students for university studies. The curriculum varies but generally includes subjects such as German, Mathematics, Physics, Geography, Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Arts, Music, History, Philosophy and Foreign Languages.
Students can choose from one of the following streams:
- Humanities and Social Sciences
- Mathematics and Sciences
Foreign Languages and Music
Each school offers one or two programmes. Students study at least two subjects at advanced level and 7–10 at standard level. At the end, they sit final examinations in 4–5 subjects in order to obtain the Abitur (university entrance qualification). Some schools also offer the IB programme.
Contact us if you would like to study in Germany or need further information.
