How long does secondary school take in Germany?

Secondary school generally lasts from grade 5 to grade 9 or 10, depending on the federal state. After grade 9, the Secondary School Diploma (Hauptschulabschluss) is obtained, with the option of obtaining an extended Secondary School Diploma after grade 10.

What subjects are taught at secondary school?

In addition to core subjects like German, Mathematics, and English, practical subjects such as Work Studies, Technology, Home Economics, and Social Studies are also taught.

What is the focus of secondary school?

Secondary school places a strong emphasis on practical learning and career orientation. The goal is to prepare students specifically for vocational training (Berufsausbildung) and entry into the job market.

What qualifications can be obtained at secondary school?

At secondary school, students can obtain the Secondary School Diploma (Hauptschulabschluss) after grade 9. In some federal states, an extended Secondary School Diploma (erweiterter Hauptschulabschluss) or the Intermediate School Certificate (Mittlere Reife) can be achieved after grade 10.

How does secondary school prepare students for the job market?

Secondary school offers internships, career preparation projects, and collaborations with companies to provide students with practical experience and connections to the job market.

What happens after obtaining the Secondary School Diploma?

After obtaining the Secondary School Diploma, many students begin a dual vocational training (Berufsausbildung). Alternatively, they can transfer to higher schools such as vocational colleges or specialized secondary schools.

School ▶ Secondary Schools

Secondary School

Secondary School in Germany 2025

Q: What support options are available at secondary school?

Secondary schools offer special support programs for students with learning difficulties or social disadvantages, including language training and social educational support.

Q: How has secondary school changed in recent years?

Many federal states have integrated secondary school into school forms such as secondary schools (Sekundarschulen) or community schools (Gemeinschaftsschulen), which allow longer periods of joint learning and a variety of school qualifications.

Secondary schools in Germany offer a practice-oriented education that prepares students for vocational training (Berufsausbildung). They are part of the structured school system and usually lead to the Intermediate School Certificate (Mittlere Reife) or the Secondary School Diploma (Hauptschulabschluss). The Secondary School Diploma allows access to various training professions or higher schools such as vocational colleges.

Pathway in Secondary School

The secondary school usually covers grades 5 to 9 or 10, depending on the federal state. After grade 9, students receive the Secondary School Diploma (Hauptschulabschluss). In some federal states, it is possible to obtain an extended Secondary School Diploma (erweiterter Hauptschulabschluss) or the Intermediate School Certificate (Mittlere Reife) after grade 10, which allows access to certain higher secondary schools such as vocational colleges.

Teaching Focus

The curriculum in secondary schools is highly practice-oriented. In addition to core subjects like German, Mathematics, and English, subjects like Work Studies, Technology, Home Economics, and Social Studies play a central role. The aim is to impart basic skills to students that they can apply in the world of work. Particular emphasis is placed on career orientation and preparation for vocational training (Berufsausbildung).

Career Orientation

Career orientation is a central component of secondary school education (Hauptschule). This includes internships in companies, career preparation projects, and teaching units that prepare students for the world of work. Partnerships with regional companies and vocational schools help students to establish contacts with potential employers and gain practical experience.

Transition to Vocational Training

Students with a Secondary School Diploma often begin a dual vocational training (Berufsausbildung). This form of training combines theoretical instruction at a vocational school with practical training in a company. Depending on their performance and interest, students can also transfer to a higher secondary school, such as a vocational college or a specialized secondary school, to obtain higher educational qualifications.

Students with Special Needs

Many secondary schools offer special support programs for students with learning difficulties or social disadvantages. These programs include targeted assistance in lessons, additional language training, and social educational measures to facilitate the transition to the world of work.

Secondary School in Transition

In recent years, the secondary school has lost importance in Germany as more and more students strive for higher educational qualifications. Many federal states have integrated the secondary school into new school forms such as secondary schools (Sekundarschulen) or community schools (Gemeinschaftsschulen). These school forms provide longer periods of joint learning and enable various school diplomas within a single school.

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