Structure and Duration
The Gymnasium extends from grades 5 to 12 (or 13) and is divided into lower secondary education (grades 5 to 10) and upper secondary education (grades 11 and 12/13). After 10th grade, students have the opportunity to obtain a secondary school diploma, but the primary goal of the Gymnasium is to achieve the Abitur. Depending on the federal state, the duration of the Gymnasium education (Ausbildung) varies between eight (G8) and nine years (G9).
Subjects and Specialization
The subject offerings at the Gymnasium are broad and include language, mathematics and science, as well as social science subjects. There are often opportunities to focus on specific areas, such as natural sciences, languages, or the arts. In the final years of upper secondary education, students choose advanced courses that are more intensive than the basic courses.
Performance Assessment
Performance assessment in lower secondary education is done in the form of grades based on written assignments, oral participation, and other subject-specific performances. In upper secondary education, a points system is used that evaluates performance in basic and advanced courses. This point score contributes to the final Abitur grade, which is calculated based on the performance of the last two school years and the results of the Abitur exams.
Abitur
The Abitur is the highest school diploma in Germany and is a prerequisite for admission to universities and many universities of applied sciences. The Abitur examination consists of written and oral exams in various subjects, which can vary depending on the federal state and individual subject choices. The achieved score determines the final Abitur grade and thus the access opportunities to various degree programs, particularly in restricted access subjects such as medicine or law.
Transition to Gymnasium
The transition to Gymnasium usually takes place after the fourth grade of primary school. The recommendation of the primary school, based on performance and teacher assessments, is crucial. In some federal states, standardized tests or selection procedures are part of the transition process. Parents generally have the right to participate in the decision about their children’s type of school, even if the recommendation is not for the Gymnasium.
Differences Between Federal States
The structure of Gymnasium varies from state to state. This includes both the duration of the education (G8 or G9) and the content and focus of the Gymnasium education (Ausbildung). Some states offer special profiles such as music or sports Gymnasiums. Additionally, there are differences in grades and the process of Abitur examinations, as education policy is determined by the states in Germany.
Gymnasium and Other Types of Schools
The Gymnasium represents the most demanding of the secondary schools in the German education system. In addition, there are the Realschule, Hauptschule, and Gesamtschule, each offering different educational paths and qualifications. The Gymnasium is the only type of school that leads directly to the Abitur. A transfer from other school types to the Gymnasium is generally possible, but is contingent on certain academic achievements.
Support and Tutoring
Since the Gymnasium places high demands on students, there are various support possibilities, such as remedial courses in specific subjects or school counseling services. Tutoring is also a common method to assist students experiencing difficulties. In addition, many Gymnasiums offer exchange programs and project weeks that contribute to the individual support of students.