The Starting Point: Primary School
Primary school in Germany usually starts at the age of 6 and lasts for four years. Here, children learn the basics such as reading, writing, and arithmetic.
Various Options: Types of Secondary Schools
After primary education, students can choose between different types of secondary schools: Gymnasium, Realschule, Hauptschule, Gesamtschule, and Sonderschule (for special needs).
Public and Private Options
Germany offers both publicly funded and private schools. Public schools are free, while private schools typically require tuition fees.
How Grading Works
The German grading system typically ranges from 1 (very good) to 6 (insufficient). Grades are determined by various forms of assessment.
Important Exams and Qualifications
Key exams include the Abitur and Fachhochschulreife (university entrance qualification for universities of applied sciences). These exams are crucial for those seeking higher education.
Duration and Daily Life
Secondary schools usually last between 4 and 6 years. School days typically run from Monday to Friday, with a varying number of hours depending on the school.
Transition to Higher Education or Vocational Training (Ausbildung)
After secondary schooling, students have the option to pursue either higher education or a vocational training (Ausbildung) based on their acquired qualifications.
Language of Instruction
The main language of instruction is German, but many schools also offer instruction in other languages, particularly English.