SCHOOLS

The German education system is different in many ways from others. There are also differences  between the federal states of Germany. Here we provide you with some general information.

Children in Germany start school at the age of six, and from grades 1 through 4 attend elementary school (Grundschule), where the subjects taught are the same for all. Following the 4th grade, the children get selected according to their academic ability, the wishes of their families and the recommendation of the teachers. It is possible to attend one of three different types of schools as follows:                             

  • secondary school called Hauptschule
  • secondary school called Realschule
  • secondary school called Gymnasium

No matter what type of school a student attends, he/she must complete at least nine years of education.

German children usually attend school in the morning. From 5th grade there are also courses in the afternoon. Most schools now provide lunch. 

Dutch elementary school

International School Münster

To webpage International School

 

Hauptschule

Duration: Grades 5-9

It teaches the same subjects as the Realschule and Gymnasium, but at a slower pace and with some vocational-oriented courses. It leads to part-time enrolment in a vocational school combined with apprenticeship training until the age of 18.

Realschule

Duration: Grades 5-10

It leads to part-time vocational schools and higher vocational schools. For students with high academic achievement at the Realschule, there is an option to switch to a Gymnasium on graduation.

Gymnasium

Duration: Grades 5-13 (12)

It leads to a degree called the Abitur and prepares students for university study or for a dual academic and vocational leaving certificate. The most common education tracks offered by the standard Gymnasium are classical or modern language and mathematics natural science.

Gesamtschule

The Gesamtschule, or comprehensive school, is a more recent development and is only found in some of the states. It takes the place of both the Hauptschule and Realschule and arose out of the egalitarian movements in the 1960s. It enrols students of all ability levels in the 5th through the 10th grades. Students who satisfactorily complete the Gesamtschule through the 9th grade receive the Hauptschule certificate, while those who satisfactorily complete schooling through the 10th grade receive the Realschule certificate.

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