The German school system: types of school and qualifications

Time and again we hear that the German school system is no longer up to date. Complicated, illogical and unfair are words that are associated with this system. So it's no wonder that it's easy to lose track of things, especially if you're new to Germany. But don't worry - here you'll get a clear overview of the different types of schools, qualifications and educational pathways. Whether you're looking for the right school for your child or need information about educational pathways yourself, we'll help you find your way through the confusion.

The German school system explained

The education system in Germany is federally organized, which means that each federal state has slightly different rules. Basically, the school system can be divided into three levels:

1. Primary level (elementary school): Children usually attend this type of school from the age of 6 to 10 (in some federal states up to the age of 12). Elementary school comprises grades 1 to 4 (or 1 to 6, depending on the federal state) and focuses on the basics such as reading, writing and arithmetic.
2. Secondary level I: From year 5 (or 7 in some federal states), pupils move on to a secondary school, depending on their performance and interests. Typical types of school are the Hauptschule, Realschule or Gymnasium. This phase usually lasts until the age of 15 to 16.
3. Secondary level II: This level begins at around the age of 16 and prepares pupils for their school-leaving qualifications. Depending on the type of school, they can obtain a Hauptschulabschluss, Realschulabschluss (intermediate school leaving certificate) or the Abitur (general higher education entrance qualification), which gives them access to university.

Typical types of school in Germany

After elementary school, teachers and parents decide together which type of school is suitable for the child. These types of school are available:

• Hauptschule: Duration: 5-9 years, qualification: Secondary school certificate. The focus is on practical education.
• Realschule: Duration: 5-10 years, qualification: Realschulabschluss (intermediate school leaving certificate). More theoretical content than the Hauptschule, but also practical relevance.
• Gymnasium: Duration: 5-12/13 years, qualification: Abitur. Prepares students for university studies.
• Comprehensive school: A combination of the Hauptschule, Realschule and Gymnasium branches. Pupils can obtain various qualifications here.

Abitur and alternatives for university admission

The Abitur is the general higher education entrance qualification and the standard qualification in Germany to study at university. Many people think that the German school system is unfair (especially to children of immigrants), as not having the Abitur can prevent you from entering university and some professions. But don't worry, there are well thought-out alternatives to the Abitur:

• Fachhochschulreife: Access to universities of applied sciences for practice-oriented degree courses.
• Professional qualification: Possible with completed vocational training and professional experience in some federal states.
• Fachgebundene Hochschulreife: Enables you to study in certain subject areas.
• Entrance examination: Some universities offer special examinations or guest lectureships.

Is it possible to change school type in Germany? 

A change of school type is generally possible depending on performance and federal state. This is particularly important for children of immigrants in Germany, as they sometimes study at a school other than the one they wish to attend because they do not have sufficient knowledge of German to attend another school. It is not uncommon for children of immigrants to transfer from a Hauptschule or Realschule to a Gymnasium, for example.

Other types of schools in the German school system

In addition to the traditional types of school, there are special facilities:

• Vocational schools: part of the dual training system. Trainees learn the theoretical foundations of their profession here.
• Special schools: For pupils with special needs.
• Private schools: Independent schools, often with special educational concepts.
• International schools: Particularly suitable for children of expats or families who move around a lot.

If you're still learning German, check out our article on free ways to learn German.

After leaving school: looking for a job or apprenticeship in Germany

After school, there are several paths open to you in Germany:

• Dual training: Here you combine practical experience in the company with theory at vocational school. Particularly suitable for skilled trades or technical professions. You can find out more about this in our article Apprenticeship vs. study.
• Study: If you have the Abitur, you can study at a university.
• Further training: Even after training, there are opportunities for further professional development.

If you have completed training abroad, it is important to have it recognized in Germany. Read more about this in our article on the recognition of foreign qualifications.

How grades work in the German school system

In Germany, pupils are assessed using a standardized grading system. The grades range from 1 (very good) to 6 (unsatisfactory). Here is a brief overview:

• 1 - Very good: Performance that meets the requirements to a particularly high degree.
• 2 - Good: Performance that fully meets the requirements.
• 3 - Satisfactory: Performance that essentially meets the requirements.
• 4 - Sufficient: Performance that is deficient but still meets the requirements.
• 5 - Unsatisfactory: Performance that does not meet the requirements but shows basic knowledge.
• 6 - Unsatisfactory: Performance that does not meet the requirements and does not show any basic knowledge.

In addition, in some subjects there are also written and oral examinations as well as project work that are included in the assessment. In the upper school (Gymnasium, secondary level II), a points system from 0 (unsatisfactory) to 15 points (very good) is often used. Grades and certificates are decisive for the transition to other types of school or for applying for apprenticeships.

‍Conclusion: Work on your future with WorkerHero

The German school system offers many opportunities - from elementary school to vocational training or university. If you want to shape your professional future in Germany, WorkerHero is the perfect platform to help you get started. We not only help you with your job search, but also with informative articles like this one to give you guidance. Whether it's learning German or getting your training recognized - we're by your side. Start your career in Germany now with WorkerHero!

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