What is high school like in Germany: Gymnasium, Realschule and Abitur

German high school has three tracks after Grundschule (around age 10): Gymnasium (Abitur and university), Realschule and Hauptschule. Gesamtschule combines all three.

This guide explains the Abitur, the German required, and which year an international student enters. The program is in high school abroad.

To place the Abitur in the international academic pathway, see the differences between high school, college, and university.

‍

Structure of the German education system

‍

High school in Germany is not only Sekundarstufe II: after Grundschule (around age 10) the student enters Gymnasium, Realschule, Hauptschule or Gesamtschule. Sekundarstufe II is the final years, toward the Abitur at Gymnasium. Characteristics:

• Duration: Generally 2 to 3 years, for students aged 16 to 19.
• Mandatory: Education is compulsory up to the age of 18 in most German states.
• Division: Secondary education is divided into two stages: Sekundarstufe I (equivalent to lower secondary) and Sekundarstufe II (High School).

For internationals, Gymnasium is the usual track. The better arrival window is years 8 to 10: the last two Gymnasium years generally do not take students who come only for the Abitur.

The German system is renowned for its flexibility and for offering different educational paths based on students' abilities and interests.

‍

‍

Types of secondary schools and their curricula

‍

In Germany, there are different types of secondary schools, each with its specific focus:

1. Gymnasium:
   • Focus: Academic preparation for higher education.
   • Duration: 8 or 9 years (including Sekundarstufe I and II).
   • Curriculum: Wide range of academic disciplines.
2. Realschule:
   • Focus: Balance between academic and vocational education.
   • Duration: 6 years (Sekundarstufe I only).
   • Curriculum: Combines theory and practice.
3. Hauptschule:
   • Focus: Preparation for professional training.
   • Duration: 5 years (Sekundarstufe I only).
   • Curriculum: Emphasis on practical and vocational skills.
4. Gesamtschule:
   • Focus: Combines elements from the three previous types.
   • Duration: Varies depending on the student's journey.
   • Curriculum: Offers different levels of difficulty in the subjects.

O Base curriculum includes subjects such as German, Mathematics, Sciences (Physics, Chemistry, Biology), History, Geography, Foreign Languages, Arts, and Physical Education. Schools have the autonomy to offer additional subjects or specializations.

State schools teach in German (B1, preferably B2 for Gymnasium). International or bilingual schools in Berlin, Munich, Frankfurt and Hamburg accept students still learning German, with English in class.

It is important to note that the German system places great emphasis on learning German language, which can be an initial challenge for international students, but also an excellent opportunity for linguistic immersion.

‍

‍

Assessment and certification system

‍

The German assessment system has some peculiarities:

• Notes: The grade scale ranges from 1 (excellent) to 6 (insufficient), with 4 being the minimum score for approval.
• Ongoing evaluations: Students are evaluated regularly throughout the academic year.
• Abitur: Gymnasium leaving exam, a practical equivalent of British A-Levels. Without it there is no direct German university entry. The grade mixes exams and the last years of school records.

O Abitur is crucial for access to higher education and consists of:

1. Written tests in various subjects
2. Oral exams
3. Conclusion paper in an area chosen by the student

The final score of the Abitur is a combination of the scores obtained in the exams and the school transcript from the last years of the Gymnasium.

‍

‍

School routine and student life

‍

School life in Germany has its own characteristics:

• Class Schedule: Generally from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. or 2 p.m., from Monday to Friday.
• Class structure: 45-minute periods, with breaks between classes.
• luncheon: Many schools offer lunch, especially those with afternoon classes.

German schools also offer extracurricular activities:

• Sports clubs
• Music and theater groups
• Community and environmental projects

The use of uniforms is not common in German schools, allowing students to express their individuality through clothing.

German school culture highly values students' independence and individual responsibility, which can be an interesting adaptation for international students.

‍

‍

Adaptation process for international students

‍

German schools are increasingly prepared to receive international students:

• German preparatory courses: Many schools offer intensive courses before the start of the school year.
• Integration programs: Some institutions have specific programs to help with cultural adaptation.
• Recognition of previous studies: The German system has procedures for validating studies carried out in other countries.

As for accommodation, international students generally have two options:

1. Living with a German family: Offers cultural immersion and daily support.
2. Boarding schools: Available at some schools, especially at private Gymnasien.

Cultural integration is facilitated by the openness of German society to diversity and the numerous opportunities for cultural experiences in German cities.

‍

‍

Frequently asked questions about high school in Germany

Can an international student enter any school type?

Typically Gymnasium, Realschule and Gesamtschule. State schools ask for German B1/B2. A bilingual international school is more open if the student is still learning German. Places depend on the state (Bundesland).

Is German required before arrival?

For a state school, yes: B1 minimum, B2 for Gymnasium. Many take an intensive German course first. International schools in Germany teach partly in English.

Is the Abitur valid outside Germany?

Yes, across much of Europe. Outside Europe the process varies. Families aiming at another continent sometimes prefer IB at an international school.

What is the difference between Gymnasium and an international school?

Gymnasium is the academic track in German, leading to the Abitur. An international school offers a bilingual or IB curriculum in English, more common among expatriate families.

Which year do internationals usually enter?

The better window is years 8 to 10. Schools generally do not take students in the last two Gymnasium years, which are reserved for Abitur prep.

‍

Be Easy: boutique study abroad consultancy

Choosing Gymnasium, Realschule or an international school in Germany depends on German, age and university destination. A senior consultant matches that in the high school abroad program. Get in touch with us to build the project.