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The German education system is a unique combination of rigorousness, hands-on learning, and individual development. Let’s explore how this system works, its key stages, and other helpful details for anyone considering studying in Germany.

In this guide: A chart of the German school system highlighting its stages and education institutions.

How the German School System Works

The German education system operates under the framework of the (Grundgesetz). The Federal Ministry of Education and Research (Bundesministerium für Bildung und Forschung – BMBF) coordinates and supports education at the federal level.

However, education in Germany is primarily the responsibility of the individual federal states (Bundesländer). Each federal state has its own Ministry of Education or equivalent authority responsible for education policy and legislation within its jurisdiction.

These federal state authorities determine many aspects of education, including curriculums, teacher qualifications, and how schools are organized. As a result, you may find some differences in educational policies and practices across the country.

What is Compulsory Education in Germany?

It is a fundamental right of every child in Germany to receive an education. As part of compulsory education, all children in the Federal Republic of Germany must start school once they reach the age of six up until they complete nine years of full-time schooling (15 years old) at a Gymnasium or 10 years of full-time schooling (16 years old) at other general education schools.

After general compulsory schooling, those who don’t continue their education at a full-time general or vocational upper secondary school must still attend part-time schooling until they’re 18. This compulsory attendance at a Berufsschule (Berufsschulpflicht) usually lasts three years.

Children and youth with disabilities are not exempt from compulsory education. They can either join regular schools with non-disabled peers or attend special education institutions (sonderpädagogische Bildungseinrichtungen), depending on their special education needs.

How Is the School System Structured in Germany?

The German school system is divided into five main stages [see the chart & description of each stage, below]:

1. Early childhood education. This stage is optional but the majority of children in Germany attend it. They usually start kindergarten at age three or four, mainly for socialization and some early learning.
2. Primary education. Children start primary education at age six, from the first to fourth grade (or first to sixth in Berlin and Brandenburg). This stage is the beginning of compulsory schooling, so schools focus primarily on a smooth transition from preschool to formal education.
3. Secondary education. Secondary education in Germany is divided into lower (general) secondary (Sekundarstufe I) and upper secondary level (Sekundarstufe II). It aims to prepare students for vocational qualifications or higher education.
4. Tertiary education. Tertiary education or higher education includes universities, colleges, and vocational academies offering degrees and vocational qualifications. These institutions are known worldwide for their academic integrity and abundant research opportunities.
5. Continuing education. Continuing education in Germany includes different programs for skill development and lifelong learning. It caters to diverse people who seek personal and professional growth beyond the other standard education stages.

1. Early Childhood Education

What Is Considered Preschool Education in Germany?

In Germany, early childhood education (or preschool education) is an optional stage of schooling for children aged 0 to six years old. It is provided by both private and public child and youth welfare services for children who have not reached the age when they start compulsory education (primary school).

Which Are the Institutions of Preschool Education in Germany?

Preschool education is predominantly offered by private daycare centers including crèches, child-minding centers, and kindergartens.

Some non-public organizations such as churches, welfare associations, or parent’s associations have priority in offering these services. Local authorities only step up to create public institutions if there aren’t enough private ones.

These are the most common preschool education institutions in Germany:

• Crèches (Kinderkrippen, or Krippe for short). For children under the age of three.
• Kindergartens (Kindergärten, or Kiga for short). For children from age three up to starting primary school.
• Day-care centers (Kindertageseinrichtungen, or Kita for short). This is an umbrella term for all preschools, but it has also come to mean a combined setting for both children under the age of three and those from age three up to starting primary school.
• School kindergartens, Preliminary classes, or Primary school support classes (Schulkindergärten, Vorklassen, Grundschulförderklassen). For children of compulsory school age who are not yet ready for structured learning. This includes those with learning disabilities and special educational needs.

What Are the Teaching Methodologies and Materials Used in Preschool Education in Germany?

The purpose of early childhood education in Germany is to nurture children’s independence and development. These institutions offer age-appropriate instruction, values, and rules, with the flexibility to adapt to individual needs—such as those of expat children, for example, who may catch up on language acquisition and socialization during this phase.

As for the time children spend in preschool, this is usually arranged together between parents and management. Typically, it spans a seven-hour day, including lunch and sometimes a midday break.

For Children Under the Age of 2-3

The core educational mission of preschool education in Germany (age under two or three) is to enhance communication skills among kids. Secondly, they should develop language skills through social interaction with other toddlers and adults.

Communication and language skills are taught by language role models (educators), finger plays, singing, picture books, and additional teaching practices/instruments.

Furthermore, an important part of pre-educating children is given to motor development. This includes increasing body awareness, self-acceptance, self-confidence, and concentration among toddlers.

Motor development is reached through physical activities, visiting public environments, rhythmic early education programs, singing, and movement playing.

For Children Over the Age of 2-3

Core values that preschool education seeks to develop amongst children are the enhancement of their teamwork skills, along with their level of integration in daily life activities.

Key areas of German preschool education for children older than two or three are:

1. Language, writing, communication,
2. Personal and social development,
3. Development of values and religious education,
4. Mathematics, natural sciences, (information) technology
5. Fine arts/working with different media
6. Body, movement, health, and
7. Nature and cultural environments.

Such values are taught through self-organized learning, creative learning, teamwork-building activities, investigation, and experimental activities.

Assessment of Educational Achievements in Preschool Education in Germany

Children in preschool institutions are not formally assessed on their educational achievements. They are, instead, regularly supervised by their educators or trainers to make sure they are engaging in the learning activities and absorbing new information.

Educators discuss their observations with the child’s parents, and if necessary, they agree on taking further measures for the development of the child’s learning skills.

Who Supervises Preschool Education in Germany?

Preschool education is supervised by each federal state’s State Youth Welfare Office (Landesjugendamt). Education providers must comply with requirements such as appropriate staff ratios, qualified educators, adequate facilities, hygiene standards, and age-appropriate programs.

Because it is offered mostly by private providers and not mandatory, early childhood education in Germany comes at a cost, which is often up to hundreds of euros per month. However, these fees vary a lot depending on the federal state and the preschool institution.

In many cases, though, the costs are subsidized or are income-dependent. Lower-income families pay less or are exempt from paying. Some states have also moved towards making kindergarten entirely free.

What If a Child Isn’t Yet Ready to Begin Compulsory School Studies?

If a child is six years old (compulsory school attendance age), but has not yet reached the level of development needed, there is a middle option for them. This is especially relevant for children with disabilities and special education needs.

This middle option is a special school offered by some federal states known as school kindergarten or preliminary class.

2. Primary Education

What Is Considered Primary Education in Germany?

A primary school (Grundschule) offers mandatory education in mixed-ability classes to children aged six, up until they complete fourth grade (or sixth grade in Berlin and Brandenburg).

Primary education is quite important for a child’s future in Germany. Toward the end of fourth or sixth grade, students are placed into different types of secondary schools depending on their academic performance and goals.

Primary School Grades	Child’s Age
Grade 1	6
Grade 2	7
Grade 3	8
Grade 4	9
Grade 5 (Berlin and Brandenburg)	10
Grade 6 (Berlin and Brandenburg)	11

What Are the Teaching Practices in Primary Schools in Germany?

Teaching practices and curriculums in primary schools (Grundschulen) in Germany are based on standards set by the Standing Conference of the Ministers of Education and Cultural Affairs of the Länder (Kultusministerkonferenz).

This level includes subjects such as:

• German,
• Mathematics,
• General studies,
• Foreign language,
• Art,
• Handicrafts,
• Music,
• Sport,
• Religion, or ethics.

Students also learn about topics such as intercultural education, sustainability, values education, and more. Parents are encouraged to stay involved in their child’s development.

Pupils are involved in the planning, running, and analysis of study subjects and lessons. This is adapted by the teacher so that the learning material is adjusted to students’ knowledge, interests, curiosity, and concerns. They are also encouraged to participate in project-based initiatives and interdisciplinary projects.

There are two primary school education systems in Germany: those with a 5-day school week with 188 teaching days per year and those with a 6-day school week with 208 teaching days per year, which includes classes on two Saturdays every month.

Classes usually start between 7:30 AM and 8:00 AM and at 11 AM or 12 PM. Lessons last 45 minutes each and there are some breaks in between for eating and socializing. Most public primary schools don’t have uniforms so children can wear whatever they want.

What is the Grading System Used in German Primary Schools?

First graders at primary schools in Germany are promoted to second grade without formal grading.

From second grade onward, they receive grades based on their level of knowledge and preparation ranging from 1 (very good) to 6 (very poor). At the end of the school year, students get a school report (Zeugnis) and, depending on their performance, they’re either promoted to the next grade or have to repeat the year.

Does a Pupil Receive a Primary School Leaving Certificate in Germany?

In most German states (except for Baden-Württemberg and Rheinland-Pfalz), students don’t take any formal examinations or receive a leaving certificate upon completing primary school. They receive annual reports and are assessed based on the educational outcomes they need to meet.

In Baden-Württemberg and Rheinland-Pfalz, students are issued a school leaving certificate when they finish primary school.

💡 Did you know?

Germany has unique primary education programs for children of professional travelers, including circus families. Schools like the School for Children of Professional Travelers (Schule für die Kinder Beruflich Reisender) offer schooling during non-traveling periods. There’s even a School for Circus Children (Schule für Circuskinder) in North Rhine-Westphalia that provides primary education for children from traveling circus families.

Who Supervises Primary Education in Germany?

The primary school is the first phase of mandatory education for children. These schools operate under the legal provisions of the Basic Law and individual state constitutions. These provisions specify inspection, parental rights, compulsory education, religious instruction, and regulations on private schools.

Public schools in Germany are funded by the federal government, so they are entirely free for students. Parents may only be asked to contribute toward some expenses such as school supplies for their child or extracurricular activities.

3. Secondary Education

What Is Considered Secondary Education in Germany?

After finishing primary school, pupils begin secondary education in one of the different educational paths leading to specific leaving certificates and qualifications.

There are two levels of secondary education: lower secondary (Sekundarstufe I), the completion of which marks the end of mandatory education, and upper secondary (Sekundarstufe II).

The lower secondary level in Germany focuses on general education and includes pupils aged 10 to 12 up until they are 15 to 16, covering grades five to nine or seven to 10, depending on the school type.

Students who complete the lower level can attend the upper secondary level from the age of 15/16 up until they’re 18/19. They choose from different schools based on their abilities and prior education, to prepare for either university or vocational qualifications.

What Are the Types of Secondary Schools in Germany?

Secondary schools in Germany can be public and private. In both these options, different types of schools cater to students of different abilities and levels of performance in primary school education.

Traditionally, secondary education is divided into three main tracks: the Gymnasium, the Realschule, and Hauptschule. Some federal states have also introduced the Gesamtschule (comprehensive school) as an alternative or additional option to the existing system.

Gymnasium

Gymnasiums, or academic secondary schools (as a rough translation), are considered one of the more ‘prestigious’ type of secondary schools in Germany.

Children attend it around the age of 10 or 11 up until they are 18, from the fifth to the 12th or 13th grade respectively. Upon successful completion, students receive the Abitur qualification, which allows them to study at different universities and explore diverse career opportunities.

Realschule

Students start the Realschule (intermediate/middle secondary school) at around age 10 or 11 and finish around age 16, from grade five to 10.

This school is considered in the middle between Gymnasium and Haputschule, so it provides a balance between academic and practical education. When completed, graduates receive the “Realschulabschluss” diploma, which makes them eligible for vocational training or higher education.

Hauptschule

The Hauptschule (general secondary school) spans grades five to nine, so students are around age 10 when they begin and 15 when they finish. This type of school has a bigger focus on practical and vocational education.

At the end of ninth grade, graduates receive the “Hauptschulabschluss” (first general education qualification) certificate, which makes them eligible for vocational training and part-time education (dual system).

Gesamtschule

A Gesamtschule (comprehensive school) usually covers the three different secondary school paths we have mentioned above, from fifth grade to 10th or 12th grade. Students start Gesamtschule when they’re 10 or 11, and graduate by the time they’re 16 or 18, depending on the path they choose.

Moreover, there are two types of the Gesamtschule— cooperative (KGS) and integrated (IGS). In the former, students are separated into different paths, whereas in the latter, all paths are covered but students are placed in a number of core subjects where they perform better.

The type of school-leaving qualification after completing the Gesamtschule varies depending on the student’s chosen path.

German Schools With More Than One Study Course (Schularten mit mehreren Bildungsgängen)

Schools with multiple education courses offer multiple study tracks or courses within one single institution.

They can include comprehensive schools, secondary schools (in Bremen), community schools, integrated secondary schools, and others. Students begin this type of school in fifth or seventh grade, and finish in the ninth or 10th grade.

German Vocational Schools

German secondary vocational schools offer specialized training to students who have completed lower secondary education (typically Realschule or Haputschule).

Their curriculums are often focused on a balance between theoretical knowledge and practical placements, known as the “duales System” (dual system).

These are some of the different secondary vocational schools types in Germany:

• Fachoberschule. Offers a 2-year program (grade 11 & 12) for “Mittlerer Schulabschluss” holders, leading to “Fachhochschulreife” for entry to universities of applied sciences. A 13th-grade option can result in “Fachgebundene Hochschulreife” or “Allgemeine Hochschulreife” (general entrance qualification for higher education).
• Berufsoberschule. Provides 2-year general and in-depth education, enhancing previous vocational knowledge, leading to the “Fachgebundene Hochschulreife” (subject-specific higher education qualification), or with proficiency in a second foreign language, the “Abitur.” Also offers 3/4-year courses for dual vocational and higher education qualifications.
• Berufsfachschule. Offers education for specific professions requiring formal recognition or vocational training qualifications.
• Berufsschule. Delivers practical, interdisciplinary lessons preparing students for further vocational education or professions based on the dual education and training system.
• Berufliches Gymnasium. A 3-year secondary education program leading to the “Allgemeine Hochschulreife” qualification.

German Private Secondary Schools

Albeit less popular than public schools, there are also private secondary schools to choose from. They fall into two categories: “Ersatzschulen,” which offer the same curriculum as public schools but with private funding, and “Ergänzungsschulen,” which offer additional courses beyond public school curriculums.

What Are the Curriculum and Teaching Practices in Secondary Education?

The aim of secondary education is general education first, and then individual specialization by identifying students’ unique abilities.

These objectives are reached by: 

• Engaging students intellectually, emotionally, and physically.
• Teaching them independence, decision-making, personal, social, and political responsibility.
• Assisting them in attaining their educational goals.
• Supporting them in advancing their specialist knowledge.

Lower Secondary Level Curriculum

During the lower secondary level, pupils learn general subjects and prepare for the upper secondary level. Academic and practical skills are, as always, an integral part of learning.

These are the compulsory subjects covered at this level:

• German
• Mathematics
• First foreign language (+ second foreign language in grade seven to 10 of Gymnasium)
• Natural sciences (biology, chemistry, physics)
• Social sciences (history, geography, political science/social science or/and a similar subject
• Artistic subjects (music, art, etc.)
• Sports
• Religion, ethics, or a similar subject (regulated by the federal states)

During this level, students usually attend school from 7:30/8:30 AM until 1:30 PM, Monday to Friday. Classes last 45 minutes each—there are around 28 to 30 total teaching periods in grades five & six, and 30 to 32 in grades seven to 10.

Upper Secondary Level Curriculum

At the upper secondary level, students deal with more complex topics and specialized paths as they prepare for tertiary education.

General Upper Secondary Education

The general upper secondary level or the gymnasiale Oberstufe (qualification phase for the Abitur) is divided into two phases: the one-year introductory phase and a two-year qualification phase.

During these two phases, students can opt for specializations in the three grouped areas:

Specialization areas	Subjects
Languages, literature, and arts	German, foreign languages, fine art, music
Social sciences	History, geography, philosophy, social studies/politics, economics
Mathematics, natural sciences, and technology	Mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology, information technology

Students have to take subjects in each of these three areas right up to the end of the qualification phase and the Abitur exam. There are usually 30 periods in a school week. Schools in all federal states must have a total of 265 weekly periods in the lower secondary and the gymnasiale Oberstufe so their Abitur is recognized.

Vocational Upper Secondary Education

In vocational schools, the upper secondary level includes the core compulsory subjects alongside a wide range of opportunities for career-related specialization subjects.

These can include: 

• Economics
• Technology
• Biotechnology
• Professional computer science
• Nutrition
• Agronomy
• Health studies
• Social studies
• Subjects for craft trade occupations (e.g. woodworking, electrical and metal sector, etc)
• Subjects for industrial and technical occupations (e.g. chemical technician, electronics technician, etc.)

Full-time vocational schools include 30 periods per week, but if a course leading to a recognized occupation is chosen, there should be a minimum of 32 periods per week.

As for part-time vocational schools (Berufsschulen) which implement the dual system of learning, the curriculum also includes core subjects and subjects related to a chosen profession. There should be at least 12 periods per week, of which eight are for job-related subjects. The latter subjects are structured according to learning fields and state-compiled curriculums.

What Is the Grading System in German Secondary Schools?

Pupils in secondary school are evaluated through the 6-point grading scale, in which 1 is the highest grade and 6 is the lowest:

• 1 (very good)
• 2 (good)
• 3 (satisfactory)
• 4 (adequate)
• 5 (poor)
• 6 (very poor)

In the lower secondary level, students must generally achieve a minimum 4 grade in all subjects to be promoted to the next grade.

In the last two years of Gymnasium, students undergo a qualification phase (gymnasiale Oberstufe) which determines part of their final Abitur result. During this phase, grades are converted into the following points:

Grade	1+	1	1-	2+	2	2-	3+	3	3-	4+	4	4-	5+	5	5-	6
Points	15	14	13	12	11	10	9	8	7	6	5	4	3	2	1	0

Who is Responsible for Managing German Secondary Education?

Secondary education is governed by frameworks of the Education Acts and Compulsory Schooling Acts in federal states. These laws define the curriculums as well as the qualifications that students receive upon completing lower and upper secondary education (in general and vocational schools).

Vocational training is defined by the Vocal Training Act and the Handicrafts Act, where matters like contracts, certificates, and trainee rights are addressed. The Protection of Young Persons at Work Act is also a special legislation for the protection of young trainees.

Public secondary schools are funded by the state and attendance is free for all students. Private secondary schools may charge tuition fees, but the majority of students in Germany attend public schools.

4. Tertiary Education

What Is Tertiary Education in Germany Like?

Tertiary education or higher education in Germany includes post-secondary education at different institutions such as universities, universities of applied sciences, and other specialized schools.

Programs are often highly academic and research-oriented, but many of them focus highly on practical skills as well. There are three study cycles students can pursue: the first cycle (bachelor’s degree), the second cycle (master’s degree), and the third cycle (PhD).

Who Supervises German Tertiary Education?

Higher education institutions manage scholarship awards, research, and teaching activities independently according to the Basic Law. As for administrative issues such as academic and governmental matters, they must comply with their federal state’s higher education acts (Hochschulgesetze).

Attending higher education institutions in Germany is mainly tuition-free for both local and international students (with exceptions for Baden-Württemberg and some universities in Bavaria). Students only pay nominal fees ranging from €100 to €350 per semester.

Private universities, on the other hand, may charge fees ranging from a few thousand euros to even more.

Which Are the Institutions of German Tertiary Education?

As of 2024, there are 428 recognized higher education institutions in Germany, so it’s not surprising that there’s a myriad of .

Here are some of the higher education institutions in Germany and the study fields they offer:

Universities (Universitäten)

Universities in Germany often have the broadest range of academic programs and research opportunities—leading to bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. These institutions also have a stronger emphasis on research and theoretical knowledge, in all types of fields ranging from humanities to natural sciences, health and medicine, law, information science, and more.

There are also technical universities (Technische Universitäten – TU), which award all levels of degrees with a focus on engineering and scientific subjects.

Colleges of Art, Music and Film (Kunst, Musik-und Filmhochschule)

Colleges of Art, Music, and Film are specialized institutions for students who want to pursue studies in one of these fields. They offer bachelor’s and master’s degrees, sometimes even PhD programs in fields such as fine arts, design, architecture, music, theater, dance, etc.

Universities of Education (Pädagogische Hochschulen)

These universities specialize in teacher training programs. They offer bachelor’s and master’s degree programs (some can even award doctoral degrees) to prepare educators for teaching roles in schools and other educational institutions.

Theological Colleges (Theologische Hochschulen)

Theological colleges are ideal for students who want to pursue careers in religious studies, ministry, and theology. They offer undergraduate and graduate degrees in these and other related fields.

Universities of Applied Sciences (Fachhochschulen –  FH or Hochschulen für angewandte Wissenschaften – HAW)

Universities of Applied Sciences offer hands-on bachelor’s and master’s degree programs focusing on applied sciences, engineering, and technology. Their programs usually have a mandatory practical training component (Praxissemester), where students are placed in partner private business or public institutions.

Professors in Fachhochschulen, despite being academics, have a strong background of professional experience in the labor market outside of academia.

Universities of Applied Sciences in Germany offer study courses in the following fields:

• Technology,
• Engineering,
• Economics,
• Design,
• Social Sciences.

Higher Education Institutions Offering Dual Studies (Berufsakademien – BA)

In Germany, higher education institutions offering dual studies (or universities of cooperative education) offer study courses with a strong focus on practical experience. The so-called dual study programs offer theoretical training in-classroom, whereas the practical component is conducted at a company partnering with the university.

Universities for the German Armed Forces (Universitäten der Bundeswehr)

These institutions offer degree programs and military-focused education for officers and personnel of the German Armed Forces (Bundeswehr).

Institutions of Continuing Vocational Education (Fachschulen, Fachakademien)

Students who want to complete vocational education and training beyond the secondary level can do so at institutions of continuation vocational education. They equip students with practical skills and qualifications for careers in fields such as agricultural economy, design, technology, business, and social work.

Qualifications of the German Higher Education System

Here are the main qualifications awarded by higher (tertiary) education institutions in Germany:

• Bachelor’s degree
• Master’s degree
• Other qualifications outside the bachelor and master structure
• Ph.D. Degree

Bachelor’s Degree

The bachelor’s degree is the first higher education qualification in Germany. The duration of studies for this degree varies, but most programs last three years (six semesters) full-time and are 180 ECTS credits.

You can also find the occasional four-year program with 240 ECTS credits, but this is more typical for fine arts, music, and some architecture programs.

Bachelor Titles

Depending on the type of higher education institution of higher education issuing it, there are also different Bachelor titles to distinguish the program:

• Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)
• Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.)
• Bachelor of Engineering (B. Eng.)
• Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.)
• Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.)
• Bachelor of Music (B. Mus.)
• Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.)

Master’s Degree

A master’s degree is a qualification you can earn after completing a bachelor’s degree. It usually takes one to two years (two to four semesters) to complete, depending on the program.

Respectively, a master’s degree corresponds to 90 or 120 ECTS credits, or 300 ETCS points in total with the prior degree.

Master’s Degree Titles

There are different types of master’s degrees, which are often differentiated by their titles:

At universities or equivalent institutions:

• Master of Arts (M.A.)
• Master of Science (M.Sc.)
• Master of Engineering (M. Eng.)
• Master of Laws (LL.M.)
• Master of Education (M.Ed.)

At colleges of art and music:

• Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.)
• Master of Arts (M.A.)
• Master of Music (M.Mus.)

At universities of applied sciences:

• Master of Arts (M.A.)
• Master of Science (M.Sc.)
• Master of Engineering (M. Eng.)
• Master of Laws (LL.M.)

For continuing/specialist education:

• Master of Business Administration (MBA)

German Higher Education Programs Outside the Bachelor and Master Structure

Beyond the bachelor’s and master’s degree titles, some specific programs have different qualifications:

• Diplom examination. Some programs lead to a Diplom degree in a single study subject, such as Diplom in Psychology or Engineering. However, these courses are being phased out by bachelor’s and master’s degrees.
• Magister examination. Another phased-out title is the Magister, which was typically earned in the humanities subjects. Following the Bologna process, this has also been replaced by the bachelor and master system.
• State examinations (Staatsexamen). Some fields in Germany, such as medicine, dentistry, and law, require a state examination for qualification. This process involves a 2-stage examination conducted by state examiners and academic professors.
• Theological degrees. Theology students who want to pursue roles in ministry, priesthood, or work as a pastoral assistant must pass an academic and a Church examination after completing a five-year study program.
• Examination at Colleges of Art and Music. Some programs at German colleges of art and music culminate in a final examination, known as “Abschlussprüfung,” or a concert examination called “Konzertexamen.”

Ph.D. Degree

The PhD degree stands for Doctor of Philosophy—the highest university degree you can pursue in Germany. It is offered by German universities or research institutes in collaboration with universities.

The duration of doctoral degrees in Germany varies a lot due to their in-depth and individual nature. The PhD candidates must perform a lot of independent research, culminating in an oral examination which is commonly referred to as the “Rigorosum” or thesis defense “Disputation”.

There are several paths in which you can pursue a PhD degree in Germany:

• Individual and supervised doctorate
• Structural doctorate
• Cooperative doctorate (combination between universities and universities of applied sciences)
• International doctorate
• Special doctorate

Those who complete a Ph.D. program in Germany receive the title Doctor.

Admission Requirements of the German Higher Education Institutions

If you’re planning to apply to a higher education institution in Germany, you need to fulfill certain admission requirements.

Bachelor’s Degree Programs at Universities

These are the most common requirements to apply for a bachelor’s degree in Germany:

• Higher Education Entrance Qualification. Applicants need either the Abitur or an equivalent foreign school-leaving certificate. International students with non-equivalent foreign certificates may need to attend a preparatory course.
• German Language Proficiency (for international students). Most bachelor’s programs are in German, so if it’s not your native language you can prove proficiency (typically B2 or C1) through language diplomas (e.g., DSD II), exams (e.g., DSH, TestDaF), or language assessments during preparatory courses (Studienkolleg).
• Admission examination. May be required for some specific fields and programs such as medicine, pharmacy, arts, sports science, etc.
• Certificate of the Akademische Prüfstelle (APS) (for international students from China, Vietnam and India). Students whose education certificates are from these countries need to evaluate their authenticity through the APS certification process.

Bachelor’s Degree at Colleges of Art, Music, and Film

Admission requirements to German Colleges of Art, Music, and Film usually include the Higher Education Entrance Qualification and artistic aptitude. Applicants often need to submit a portfolio of their work, and in many cases, undergo an aptitude test.

Bachelor’s Degree at Universities of Applied Sciences

Apart from the Abitur, universities of applied sciences also accept the Fachhochschulreife (Fachabitur) qualification for admission to bachelor’s degree programs.

Bachelor’s Degree at Higher Education Institutions Offering Dual Studies (Berufsakademien – BA)

Higher education institutions offering dual study programs accept the Fachhochschulreife (Fachabitur) qualification in addition to the Abitur for entry to bachelor’s degree programs.

Students may also qualify for admission if they have two years of vocational training and typically three years of professional experience. In such cases, they may have to pass an aptitude test.

Bachelor’s Degree at Institutions of Continuing Vocational Education (Fachschulen, Fachakademien)

In addition to formal qualifications (Abitur, Fachhochschulreife, etc), you can qualify for studies at these institutions with a professional qualification. This qualification usually means having completed a minimum two-year vocational training course and having at least three years of relevant work experience.

Master’s Degree Programs

To apply to a master’s degree program in Germany, you need to fulfill these requirements:

• Undergraduate degree. Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification recognized in Germany, in a field to the master’s program or the same field if the program is consecutive.
• Admission examination. May be required for some specific fields and programs such as arts, sports science, medicine, etc.
• Language proficiency. Master’s degrees in Germany are usually taught in German, English, or a combination of both languages. You need to prove proficiency in the level required by the program, through recognized language certificates such as DSH, DSD, or Goethe Zertifikat for German, and TOEFL or IELTS for English.

PhD Degree

The main admission requirements for a PhD program in Germany include:

• Graduate degree. You need a master’s degree or equivalent qualification recognized in Germany. The thesis/master’s field should usually be in a field that is the same or closely related to your field of studies in the PhD program.
• Research proposal. You will need to craft a detailed research proposal where you state your research topic/hypothesis, literature review, methodology, and other relevant details.
• Admission examination. Some specific programs may require that candidates undergo an examination that tests applicants’ knowledge.
• Language proficiency. In some cases, you may have to provide proof of language proficiency (most programs are in English or German) through recognized language tests or other accepted proof.

Quotas and Restrictions for German Higher Education Programs

Some programs at higher education institutions may have restrictions and quotas for applicants. Depending on these requirements, programs may be classified into the following:

Study programs with nationwide quotas

Some programs receive so many applicants that nationwide restrictions apply (i.e. restrictions in all higher education institutions in Germany). This applies to programs in:

• Medicine
• Pharmacy
• Veterinary medicine
• Dentistry

Around 20% of study places for these programs are reserved for preliminary quotas based on specific applicant groups including hardship cases, those who commit to becoming a rural doctor upon graduation, foreigners, etc.

The remaining study places are then selected based on these quotas:

• 30% of places are chosen centrally by the Foundation for University Admissions (SfH) based on average grade (best Abitur grade)
• 10% of places are chosen based on suitability quota (additional eligibility quota outside the average grade)
• 60% of places are chosen based on the results of the university’s selection procedures.

Study courses with local restrictions on admission

Admission for study programs may also be restricted by the university itself—also known as a local admission restriction.

These programs are often referred to as Numerus Clausus (NC), which means that there are more applicants than available study places. In such cases, universities usually select bachelor’s applicants based on:

• Grade point average
• Waiting time (how long you waited to apply to the program after receiving your latest qualification, the shorter the time, the better the score)

For master’s applicants, universities have an individual selection process where they consider the entire application (including grade point average) and convert it to a point system. The waiting time is also considered.

Universities post selection cut-off criteria of past applicants to give students an idea of the points required to be admitted to a locally restricted study program. However, they are unpredictable, as it all depends on the applicants for the intake you apply to.

Study courses without restrictions on the number of applicants

Programs with free admission (non-NC courses) mean that study places are not limited to a specific number. All applicants who fulfill the admission requirements and submit their application on time are admitted, without a pre-selection.

5. Continuing Education

What Is Considered Adult Education and Lifelong Learning in Germany?

Continuing education, also known as lifelong learning, addresses the demands of the labor market as well as the needs of individuals for additional qualifications and extending their knowledge.

There is a variety of formal and non-formal programs to choose from, ranging from short-term courses to executive master’s degrees. Here are some examples:

• Informal education courses for adults who want to learn new skills (e.g. sewing, basic home repairs, etc.)
• Workshops and seminars
• Online courses
• Evening classes (Abendkurse)
• Language and integration courses
• Vocational training
• Executive education programs (e.g. Executive MBA)

These opportunities are provided by different entities, including but not limited to municipal institutions such as adult education centers (Volkshochschulen), private institutions, religious organizations, industry and commerce chambers, associations, businesses, government agencies, academies, vocational schools, Fachschulen, and universities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How Do Private Schools in Germany Differ From Public Schools?

Public schools in Germany are more widespread than private schools. The majority of students attend public schools because they are government-funded, which means that they’re free, and they adhere to strict regulations, which means that there are high quality standards.

Private schools offer certain advantages such as smaller class sizes and specialized programs, however, they’re less common and charge tuition. They are usually chosen by families who can afford the tuition fees for their children or have specific preferences for alternative educational approaches or religious instruction.

Can Children Be Homeschooled in Germany?

Homeschooling is forbidden by law in Germany and children are required to attend either public or state-approved private schools. There are very rare exceptions to the homeschooling ban, such as for children with specific medical conditions or disabilities that prevent them from attending regular schools.

What Time of Year Do Schools Start in Germany?

There are some differences between federal states when it comes to the start and the end of the school year in Germany. However, the school year usually begins between late August to early September and ends in June or July.

Are There Any Breaks or Holidays During the School Year in Germany?

Children in German schools have a total of 75 days of holiday per year (including 12 Saturdays). These breaks are divided into six school holiday periods, whose duration and start/end date mostly depend on the federal states:

• Autumn holiday (Herbstferien). Usually one to two weeks in October and/or November

• Christmas holiday (Weihnachtsferien). Around two weeks starting from a few days before Christmas (around 20th December) to the beginning of January.

• Winter holiday (Winterferien). Varies from a few days to two weeks, usually in February.

• Easter/Spring holiday (Osterferien/Frühjahrsferien). Between two to three weeks in late March and the beginning of April.

• Ascension/Pentecost holiday (Himmelfahrt/Pfingsten). From a few days to two weeks, usually falling around mid to late May.

• Summer holiday (Sommerferien). Between six to seven weeks, usually between late June up to mid-September.

The lists the official holiday dates for the current and upcoming school years for each German federal state (in German).

When Does the Academic Year Begin and End in Germany?

The academic year at German universities is divided into two terms: the winter semester (WiSe) and the summer semester (SoSe).

The winter semester marks the start of the academic year and usually begins on October 1st and ends on March 31st. The summer semester usually begins on April 1st and ends on September 30th.

However, “Fachhochschulen” (universities of applied sciences) often start and end their semesters a month earlier.

Are There Any Breaks or Holidays During the German Academic Year?

In each semester of the academic year, there is a lecture period (Vorlesungszeit) and a lecture-free period (Vorlesungsfreie Zeit).

The lecture-free period is for students to write assignments, prepare for and undergo exams, take up internships or summer jobs, etc. Some students manage to squeeze in breaks in between these commitments.

During the lecture period, classes are not held on the dates of some important German public holidays.

The duration and timing of the semester-free period varies for each university. Here are some examples for the academic year 2024/25 at different universities in Germany:

University	Winter semester lecture period	Winter semester lecture-free period	Summer semester lecture period	Summer semester lecture-free period
LMU Munich	October 14, 2024 – February 7, 2025	February 8, 2025 – April 21, 2025	April 23, 2025 – July 25, 2025	July 26, 2025 – October 12, 2025
Free University of Berlin	October 1, 2024 – February 15, 2025	February 16, 2025 – March 31, 2025	April 1, 2025 –  July 19, 2025	July 20, 2025 – September 30, 2025
Goethe University Frankfurt	October 14, 2024 – February 14, 2025	February 15, 2025 – April 21, 2025	April 22, 2025 – July 25, 2025	July 26, 2025 – October 12, 2025

How Does Germany Promote International Student Exchanges?

Germany promotes international student exchanges mainly through Erasmus+ and the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD).

Erasmus+ promotes student mobility within European countries and other partner countries. It offers countless opportunities for German students to study abroad and international students to study in Germany. Whereas, DAAD offers scholarships for German students abroad and international students of different study levels in Germany.

The majority of German higher education institutions also offer without any tuition fees, which makes education for international (non-German speaking) students much more accessible.