
The German education system is widely regarded around the world, not just because of its affordability at the university level but because of its diversity and overall structure. While many countries have compulsory education from ages 5 until 18, Germany stands out and only requires students to go to school until the age of 15, giving them the option of going to vocational school or pursuing university degrees after they complete their additional secondary education.
Dieser Artikel befasst sich ausführlich mit dem deutschen Bildungssystem. Er gibt einen Überblick über die einzelnen Stufen und darüber, was dich erwartet , wenn du in Deutschland lebst und ein Kind hast, das eine Schule besucht. Wir gehen auch auf die verschiedenen weiterführenden Schulen ein, die es in Deutschland gibt, und auf die Kosten für die Bildung in diesem Land.
Einführung in das deutsche Bildungssystem
The German education system operates under the framework of the Basic Law, also known as the Grundgesetz. This fundamental law states that children between the ages of 6 and 15 are required to go to school, which is essential for their primary and secondary years of education. Germany has created five stages of education for all students:
- Frühkindliche Bildung
- Grundschulbildung
- Sekundarschulbildung
- Tertiäre Bildung
- Fortbildung
Primary and secondary are required, but the others are optional. In primary and secondary education, students can expect to be in school only from 8 am to 1 pm rather than staying for long hours, as is the norm in other countries.The German grading system is also different, as students are generally graded not by letter but on a scale from 1 to 6, with 1 being the best and 6 being the worst. As you may already know, the German education system is affordable, if not free, in most cases. To better understand each stage of education, let’s discuss them individually, starting with early childhood education in Germany.
Frühkindliche Bildung in Deutschland
Die frühkindliche Bildung in Deutschland ist optimal, aber es sollte beachtet werden, dass viele Menschen ihre Kinder trotzdem in diese Einrichtungen schicken. Der Kindergarten beginnt bereits im Alter von 3 bis 4 Jahren, aber die Bildung basiert nicht auf Schreiben, Lesen oder gar dem Erledigen von Aufgaben. In dieser Phase konzentriert sich das deutsche Bildungssystem ausschließlich auf die Förderung der Sozialisation und das Erlernen grundlegender Fähigkeiten, damit sich die Kinder besser an das Schulleben gewöhnen können, bevor sie in die Grundschule oder die erste Klasse kommen.
Grundschulbildung in Deutschland
Students in Germany are required to attend first grade or the start of their primary school years. For many students, this begins at age 6, after they have completed a few years of preschool or kindergarten with their peers. This is also the first grade where students start to learn English alongside other basics, like the alphabet and how to read and write.
Primary school, or Grundschule, only lasts from grades 1 to 4 unless you’re residing in Berlin or Brandenburg, where primary school is considered to be grades 1 to 6. The goal of this stage of education is to teach German students the skills that they need for their secondary education, preparing them to choose what to do with their careers, as well as what sort of path they want to take when the time comes, and they must choose their future jobs.
Am Ende dieser Phase der Ausbildung beraten die Lehrer/innen die Eltern auch darüber, welche weiterführende Schule am besten geeignet ist, denn es gibt mehrere Möglichkeiten, aus denen sie wählen können, ob sie stattdessen eine Universität oder eine Berufsschule besuchen.
Sekundarschulbildung in Deutschland
Secondary education, or Sekundarchule, is the second stage of a child’s education in Germany, taking place between the ages of 10-15, depending on where one lives. Students begin to chart their path to their future careers at this stage.
Unlike in primary school, students at this stage will likely attend a school based on their performance and the recommendations of their past teachers. Students will have different school paths depending on where they live, but there are three main paths: Hauptschule, Realschule, or Gymnasium.
Erkundung der Sekundarschuloptionen in Deutschland
Hauptschule is the least demanding of the secondary school options. It prepares students for a trade or vocational school as part of their secondary level II education, known as Ausbildung. Students generally complete their vocational training and become certified in their chosen career path by completing their secondary school education.
Realschule is the second option for many German students for their secondary education as they complete grades 5 through 10. Students in this school have a more challenging education that is more based on a specific focus area. If they perform well, they can transfer to Gymnasium and pursue their education at the university level. However, others also choose to pursue a trade school.
Das Gymnasium ist die anspruchsvollste weiterführende Schulform in Deutschland und umfasst die Klassen 5 bis 12. Das Ziel des Gymnasiums ist es, die Schüler/innen auf den Besuch einer Universität vorzubereiten. Dazu durchlaufen sie zwei Sekundarstufen, in denen sie ihre Fähigkeiten ausbauen und ihre potenziellen Berufswünsche verfeinern können, bevor sie sich an einer Schule bewerben. Nach dem Abitur, der großen Prüfung am Ende des Gymnasiums, entscheidet sich, wo sie studieren.
However, students can also opt to attend Gesamtschule, which combines all three paths into one comprehensive secondary school. These are not available everywhere and usually entail full-day coursework, but they can be an excellent option for those who want the flexibility of changing paths throughout their education.
Tertiäre Bildung in Deutschland
Tertiary education in Germany generally refers to the universities, colleges, and vocational schools that are pursued after a student completes secondary education at any of the above options. Around the world, Germany’s tertiary education is widely noted as one of the most efficient and affordable, with several highly respected research institutions that draw students from around the globe. Germany’s Universität system is among the best!
Students can attend university after completing their studies at the Gymnasium or after taking the Abitur. A good score on the Abitur can ensure that students get into the university of their choice. By this stage, students are usually around 18 to 19 years old and have already completed nearly 15 years of education if they have attended kindergarten.
However, tertiary education is available to these students and those who have completed their education at Ausbildung and want to attend a university for applied sciences to further their expertise. The universities of applied sciences, also known as Fachhochschule, are at the tertiary level and can further enhance a student’s career.

Fortbildung in Deutschland
In addition to a university education, students in Germany can take advantage of continuing education opportunities. This entails pursuing further degrees at the master’s or doctoral level or even taking other courses that further enrich their life and allow them to cultivate new career skills.
There are many non-degree courses and opportunities for students, ensuring everyone has the chance to pursue topics they are interested in, even if it is just to satisfy their curiosities rather than secure a promotion.
Andere Bildungsinstitutionen in Deutschland
While the German education system has five different stages, other institutions are also part of its structure. The above schools are mainly public in nature, but students can also attend private institutions at an additional cost.
If you have children from another country who are entering the German school system, you’ll be happy to know that there are several international schools to choose from. These are for students from abroad or those who want to become bilingual in both English and German. Other private institutions require an entrance exam and additional fees to attend. Some of these institutions are also boarding schools reserved for those who want an elite education for their children.
However, another aspect of the German education system is the existence of separate schools for students with learning disabilities. Although this has been a part of the system for many years, some have criticised it because it limits socialisation with other students.
Wie hoch sind die Kosten für das Bildungssystem in Deutschland?
Glücklicherweise sind die öffentlichen Einrichtungen kostenlos, wenn dein Kind den Unterricht im deutschen Bildungssystem besucht. Es ist jedoch zu beachten, dass private Einrichtungen mit zusätzlichen Kosten verbunden sind, die oft viel höher sind, als man denkt. Der Preis hängt von der jeweiligen Einrichtung ab, daher ist es wichtig, sich zu informieren, um den besten Ort für dich oder deinen Schüler zu finden.
There are some costs associated with university education, but overall, tuition is usually free, and students only have to pay for their living costs, a low administration fee per semester, books, and other necessities during their studies.
Wie sieht das typische Schuljahr im deutschen Bildungssystem aus?
The typical school year is split between two different terms in the education system in Germany. The first term begins in late August or early September and ends at the end of January, while the second term begins in February and ends in June or July. Most students in Germany will not enjoy a long summer break, but they will instead enjoy more time off throughout the year.
Außerdem wird es viele freuen zu hören, dass das deutsche Schulsystem die Ferien auf die verschiedenen Regionen verteilt. Das bedeutet, dass du in den Schulferien nicht um die besten Hotels kämpfen oder dich mit deiner zweiten Wahl für deinen Urlaub zufrieden geben musst. Du wirst weniger Menschenmassen und längere Pausen genießen können.
FAQs
Hier findest du Antworten auf häufige Fragen zum Leben in Deutschland.
Wie sieht das typische Schuljahr im deutschen Bildungssystem aus?
The typical school year is split between two different terms in the education system in Germany. The first term begins in late August or early September and ends at the end of January, while the second term begins in February and ends in June or July. Most students in Germany will not enjoy a long summer break, but they will instead enjoy more time off throughout the year. Additionally, many people will be happy to know that the German school system staggers their breaks across the regions. That means when school break arrives, you won’t have to fight for the best hotels or settle for your second choice for your vacation. You’ll enjoy less crowds and more extended breaks.
Wie ist das Bildungssystem in Deutschland?
The German education system is divided into five stages: early childhood, primary, secondary, tertiary, and continuing education. Primary school usually runs from ages 6 to 10, after which students are placed in different types of secondary schools based on performance and teacher recommendations. These pathways prepare them either for university studies or vocational training, making the system both structured and flexible.
Wie hoch sind die Kosten für das Bildungssystem in Deutschland?
Fortunately, public institutions are free if your child attends classes through the German education system. However, it should be noted that private institutions come at an additional cost, often much more than people imagine. The price will depend on the institution, so it is essential to research this to find the best place for you or your student. There are some costs associated with university education, but overall, tuition is usually free, and students only have to pay for their living costs, a low administration fee per semester, books, and other necessities during their studies.
Wofür ist Deutschland in der Bildung bekannt?
Germany is especially known for its high-quality universities, vocational training system (Ausbildung), and research excellence. The dual education system, which combines classroom learning with practical training, is regarded as one of the best in the world. Additionally, Germany’s tuition-free university model attracts thousands of international students every year.
Wie alt ist ein 15-Jähriger in Deutschland?
A 15-year-old in Germany is usually in grade 9 or 10, depending on the school type and the federal state. By this age, many students are finishing their lower secondary education (Hauptschule or Realschule) or continuing toward Gymnasium if they plan to pursue the Abitur and go on to university.
Was sind die Vorteile des deutschen Schulsystems?
One of the biggest advantages is the flexibility of pathways. Students can choose between academic routes leading to university or vocational routes leading to skilled professions. Public education is also free, reducing financial barriers. Moreover, the system emphasizes strong foundational skills, smaller school days, and a balance between academics and personal development.
Ist das Bildungssystem in Deutschland gut?
Yes, the German education system is good and highly respected worldwide. It combines academic rigor, affordability, and practical training opportunities. While some criticize the early tracking of students into different school types, the system overall is praised for preparing young people for both professional careers and higher education.
Ist Bildung in Deutschland völlig kostenlos?
Yes, public education in Germany is free at all levels, including universities. Students only pay small semester fees for administration, transport tickets, or student services. However, private schools and international schools charge tuition, which can vary widely depending on the institution.
Hol dir dein Visum-fertiges Paket
Starte deine Reise nach Deutschland mit unserer Komplettlösung fürs Visum, die auf deine Bedürfnisse zugeschnitten ist.
Mehr Infos zum Leben in Deutschland
Vom saisonalen Wetter bis hin zu festlichen Traditionen – alles, was du über das Leben in Deutschland wissen musst