Expatriate families moving to Germany often face the challenge of deciding on the best schooling options for their children. Germany, a large and diverse country, offers a range of educational choices that cater to various needs and backgrounds. This guide will explore the different schooling options available in Germany, particularly for expatriate children, and provide insights into the educational landscape across different locations.

Overview of Schooling Requirements in Germany

According to German law, all children between the ages of 6 and 16 (or 18, depending on the state they reside in) must attend school. The primary option is the local public school, with entrance tests determining whether a student should attend Hauptschule, Realschule, or Gymnasium. The choice of school type often depends on the student's academic performance and future educational goals.

Public School Track

Public schools in Germany are the most common option for local residents. The entrance tests typically categorize students into these three types of schools:

Hauptschule: A lower secondary school, typically leading to vocational training or apprenticeships. Realschule: A middle-level school, preparing students for higher vocational training or entry into secondary specialized schools. Gymnasium: An upper secondary school, designed for students aiming to pursue higher education, particularly university.

German schools primarily teach in the local language, which can be a significant challenge for expatriate children. However, some states and cities offer a three-month grace period to help students catch up to the local language level. This transition period is beneficial for ensuring a smoother integration of expatriate students into the public school system.

International Schools in Germany

For expatriate families, particularly those settling in cities with a significant expatriate population, international schools can be an appealing option. These schools provide an English-language education and cater to the specific needs of expatriate children and their parents. Some cities, such as Berlin, Hamburg, and Frankfurt, have several international schools, while smaller cities like Herzogenaurach (because of Adidas) also often have international options.

International schools in Germany generally follow the curriculum leading to the International Baccalaureate (IB), which is recognized as equivalent to the German Abitur. This curriculum allows for direct admission to universities worldwide, including Germany. Despite the high academic standards, international schools often provide an internationally recognized educational framework that aligns well with the global expectations of expatriate families.

Academic Requirements and Specializations

The curriculum in German schools, especially in the Gymnasium, is known for its rigorous academic standards. Students are required to learn several languages, often including German, English, Latin, and/or French, which can be challenging for expatriate children who might be more proficient in their native language. For those aspiring to attend university, particularly in Germany, Gymnasium provides the fastest route with a focus on advanced studies and academic excellence.

Unlike public schools, international schools do not follow the exact Gymnasium curriculum. Instead, they offer a curriculum leading to the IB, which is treated as equivalent to the Abitur and allows direct university admission. The IB program is known for its comprehensive and challenging academic structure, often requiring higher standards in subjects like mathematics.

Realschule and Vocational Training

Realschule offers a more hands-on approach, with a focus on vocational training and practical skills. After graduating at the age of about 16, students can opt to continue their education through a Fachoberschule, which also leads to direct university admission. This track provides a blend of theoretical and practical knowledge, preparing students for both academic and vocational pathways.

Challenges and Considerations for Expatriate Families

For US parents moving to Germany, there are several important points to consider regarding the education of their children:

Homeschooling is illegal in Germany. All children must attend either a public or state-approved school. The emphasis on mathematics in German schools can be more rigorous than in the US, so good grades in math from a US high school may not translate directly to German schools.

Given these challenges, international schools remain a popular choice for expatriate families, offering a structured and internationally recognized educational experience. Whether choosing a public or international school, careful consideration of the educational landscape, curricula, and language requirements is crucial for ensuring the best possible educational journey for your children in Germany.