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Schools and Studies

Depending on the situation, it might be necessary to have either your Matric/Grade 12 or South African degree or other qualifications and experience formally recognised in Germany. 
You will typically need this if you want to further your studies in Germany, want to work in a regulated profession or have your vocational training recognised. A list of regulated professions in the EU can be found on the European Union database.

Recognition of vocational qualifications

The official portal of the German government for the recognition of foreign professional qualifications is the Anerkennung in Deutschland website.  They focus on vocational training/skilled workers. Also, have a look at Make it in Germany – who needs recognition? The Federal Institute for Vocational Education and Training the IHK and the Arbeitsagentur have valuable information about the recognition of foreign vocational qualifications. Another excellent government-funded website is the IQ Integrated through Qualification –  service for Immigrants. If you want to apply for a job in Germany in your qualified vocational profession, or professional experience,  the rule is that you will need to have your qualifications/experience formally recognised, there are of course exceptions for example in the IT field. 

 Visa for recognition of foreign qualifications

You can apply for a visa for the recognition of foreign qualifications.
This is related to company training courses, technical training courses etc.
“Have you applied to have your professional qualifications recognised and the competent authority for the recognition procedure in Germany has determined that your qualifications cannot be fully recognised due to missing qualifications? In such cases, you can attend a qualification program in Germany in order to acquire the missing theoretical and/or practical skills.”

Recognition of University degrees

Fachhochschule (FH)

University of applied sciences. Practical approach to learning

Technical Univeristy (TU)

Researched based learning. Good for Masters and PhD

The Anabin database provides information on the evaluation of foreign educational certificates and supports authorities, employers and private individuals in classifying a foreign qualification in the German education system. It is only available in German. It basically has a list of recognised degrees and institutions. If your qualification and university are listed there, and you are not working in a regulated profession, there is usually no need to have your degree formally recognised, unless asked for. A list of regulated professions in the EU can be found on the European Union database. Examples are doctors, nurses, lawyers, teachers, educators, and engineers 
If your degree is not on the Anabin site, please refer to the Central Office for Foreign Education.

The Make It in Germany website has a good page on Foreign academic qualifications and the recognition procedure.

Another helpful site is Anerkennung in Deutschland, from the Federal Ministry of Education and Research. You can search by profession.

Stuying in Germany

If you would like to study in Germany, please refer to these pages.
Information about University entrance qualification (“hochschulzugansberechtigung” can be found on Uni-assist and the Study in Germany website

Study in Germany

Types of learning institutions Hochschule is the name for higher education. Under this, you can get the following institutions.  Fachhochschule – University of applied sciences. 

School Information

The German School system is quite unique and distinguishes itself from the South African models in a number of ways Types of schools There are

Prep Courses and GRE Tests

Prep Course for University The study in Germany website is an excellent “If you want to study in Germany as a non-EU international student, you

List of Long Stay Visas

Long Term visas are seen as visits longer than 90 days and will typically be for work or study visits. If your application is approved,

Where to find additional information

Shared experiences

Shared experience on the process of recognition

Vocabulary

English German
University of applied schience die Hochschule
University die Universität
Graduation marks die Abschlussnote
Bachelor degree der Bachelorabschluss
Acedamic high school das Gymnasium
Hich School certificate der Schulabschluss
Recognition  die Anerkennung

If it is necessary to have your documents translated, consider one of our recommended translators

Birgit Böttner – Sworn Translator

Based in Johannesburg South Africa. I’m a qualified sworn translator for English & German, registered with the German Consulate in Pretoria Trained in Germany in

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Based in Germany. Helge Mayer (MA) – accredited/sworn translations German to English and English to German Masters Degree in Translations from the University of Heidelberg

An Ausbildung is a form of vocational training or apprenticeship where a student attends school and works simultaneously. The student gains both theoretical and practical knowledge at the same time.
The training usually starts in September every year, but can start at other times as well.

Types of Vocational training

Dual vocational training (“Duale Berufsausbildung”)
This is taught at a Berufsschule. The student works and studies, and thereby obtaining practical experience.
The Student earns a salary.
Duration: 2-3 years

School-based vocational training (“Schulische Ausbildung”)
This is similar to the Technical Schools in South Africa.
The student does not earn a salary (exceptions exists)
Duration: 3-5 years

Dual vocational degree (“Ausbildungsorientiertes duales Studium”)
Dual programmes combine a university course with practical training or work experience with an employer.
It is taught at Universities or Berufsakademie.
The student needs University exemption (Matric /Abitur with exemption) The student obtains a degree and work experience.
The student ears a salary.
Duration: 3-5 years including on-the job-training period . See  Hochschulkompass for more information.

Where to find additional information

Related content

Prep Course for University

The study in Germany website is an excellent

“If you want to study in Germany as a non-EU international student, you must first check if your previous qualification is recognized at German universities. Every school-leaving certificate attained in your country must be compared and translated into German qualification terms otherwise it won’t be recognized. There is a limited list of foreign qualifications assessed to be equivalent to German qualifications.

Many foreign students who have no prior information on the German education system, run out of excitement fearing this marks the end of their dream to study in Germany. However, German universities have a solution for you called Studienkolleg.”

Simply put, Studienkolleg is a prep college in Germany designed to prepare incoming international students who are willing to study in Germany but whose qualifications don’t meet the German education system criteria.

Usually, a Studienkolleg course lasts for two academic semesters or a full academic year. Its intention is to prepare you with the required skills and knowledge on particular subjects related to your favourite university course.

GRE Tests

The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a standardised test that measures a student’s abilities. Not all German universities require GRE scores. According to Uni-Assist, it is  “a test to determine if you are qualified for master’s or PhD courses. This test is similar to its competitor, the GMAT. While the GMAT assesses the qualification for master’s courses in Business Administration, the GRE’s assessment is not bound to a specific subject. Universities which require a GMAT often also accept the GRE.

The Test is owned and administrated by the Educational Testing Service (ETS)

Prometric offers a computer-based exam administered at their testing centres. According to them “GRE Subject Tests are an excellent way for you to demonstrate your knowledge in specific subject areas and to help strengthen your graduate school application. Subject Tests are available in 7 disciplines: Biochemistry Cell and Molecular Biology Biology Chemistry Literature in English Mathematics Physics Psychology. if you’re majoring in, or have an extensive background in one of these disciplines, you should consider taking a GRE Subject Test in addition to the GRE revised General Test.”

More information about the Test and how to prepare can be found on the ETS Website

The German Education System

The German Educational System from the Apprenticeship Toolbox

Source: https://www.apprenticeship-toolbox.eu/germany/education-system-and-vet-system-in-germany

Related content

Recognition of studies

Depending on the situation, it might be necessary to have either your Matric/Grade 12 or South African degree or other qualifications and experience formally recognised

School Information

The German School system is quite unique and distinguishes itself from the South African models in a number of ways Types of schools There are

Study in Germany

Types of learning institutions Hochschule is the name for higher education. Under this, you can get the following institutions.  Fachhochschule – University of applied sciences. 

Learning German

There are several approaches to learn German, all of which can help you achieve your language learning goals. You can opt for convenient online sites

The German School system is quite unique and distinguishes itself from the South African models in a number of ways

South AfricaGermany
School TermStarts in JanuaryStarts in September
School UniformcompulsoryPublic schools do not require school uniforms
Home SchoolingAllowedNot allowed, school attendance is compulsory
School FeesFees payable depending on income and schoolPublic schools are free of charge. Private schools charges fees
Primary SchoolGrade 1 to Grade 7
Compulsory from age 6		Grade 1 to Grade 4
Compulsory from age 6
Secondary SchoolGrade 8 to Grade 12. Compulsory up to Grade 10From Grade 5. See more info in the Secondary School section. Compulsory until the age of 15 for a Gymnasium, else 16 years

Types of schools

There are different types of schools to choose from in Germany. The main system is Public schooling, but if 

There are different types of schools to choose from in Germany. The German public school system is renowned for its comprehensive approach to education. Students from all backgrounds have access to free education. 
Other options are:

Finding a school

The local Bürgerampt should be able to provide you with information about schools in your region.  
For international schools, you can use the following links to search

Germany's education system

Article 7 of the Grundgesetz (Basic Law for the Federal Republic of Germany) states the following:

  1. The entire school system shall be under the supervision of the state.
  2. Parents and guardians shall have the right to decide whether children shall receive religious instruction.
  3. Religious instruction shall form part of the regular curriculum in state schools, with the exception of non-denominational schools. Without prejudice to the state’s right of supervision, religious instruction shall be given in accordance with the tenets of the religious community concerned. Teachers may not be obliged against their will to give religious instruction.
  4. The right to establish private schools shall be guaranteed. Private schools that serve as alternatives to state schools shall require the approval of the state and shall be subject to the laws of the Länder. Such approval shall be given when private schools are not inferior to the state schools in terms of their educational aims, their facilities or the professional training of their teaching staff and when segregation of pupils according to the means of their parents will not be encouraged thereby. Approval shall be withheld if the economic and legal position of the teaching staff is not adequately assured.
  5. A private elementary school shall be approved only if the education authority finds that it serves a special educational interest or if, on the application of parents or guardians, it is to be established as a denominational or interdenominational school or as a school based on a particular philosophy and no state elementary school of that type exists in the municipality.
  6. Preparatory schools shall remain abolished.
Education is primarily the responsibility of the individual Federal States (Bundesländer). Each state has its own Ministry of Education which are responsible for the education policies and legislation. This includes the curriculum and teacher qualification requirements.

The School Stages

 The German education system has 5 Stages.

EnglishGermanInformation
PreschoolKinderkrippen, KindergartenThis is optional.
The Landesjugendämper (Youth Welfare office) monitors children who are attending preschool.
Children are monitored but achievements are not assessed
Primary SchoolGrundschule
From 6 years of age
Grades 1 to 4		This is an obligatory stage. For most States the following applies: “When the school year begins, all children who have turned six by June 30 of the current calendar year are obliged to attend primary school. The same applies to children who have turned six by June 30 of the following calendar year and who have been registered by their legal guardians in elementary school.”
Children automatically advance to the 2nd grade
Children are graded from the 2nd grade.
A school report is called a Zeugnis
The grading system is from 1 (very good) to 6 (very poor)
Pupils do not receive any certificates after finishing this Stage
Secondary SchoolWeiterführende Schulen
Sekundarstufe 1 (lower level) or Sekundarstufe II (upper level)		This starts after the Primary stage and it comprises of a lower level (Sekundarstufe I) and upper level (Sekundarstufe II)
Sekundarstufe I are for pupils between the ages of 10 and 16 and includes grades 5 – 7 to 9 – 10
The subject matter is very general and is meant to prepare pupils for Sekundarstufe II
Sekundarstufe II are for pupils between the ages of 15 -16 or 18, who wants to qualify for university and already finished Sekundarstufe I
TertiaryHochschulausbildung, TeriärbildungUniversities, Technical univcersities, Educational colleges (Pädagogische Hochschulen) Universities of applied sciences (Fachhochschulen) Dual Studies (Berufsakademi) and Fachschulen
Further Education or continuing vocational trainingMasters, Ph.D.

The Secondary School Stage

In Germany, the schools system sorts children into educational paths very early on and children have to make their future education choices at a young age. One major decision that parents and students will face is choosing the right secondary school. This choice will have a significant impact on a student’s academic and career opportunities, as well as their personal and social development. In Germany, there are several types of secondary schools to consider, each with different focuses and strengths. It is important to research and understand the curriculum, graduation requirements, and admission processes for each school in order to make an informed decision.

Each type of school caters to students with different academic abilities and career aspirations. The German school system also places a strong emphasis on vocational education and training. This ensures that students who prefer hands-on learning have plenty of opportunities to further their careers.

A South African Grade 12 could be equal to a German Abitur, depending on your subjects and marks (Note) and possibly the Bundesland. At a minimum, it should be equivalent to a Realschulabschluss/mittlere Reife. 
To find out if your South African qualification allows you to study at a German University, enter your details on the Anabin Website

EnglishGermanInformation
General schoolHauptschule (secondary general school for grades 5 through 9 or 10)
A secondary school in Germany and Austria, starting after 4 years of elementary schooling, which offers Lower Secondary Education (Level 2) according to the International Standard Classification of Education
Students are eligible for vocational training afterwards, or can transfer to the Sekundarstufe II/Oberstufe at a Gymnasium or Gesamtschule.
Pupils receive a Hauptschulabschluss certificate upon completion
General School – PracticalRealschule (practical secondary school for grades 5 through 10)
Students are eligible for vocational training afterwards, or can transfer to the Sekundarstufe II/Oberstufe at a Gymnasium or Gesamtschule. Another option is a FOS (Fachoberschule) There they can complete grades 11,12 and 13.
You can enroll for Engineering at a Hochschule (University of Applied sciences) with FOS and Grade 12
Pupils receive a Realschulabschluss certificate upon completion
General School – AcademicGymnasium (academic secondary school for grades 5 through 12 or 13)Students receive an Abitur after successful completion and it entitles them to go to a University. Some degrees like Engineering, require up to grade 13.
Students can also opt to do vocational training.
General School – ComprehensiveGesamtschule (comprehensive school for grades 5 through 12 or 13)
Combines the Hauptschule, Realschule and Gymnasium and offers an alternative to the tripartite school system
Technical College (Vocational School)Fachoberschule (FOS)Pupils receive a graduation certificate or Mittlerer Schulabschluss meaning they will have a Fachhochschulreife.
If the school offers grade 13, pupils will receive an Abitur or Fachgebundene Hochschulreife
Vocational GymnasiumBerufliches GymnasiumOffers 3 years of classes and pupils receive an Abitur upon completion

Pupils are graded based on 6 marks:

  1. very good
  2. good
  3. satisfactory level
  4. adequate
  5. poor
  6. very poor.

Fun Facts

  • On a child’s first day of school, they take along “Schultüte”, which is a decorated paper cone filled with sweets and small presents
  • Depending on the Federal State, most children start school in August/September of the year that they turn 6 years old
  •  For young school children, having a trendy backpack is more important than the clothes they wear
  • Every student is obliged to attend classes and other school events. You therefore cannot take your child out of school before the term ends. They must attend school for the whole term, with only certain exemptions like ill health, participation in sports competitions, or an important personal reason like the marriage of siblings, death in the family or serious illness in the family. Under certain circumstances, you can apply for special leave (Beurlaubung), for example, to return to your country of origin for a special event
  • School hours start between 7:30 and 8:15 a.m. and can end between 12 noon and 1:30 p.m
  • School marks are called “die Noten”
  • A School hour is usually 45 minutes long
  • Sports are played at private facilities and schools do not have sports fields
  • At the end of an Abitur, most schools have Abiball which is like a Matric farewell

Information on the Web

Related content

Recognition of studies

Depending on the situation, it might be necessary to have either your Matric/Grade 12 or South African degree or other qualifications and experience formally recognised

The German Vocational Training System

An Ausbildung is a form of vocational training or apprenticeship where a student attends school and works simultaneously. The student gains both theoretical and practical

Travel during a school Term

The school rules in Germany are very strict and every student is obliged to attend classes and other school events. You therefore cannot take your

Study in Germany

Types of learning institutions Hochschule is the name for higher education. Under this, you can get the following institutions.  Fachhochschule – University of applied sciences. 

Types of learning institutions

Hochschule is the name for higher education. Under this, you can get the following institutions. 

  • Fachhochschule – University of applied sciences. 
  • Technische University – Technical University 
  • University – for academics. They offer doctoral and research programs

Hochschule does not mean “Hoërskool” or “Secondary School”

Where to start

If you want to study in Germany or are looking for a Master’s in English, pop over to this very resourceful website about studying in Germany at a University or Higher Education Institution.

Hochschulkompass

You can search for degree programs on this website. They also offer the option to choose the course language in the search function.
It is also a good source of information about Doctoral Studies.

Online Univeristies

Uni-Assist

“Uni-assist e.V, the working service point for international student applications, is an association supported by approximately 170 German universities.
Uni-assist provides processing and evaluation for international student applications.”

Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst

The website of the German Academic Exchange Service.

The German Education system

Attached is a pdf file for the Practical Guide for International Students (7th Edition)

Source: https://www.apprenticeship-toolbox.eu/germany/education-system-and-vet-system-in-german

Alumni

Related content

Recognition of studies

Depending on the situation, it might be necessary to have either your Matric/Grade 12 or South African degree or other qualifications and experience formally recognised in Germany. You will typically

The German Vocational Training System

An Ausbildung is a form of vocational training or apprenticeship where a student attends school and works simultaneously. The student gains both theoretical and practical knowledge at the same

Prep Courses and GRE Tests

Prep Course for University The study in Germany website is an excellent “If you want to study in Germany as a non-EU international student, you must first check if

School Information

The German School system is quite unique and distinguishes itself from the South African models in a number of ways Types of schools There are different types of schools