Skip to content

South Africans in Germany

    End of Content.

    Understanding the German School System

    The German school system is quite unique and stands apart from the South African model in several key ways. With its early career streaming, a strong emphasis on vocational training, and a federal structure where each state sets its own education policies, navigating the system can feel like stepping into a whole new world.

    SA vs German School System

    The German School system is unique and distinguishes itself from the South African models in several ways

    Category South Africa Germany
    School Term Starts in January Starts in September
    School Uniform Compulsory Public schools do not require school uniforms
    Home Schooling Allowed Not allowed, school attendance is compulsory
    School Fees Fees payable depending on income and school Public schools are free of charge. Private schools charge fees
    Primary School Grade 1 to Grade 7
    Compulsory from age 6    		 Grade 1 to Grade 4
    Compulsory from age 6
    Secondary School Grade 8 to Grade 12
    Compulsory up to Grade 10    		 From Grade 5. See more info in the Secondary School section.
    Compulsory until age 15 (Gymnasium) or 16

    Schulpflicht - School attendance is compulsory

    • In Germany, Schulpflicht (compulsory schooling) requires children to attend school, ensuring they receive a structured education.
    • In Germany, there is no unified national school law, and the Grundgesetz (Basic Law) does not explicitly regulate Schulpflicht (compulsory schooling). Instead, each Bundesland (federal state) determines its own rules regarding the duration and starting age of compulsory education. Generally, children must start school at the age of six, but the exact cutoff date varies, meaning some children may begin between the ages of five and seven.
      Compulsory schooling is typically divided into two phases: full-time compulsory education and part-time (vocational) education. The full-time phase includes Grundschule (primary school) and secondary education (Hauptschule, Realschule, Gesamtschule, or Gymnasium) and lasts between nine and ten years, depending on the state. After this period, students who do not continue in school but start vocational training are required to attend a Berufsschule (vocational school). This part-time schooling obligation usually lasts three years, aligning with the duration of an apprenticeship. As a result, in most federal states, compulsory education extends beyond a student’s 18th birthday, lasting until the end of the school year or the completion of vocational training.
    • Homeschooling is not permitted in Germany, as education laws mandate attendance at an officially recognized school.

    The legal foundation for Schulpflicht is found in Article 7 of the Basic Law (Grundgesetz) and detailed further in each state’s Schulgesetz (School Law).
    Parents who fail to comply may face fines or legal consequences.
    For specific regulations, refer to the Schulgesetze of the respective Bundesland or the German Standing Conference of the Ministers of Education and Cultural Affairs (KMK): 

    Types of schools

    Germany offers a variety of schooling options, though the foundation of the system is its strong public school network. The German public education system is renowned for its well-structured, inclusive approach, ensuring that children from all backgrounds have access to free, high-quality education.

    Beyond public schools, families can also explore a range of alternative education models and independent institutions:

    • Montessori schools — following a child-centered approach that encourages independence and hands-on learning.
    • Waldorf schools — based on Rudolf Steiner’s anthroposophical principles. These are state-approved or state-recognised independent schools with a holistic educational philosophy.
    • Jenaplan schools — emphasizing community, creativity, and cooperation over rigid structures.
    • The Catholic Church also runs a large network of faith-based schools across the country.
    • International schools — found in most major cities, offering bilingual or foreign-language curricula for globally minded families.

    Starting School in Germany: An Expat Parent's Guide

    Our Expat Parent’s Guide covers school enrolment, required documents, German language support, Welcome Classes, choosing the right school, and practical tips to help your child settle successfully.

    Starting School in Germany: An Expat Parent’s Guide

    Starting School in Germany: An Expat Parent’s Guide Moving to a new country is exciting, but starting school can feel overwhelming—for both parents and children. The good news is that Germany has a well-established education system with support for international families. Every year, thousands of children who speak little or no German successfully join German schools and make the transition into everyday school life. This guide walks you through the process step by step,

    Finding a school

    Your local Bürgeramt (citizens’ office) can provide up-to-date information about schools in your area, including enrollment procedures and regional education options.

    If you’re looking for international schools, the following directories are a good place to start:

    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.

    English German Information
    Preschool Kinderkrippen, Kindergarten
    • Attendance is optional.
    • The Landesjugendämter (Youth Welfare Offices) monitor childcare facilities.
    • Children's development is monitored, but academic achievement is generally not assessed.
    Primary School Grundschule (Grades 1–4)
    • Compulsory from approximately age 6.
    • In most states, children who turn six by 30 June must start school that year.
    • Some children turning six by the following 30 June may also enrol if registered by their legal guardians.
    • Children automatically progress from Grade 1 to Grade 2.
    • Formal grades usually begin in Grade 2.
    • A school report is called a Zeugnis.
    • Grades range from 1 (Very Good) to 6 (Unsatisfactory).
    • No graduation certificate is awarded after completing primary school.
    Secondary School Weiterführende Schulen
    Sekundarstufe I & II
    • Begins after primary school.
    • Sekundarstufe I generally covers Grades 5–9 or 10 (ages 10–16).
    • Provides a broad general education and prepares pupils for further study or vocational pathways.
    • Sekundarstufe II is usually for students aged 15/16–18.
    • Students prepare for university entrance qualifications or vocational qualifications.
    Tertiary Education Hochschulausbildung / Tertiärbildung
    • Universities (Universitäten)
    • Technical Universities (Technische Universitäten)
    • Universities of Applied Sciences (Fachhochschulen)
    • Teacher Training Universities (Pädagogische Hochschulen)
    • Dual Study Programmes (Duale Hochschule / Berufsakademie)
    • Specialised Colleges (Fachschulen)
    Further Education Weiterbildung / Berufliche Weiterbildung
    • Master's Degrees
    • Doctoral Degrees (Ph.D.)
    • Professional development and vocational qualifications.

    The Secondary School Stage

    Germany offers several types of secondary schools, each with its own focus, pace and strengths. Taking the time to understand the curriculum, graduation requirements and admission criteria can help you choose the best option for your child. The right school depends on your child’s academic strengths, learning style and future goals.

    One of the biggest differences between the German and South African education systems is what happens after Grundschule (Primary School).

    At the end of Grade 4 (or Grade 6 in Berlin and Brandenburg), children move on to secondary school. Rather than all pupils attending the same type of high school, Germany offers several educational pathways designed to match different learning styles, academic strengths and future career goals.

    How is the decision made?

    Towards the end of primary school, teachers assess each child’s academic progress and provide a school recommendation (Schulempfehlung). This recommendation is based on factors such as academic performance, learning ability and classroom development.
    The importance of this recommendation varies between Germany’s federal states (Bundesländer). In some states it is binding, while in others parents have the final choice, provided the admission requirements of the chosen school are met.

    Hauptschule

    Traditionally designed for pupils who prefer practical learning, the Hauptschule prepares learners for vocational training and apprenticeships.
    It usually finishes after Grade 9 or 10, after which many students begin an apprenticeship (Ausbildung).

    • enjoys academic work
    • likes theory
    • plans university

    Realschule

    The Realschule offers a broader academic education and generally ends after Grade 10. Graduates may:

    • begin vocational training,
    • attend a specialised vocational college, or
    • continue to higher academic studies if they achieve good results.
    • balanced learner
    • practical and academic

    Gymnasium

    The Gymnasium is the most academically focused pathway and prepares students for university.
    It concludes with the Abitur, Germany’s university entrance qualification, usually after Grade 12 or 13, depending on the state.

    • hands-on learner
    • vocational interests

    Gesamtschule

    Many regions also offer Gesamtschulen or Sekundarschulen, which combine several school pathways under one roof.
    These schools allow pupils more time to develop before making long-term educational decisions and often make it easier to change between different academic levels.

    • still developing
    • wants flexibility

    Can a Child Change Path Later?

    Yes. One of the greatest strengths of the German education system is that the pathways are flexible. 
    Although the initial choice is made at a young age, it is not a lifelong decision. Students who perform well can move between educational pathways as they progress through school. 
    For example:

    • A successful Realschule student can continue to the Gymnasiale Oberstufe and later earn the Abitur.
    • Students who complete an apprenticeship (Ausbildung) can continue their education through vocational colleges or advanced qualifications such as the Fachabitur, which can lead to study at a University of Applied Sciences (Fachhochschule) or, in many cases, a university.
    • Adults who wish to continue their education later in life can qualify for university through the Zweiter Bildungsweg (“Second Educational Path”) by attending institutions such as an Abendgymnasium or Berufsoberschule.

    A hallmark of the German system is its strong emphasis on vocational education and training (Berufsausbildung). This ensures that students who thrive through practical, hands-on learning have structured pathways into skilled professions — just as respected as academic ones.

    For South Africans, understanding how local qualifications compare can be helpful. A South African Grade 12 may be considered equivalent to a German Abitur, depending on your subjects, marks, and sometimes the Bundesland (federal state). At minimum, it generally aligns with a Realschulabschluss or mittlere Reife. 
    To check whether your South African qualification qualifies you for university studies in Germany, you can verify your details on the official Anabin website.

    🇿🇦 Good to Know

    Many South African parents worry that their child must attend a Gymnasium to have a successful future. In reality, Germany offers multiple routes to university and highly respected vocational careers. A child who starts at a Realschule or completes an apprenticeship can still continue their education and qualify for higher studies later. The system is designed to allow learners to progress as they develop academically.

    Grades

    Germany uses a numerical grading system, with 1 being the best and 6 the worst. This scale is applied across most school levels, from primary to secondary education

    01

    Very Good

    02

    good

    03

    Fsatisfactory

    04

    Adequate

    05

    poor

    04

    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

    Getting School Books and Supplies

    Many local bookshops (Buchhandlungen) can help you with the entire process. Simply email or bring in your school’s book list, and they will usually order the required books and have them ready for collection. Some bookshops can also help with workbooks, stationery, school bags (Schulranzen), and even Schultüten. In Germany, books that are not in stock can often be ordered for next-day or very quick collection.

    Tip: As soon as you receive your school supply list, contact a local bookshop and ask if they offer a school list service (Schulbuch-Service or Schulbuchbestellung).

    Well-Known Bookshop Chains

    These chains have branches across much of Germany and can usually order school books:

    Stationery Stores

    Local Bookshops Are Often Best

    Don’t overlook independent local bookshops and stationery stores.
    Many provide a very personal service and are experienced in handling school book orders.


    In smaller towns, parents can often simply send the school’s book list to their local bookshop and collect everything a few days later.

    Where can I get one?

    You can buy Schultüten in most stationery shops, toy stores, craft stores, supermarkets, and online (for example, Amazon) during the months before school starts. Many families also choose to make their own and personalise it with their child’s name and favourite theme.

    💡 Tip: Don’t leave it until the last minute—popular designs often sell out before the start of the school year.

    What is a Schultüte?

    One of Germany’s most beloved school traditions is the Schultüte (school cone), sometimes called a Zuckertüte.

    On their first day of school (Einschulung), children receive a large decorated cardboard cone filled with small gifts, school supplies, treats, and surprises. The tradition is designed to make the start of school feel exciting and memorable.

    What goes inside?

    Popular Schultüte fillers include:

    • Colouring pencils and stationery
    • Small toys or books
    • Hair accessories or stickers
    • Healthy snacks and sweets
    • A special note from parents

    Support for Parents

    Find inspiration in shared stories:

    Bullying at school

    Mobbing in Schools: Recognize, Act, and Support Your Child Every child deserves to feel safe at school. Learn how to identify the signs of bullying, take effective action, and access resources to protect your child and restore their confidence. Disclaimer:The information provided here is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, medical, or professional advice. It is not intended to replace consultation with qualified professionals. For specific concerns or cases,

    Kitas

    Kitas and Kindergarten Kita is a German abbreviation for “Kindertagesstätte,” which translates to “daycare centre” in English. In Germany, Kita is a term used to refer to preschool or early childhood education facilities that offer care and education for children aged 0-6 years old. These facilities are usually run by the government, religious or private organizations and follow a structured curriculum aimed at promoting children’s learning and development.It is not mandatory to send your child

    South African Communities

    South African Communities Find your people. Find your place. Living far from home can be lonely — but it doesn’t have to be. Across Germany, South Africans are gathering in churches, online groups, events, and everyday conversations. This page brings those communities together, so you can reconnect with familiar culture, shared experiences, and that comforting feeling of being understood. Church Groups American Protestant Church in Bonn – they have an Afrikaans-speaking pastor, Ds Mario Weyers. 

    Information on the Web

    Related content

    Study in Germany

    Studying in Germany Germany’s higher education landscape is renowned for its academic excellence and affordability. Whether you’re pursuing a degree at a Universität, a Fachhochschule (University of Applied Sciences), or through a dual study program, you’ll find a learning culture built on precision, independence, and real-world application. Before applying, it’s

    Travel during a school Term

    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 child out of school before the term ends. They must attend school for the whole term, with only certain exemptions

    Recognition of studies

    Recognition of studies Planning to study further, work in a regulated profession, or have your vocational training acknowledged in Germany?You may need your Matric (Grade 12), South African degree, or other qualifications officially recognised, depending on your goals. To check whether your profession is regulated in the EU, explore the

    The German Vocational Training System

    Vocational Training in Germany An Ausbildung is Germany’s structured vocational training system. It combines theory and practice: learners attend a school and work in a real company at the same time. You don’t just learn a job — you become the job, step by step. Most Ausbildung programmes start in

    Facebook
    X
    LinkedIn
    WhatsApp
    Email
    Threads