Chapter 2School, training, university

This material is for foreign citizens who are going to Germany soon or are already there. Here you can find information in different languages about the following topics: early childhood education, German school system and studying and vocational training.

Early childhood education
In day-care centres (from a few month of age up to 3 years and then kindergarten from 3 years to 6 or 7 years) children can play, sing, paint and do craft activities here. In many kindergartens the carers take the children outdoors in the summer. Kindergartens frequently offer language support. For instance they play language games with the children and read them stories. A PDF download is availbale here.

School system
In Germany it is compulsory to attend school: children must attend school for 9 years. In some federal states, compulsory school attendance also applies to children whose residence status is unclear. A school year begins in August or September and continues until June or July, depending on state. Children usually attend state-funded schools. Nobody pays school fees. There are small charges for copies, materials or outings. In private schools you have to pay school fees. Dowload the PDF here.

Studying and vocational training
You can normally find a good job in Germany if you have a degree or vocational training. You need to have completed your vocational training. And you need a certificate translated and authenticated. In Germany there is a dual system for most professions in which vocational training is offered. You learn the profession through practical experience in a company. And you go to a business school. Here you learn the theoretical principles for that profession. If you have the Abitur qualification you can study at a university. If you have the Fachabitur you can go to a technical college (Fachhochschule; FH). A degree at a technical college is usually more practically-orientated than at a normal university. More information here and a downloadable PDF.

Informative graphics
You want to get your school or university degree accepted in Germany? You need to know how your work experience can be helpful to find a good job opportunity in Germany?
We have four informative graphics and links for you.