Glossary
Abitur (Abi)
The highest secondary school diploma in Germany, obtained after passing comprehensive oral and written exams at the Gymnasium, qualifying students for university admission.
Example:
Earning the Abitur is a major academic achievement in Germany, signifying readiness for higher education and opening doors to universities.
Berufsschule
An advanced vocational school in Germany, often attended by students who have completed Hauptschule and are pursuing an apprenticeship.
Example:
After completing his apprenticeship as a baker, he continued his specialized training at a Berufsschule to deepen his craft.
Bundesländer
The 16 federal states of Germany, each possessing significant autonomy, particularly in educational matters.
Example:
The curriculum for the Bundesländer in Bavaria might differ slightly from that in North Rhine-Westphalia, reflecting regional educational policies.
German Grading System (1-6)
The grading scale used in German schools, where 1 is the best grade (excellent) and 6 is the worst (fail).
Example:
Achieving a '1' on your German exam is like getting an A+ in the German Grading System, a truly outstanding result.
Gesamtschule
A comprehensive secondary school (grades 5-12 or 5-13) that combines different educational tracks within one institution, similar to an American high school.
Example:
The Gesamtschule offers a more inclusive environment where students of varying abilities learn together before specializing.
Grundschule
Elementary school in Germany, typically covering grades 1-4, where all students follow a common curriculum.
Example:
After kindergarten, German children attend Grundschule to learn foundational skills like reading, writing, and basic arithmetic.
Gymnasium
The most academically focused secondary school track (grades 5-12 or 5-13) designed to prepare students for university.
Example:
If your goal is to study medicine at a German university, attending a Gymnasium is the traditional and most direct path.
Hauptschulabschluss
The diploma awarded upon successful completion of the Hauptschule, typically after grade 9 or 10.
Example:
Earning your Hauptschulabschluss opens doors to various apprenticeships and vocational careers in Germany.
Hauptschule
A secondary school track (grades 5-9 or 5-10) primarily focused on vocational training and preparing students for skilled trades and apprenticeships.
Example:
If you're interested in becoming a mechanic or an electrician, the Hauptschule track might be the right choice for your career path.
Klassenlehrer
A homeroom teacher in the German system, who often stays with the same class group for several years, providing continuity and guidance.
Example:
Your Klassenlehrer will be your main point of contact and mentor throughout your secondary school journey, offering consistent support.
Leistungskurse
Advanced or honors courses offered at the Gymnasium, allowing students to specialize in certain subjects at a higher level.
Example:
For students passionate about science, taking Leistungskurse in Physics and Chemistry can deepen their knowledge significantly.
Mittelschule
A secondary school type, primarily found in Bavaria, that combines elements of both Hauptschule and Realschule tracks.
Example:
In Bavaria, some students attend a Mittelschule, which offers a flexible path, bridging different educational levels.
Realschulabschluss
The diploma awarded upon successful completion of the Realschule, typically after grade 10.
Example:
With a Realschulabschluss, students have more options for higher vocational training or even transferring to a Gymnasium.
Realschule
A popular secondary school track (grades 5-10) with a higher academic standard than Hauptschule, requiring at least one foreign language.
Example:
Many German students attend Realschule to gain a solid academic foundation before pursuing further specialized education or training.
Staggered Vacation Schedule
A system where each of Germany's 16 federal states has different, rotating school vacation dates to prevent nationwide traffic congestion.
Example:
Planning a family trip during the summer can be tricky because of the staggered vacation schedule across the different Bundesländer.