Education varies by federal state
Germany does not run every school under one identical national system. Education is largely the responsibility of the 16 federal states, so school types, holidays and transition rules can differ.
Your local authority is the starting point
The local school authority, municipality or school administration can explain placement. You may need registration evidence, previous school reports, a birth certificate and health-related documents.
German level can affect initial placement
Newly arrived pupils may have access to welcome, preparatory or language-support classes. Names and models differ by state and school. The goal is usually to build German while integrating the child into regular classes.
Do not rush secondary-school choices
After primary school, routes may include Gymnasium, Realschule, Gesamtschule and other state-specific models. Discuss options with teachers while accounting for the child's language transition.
Watch social adjustment too
Sports clubs, music schools and after-school activities can speed up friendship-building. In the first months, monitor wellbeing as closely as grades.
First task: find the official education portal for your federal state and the contact details of your local school authority.
Where do you actually stand?
Answer a few questions to see which residence route fits your profile — or talk it through with a consultant.
