Education in Berlin

Nursery, Kita and childminding form the first stage of education. The Berlin Education Programme sets the pedagogical framework for all settings.

• Nursery: 0–3 years, Kita: 3–6 years
• Kita voucher covers childcare costs
• Focus on language, movement and social learning
• Transition to primary school at age 6 (compulsory)

Primary school in Berlin lasts six years. It is the shared stage of education for all children before they move to secondary school.

• Years 1–2: Writing, reading, arithmetic – through play
• Years 3–4: General studies, first foreign language (English)
• Years 5–6: Orientation stage – discovering strengths
• School report in Year 6 recommends secondary school type
• Enrolment at local catchment school; exceptions possible

The Gymnasium leads directly to the Abitur in 12 school years, preparing pupils for university and higher vocational training.

• Entry after Year 6 – no fixed grade cutoff, but school recommendation required
• Years 7–10: broad curriculum including 2nd foreign language
• Years 11–12: Qualification phase – advanced and standard courses
• Abitur exams in 4 subjects (at least 1 written + oral)
• Fastest route to university

The ISS merged Hauptschule, Realschule and Gesamtschule. All qualifications are possible – including the Abitur via a 13th school year.

• Open to all after Year 6 – no recommendation required
• Individual support and differentiated teaching
• Intermediate school certificate (MSA) after Year 10
• Abitur possible via 2-year upper secondary stage (Years 12–13)
• Vocational orientation programmes from Year 7

The Community School combines primary and secondary school under one roof. Children learn together – without early selection.

• Joint learning from Year 1 to 13
• No transition report needed after Year 6
• Individual learning pace and mixed-year-group learning
• All qualifications including Abitur available
• Established as its own school type in the Berlin School Act

For anyone wishing to catch up on school qualifications or reach a higher level – alongside work or family.

• Evening school: alongside work, 3–4 evenings per week
• Kolleg: full-time route to Abitur in 3 years
• Requirements: basic school certificate plus vocational training or work experience
• Public schools – generally free of charge
• BAföG student funding may be available