Destinations

Germany

Exchange in GermanyHost FamilyHigh School in GermanyEF CampDiscovery ToursRegion Choice

Typical day at a German high school<

7.30am Take public transport or ride your bike to school.

7.45 to 8.15am Classes begin. Your first class could be something like biology or mathematics.

8.20 to 9.05am Now it is time for your second class, which could be history.

9.05 to 9.25am Time for a short break.

9.25 to 10.10am More classes. This time it might be chemistry or physical education.

10.15 to 11.00am Political science or geography

11.00 to 11.15am You get a short break before your next period.

11.15am to 12.00pm Classes are often taught back-to-back, so now is time for the second half of political science or geography.

12.05 to 12.55pm Religious studies

12.55 to 13.40pm You have had a long morning of classes, but now it is time for lunch.

13.40 to 14.25pm Afternoon classes are often second languages like English or French.

14.30 to 15.15pm Your last class of the day could be music.

German high schools

In Germany there are different types of high schools. Some prepare students for the workforce, others prepare them for university. All schools are great places for making friends and learning German.

Short days

Most high schools in Germany begin at about 8.00am and end at about 3.30pm. This means your morning will be busy with classes, and attendance in class is extremely important. You will have time to do homework and participate in private clubs after school.

Formal setting

In Germany, the relationship between teachers and students is more formal than you might be used to. Teachers are respected authorities and students must use the formal "Sie" form when talking to teachers.

Getting to school

Most students take public transport to school or ride a bicycle. Some areas have school buses. It is not common for parents to drive students to school.

Private clubs

In many countries, schools offer official sports and after school activities. This is less common in Germany. After school activities are usually organised through private clubs. There are clubs for things like soccer, dance, choir, theatre and almost everything else. Once you are in Germany, ask around at school and talk to other students to find out what private clubs exist in your area and meet your interests.

Different states, different schools

Each of Germany's 16 states has its own slightly different school system. The school system in Brandenburg will be a little different from the system in Bavaria for instance. Ultimately the type of school you attend during your student exchange depends on where you live and also on your academic background and age.