An international or a German school: Which is best for your child?

Relocating to Germany as a family brings exciting opportunities, but it also comes with big decisions, especially when it comes to your child’s education. One of the first and most important questions you’ll face is whether to enrol your child in a local German school or an international school.

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Your choice will depend on a range of factors: how long you plan to stay, your child’s age and language skills and whether you're aiming for integration or continuity. Here is what you need to know about both options before you can make a decision:

Understanding the German school system

Germany has excellent, free state education, which is largely consistent nationwide, although it is administered at the state level (Bundesland).

Key stages of schooling

• Kindergarten (ages two to six): Pre-school is not compulsory but widely attended. Many kindergartens are privately run but receive state subsidies, and in some federal states, they are provided free of charge.
• Grundschule (primary school, ages 6 to 10): This marks the beginning of formal education. Children attend primary school for at least four years (six years in some federal states).
• Secondary school (from age 10 or 12): After Grundschule, children are placed into one of three types of secondary schools based on academic performance and teacher recommendation:

• Hauptschule: Focuses on vocational training
• Realschule: Offers a more academic but still practical education
• Gymnasium: Prepares students for university, and finishes with the Abitur exam

Language and integration support

Some state schools in Germany are international schools and teach in several languages, but most state schools teach exclusively in German. While younger children usually adapt quickly to learning in a new language, older students may need more support to catch up. Some schools offer integration classes or Willkommensklassen for non-native speakers, but the level of support can vary by location.

You’ll find that the German system is academically strong, but it can feel rigid, particularly if your child is new to the language or placed into a specific track early on.

Need help finding the right school in Germany? Let AGS Germany guide you, every step of the way.

What about international schools?

International schools in Germany provide a multilingual, multicultural environment with familiar curricula for globally mobile families. These schools operate privately and charge tuition for an education "tailored to expat children's needs".

Types of curricula offered

• International Baccalaureate (IB)
• British system (GCSEs, A-Levels)
• American system (High School Diploma, AP courses)
• French Baccalauréat
• Swiss Matura
• Other national programmes, depending on the school’s origin

Where can you find international schools?

Germany hosts around 100 international schools, mainly located in large urban centres such as:

• Berlin
• Frankfurt
• Munich
• Hamburg
• Düsseldorf

These cities often have a significant migrant population and a range of school choices for different age groups and languages.

Fees and additional costs

Expect tuition fees to range from 10.000 to 20.000 euros per year, depending on the school, city, and grade level. You may also need to budget for:

• Enrolment and registration fees
• School meals
• Uniforms (though uncommon)
• Transport services
• Extracurricular activities and trips

What to consider when making your choice

Choosing between a German-language or international school depends on your specific situation. Here are four essential factors to factor in:

1. How long are you staying?

• Short-term (one to three years): International schools can offer smoother transitions and curriculum continuity, especially if you’re planning to return home or relocate again.
• Long-term or permanent stay: Local German schools help children integrate into society, learn the language and build long-term friendships.

2. Your child’s age and language skills

Younger children (under 10) tend to pick up new languages quickly and usually adapt well to local schools. However, older children may face more difficulty transitioning into a German-speaking classroom unless they already have some language ability.

However, they may be able to visit an international, German state school or receive support at school to help them study in German.

3. Budget and employer support

International schools are not affordable for many families, though some employers include tuition as part of a relocation package. On the other hand, German public schools offer a high-quality academic and social education, and are free, including most textbooks and sometimes meals, which can make a significant difference to your family's finances.

4. Long-term academic plans

If your family plans to return to your home country or move again, international accreditation (like the IB) may be important.

If you think your child might be interested in pursuing higher education, they can use a variety of international qualifications to apply, not just the German Abitur. However, attending a German school and learning German to a native level will give them more choices when it comes to which subject they want to study at a German higher education institution.

Example scenarios to guide you

Scenario 1: Temporary move to Frankfurt for 2 years

Your employer is relocating you for a fixed-term assignment. You want your children to easily return to their current curriculum when you move back home.

Best fit: An international school offering the IB or British/American system.

Scenario 2: Permanent relocation to Berlin with small children

You’re planning to stay long-term and want your children to become fluent in German and fully integrate.

Best fit: A local German school with language support and an inclusive environment.

Find the school that fits your child

There’s no “best” choice - only the right fit for you. Every family’s journey is different. Whether your child thrives in a bilingual international classroom or embraces full immersion in German culture, what matters most is finding a school that aligns with your family’s values, lifestyle and long-term goals.

Choosing between a German school and an international one is a big decision—but it doesn’t have to be a stressful one. With expert guidance, clear information, and personalised support, you can feel confident about giving your child the best possible start in Germany.