kareem_mezher

Inquiry About Eligibility to Join Public High School (Grade 12) in Germanyt

Dear Sir or Madam,

My name is [Your Full Name], and I am an 18-year-old student from Syria. I recently arrived in Germany with a language course visa and I am currently enrolled at the Carl Duisberg Center to study the German language.

I have completed all previous school grades in Syria and possess all the necessary official documents and certificates proving my academic background.

After finishing my language course, I would like to continue my education by enrolling in a public high school in Germany, specifically in grade 12.

I would like to kindly ask:

Am I eligible to join a public high school in grade 12?
What are the exact requirements and conditions for admission?
Which documents will I need to provide?
Is there any additional procedure I need to complete as an international student?

Thank you very much in advance for your time and assistance. I look forward to your guidance

1 Comments

Reply (1)

AnnaGapa_volunteer

Hi and welcome! It’s great that you already have your school certificates and are motivated to continue your studies here in Germany. I’m not a lawyer or official, but I can share some helpful info and where to check further.

High school in Germany (Gymnasium / Oberstufe):
In most federal states, public high schools normally accept students up to grades 10–11. Direct entry into grade 12 as an international student is very rare, because this grade is usually part of the final “Abitur phase” (two years, grade 11–12 or 12–13 depending on the state). Many international students instead continue through a “Studienkolleg” (preparatory college) or special integration programs before university.

You need these documents:

Recognition of your Syrian school certificates (called Zeugnisanerkennung, use this website to check the recognition online - Anerkennung in Deutschland ). This is handled by the local Schulamt (education authority), also.
Proof of German language level (often at least B2–C1 for high school level). You need to have an official certificate, usually.
Your official school transcripts translated into German by a certified translator! More info here - Certified Translation of Foreign Documents into German

Better to contact the Schulamt (education office) in the city where you plan to study in Germany and ask about options for international students. Ask about possible entry into an “Internationales Förderprogramm” or special integration classes - this will be very helpful for you, trust me. If your goal is university, consider whether a Studienkolleg might be more suitable.

Helpful links:

HandbookGermany on education: Schools in Germany
General info for international pupils in Germany (DAAD): DAAD brochures on study and research in Germany

So, to answer briefly: joining grade 12 directly is usually not possible, but you definitely have options – either through certificate recognition, special programs, or Studienkolleg.

Wishing you all the best with your studies and your new life here!

Anna

A project by:

Funded by: