“The Austrian Education System” – A Guide for Newcomers
If you are considering moving to Austria with your family, it is essential to understand the country’s education system. The Austrian education system is designed to provide students with a solid foundation for their academic and professional success. With a variety of schools, programs, and disciplines, students can choose the educational path that best fits their interests and goals.
The following blog post provides a rough overview, detailed information can be found here:
👉 www.bildungssystem.at – The Austrian Education System
“Education opens doors to new opportunities and horizons. Seize the opportunities that the Austrian education system offers.”
Austria places great emphasis on high-quality education. The education system is structured and divided into different levels, from primary education to higher education. Each level is designed to give students the necessary skills and knowledge for their future academic and professional careers.
Primary Level
Preschool (in individual cases)
For children who have reached compulsory school age but are not ready for primary school. After completing the preschool year, the child is admitted to the 1st grade of primary school.
Primary School: The First Steps
The primary school forms the foundation of the Austrian education system. During these four years, intended for children aged 6 to 10, students acquire basic skills in core subjects such as reading, writing, mathematics, and science. Additionally, they are promoted in arts, music, and sports to develop their creative and physical skills.
“Education is the key to integration and understanding the culture and values of a country.”
Secondary Level I
Middle School
After completing primary school in Austria, students have the opportunity to attend middle school. The middle school, formerly known as the main school and later as the new middle school, offers a basic general education. It lays the foundation for attending secondary and higher schools. One feature of middle school is the classification of students into different performance groups, especially in the subjects German, English, and mathematics. The first performance group is taught according to the same curriculum as in the General Secondary Schools (AHS), facilitating the transition to the lower level of the AHS.
Lower AHS (General Secondary School)
The lower level of the General Secondary Schools (AHS) is colloquially also called “Gymnasium.” It is another option for students after primary school. It offers an in-depth general education and prepares students for the upper level of the AHS, leading to a general university entrance qualification.
Secondary Level II
Vocational Schools: Acquiring Practical Skills
In addition to the gymnasium, Austria also has vocational schools. These schools combine academic education with practical vocational training, preparing students for a career in various industries. From technology to commerce to art and design, these schools offer a wide range of disciplines.
Upper AHS: Preparing for University
The gymnasium, or the upper level of the AHS, is an advanced school that intensively prepares students for higher education. With a challenging academic program and a focus on scientific subjects, the gymnasium provides students with a solid foundation for their future academic endeavors.
“The gymnasium is the trailblazer for a successful academic career in Austria.”
Post-secondary and Tertiary Level
Higher Education: Striving for Excellence
Austria is proud of its prestigious universities and universities of applied sciences. Higher education aims to provide students with specialized knowledge and skills in their chosen field of study. With modern facilities, experienced lecturers, and a variety of courses, Austrian higher education institutions offer students top-notch educational opportunities. Alternatively, Austria also offers practice-oriented training in various courses and colleges without an academic focus.
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This blog post was created with the support of ChatGPT.
Sources of information:
1) Education System in Austria – Wikipedia
2) www.bildungssystem.at – The Austrian Education System