Education system and best schools in Austria: Compulsory education from age 6 to 15. Four-year primary school (Volksschule). Differentiated secondary education options. Vocational training and apprenticeships available. Gymnasium prepares for university entry. Prestigious international schools available. Universities offer tuition-free education. Austrian school year: September to June. Language of instruction: primarily German. Special education support programs available.
Compulsory education from age 6 to 15.
In Austria, Compulsory Education begins on the next 1 September after a child reaches their sixth birthday, continuing for nine school years. This journey typically spans ages 6 to 15, during which children progress through primary school, middle school, and eventually choose between a polytechnic school, a general secondary school, or a vocational school for their final year. For more detailed information regarding the structure and phases of education in Austria, you can visit the official website on Compulsory Education in Austria.
Four-year primary school (Volksschule).
In Austria, the four-year primary school, known as "Volksschule" (VS), is attended by children from 6 to 10 years of age, spanning the 1st to 4th school years. It commences on the second Monday in September following the child's sixth birthday. Upon completion, students progress to the next stage of education, such as new middle schools or General High Schools.
Differentiated secondary education options.
In Austria, the education system offers differentiated secondary education options, including vocational-technical tracks and University Preparatory Tracks, with one to four additional years of education beyond the mandatory nine years. Students can choose between higher vocational schools or academic secondary schools designed to prepare them for university or specific professions. For more detailed information, you can visit the History of Education in Austria page.
Vocational training and apprenticeships available.
In Austria, the Vocational Education and Training (VET) system encompasses both school-based VET and apprenticeships, known as dual track training, which cover nearly all economic sectors and lead to qualification levels of EQF 4 or 5. [Apprenticeships](https://www.cedefop.europa.eu/files/4168_en_at.pdf) are structured as a dual system, where 80% of training time is allocated at a company and 20% at a vocational school. This training can range from 2 to 4 years, depending on the profession and educational background.
Gymnasium prepares for university entry.
In Austria, the Gymnasium (AHS) is an institution that provides general education in the humanities, science, and languages, and grants the diploma (Reifeprufung or Matura) necessary for university entry. It emphasizes preparing students for higher education rather than immediate vocational skills. For more insightful details, you can explore the History of Education in Austria, which outlines the evolution and significance of this educational system.
Prestigious international schools available.
Austria, particularly Vienna, hosts several prestigious international schools, including the Vienna International School (VIS), American International School Vienna (AISV), Danube International School Vienna (DISV), Amadeus International School Vienna, and Schloss Krumbach. Each institution offers diverse curricula such as IB, Cambridge, American, and British programs, along with a multicultural and inclusive learning environment. To discover more about these esteemed institutions, visit the International School Parent website, a comprehensive resource for exploring the best international educational opportunities in Vienna.
Universities offer tuition-free education.
In Austria, public universities are generally tuition-free for students from EU and EEA countries, with only minor fees for student union and insurance. Non-EU students, however, must pay around 1,450 EUR per year in tuition fees at public institutions. However, some universities such as WU (Vienna University of Economics and Business) and Johannes Kepler University Linz continue to offer tuition-free education for EU students.
Austrian school year: September to June.
The Austrian school year generally starts in September and ends in July, with various holidays throughout, including Christmas, winter, spring, and summer breaks. For more comprehensive information on the educational system, you can visit the InterNations Guide to Education in Austria, which provides valuable insights and resources for expats navigating the Austrian educational landscape.
Language of instruction: primarily German.
In Austria, the education system is compulsory for nine years, with German as the primary language of instruction. Students attend primary schools, followed by various types of secondary schools, including junior high schools, secondary schools, and higher general secondary schools, with options for vocational orientation and apprenticeship preparation. For more detailed information on these educational systems, visit the Educational Systems section on their official website.
Special education support programs available.
Austria's education system, while comprehensive, does not specifically detail special education support programs within the public school system. However, the Federal Ministry of Education is responsible for ensuring all students, including those with special needs, receive appropriate education. Although specific programs and services are not outlined in the general education framework, the commitment to inclusivity is evident. To understand more about the structure and historical development of this framework, you can explore the detailed information available on the History of Education in Austria page.