The German Abitur: A Comprehensive Guide to the Most Important School-Leaving Qualification in Germany
The German Abitur marks a decisive turning point in a student’s educational path. It opens the doors to universities and higher education institutions and qualifies graduates for a wide range of academic fields. In this article, we explain what the Abitur is, how to obtain it, which requirements apply, and share key tips for students who wish to complete this stage successfully.
The Abitur is the final upper secondary school-leaving certificate in Germany. It is usually awarded by Gymnasien (academic secondary schools) or by comprehensive schools (Gesamtschulen) that offer an upper level with the required academic standards.
The Abitur is the main qualification for admission to German universities and many universities of applied sciences. It is also recognised by numerous institutions worldwide thanks to the reputation and quality of the German education system.
1. Gymnasium
The most common and traditional route to the Abitur.
Students attend school up to grade 12 or 13, depending on the federal state.
The curriculum emphasises advanced academic subjects such as mathematics, natural sciences, languages and humanities.
2. Gesamtschule (Comprehensive school)
A school type that combines Hauptschule, Realschule and Gymnasium under one roof.
Students who achieve strong academic performance can take courses at the gymnasial level and obtain the Abitur.
3. Evening grammar school / colleges for adults (Abendgymnasium / Kolleg)
Designed for adults or working people who want to complete their secondary education later in life.
Classes are often held in the evenings or in flexible formats to fit around work and family commitments.
4. Fachoberschule / Berufsoberschule (in some federal states)
These schools lead to qualifications such as Fachhochschulreife or a specialised higher education entrance qualification (often called Fachabitur).
Such certificates allow access to universities of applied sciences and some specific study programmes, but they are not fully equivalent to the general Abitur.
1. Number of school years
The length of schooling varies by federal state:
G8: Abitur after 8 years of secondary education (up to grade 12).
G9: Abitur after 9 years of secondary education (up to grade 13).
In all cases, students must complete a specified number of lessons in mandatory and elective subjects and meet the structural requirements of the upper secondary level.
2. Subject distribution
Students study a combination of compulsory subjects, typically including:
German
Mathematics
At least one foreign language
Natural sciences (e.g. physics, chemistry, biology)
Social sciences or humanities (e.g. history, politics, geography)
In the upper secondary level (Oberstufe), students choose advanced courses (Leistungskurse) or profile subjects in which they study in greater depth.
3. Points system (Punktesystem)
Performance is assessed using a points scale from 0 to 15.
Grades from the last two or three years of upper secondary school are combined with the final Abitur exam results to form the overall qualification.
4. Attendance and participation
Regular attendance and active participation are essential.
Unexcused absences and poor participation can jeopardise promotion to the next grade or admission to the final exams.
1. Written examinations (Schriftliche Prüfungen)
Students typically sit three or four written exams.
These usually cover their main or advanced courses (e.g. German, mathematics, a foreign language, or another core subject).
Many federal states use centralised exams (Zentralabitur), meaning that all students receive uniform tasks and are assessed according to common standards.
2. Oral examinations (Mündliche Prüfung)
In addition to the written exams, students take oral exams in one or more subjects, depending on the regulations.
The oral exam evaluates skills such as presentation, argumentation, analytical thinking and the ability to discuss complex topics.
3. Special learning achievement (Besondere Lernleistung – optional)
In some states, students may submit a special learning achievement, e.g. an extended research paper, project work or a recognised competition entry.
This can, depending on the rules, count towards the overall point total and improve the final grade.
4. Final overall qualification (Gesamtqualifikation)
The final Abitur grade is based on:
the course grades achieved over several semesters in upper secondary school, and
the results of the written and oral exams.
These are converted into a final grade point average, which determines access to particular university programmes – especially those with numerus clausus (NC).
1. Full access to higher education
The Abitur is the key qualification for almost all degree programmes at German universities and many universities of applied sciences.
It is also recognised by a wide range of international universities, offering opportunities to study abroad.
2. Flexibility in choosing a field of study
With the general Abitur, students are free to choose almost any course of study, from medicine and engineering to humanities and social sciences.
Restrictions mainly apply to programmes with numerus clausus (NC), where a specific minimum grade is required.
3. International recognition
Due to the strong reputation of German education, the Abitur is widely respected globally.
It can facilitate applications to renowned foreign universities and is often valued positively on the international job market.
4. Better career opportunities
Employers frequently regard the Abitur as evidence of academic ability, perseverance and reliability.
Even before completing a degree, Abitur holders often have better chances in dual study programmes and high-quality apprenticeships.
1. High academic workload
The final years are marked by intense study, numerous tests and projects.
Without appropriate coping strategies, many students may experience stress, pressure and feelings of overload.
2. The need for efficient time management
Students must balance lessons, homework, exam preparation and leisure time.
A realistic study plan with clear priorities and regular breaks is essential to maintain both performance and well-being.
3. Differences between federal states
Regulations concerning the Abitur (duration of schooling, compulsory subjects, exam formats, points calculation) differ from one federal state to another.
Families who move between states may face additional organisational challenges and uncertainties.
4. Standardised central exams
Centralised Abitur exams (Zentralabitur) can raise the level of difficulty and perceived pressure.
At the same time, they ensure transparent and comparable standards across schools within a state.
1. Start planning early
Create a structured timetable with daily and weekly goals.
Begin revising subjects that require more time, such as mathematics, sciences or complex language courses, well in advance.
2. Keep organised notes and study materials
Use folders or notebooks for each subject and summarise key topics.
Highlight formulas, definitions and typical exam questions for easier revision later.
3. Take care of your physical and mental health
Schedule time for rest, exercise and hobbies to reduce stress.
Limit distractions such as social media, particularly during intensive preparation phases.
4. Use group study effectively
Learning with classmates can broaden understanding and reveal new ways of looking at the material.
Explaining topics to others is one of the most effective ways to deepen your own understanding.
5. Communicate with teachers
Don’t hesitate to ask for help if certain topics are unclear.
Teachers can provide additional exercises, useful tips and feedback on how to improve.
6. Simulate exam conditions
Practise with previous Abitur exams under realistic conditions (time limit, quiet space).
This helps you to assess your level of preparation and to improve your speed and exam technique.
The Abitur is the final and decisive stage of school education in Germany, opening the way to university and a wide range of academic and professional opportunities.
Despite the significant challenges – such as heavy study loads, strict exams and the need for effective time management – students who plan ahead, organise their learning well and take care of their health can achieve the grades they need for their chosen field of study.
Understanding how the Abitur system works and having a clear strategy for preparation can turn this demanding phase into a rewarding experience and lay the foundation for long-term academic and professional success.
* The editorial team behind this article strives to provide accurate and up-to-date information based on thorough research and multiple sources. Nevertheless, errors or later changes in laws and administrative practice cannot be completely ruled out. Please regard the information in this article as an initial guide only and always consult the relevant authorities or official bodies for binding and current details.
