Fachoberschule (FOS): An alternative path to the Fachhochschulreife

What is a Fachoberschule (FOS)?
The Fachoberschule (FOS) is an upper-level vocational secondary school in Germany that combines academic education with practical training. It usually lasts two years (Grades 11 and 12).
Its goal is to prepare students for the Fachhochschulreife, a higher school-leaving certificate that allows you to study at universities of applied sciences (Fachhochschulen).

What is the Fachhochschulreife?
The Fachhochschulreife is an advanced secondary qualification, also commonly referred to as:

• “intermediate technical qualification” (informal wording)

• or “technical/vocational Abitur” (depending on context)

It allows you to study at:

• Universities of applied sciences (Fachhochschulen)

• technical and business-focused higher education institutions

• some international colleges/programs

It does not usually qualify you for traditional academic universities (Universitäten) unless in special cases or through additional bridging routes.

Structure of the FOS

• Grade 11: Dual model: 3 days of school + 2 days of internship (Praktikum)
  (in an institution or company related to the chosen field)

• Grade 12: Full-time school
  (preparation for final exams – central examinations)

In some federal states (e.g., Bavaria), there is also FOS 13, an extra year to obtain the full Abitur.

Specialization fields in the FOS
When applying, students choose a field (Fachrichtung), such as:

• Business and Administration (Wirtschaft und Verwaltung)

• Technology (Technik)

• Health & Social Services (Gesundheit & Soziales)

• Design and Art (Gestaltung)

• Education (Pädagogik)

The curriculum includes general subjects (German, English, Mathematics) plus field-specific subjects.

Who can apply to the FOS?

• Students with a Realschulabschluss or a Mittlerer Schulabschluss with good grades

• A certain level in core subjects (German, Mathematics, English) is often required

• An internship contract (Praktikumsvertrag) is usually required before starting Grade 11

What are the exams like in the FOS?
In Grade 12, central final exams are typically held in:

• German

• Mathematics

• English

• sometimes also the specialization subject

In addition, there may be projects, presentations, or internship reports in Grade 11.

What can you do after the Fachhochschulreife?

• Study at a university of applied sciences: e.g., business, technology, design, nursing

• Advanced vocational training (higher-level Ausbildung): e.g., banking, technology, healthcare

• FOS 13 / Berufsoberschule: continue to obtain the full Abitur

• Study abroad: the certificate is recognized in some European and international countries

Advantages of the FOS

• Practical + academic learning: combining school and internship in Grade 11

• Career flexibility: enter the job market or continue education

• Educational progression: possible later path to Abitur or higher qualifications

• Strong practical focus: very useful for application-oriented careers

Is the FOS right for you or your child?
Yes, if you:

• do not want the full academic Gymnasium pathway

• have a good Realschulabschluss

• prefer an applied, technical, or business-oriented route

• learn better through hands-on training and real-world practice

ـ* The writers and editors aim to provide accurate information through extensive research and reviewing multiple sources. However, errors may occur or some information may be unconfirmed. Please consider this as initial guidance and always consult the competent authorities for verified information.