Educational System in Austria

Relocating to a new country can be a daunting experience, especially when it comes to understanding the educational system for your children. Austria offers a comprehensive and high-quality education system that is well-regarded internationally. This guide aims to provide expats with an overview of the Austrian educational system, including the main stages of education, enrollment procedures, language requirements, availability of bilingual and private schools, homeschooling and online schooling options, and the costs associated with private education.

What are the main stages of education in Austria?

The Austrian education system is divided into several stages: Kindergarten, Primary School (Volksschule), Lower Secondary School (Hauptschule or Neue Mittelschule), Upper Secondary School (AHS Oberstufe or BHS), and Higher Education (Universities, Fachhochschulen, and Colleges). Each stage is designed to cater to the developmental needs and academic abilities of students at different ages.

Kindergarten

Kindergarten in Austria is for children aged 3 to 6. It is not compulsory, but most children attend. The focus is on social interaction, play-based learning, and basic skills development.

Primary School (Volksschule)

Primary School, or Volksschule, is for children aged 6 to 10. It is compulsory and focuses on basic literacy, numeracy, and social skills. The curriculum includes German, mathematics, environmental studies, music, art, and physical education.

Lower Secondary School (Hauptschule or Neue Mittelschule)

Lower Secondary School is for students aged 10 to 14. It offers a more subject-focused curriculum, including languages, mathematics, natural sciences, social sciences, and creative arts. Students are also introduced to vocational guidance.

Upper Secondary School (AHS Oberstufe or BHS)

Upper Secondary School is for students aged 14 to 18. It offers a broad curriculum with a choice of academic or vocational pathways. Successful completion leads to the Matura, which qualifies students for higher education.

How does a newcomer from a different country enroll their kids in school?

To enroll your child in an Austrian school, you will need to provide proof of residence, your child's birth certificate, and a school report from your child's previous school. If you are moving from a non-EU country, you may also need to provide a visa or residence permit.

My children are still learning German, can they enroll in a public school?

Yes, children who are still learning German can enroll in public schools in Austria. Many schools offer German as a Second Language (DaZ) courses to help non-native speakers catch up with their peers.

Are there public bilingual schools?

Yes, there are several public bilingual schools in Austria, particularly in Vienna. These schools offer instruction in both German and a second language, often English. Admission requirements vary, but generally include a proficiency test in the second language.

What types of private schools are common in Austria?

Private schools in Austria include international schools, bilingual schools, and religious schools, particularly Catholic schools. These schools often offer alternative curricula, such as the International Baccalaureate, and may have more flexible language requirements.

Do expats typically send their children to public or private school?

Many expats in Austria choose to send their children to private schools, particularly international schools, due to the language support and international curricula they offer. However, public schools are also a popular choice due to their high quality and lower cost.

How expensive are Private schools in Austria?

Private school fees in Austria can vary widely, from a few thousand euros per year to over 20,000 euros per year for some international schools. It's important to check with individual schools for specific fee information.

Are you allowed to homeschool while living in Austria?

Homeschooling is not generally permitted in Austria. All children are required to attend school from the age of 6 to 15. Exceptions may be made in certain circumstances, such as for children with special educational needs.

May kids attend online school instead of a local school while living in Austria?

Online schooling is not a common practice in Austria and is generally not recognized as a substitute for compulsory school attendance. However, some schools may offer online learning options in addition to regular classes.