The School System in Austria: Everything You Need to Know in 2025

How Education Works in Austria

Compulsory education in Austria starts at age 6 and lasts until age 15. The system is divided into several stages:

1. Primary Education — Volksschule (Ages 6–10)

• Duration: 4 years
• Language of instruction: German
• Core subjects: Literacy, mathematics, natural sciences, art
• Note for foreign children: DaZ classes (German as a second language) are often available to support integration.

2. Lower Secondary Education — Mittelschule or Gymnasium (Ages 10–14)

• Mittelschule: A general, practical education format for most children
• Gymnasium: A more academic pathway, typically preparing students for university
• The choice between the two is made after Volksschule, based on academic performance and family preferences.

3. Upper Secondary Education — Oberstufe (Ages 14—18/19)

Students can choose between two main paths:

• AHS (Allgemeinbildende Höhere Schule): Academic track, ends with the Matura exam, which grants access to university.
• BHS (Berufsbildende Höhere Schule): Combines technical/professional training with general education. Graduates receive a diploma and can also enter higher education.
• HTL (Höhere Technische Lehranstalt): A highly regarded technical path, ideal for careers in engineering or IT.

International and Private Schools in Austria

For expat families — especially those whose children don’t speak German yet — international or private schools are a great alternative.

International Schools

• Instruction in English, French, Russian, and other languages
• Curricula offered: IB (International Baccalaureate), British, American, Montessori
• Ideal for globally mobile families
• Popular in major cities: Vienna, Salzburg, Linz, Graz

Private Schools

• Often based on religious or educational philosophies (e.g. Waldorf, Catholic)
• Sometimes combine traditional and alternative approaches
• Fee-paying, but usually less expensive than international schools

Top Private & International Schools in Austria

• Amadeus International School Vienna
  Offers high-quality English-language education, including the IB program. Known for integrating music and arts into the curriculum, perfect for talented students with creative passions.
• The American International School of Vienna
  Offers education from kindergarten to high school, based on the U.S. curriculum. Includes IB and Advanced Placement (AP), making it a great fit for students aiming to study in the U.S. or internationally.
• Vienna International School
  Offers a multilingual environment and a robust IB curriculum. Well-suited for families speaking different languages at home and looking for a globally recognized education.
• Theresianum (Vienna)
  One of Austria’s oldest and most prestigious schools, offering German-language education with a focus on academic excellence. Best suited for students planning to study at Austrian or European universities.

Advantages of the Austrian Education System

• High Quality: Focus on academic excellence and personalized learning.
• Accessibility: Free public education is available to all children, regardless of nationality.
• Practical Skills: Strong emphasis on both theoretical and practical skills, preparing students for real-world careers.

What Foreign Families Need to Enroll a Child in School

Required documents:

• Meldezettel (proof of local registration)
• Child’s and parents’ passports
• School records or transcripts (if transferring from another country)
• e-card (health insurance card)
• Vaccination certificate

Language support: Children who do not speak German are often placed in preparatory classes or receive language assistance during their first year.

Tips for Expats and Foreign Families

• Plan ahead: Choose a school before your move, especially if you’re looking for an international program.
• If your child is 10+ years old, decide early between academic or vocational pathways.
• Check school zoning (Schulsprengel) — many public schools only accept students from specific residential areas.
• Look into after-school care (Nachmittagsbetreuung) — essential for working parents or entrepreneurs.

Conclusion

Austria offers a stable, well-structured, and flexible education system that supports both local and international families. By understanding how the school system works — and what your child needs to enroll and succeed — you’ll be better equipped to help them thrive.

Whether you’re an entrepreneur, expat, or family planning a move, being informed about Austria’s school system is a key step toward a smooth and successful transition.