Schule und Universität

There are a lot of similarities between the German and English school systems, including public schooling being funded and "free". With this being said, the difference are even greater. The selection of schooling in Germany is much more complex, allowing different students to veer off into what type of career path would fit them best. This is after fourth grade, and three main options are given: Hauptschule, Realschule, and Gymnasium. In some systems, Gesamtschule is offered. Gymnasium is the closest Germany has to an American high school. By the seventh grade students are already expected to narrow down their field of study and take more specified classes in it. Also, if students fail two or more classes, they must repeat the grade, but cannot repeat the same grade in the same school. Hauptschule is the lower end of the three schools, giving students basic skills and not allowing for much movement up. Realschule is for those who will take mid-level jobs. After, students usually attend a vocational school to further their skills. Finally  Gesamtschule is a comprehensive school that can be an option to anyone, combining all three options (wir-sind-bund.de). This is the closest Germany has to an American high school.

Religion is also taught in Germany, but a practice that America also uses is the option of the parent to choose to not allow their child to attend the class. If the parent does choose this option, then the child must sit through an ethics class (http://www.expatica.com). As for extracurriculars  most are not offered through the school when students get older.

The grading systems is from 1-6, 6 being the worst and 1 being the best. Also, school days are shorter, allowing more time for study and extracurriculars (http://www.internations.org/germany).