Schools and Gymnasium entry in Rheinland-Pfalz

Primary school in Rheinland-Pfalz lasts four years, and children usually move on in Grade 5. Gymnasium is the academic pathway that leads to the Abitur, and the state also offers other secondary school types with different leaving qualifications.

After primary school, parents choose the secondary school type. The Grade 4 half-year recommendation is advisory: it is discussed with you and does not force you to choose the school type the primary school suggests.

Ordinary entry to Grade 5 at Gymnasium generally does not require an entrance examination.

One detail worth knowing: ask separately about specialist programmes and schools with their own selection procedures, and remember that your choice of school type does not guarantee a place at a particular school.

This page describes the ordinary move from primary school. Later transfers into Gymnasium can have different requirements, including a recommendation, an examination or a trial period.