Grammar schools aim to impart the knowledge necessary for entrance to a university. It is completed with the Abitur certificate (roughly equivalent to the A-level examination). The performance standards in all the subjects taught in the grammar school are oriented to the preparation for education in the senior secondary school, the secondary stage II.
All the subjects in the 7th through 10th forms are taught as classes. Learning a second foreign language is an obligation from the 7th school year in grammar schools. In order to broaden the number of subjects taught, there are also compulsory elective subjects with three lessons per week from the 9th school year.
Should the student's performance by the end of the 10th form be insufficient for the entrance to the senior secondary school, the grammar school can be concluded with a final examination equivalent to the preparation for a college of higher education or preparation for an advanced vocational school. In this case, the student receives a school-leaving certificate. However, it is also possible for the student to leave the school before the actual completion of the grammar school if the student's interests develop in a more vocational or practical direction.
The senior secondary school provides reinforced general education and courses in major subjects determined by the individual student. Qualification for the university entrance certificate is included during the 11th through 13th school years. Attendance at the grammar school is for a minimum of two and a half years and a maximum of four years, and is concluded by a final examination.
When students have passed the final examinations of the senior secondary school education, they are awarded an Abitur certificate (roughly equivalent to the A-level examination), which is the basis for entrance to a university.
