Educational qualifications in NRW

The school system in North Rhine-Westphalia offers a wide range of educational pathways. Every qualification is an important step—whether toward vocational training, higher education, or continuing education. The following provides an overview of the most important qualifications and their distinctive features.

Special Education Diploma

The special education diploma is intended for students with special educational needs. It is awarded either at Förderschulen or as part of inclusive education programs at general education schools. The diploma is based on individual learning goals and takes into account the respective areas of support, such as learning, intellectual development, or emotional and social development. It can facilitate the transition to vocational preparation programs, training in a supported setting, or—if the student’s development warrants it—to further educational programs.

Junior High School Diploma

The Hauptschule diploma can be earned in two ways: after 9th grade or after 10th grade (Type B). It serves as the foundation for many vocational training programs in the dual system and allows students to attend a Berufskolleg. The extended secondary school diploma after 10th grade offers better opportunities for further education, such as the transition to programs leading to an intermediate school leaving certificate. The diploma is awarded at Hauptschulen, Gesamtschulen, Sekundarschulen, or Berufskollegs. With targeted support and motivation, a higher qualification can also be achieved after completing the secondary school diploma.

Secondary School Diploma (Technical High School Qualification)

The Fachoberschulreife is an intermediate school-leaving certificate that is typically earned after 10th grade—for example, at Real, Gesamt, or Sekundarschulen, as well as at Hauptschulen offering an extended curriculum. It opens up a wide range of opportunities: entry into skilled vocational training programs, enrollment in a Berufskolleg, or—with the appropriate qualifications—transition to the upper secondary level of a Gymnasium. This “qualification” is achieved by earning specific grades in the core subjects and is a prerequisite for attending the upper secondary level.

Vocational High School Diploma

The Fachhochschulreife consists of an academic component and a practical component. The academic component is typically completed at Berufskollegs or in the upper grades of a high school. The practical component can be demonstrated through a supervised internship, a voluntary social year, the Federal Voluntary Service, or completed vocational training. The Fachhochschulreife qualifies students to study at universities of applied sciences. It also provides access to dual study programs and is particularly practice-oriented.

Subject-specific high school diploma

The subject-specific university entrance qualification allows students to study specific subjects at universities—depending on their chosen area of focus. It is typically earned during the upper secondary school years or at vocational Gymnasien. Unlike the general university entrance qualification, a second foreign language is not required. The subject-specific university entrance qualification is particularly suitable for students with clear career or subject-specific interests, such as in the fields of technology, business, or social services.

High School Diploma (Abitur)

The Abitur is the highest school-leaving qualification in North Rhine-Westphalia. It qualifies students to study any subject at universities and colleges both in Germany and abroad. It is awarded upon successful completion of the upper secondary school level and passing the Abitur examination. This can be achieved at Gymnasien, Gesamtschulen, vocational Gymnasien, as well as through adult education programs—such as at community colleges or night schools. The Abitur opens up a wide range of academic and career opportunities and is a prerequisite for many degree programs and professions.

Vocational degree with a high school diploma

At Berufskollegs, students can earn both a vocational qualification and a high school diploma—such as the Fachhochschulreife or the Fachoberschulreife. These so-called dual-qualification programs combine theoretical knowledge with practical training. Examples include programs leading to certification as a state-certified assistant in fields such as technology, design, or healthcare. This combination improves prospects in the job market and also opens the door to further academic study.

Adult education

Adult education is designed for adults who wish to earn a high school diploma—whether it be a secondary school diploma, a technical college entrance qualification, or a high school diploma. The options are diverse: evening secondary schools, evening high schools, vocational colleges, adult education centers, and digital learning platforms offer flexible continuing education that can often be pursued while working. Adult education offers a second chance—regardless of one’s previous educational background—and opens up new professional and personal opportunities.