The German education system is intricate. School system is segregated into different educational paths, and children usually begin school at the age of 6, and primary education (Grundschule) is till age 10 or12, depending on the region. The four main types of schools that offer compulsory education are Haupschule, Realschule, Gymnasium and Gesamtschule. Of all these, the Gymnasium is the most rigorous, and prepares students for university studies. The Realschule has a more applied orientation, and combines theoretical studies with technical training. From the Realschule, students can move on to apprenticeships or secondary technical school and later technical college. Students who excel in Realschule can also move up to the Gymnasium. The Hauptschule imparts vocational training and training in lower skilled work. There are also technical schools (Fachschule) and vocational schools (Berufsschule/Berufsfachschule). So students have can choose their subjects form very early on in the course of their education. 
Higher education can be sought either at universities or university-status institutions like the technical institutes (Fachhochschulen), music institutes (Musikhochschulen), art institutes (Kunsthochschulen) and so forth. 

Academic Calendar

The academic year is from October to July, and is divided into two semesters: 

• The Wintersemester (WS) from 1st October to 31st March.
• The Sommersemester (SS) from 1st April to 30th September.