In Germany, there are no uniform legal requirements for switching to a private school; the specific requirements are set by each school itself. As a rule, current report cards, a personal get-to-know-you meeting, and, depending on the school, an admissions test are expected. Switching is generally possible in any school year, and costs usually consist of a one-time application fee and monthly tuition.
The following questions and answers give you a clear overview of everything you need to know for a successful change of school.
Which Documents Are Needed When Switching to a Private School?
When switching to a private school, you usually need the last two to three report cards, a certificate of attendance from the current school, and proof of the child’s previous school career. In addition, a copy of the birth certificate and current contact details for the parents or guardians are often required.
The exact list of documents varies from school to school, so it is worth asking the school of your choice directly and early on. International private schools often require additional documents, for example:
- Language certificates or proof of English skills
- Letters of recommendation from previous teachers
- The school’s completed application forms
- Proof of vaccination or school medical certificates (depending on the school’s regulations)
Important: Documents in foreign languages often have to be submitted as certified translations. Prepare all documents in full to speed up the application process and make a good first impression.
Are There Admissions Tests or Selection Interviews When Changing Schools?
Yes, many private schools conduct admissions tests and selection interviews as part of a change of school. These are not meant to screen children out but help the school assess the child’s level of learning and place them optimally in the right class.
The scope of the admissions assessment depends heavily on the type of school and the grade applied for. At international schools, language skills are often the focus, as lessons are taught in a foreign language. Typical components of an admissions process are:
- A written test in core subjects such as math and language
- A personal conversation with the child and the parents
- An assessment of social and emotional maturity, especially for younger children
Many schools place great importance on the conversation taking place in a relaxed atmosphere. The goal is to get to know the child, not to put them under pressure, so prepare your child for this appointment calmly and positively.
From Which School Year Is Switching to a Private School Possible?
Switching to a private school is generally possible in any school year, from the start of school all the way to the graduating classes. Many families decide to switch at the start of a new school year, as the transition then goes most smoothly for everyone involved.
Particularly common times to switch are:
- The transition from kindergarten to elementary school
- The move to secondary school after elementary school
- The start of the upper grades
International schools also regularly admit students who are moving from abroad and need a place in the middle of the school year.
As a general rule: The earlier the switch takes place, the easier it is to settle into a new school system and a new language of instruction. For children entering an English-language curriculum, switching at a young age is recommended where possible so that they have enough time to establish themselves linguistically and academically.
How Much Does Switching to a Private School Cost?
The costs of switching to a private school usually consist of a one-time application fee and monthly tuition. The amount varies considerably depending on the school, location, and grade level, and can range from a few hundred to several thousand euros per month.
In addition to ongoing tuition, parents should budget for the following possible additional costs:
- A one-time admission or enrollment fee
- Costs for teaching materials, textbooks, and digital learning resources
- Fees for exams such as the Cambridge International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma
- Costs for a school uniform or specific equipment
- Optional fees for the school bus, lunch, or extracurricular activities
Are There Scholarships or Discounts at Private Schools?
Some private schools offer scholarships or sibling discounts, and it is worth asking the school directly about such options. What matters is calculating the total costs realistically and factoring them into family planning early on.
How Exactly Does Switching to an International Private School Work?
Switching to an international private school usually takes place in several clearly defined steps: from the first contact and the get-to-know-you meeting through the admissions process to official enrollment and the first day of school. Depending on the school and the availability of places, the entire process takes anywhere from a few weeks to a few months.
A typical process looks like this:
- Gather initial information: Attend an open house or contact the school to get a first impression.
- Submit application documents: Gather all the required documents and submit the completed application form.
- Admissions test and get-to-know-you meeting: Your child takes a placement test and has a personal conversation.
- Acceptance and enrollment: After a positive decision, you receive an official offer, which you accept to complete enrollment.
- Preparing for the start: The school informs you about the timetable, materials, and all other organizational details.
Plan the switch as early as possible, as popular international schools often have limited capacity and keep waiting lists. Starting the application process in good time significantly increases the chances of getting a place at the desired time.
How Does ISR International School on the Rhine Support You When Changing Schools?
We know that changing schools is a significant decision for the whole family. At ISR International School on the Rhine in Neuss, near Düsseldorf, Germany, we accompany you and your child through the entire ISR admissions and application process from the very beginning, so that the transition is as smooth and pleasant as possible.
What sets us apart when it comes to changing schools:
- Transparent admissions process: We inform you clearly and openly about all steps, requirements, and deadlines, so you always know what comes next.
- Individual placement: Every child is assessed individually during the admissions process to ensure that they start in the right class and the right learning environment.
- Multilingual support: Since our school community brings together families from more than 60 nations, we are used to welcoming and supporting internationally relocating families.
- A clear path ahead: From elementary school to the International Baccalaureate Diploma, we offer a continuous, internationally recognized school career under one roof.
- Personal advice: Our admissions team is available to answer all your questions about documents, costs, and the process of changing schools.
If you would like to learn more about our school and see for yourself, we warmly invite you to attend one of the ISR Info Days. There you can get to know the campus, ask questions, and find out together with us whether ISR is the right school for your family.
