Guides
Kindergarten and school for children
Children are entitled to a place in a kindergarten, and from a certain age school attendance is compulsory. The first steps.
Updated: 26 July 2026
Auto-translated · Original: UK
In Germany, children are entitled to a place in a kindergarten (Kita), and school education is compulsory (Schulpflicht) from a certain age — usually from the age of 6. The system depends on the federal state and the city.
Kindergarten (Kita):
- look for a place well in advance — demand is high;
- contact your city's youth welfare office (Jugendamt) or the kindergartens directly;
- fees depend on income, and reductions are often available.
School:
- the child is enrolled in a school based on their place of residence;
- for children without German there are often preparatory language classes (Willkommensklasse);
- contact the school authority (Schulamt) of your city.
Specific rules and deadlines vary by federal state — check the page of your city or of the relevant authority.
Official sources
This article is a general guide in Ukrainian, not legal or tax advice. Rules may differ from one federal state to another and may change over time; always check the official sources listed below or contact the relevant authority or a qualified professional.