The Austrian school system consists of compulsory education starting at age six that lasts for nine years. It begins with four years of primary school, followed by four years of either lower secondary school or the lower cycle of an academic secondary school. Kindergarten is available starting at age three but is not compulsory until age five and is not formally part of the school system. Children with special needs can attend special needs schools or primary schools with inclusive programs.
3. • children aged three and over can attend
Kindergarten
• As soon as they are five years: one year in
Kindergarten (=compulsory)
• Kindergarten is not part of the Austrian
school system though
4. • Compulsory schooling starts at the age
of six and lasts for nine years
• Start: four years at
primary school (Volksschule)
5. • Children with special educational needs
can attend either a special needs
school (Sonderschule) or Ps with
integrative (inclusive) scheme
6. • After primary school: four years of
lower secondary school (=Hauptschule)
or lower cycle of secondary academic
school
7. • For majority of Austrian school
children: first year at upper secondary
level = final year of compulsory
schooling
