How long is a school day in Germany?

In Germany, the school day lasts for five and a half hours, usually from 08:00 to 13:30. The structure of a normal school day in Germany is very different to other European school systems. Lessons run for 45 minutes, and students remain in the same classroom throughout the day.

Because the school day in Germany ends around lunchtime, schools do not serve lunch. Afternoon lessons are becoming increasingly popular, particularly for older students. These additional classes are more informal and not offered in every state. Previously, German students attended school on Saturdays and received Wednesdays off in lieu, but this has now changed, and the standard school week runs from Monday to Friday with weekends free.