The ins and outs of the Austrian school system: What you need to know

Primary school, secondary modern school, grammar school, commercial academy, technical college and more: anyone familiarising themselves with the Austrian school system will discover a complex but well-structured educational landscape.

Education in Austria is compulsory for nine years, starting at age 6. The system splits after primary school (Volksschule, ages 6–10) into different educational pathways depending on the child's aptitude and parental choice. The Neue Mittelschule (NMS) offers a more practical-oriented path, while the AHS (Allgemeinbildende Höhere Schule, or grammar school) leads to the Matura – Austria's university entrance qualification.

Austria also has a well-regarded vocational education system, with the BHS (Berufsbildende Höhere Schule) offering a combination of theoretical and practical training in fields like business, technology, tourism and social work – and also granting access to university.