High School Program in Germany - GLS Berlin
Study Abroad in Germany – 1 to 11 Month Programs for Teens
Join our high school study abroad program in Germany and experience daily life at a German secondary school. Perfect for international students, this program offers the chance to live with a German host family or stay at a boarding school in Germany’s most inspiring cities.
Why choose GLS Berlin?
- 40+ years of experience in high school exchange programs (since 1983)
- Flexible Stays: choose 1 month, a semester, or a full academic year
- Secondary schools in Berlin, Munich, Hamburg …
- Host family and boarding school options
- Fun Berlin weekends included
Ready to get started?
Just get in touch:
highschoolgermany@gls-berlin.de
+49 30 780089-21
Or simply fill out the form below, and we’ll help you find the high school in Germany that best matches your preferences.
Live Video Chat - Ask Us Anything!

GLS Berlin is a second-generation family business led by Barbara Jaeschke and her daughters, Dr. Reemda and Dr. Verena Jaeschke. Join their High School Team for a live video consultation
- Every 1st Tuesday of the month at 4 PM (Berlin time)
- No registration needed – just click here to join and ask your questions live!
- FAQ
High School in Germany: Duration & Costs
Kickstart Your High School Adventure in Germany Now
Apply 6 months ahead - or later for a small fee! German A2 is required (check your level online). Online courses are available if needed.
- Short stays (1 - 4 months): Start anytime during the year
- Long stays (5 - 11 months or more): Begin in autumn (SEP) or spring (JAN/FEB)
High School exchange stays in Germany - Prices 2026/27
Required German Level: A2 (test your German skills online)
| Duration | Day schools & host family (14 - 18 years) | Boarding schools (12 - 18 years) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classic* | Select** | ||
| 1 month (only in Berlin) | 2.890 € | ||
| 2 months | 4.280 € | 4.780 € | |
| 3 months | 5.120 € | 6.020 € | |
| 4 months | 6.090 € | 7.390 € | |
| 5 months | 6.890 € | 8.490 € | from 22.500 € |
| 11 months | 13.350 € | 15.650 € | from 29.850 € |
* Classic: no choice of city.
** Select: choice of city. See choices HERE.
Late Application Fees (Less than 6 months before arrival):
- €900 for a full school year
- €500 for a semester
Payment Schedule:
- 20% due within 10 days after receiving the invoice
- 50% due 4 months before arrival
- 30% due 2 months before arrival
INCLUDED:
- Placement at a German high school
- Accommodation as booked: boarding or host family (single or shared room), full board
- Single room guarantee in host families
- Transfer from the nearest airport to accommodation upon arrival and departure
- Online orientation webinar prior to arrival
- Berlin weekend (including accommodation) in spring and autumn
- One free excursion in Germany per semester
- Supervision by a member of GLS staff
- Orientation meeting after arrival, organized by the local coordinator
- Certificate of attendance issued by the German high school
- Online interview with the applicant
- Assistance with all questions
EXTRAS
- Extracurricular German course once per week (mandatory if German level is lower than B1 upon arrival)
- Preparatory online German courses
- Notarization of German school report (Apostille)
Not included are:
- Insurance (liability, medical, accident, personal items): 12 €/week — obligatory
- Letter of invitation for visa application: 150 €
- Pocket money: approx. 150–200 € per month
- Books and course materials
- Commute between school and accommodation (only for non-boarders)
- Fee for special dietary requirements
Applying for a high school stay in Germany - Steb by step:
Wondering what happens after you fill out our application form for a high school stay in Germany? Here's what will happen next.
Step 1: Elegibility check
After your initial application, you’ll receive a detailed form to complete. This helps us understand your background, preferences, and assess your eligibility for a high school stay in Germany. You’ll be asked to provide:
- Personal information, hobbies, and family details
- A short essay explaining why you want to study in Germany
- A letter introducing yourself to your host family or boarding school
- Teacher comments, transcripts, and school recommendations
- A medical statement
Step 2: Online Interview
Next, we’ll chat with you online to get to know you better - think of it as a friendly conversation about your interests and goals.
Step 3: Acceptance into the Program
If the interview goes well, congratulations! You’re officially accepted into the GLS High School Germany program. Your parents will get the acceptance letter and invoice, and a first down payment will secure your spot.
Step 4: School Placement in Germany
Once your down payment is in, we’ll find a school in Germany that’s just right for you. Placement can be quick, but it may take a little longer if you have special dietary needs or want certain subjects - because we want your placement to be the best possible.
Step 5: Preparing for your Arrival
If you need a visa, don’t worry - we’ll give you all the documents you need. Just make sure full payment is done before we send your visa invitation.
Step 6: Arrival in Germany
Your host family will pick you up at the airport or train station, or a school representative will meet you if you’re at a boarding school. And don’t worry - the GLS team in Berlin is always there to help you settle in and make your stay amazing.
Ready for Your German Adventure?
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Student Success Stories
João, 16, from Brazil
“Studying in Bremen helped me grow as a person. My German got much better, I met amazing people, and I’ve become more independent and confident. I know I can succeed anywhere!”
- Connect with other students heading abroad in the GLS High School Community!

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Where to go to school in Germany?
Live with a host family at a day school and experience life in some of Germany’s coolest towns!
Or choose a top boarding school in prime locations across Germany. Explore your boarding school options here.

Berlin weekends included
Twice a year, we organize a weekend get-together in Berlin for international high school students in Germany – explore Berlin and connect with other exchange students.
Abitur (German High School Leaving Certificate)
If you want to pursue the Abitur - Germany’s high school diploma that qualifies you for university study - you need to spend at least the final 3 school years in Germany. Abitur programs are available at selected boarding schools.
