Discover Schule Schloss Salem
Online or in person
Get to know Schule Schloss Salem online — or meet us personally at one of our Open Days or international school fairs.
Entering the German school system
– with guidance and individual support
As one of Europe’s most established boarding schools, Schule Schloss Salem combines academic excellence with close personal guidance and a truly international school community. Students from more than 50 countries live and learn together here. Many move between countries or school systems — just like their families.
Because transferring into a new education system abroad is rarely straightforward, we support families personally throughout the transition.
Typical entry situations include:
- transfers from international schools
- temporary stays in Germany
- long-term international education planning
- entry with English as the language of instruction from Year 8 (IC) and via the IB Programme
- admission at the start of the school year or mid-year
- transitions from national school systems worldwide
This ensures a structured and individual pathway into the German education system with clear long-term prospects.
Boarding as a stable centre of everyday life
For many expatriate families, boarding is a key factor in choosing a school.
At Salem, boarding means:
- small residential groups within each boarding house, supported by a dedicated mentor
- consistent and trusted adults in daily life
- a structured daily routine
- supervised study periods
- personal support throughout the day
- reliable communication with parents worldwide
Especially during international assignments, this structure provides students with security, continuity and orientation.
More than lessons: personal development in everyday life
International families choose Salem because education here is understood in a holistic way.
School and boarding life include:
- sport and physical activity
- Outdoor Education
- creative and artistic work
- social engagement
- responsibility within boarding life and the wider community (Salemer Dienste)
These experiences strengthen independence, resilience and intercultural confidence — particularly valuable for students growing up between cultures.
Integration into an international community
At Salem, students from more than 50 countries meet and live together every day.
Integration takes place not only in the classroom, but through shared experiences:
- in the boarding houses
- in clubs and activities
- through sport
- in project work
- at school events
New students quickly settle in and develop a strong sense of belonging.
Support for families relocating to Germany
International families at Salem receive not only academic guidance, but also organisational support.
This includes:
- advice on suitable entry points
- support throughout the admissions process
- school documentation for visa applications
- orientation within the German education system
This creates planning security — even across borders.
Security for parents — opportunities for students
International mobility creates opportunities, but it also requires reliable structures.
Parents particularly value at Salem:
- clear processes and communication
- dedicated contact persons
- a stable boarding environment
- long-term educational pathways from Year 5 to Year 13
For students, this creates a supportive environment in which they can confidently develop their own path.
Personal Consultation
Arrange an appointment now!
Our Admissions Team will support you personally with all questions about joining Salem.
We advise on:
- suitable year groups
- IB or Abitur pathways
- language requirements
- boarding availability
- entry dates
- visa documentation
FAQ
Expatriate Families
Here you will find answers to frequently asked questions about transferring into the German education system, possible entry points and more.
Can children attend Salem during a temporary stay in Germany?
As a general principle, our boarding concept is designed to support students over a longer period — at least one year, and ideally through to a recognised qualification such as the Abitur or the IB Diploma. This provides the academic continuity that internationally mobile families particularly value.
However, provided language requirements are met, entry is possible at any stage up to and including Year 11.
Can international students be admitted without German language skills?
For Years 5 to 10, German language skills are required to varying degrees depending on the year group and previous curriculum. The appropriate level is determined individually during the admissions process.
For direct entry into IB1 (Year 11 in the International Baccalaureate Programme), German language skills are generally not required, as teaching takes place in English.
Abitur and IB compared
The Abitur is Germany’s standard university entrance qualification and provides direct access to all German universities. It is also widely recognised internationally, particularly across Europe. In some countries, depending on the university, subject combinations or grade conversions may need to be reviewed individually.
In addition, Schule Schloss Salem offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma (IB). This internationally recognised qualification enables access to universities worldwide and is particularly attractive for globally oriented families.
