Are you about to become a resident of Luxembourg and want to know how the school year will start out for your children in your new home country?

The education system in Luxembourg

In Luxembourg, school is compulsory from the ages of 4 to 16.

The education system in Luxembourg does not follow the same program as in other countries such as France and Germany, for instance.
"L'enseignement fondamental," which is equivalent to elementary school (or "école primaire" in France) lasts for 8 years starting at age 4.

"L'enseignement secondaire," which is equivalent to middle school (or "collège" in France) lasts for 7 years starting at age 12.

As in France, in the Grand Duchy, there is a technological track that usually lasts 5 to 7 years starting at age 12.

The start of the school year and vacation dates are different in the Grand Duchy than in neighboring countries. The school year starts on September 15 and ends on July 15 every year.

Official languages used in luxembourgisch schools

Are you a foreigner from France or Germany? Rest assured that your child won't be completely lost in their new school.

Indeed, even though the official language of communication is Luxembourgish, the three languages of education in "école fondamentale" are Luxembourgish, French and German.

Schools will provide introductory classes to facilitate your child's linguistic immersion. These classes are given every week outside of the main class schedule in order more intensively teach the language or languages needed for integration.

How to enroll your child in school ?

To enroll your child in your desired school, you need to go to the education department of your city of residence or to the city secretary.

You need to have with you certain documents, which are:

• Official identification
• A family booklet ("livret de famille") or marriage license and the birth certificates of your children;
• A certificate of registration (can also be requested from the bureau of population) and if applicable, a certificate of permanent residence ("carte de séjour").

Who to contact?

Contact the Ministry of National Education, Children and Youth through the "elementary school department" or even the "schooling of foreign children department" for more information about the steps you need to take.

You'll find more information about schooling in Luxembourg on the government's website.
(French)


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