When is the right time for my child to begin first grade?
In accordance with German law, all children must start school in the year they turn 6. Registration must be completed by August of the respective year. Children who are born between January 1 and March 31 (referred to as "Kann-Kinder" in German) may enter the first grade after receiving individual approval from Berlin Metropolitan School.

How does registration for the first grade take place?
Register your child with your local elementary school and submit a school transfer request to Berlin Metropolitan School. At the same time, parents should also register for day-care at their local child welfare office.

How do I complete a school transfer request?
In order to complete a school transfer to BMS, parents must submit a letter to their respective elementary school confirming that their child is enrolled at BMS and stating that bilingual education is the reason for the transfer. Please be advised that you must register your child with your local elementary school even if he/she does not plan on attending the school.

How do I register my child at the local elementary school?
The first step in finding a school is the formal registration with your local elementary school, which is typically the closest school to your residence. Registration must be completed in the time frame from October 30 to November 10. If are you not sure which school this is, contact your local district office (Bezirksamt) responsible for education or search for the school via the following link:
http://www.berlin.de/sen/bildung/schulvereichnis_und_portraets/

The following documents are required for registration (applies to the parent completing registration, unless noted):

1. Passport or proof of identification
2. Proof of registration in Berlin
3. Visa
4. Birth Certificate (for the respective child)

If your child has previously attended a preschool in Berlin, please submit documents concerning his/her language skills and proof of language tests conducted during their preschool instruction. If your child did NOT attend a preschool in Berlin, a language test must be conducted at your local elementary school. Children entering the first grade must complete a medical examination at the Child and Youth Health Services Office before the start of school. Your local elementary school will assist you in making an appointment for your child upon registration.

What should I do if I am not registered in Berlin?
Residence registration is required for public school registration in Berlin. If your child has attended an elementary school outside of Berlin, please bring all pertinent documents concerning her or his schooling to the registration appointment at the local Berlin elementary school. Registration at Berlin Metropolitan School is possible before you move to Berlin. We are happy to assist you in completing the necessary documentation.

How and where do I register for daycare (Hort)?
Please register for Hort at your local youth welfare office (Jugendamt) as early as possible. The Hort hours are from 1:30 - 6:30 PM (under special circumstances, parents may opt for Hort hours from 1:30 - 4:00 PM. Please contact the Hort for more information). The form can be downloaded here. Daycare registration is similar to kindergarten registration, where cases are reviewed based on family income and registration forms. Your co-payment for daycare will be based on your annual income. Parents can send their registration form via post or submit it personally.

When does the school year begin?
The school year begins each year on August 1. The first school day is based on the academic calendar set for Berlin. August 15, 2011 is the first day of school for the academic year 2011/12.

When does the school year begin for first graders?
All children who are accepted to BMS receive an invitation to attend the opening ceremony for first graders (Einschulung). The ceremony for first graders is scheduled on Saturday, August 20, 2010. The first school day is scheduled for the following Monday, August 22, 2011.