Procedure – Contents – Subjects
The Abitur in Three Years
We start in Year 11 with the introductory phase, which prepares you for the qualification phase (Years 12 and 13). This means that students with varying prior knowledge in continuing subjects can be brought to a common level.
With the Abitur from the Vocational Grammar School with a specialization in Business, you are entitled to study any subject at all universities, colleges, and universities of applied sciences in Germany.
Unlike general grammar schools or comprehensive schools, the St. Pauli Vocational Grammar School offers a subject cluster in the field of business (also available bilingually). This includes
- Business Administration with Accounting
- Economics
- The Seminar course
- and in Year 11, Information Technology
In addition, you can take the three core subjects—German, Mathematics, and English—at either basic or advanced level.
You also have the opportunity to choose from the following subjects to suit your personal interests:
- Biology and Chemistry
- Spanish and French
- Politics, History, and Geography
- Drama, Art, and, as a special offering for digitally inclined students, Media/Art
Our school’s focus on business is complemented by a strong practical component, including company visits, field trips, projects, career orientation, job application and presentation training.
Further Information on Content and Subjects
Introductory Phase
The purpose of the introductory phase is to prepare you for the qualification phase (Years 12 and 13). This includes leveling different levels of prior knowledge in ongoing subjects. You will learn study techniques tailored to your individual needs and will be supported in becoming an independent learner.
In many subjects, lessons are held in a fixed class group; in some elective areas, teaching is organized in courses.
You will be assigned a homeroom teacher and a learning coach who will support you throughout the year.
Qualification Phase
The qualification phase (Years 12 and 13) follows the introductory year. If you meet the academic requirements at the end of Year 11, you will proceed to this phase.
You will be taught in class groups in as many subjects as possible—at a minimum, in all business-related subjects.
Instead of taking Business and Economics in German, you have the option to study both subjects in English (bilingual program).
Abitur / University of Applied Sciences Entrance Qualification
With the Abitur obtained at the Vocational Grammar School in the field of Business after three years, you will have the Allgemeine Hochschulreife (general university entrance qualification). This entitles you to study any subject at universities, colleges, or universities of applied sciences across Germany—there are no restrictions to business-related fields.
After two years, you can obtain the school-based part of the entrance qualification for universities of applied sciences. Specific requirements for this qualification can be provided by the school’s department head.
After three years, you are eligible to take the Abitur examination. You will sit a written exam in your profile-defining subject, Business Administration, as well as in one of the three core subjects—German, Mathematics, or English—that you studied at an advanced level. A second core subject must also be included among your exam subjects. You are free to choose a fourth examination subject.
Your selection of four Abitur subjects must cover all three mandatory subject areas (I: Linguistic, literary, and artistic studies, II: Social sciences, III: Mathematics, natural sciences, or technology).
Each of these fields must be represented by at least one subject in your Abitur exams.
Bilingual Abitur
A unique feature of our school is the bilingual business track. You may take business-related subjects in English. This exclusive program is especially beneficial for students aiming for an international career in the business sector. For more information, please visit the “Bili” section of our website.
Mobility and Exchange
Class trips, study tours abroad, and international exchange programs are an integral part of our school life. We also offer a wide range of sports activities—currently with 17 different courses, so there’s something for everyone.
Support and Guidance
Should any challenges arise—academic or personal—we offer one of the most comprehensive support systems of all Hamburg schools. Specialized teacher teams are available for learning coaching, language support, academic mentoring, and social counseling. Each student is also individually accompanied by a dedicated teacher from their first day at school through to the Abitur. This helps identify and nurture strengths early on, while addressing any weaknesses in a targeted and sustainable way.
We are able to offer such a wide range of programs in part because our Vocational Grammar School is part of Hamburg’s largest vocational school. The newly built and fully renovated campus is equipped with state-of-the-art teaching facilities. All classrooms feature smartboards, the computer labs are up to the latest technological standards, and all students have free access to a spacious and well-stocked media library. Our cafeteria and canteen ensure everyone is well taken care of, offering several hot lunch options every day.
In short: We see our school as both a place of learning and a space for personal development, where every student can thrive not only academically but also personally. Our school culture is shaped by mutual respect, openness, and support. We embrace cultural diversity as a strength and help each other to achieve both individual and shared goals.
Feel free to visit us in person and take a look around. You can arrange a meeting with the department head or one of our subject teachers. Our campus is easily accessible by public transport from anywhere in Hamburg — located centrally in St. Pauli, right next to the FC St. Pauli football stadium.
We look forward to your call and your visit!
Berufliche Schule St. Pauli
Berufliche Schule für Banken, Versicherungen und Recht
mit Beruflichem Gymnasium – Fachrichtung Wirtschaft
Budapester Str. 58
20359 Hamburg
Tel.: 040 428973 – 0
Fax.: 040 428973 – 226