For many adults, completing their Abitur ( high school diploma) is the key to better career opportunities and new life prospects. Whether you want to complete your Abitur in one year or study part-time , here you'll learn all the paths, requirements, and practical tips for your successful second educational path. From the right preparation to modern tools for difficult exam periods.
Why retake your Abitur? Your benefits at a glance
Before we dive into the different paths, you should know: Completing your Abitur ( university entrance qualification) is worthwhile at almost any age. With the general higher education entrance qualification, you not only have access to all university courses but also better career opportunities.
Professional and personal benefits
Completing a high school diploma provides access to all degree programs and higher positions. Employers value the discipline and perseverance demonstrated. Statistically, people with a high school diploma earn significantly more than those with a secondary school diploma.
Many people who have completed their high school diploma report increased self-confidence and new perspectives. If you're unsure whether you're up to the challenge, professional support can help. For exam anxiety, for example, there are proven natural remedies for exam anxiety that have helped many.
Who should take the Abitur?
Particularly suitable for people with completed vocational training who want to develop further. Even those seeking new opportunities after failing an apprenticeship will find an opportunity here. Age doesn't matter!
Completing your Abitur: All options explained in detail
Do you want to get your high school diploma and are wondering which path is right for you? The good news: There are several proven ways to obtain your university entrance qualification . The choice depends on your current life situation, available time, and financial means. Here are the most important options in detail:
| Educational path | Length of time | Cost | flexibility | Particularly suitable for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| evening school | 2-3 years | Mostly free | Part-time | Employees with regular working hours |
| Online Abitur | 2-4 years | 100-200€/month | Very flexible | Parents, shift workers, self-employed |
| College (full-time) | 2-3 years | Mostly free | Not very flexible | People without employment |
| vocational high school | 1-2 years | Small amount | After training | With completed vocational training |
Evening school: The tried and tested classic
Evening school is the most traditional way to obtain your Abitur (high school diploma) while working . Classes usually take place between 6:00 p.m. and 9:30 p.m., allowing you to work during the day. Evening school for the Abitur typically takes three to four years, but can be shortened if you have prior knowledge.
Evening school Abitur costs
Public evening schools are usually free—you only pay for books and materials (approximately €200-400 per year). Private evening schools can cost between €100-300 per month, but often offer smaller classes.
Online Abitur: Maximum flexibility
Completing your Abitur online is becoming increasingly popular. You study from home, whenever it's convenient for you. Especially for parents or shift workers, completing your Abitur online is often the only realistic option. Most providers combine self-study with live webinars and personal support.
Which path suits me?
If you want to complete your Abitur while working , evening school or completing your Abitur online are ideal. If you have more time and want to finish quickly, a college is a good option. With a completed vocational training, a vocational high school is the fastest way to achieve your goal.
Completing your Abitur in one year – is that really possible?
The question "Can you catch up on your Abitur in one year ?" Many people wonder. The honest answer: Yes, but only under certain conditions. Catching up on your Abitur quickly is possible if you already have a solid educational foundation or are willing to study very intensively.
Realistic assessment: Abitur in 1 year
Completing your Abitur in one year requires extreme discipline and usually 40-60 hours of study time per week. Only about 10-15% manage this without prior knowledge. 1.5-2 years is more realistic.
Abitur in 2 years: The golden mean
For most people, completing the Abitur in two years is the optimal compromise between speed and feasibility. You have enough time for thorough preparation without being tied down for years. Completing the Abitur in two years via distance learning, in particular, works well alongside work.
Completing your Abitur offers excellent career opportunities
Completing your Abitur: Requirements and registration
The requirements for completing your Abitur vary depending on your chosen educational path. Generally speaking, you need at least a secondary school diploma (Realschulabschluss) or an equivalent qualification.
Completing your Abitur with a Realschulabschluss
With a Realschule (secondary school) diploma, all avenues are open to you. Most providers also require a completed vocational training or several years of professional experience. Obtaining a secondary school diploma usually takes two to three years, depending on the intensity of the chosen program.
Fachabi as an intermediate step
Many people initially choose to obtain the Fachabitur ( university entrance qualification) because it's quicker to achieve. Completing the Fachabitur usually only takes one to two years and opens up numerous study options at universities of applied sciences. Later, you can then complete the Abitur (university entrance qualification) after completing the Fachabi and supplement it with the general Abitur (university entrance qualification). This path is particularly useful if you're still unsure about your ability to cope.
Fachabi vs. Allgemeine Abitur
The Fachabitur ( university entrance qualification) qualifies students for study at universities of applied sciences and bachelor's degree programs. The Allgemeine Abitur (university entrance qualification) also opens students to all universities and traditional degree programs such as medicine or law.
Abitur after training: Your chances
Completing your Abitur after training is a proven path. You already bring life experience and perseverance with you. Many vocational schools even credit parts of your training toward your degree. Especially if your training is thematically aligned with your desired degree program, you can quickly complete your Abitur .
Advantages of completing training
With vocational training, you automatically meet the requirements for completing your Abitur (high school diploma) for almost all providers. You can often take advantage of accelerated programs and enjoy financial security through your qualification.
Completing the Fachabitur requirements
To obtain the Fachabi (university entrance qualification), you need a secondary school diploma and usually a completed vocational training in the relevant field. The requirements for obtaining the Fachabi ( university entrance qualification) are often somewhat lower than for the general Abitur (university entrance qualification).
Completing your Abitur online vs. face-to-face classes
Completing your Abitur online is becoming increasingly popular. Completing your Abitur online offers significant advantages, especially for working professionals: You can study flexibly from home and set your own pace.
Distance learning is a great way to catch up on your Abitur
Completing costs and financing for your Abitur
The costs for completing your Abitur (high school diploma) vary widely. While public evening schools are usually free, private providers can cost several thousand euros. Evening school Abitur fees usually only cover material costs.
Financing options
BAföG (Federal Assistance for Students with a Second Abitur): Also available for a second Abitur. Educational loans: Affordable financing for further education. Tax deductibility: Costs are often deductible as business expenses.
Successfully master difficult exam phases
Completing your Abitur (high school diploma) brings with it unique challenges. Adult learners are often out of the learning mode for years and have to get used to exam situations again. Test anxiety can arise, especially in complex subjects like math or science.
Support in critical moments
If you feel insecure during exams despite good preparation, discreet support can make all the difference. Our Cheating Profi Set was specially developed to give you the confidence you need during difficult exam moments. For more information on legal aspects, see our article on the consequences of cheating .
If you feel insecure during exams despite careful preparation, discreet support can make all the difference. Our Cheating Profi Kit was specially developed to give you the confidence you need during difficult exam moments. It is completely discreet and can be used for all types of exams. For more information on legal aspects, see our article on the consequences of cheating .
There's also help for exam anxiety. Our guide to natural remedies for exam anxiety shows you proven strategies. We also have helpful tips for specific exam types, such as practical exams . If you're worried about having to retake an exam, you'll find important information in our guide to retaking exams .
Step-by-step: How to get started successfully
To successfully complete your Abitur , you should proceed systematically. Many people ask themselves , "How can I get my Abitur?" and "Can I complete my Abitur?" – the answer is a resounding yes, at any age! Here's your practical guide:
Note important registration deadlines
Public schools often have fixed dates in the spring for fall start dates. Private providers and online courses are usually more flexible. Check the deadlines at least six months before your desired start date.
Success factors for completing your Abitur
Graduating from high school as an adult requires different strategies than when you were a teenager. You have the advantage of life experience and motivation, but you also have to balance family, work, and studying. Time management is crucial.
Tips for adult learners
Create a realistic study plan and stick to a set study time. Use modern learning methods like apps and online videos. Network with other students who are catching up for mutual motivation.
Note important deadlines
Application deadlines for completing your Abitur exam vary depending on the provider. Public schools often have fixed dates in the spring for the fall start date. Private providers are usually more flexible. Find out about the application deadlines in your region in advance.
" Completing my Abitur was one of the best decisions of my life. It not only opened new professional doors for me, but also boosted my self-confidence. A second educational path is feasible—even with a family and a job!"
