Postpone the start of school
Application to defer school enrollment for one year if a child is not yet ready for school.
How to proceed
- 1
Submit an application to the elementary school or the school district office
Before the regular application deadline, with justification.
- 2
School Physical
The school physician assesses the child's readiness for school.
- 3
Decision by the school board
Deferral or enrollment with special support.
Required documents
- Medical certificateOften forgotten
Pediatric assessment of school readiness.
Responsible authority
The authority of your main place of residence is responsible.Find authority →
Fees
Varies by case
Processing time
approx. 3 weeks
Official: max. approx. 1 months
Online application
In person or by post
Common mistakes
- • Application submitted after the application deadline
- • No documentation of the child's inability to attend school has been provided
Common reasons for rejection
- • The child is ready for school following a school medical examination
- • Application submitted too late
You can usually file an objection against a rejection.
The essentials before applying
Who is eligible?
Parents of school-age children who may not be ready for school.
Income limit
The limit varies by household and region – see the table at the responsible authority or in the application assistant.
Processing time
Nationwide: approx. approx. 3 weeks
Success rate
approx. 70.0 % (estimate)
Most common mistakes
- •Application submitted after the application deadline
- •No documentation of the child's inability to attend school has been provided
Common reasons for rejection
- •The child is ready for school following a school medical examination
- •Application submitted too late
Alternatives
- Check related services in the application assistant
- Use social counselling before applying
If rejected
File a written objection within 30 days – with reasons why the decision is wrong and any missing evidence.