# Austria's 2026 Summer School Sees Record Turnout

August 24, 2026 at 01:41 PM

> Over 58,500 students began summer school sessions across Austria, featuring new mandatory German language requirements for some pupils.

The 2026 summer school session launched on August 24 in **Vienna**, Burgenland, and Lower Austria, with other states following on August 31. Over 58,500 students are participating nationwide, marking an increase of approximately 17,000 compared to the 2025 term.

Education Minister **Christoph Wiederkehr** noted the program's primary focus on German language skills. For the first time, participation is mandatory for extraordinary students in German support classes. A staff of 7,000 teachers and students supports the program.

While a headscarf ban for girls under 14 begins this September, it does not apply during the two-week summer session. Education Director Elisabeth Fuchs stated that teachers must refer future non-compliance to the Directorate, which handles all sanctions.


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