New School Year in Austria: 70 Additional School Psychologists and the Headscarf Ban

As the Ministry indicates, the expansion is to be fully completed by the year 2027. By then, a total of 200 additional school psychologists are to be available at schools. With this gradual increase, the government is responding to the growing need for psychological support for students.

Expansion of School Psychology by 2027

Another central issue is the headscarf ban for minors under 14, which has been in force since September 1. The corresponding law has thus officially entered into force. The regulation had previously been the subject of intense political debate and affects school routine, among other things.

In addition, organizational changes at schools are upcoming. For instance, placement tests such as MIKA-D have already been conducted to determine students' suitability for secondary schools. The admissions procedure at the Higher Vocational Schools (BHS) has also been adjusted.

Headscarf Ban for Children Under 14

During school enrollment, the legal guardians also play an important role. They must actively accompany the registration process and submit any required documents on time. In Vienna, the procedure is centrally coordinated.

Another innovation concerns the so-called Chancenbonus (chance bonus), which is taken into account in school place allocation. This is intended to give applicants from disadvantaged backgrounds better chances of obtaining a school place. The specific design is determined by the Ministry of Education.

Procedures and Registration at Schools

The measures are accompanied by various political actors. The governing parties Black-Blue had anchored the expansion of school psychology in the government program. Opposition parties and interest groups are critically observing the implementation.

The Constitutional Court has also dealt with parts of the education reform. Individual provisions were reviewed, although not all decisions are yet final. Should further proceedings arise, the timetable for individual measures could be delayed.

Political Context and Outlook

Overall, it is evident that the new school year is characterized by a mix of staff increases, new regulations, and organizational adjustments. While school psychology is to be strengthened in the long term, the headscarf ban continues to spark social debate.

Parents, teachers, and students must prepare for numerous innovations. The regional education directorates in the federal states provide information on concrete implementation steps and offer informational materials to make the transition into the new school year as smooth as possible.