Information on the educational system of West Germany and guidelines on the placement of German students in U.S. high schools and colleges are presented. After a brief introduction on the country and the basic structure and principles of the educational system, attention is directed to preschool, primary, and secondary education. Included are reproductions of certificates of completion and grade reports from different schools, along with information on grading systems. Also considered is vocational education in Germany, which combines part-time vocational school with on-the-job training. Eight types of vocational schools and their programs are described, along with vocational training in nursing, physical therapy, medical technology, and paraprofessional health fields. Additional topics include: demographics and higher education, higher education legislation, access to college, types of institutions and selected programs of study, and adult and continuing education. Reproductions of diplomas and related documentation illustrate the text. Guidelines are provided to help admissions officers determine the admissibility and appropriate level of placement of German students in U.S. institutions. Appended are a glossary, a list of German colleges and universities, and a list of occupations requiring vocational training. (SW)