Who determines education policy in Germany?

In Germany, education policy is largely a responsibility of the federal states (Länder) due to federalism and the constitutional principle of cultural sovereignty (Kulturhoheit der Länder). Therefore, school policy is decided at the state level, not by federal ministries, universities, or teachers collectively.

• Recall the federal structure: many areas like schools, police, and culture are state responsibilities.
• Look for keywords such as "Bildung/Schule" and connect them to the Länder.
• Eliminate federal ministries or national bodies when the topic is education policy.
• Universities administer higher education but do not set school policy for primary/secondary education.
• When unsure, check whether the subject is typically governed by the Basic Law as a state competence (Kulturhoheit).