In 1914 World War I began and the Gymnasium was occupied by troops. Lessons were arranged in different buildings and as a result of the disruption Heisenberg undertook much independent study which probably had a beneficial effect on his education. His best subjects were mathematics, physics and religion but his record throughout his school career was excellent all round.
Isa maaaring may inaasahan sa kanya upang manguna sa matematika at agham, ngunit tiyak sa kanyang unang bahagi ng paaralan na taon, kahit na siya ay mabuti, wala ang sign ng natitirang talento sa mga paksa. Subalit, sa huli ng kanyang karera sa paaralan, ang kanyang guro Hermann Müller itataas ang kanyang antas ng interes sa pisika at matematika, at siya ay naging lubhang impressed sa pamamagitan ng lubos ang katangian ng batas ng pag-iimbak ng enerhiya.