German is a popular academic language. In fact, it is the second most widely used scientific language. One reason for this is because the German book market is the world's third largest, trailing only the Chinese and English publishing sectors. Another reason is that Germany has some of the best universities in the world, and many students from all over the world attend them. German is also the official language in Austria and Switzerland. In addition, several states in Germany have also made it their official language: Baden-Württemberg, Bavaria, Berlin, Bremen, Hesse, Hamburg, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, North Rhine-Westphalia, Saxony, Schleswig-Holstein. Although these states have different languages, they all agree on German as their common language. There are two reasons why German school is important for students: first, the content taught in German school will help them improve their language skills; second, by attending German school, they will get the opportunity to interact with other students from different countries who share one common language - German. Schools in Germany follow the school year like others around the world. Students go to school for six days a week between approximately September and June. On Monday through Friday, students have two sessions at school - one in the morning and one in the afternoon.