The International Award provides a framework for a programme of extra-curricular activities organised by teachers and parents at the European School Munich and is an official school activity. The Award is known as "Das Jugendprogramm" in Germany, "Duke of Edinburgh Award" in the UK and "Merite de Jeunesse" in France. There is participation by countries from all parts of the world. It has four components; Fitness, Talent, Service and Expedition. There are three levels: Bronze, Silver and Gold, which represent an increasing degree of commitment and competence in each activity. The award encourages pupils to develop existing interests and take up new ones.

It stimulates participation in a broad range of extra-curricular activities. The fitness, talent and service parts are organised and carried out by pupils individually or in small groups independently, with appropriate support from helpers. The expedition section is organised by a group of trained parents and specialists.

Activities for bronze level participants include a Johanniter first aid course, training weekends in the Allgäu, a pre-expedition in the Staffelsee area, and a final expedition in the Allgäu. Silver and Gold training and expeditions take place in Bavaria and usually pupils take part in an expedition abroad. In recent years expeditions have been completed in Spain, Wales, the English Lake District, Norway, Scotland and Ireland. Pupils start with Bronze in year 4 and may continue to Silver in year 5. In year 6/7 and after leaving school, it is then possible to complete the more demanding Gold Award. Bronze level is a necessary prerequisite for Silver and Silver is required to proceed to Gold.