Martin attended the Latin school (Lateinschule) in Mansfeld. This was made possible when Hans Luther (Martin's father) leased a smelter from the count of Mansfeld. This improved the family's financial security. As with American parents, Hans sought a better life for his son and future grandchildren.
Luther began his studies at the Lateinschule on 12 March 1491. No one documents why Luther started in March. Perhaps the family couldn't afford any schooling previous to this? Remember, Europe did not have public schooling in 1491.
At the Lateinschule barbaric teaching methods of the Middle Ages were practiced. Luther was described as a quiet, reserved yet talented student. Nevertheless, the strict order intimidated Martin.
In 1497, a 13-year-old Luther went to Magdeburg where he attended the school "Brethren of the Common Life" (Bruder für Gemeinsamen Leben), a boarding school. There is no record of why Luther was sent there for education. Was it a renowned school? Was it Hans or Martin who decided Martin would attend this school? Unfortunately, Luther's time at Magdeburg is a footnote.
A year later, in 1498, Luther began his studies at the St. George parish school in Eisenach. This may have been a cost-effective move since Luther lived with relatives and not in a boarding house.
Hans had the finances to send Martin to the university in Erfurt in 1501. Hans Luther harbored hopes that his son could later be a lawyer and have a secure future. One needs to realize this was in the days when there was no Social Security or other retirement benefits (such as comprehensive life insurance or annuities). Elderly parents lived with their children. A son with a career in a lucrative field was an excellent retirement investment.
Luther in College (Law Student)
The University of Erfurt was founded in 1392 and was regarded as one of the best German universities at this time. The reputation of this school was likely a deciding factor when Luther's father chose his son's college.
Luther began his undergraduate studies in May 1501. (The University at Wittenberg would not open until 1502.) Like today, one's undergraduate training was broad and inclusive before one could begin the pursuit of the study of law (or another specific field, such as medicine or theology). A student earned his Baccalaureate by studying the "Seven Liberal Arts." The Seven Liberal Arts were:
