What is the German term for 'distance learning'?

• A. Extramural/ Correspondent/ Part-time Student
• B. Fernstudium
• C. Hochschulabsolvent(in)
• D. Student(in) (für den 1.akad. Grad)

Answer: (B)

Distance learning in German is Fernstudium. The word combines fern, meaning distant, with Studium, meaning study, to describe a formal way of studying that happens away from the campus—often via online courses, correspondence, or other remote formats with set coursework and assessments.

Other terms describe related ideas but aren’t the standard label for the learning format. Extramural, Correspondent, or Part-time Student refers more to a status or method of study rather than the typical term for distance education. Hochschulabsolvent(in) means a university graduate, not the mode of study. Student(in) (für den 1.akad. Grad) describes a student pursuing a first degree, again not the distance-learning concept. Fernstudium is the precise German term used in academic contexts to denote distance learning.