Which German term corresponds to the English 'Comprehensive School'?

• A. Gymnasium
• B. Gesamtschule
• C. Berufsschule
• D. Sekundarschule

Answer: (B)

In German education, a school that brings together multiple secondary tracks under one roof is described by the term Gesamtschule. This name literally means “comprehensive school,” and it signals that students can follow different paths—academic, vocational, or a mix—within the same institution, with opportunities to switch tracks if needed. That broad, integrated approach is what the English term “Comprehensive School” conveys, making Gesamtschule the best match.

The other terms refer to more specific types: Gymnasium is the mainly academic track that leads to the university entrance exam; Berufsschule focuses on vocational training often alongside apprenticeships; Sekundarschule is a general secondary-school label that varies by region and doesn’t inherently imply combining multiple tracks under one school.