These are the different types of school in Germany

A Secondary Modern School (Realschule) is a school that is more advanced than the Secondary School (Hauptschule mit Quali). Here students are taught in the basic subjects which will prepare them for a mid level job in business. In a Secondary Modern School it is possible for a student with good grades or marks to transfer to a grammar school.

The Gymnasium is one of the tracks a student could go to after primary school. This school prepares students to enter a university. The Gymnasium goes for nine years or from the 5th through 13th grades (in the future from grades 5 to 12). Here students learn subjects like German, math, physics, chemistry, geography, biology, art, PE, religion and history. They are also required to learn two foreign languages (one has to be English). In the 13^th  grade students prepare for the so-called Abitur (final exam, graduation). This is an examination that you have to pass in order to go on to a university .

A Comprehensive School is a school that combines the Grammar School, the Secondary Modern School, and the Secondary School. This type of school was first introduced in Germany in the 60's and has been controversial ever since. (Scholars have debated whether students can learn better in this type of environment.) A student at a comprehensive school can switch between the different tracks without changing buildings.