The mainstream school is attended by the majority of Thuringian pupils after elementary school.

A special application from the parents is not necessary for the transition to the mainstream school. In grades 5 and 6, all students are taught together. At the end of each of these two grades, transfer to a Gymnasium is possible at the request of the parents if the students perform well.

From grade 7 onwards, the school conference (representatives of parents, students and teachers) determines how lessons are organized. Thus, on the one hand, further joint learning is possible, which is occasionally supplemented by separation into courses for special support (integrative form of organization). On the other hand, regular school students can also be taught in classes that are geared to the acquisition of the lower secondary school leaving certificate or the intermediate secondary school leaving certificate (additive form of organization).

Students who successfully complete grade 9 are awarded the Hauptschulabschluss (lower secondary school leaving certificate). This can also be combined with a central examination and is then called the Qualifying Secondary School Certificate. The Realschulabschluss at the end of grade 10 is always combined with a central final examination.

Further information can be found on the website of the Thuringian Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports.