What is a "Berufsbildende Schule"?

Question

What is the difference between a Berufsbildende Schule and a Gymnasium in Germany?

Answer 1

It is a German vocational school that focuses on business and economy. Here is a site that describes one:
http://www.fyrisskolan.uppsala.se/internationellt/Report_Northeim.pdf
Generally, one would begin in the workforce after graduation or could also progress to a specialized university. The Gymnasium is a college prep school that is essentially the same level as American high school seniors to first two years of college or community college.
However, the ages that one attends these schools is roughly the same as American High School.
Note: Some German students who attend gymnasium have 13 years of school as compared to the American 12. Others have only 12. That varies by state. To determine if a gymnasium student will advance to the university, they must participate in the "Arbitur" -- or huge examination.

Edit: here is a site that also explains it, but from the Austrian point of view.
http://www.fit-for-europe.info/webcom/show_page_ffee.php?wc_c=15893&wc_id=1&wc_lkm=67093

Answer 2

A Berufsbildende Schule is a vocational school. A Gymnasium is an academic school that prepares students for study at the university level.