The Education System in Switzerland Explained

Switzerland's education system stands out for its flexibility and decentralisation, allowing each regional government ("Canton") to tailor education to local needs. What makes it truly distinctive, though, is its multilingual approach and dual education system which allows students to choose between academic studies and vocational training. So how does the system operate on a day-to-day basis? Read on to find out.

The Structure of the Swiss Education System

Switzerland’s education system is divided into three main stages: primary, secondary and tertiary education.

• Primary Education: This stage typically begins at age six and lasts for six years. It provides a foundational curriculum, focusing on basic subjects such as languages, mathematics, and science, alongside arts and physical education. Primary education is mandatory and free across all cantons.
• Secondary Education: Following primary school, students enter lower secondary education, which lasts three to four years. Here, students are often streamed into different pathways based on academic performance. Options include academic, vocational or mixed tracks, preparing them for either higher education or direct entry into the workforce. At the end of lower secondary education, students earn the "Certificat d'Études Secondaires", which is the equivalent of a high school diploma.
• Tertiary Education: Switzerland offers both academic and vocational tertiary education. Universities, including ETH Zurich and the University of Zurich, provide world-class academic education, while universities of applied sciences and vocational colleges focus on professional training. In 2023, 38% of upper secondary graduates pursued vocational education, reflecting the system’s strong emphasis on practical skills.

This structure ensures a broad range of opportunities, catering to diverse student needs and preparing them effectively for the future.

The Structure of the Swiss Education System

Primary Education in Switzerland

Primary education in Switzerland typically begins at age six and lasts for six years, though this can vary slightly by canton. The system is highly decentralised, with each canton determining its own curriculum, languages of instruction, and school types. Despite these differences, there are commonalities across the country.

• Types of Schools: Public schools dominate the landscape, attended by over 95% of students. Private schools are available but are less common. Unlike in most countries, public schools in Switzerland are generally understood to provide better teaching quality than private schools.
• Curriculum: The curriculum focuses on core subjects such as mathematics, languages (often German, French, or Italian), science, and social studies. Additionally, there is an emphasis on creative and physical education, fostering well-rounded development.
• Key Exams: Standardised assessments typically occur in the final year of primary school. These exams help determine the student's pathway into secondary education, whether it’s a more academic or vocational route. The evaluation process also includes continuous assessment and teacher recommendations, ensuring a holistic approach to measuring student progress.

Secondary Education: Options and Pathways

Secondary education in Switzerland is highly unique due to its high quality and dual-track system which offers several pathways that cater to different academic interests and career aspirations. After completing primary education, students typically enter lower secondary education, which lasts for three years. Based on their performance, they are streamed into different types of schools.

Streams of Secondary Education

• Academic Secondary School ("Gymnasium"): For students aiming for university education, the Gymnasium, which is similar to a British grammar school, offers a rigorous academic curriculum. Entrance is competitive, requiring strong grades and passing an entrance exam, especially in cantons where access is more restricted. Upon completion, students earn the Matura diploma, which qualifies them for university admission in Switzerland and many other countries.
• Intermediate Secondary School ("Sekundarschule/Realschule"): These schools offer more general education, leading either to vocational training or to a professional baccalaureate, which can also lead to higher education, though typically in universities of applied sciences.
• Vocational School ('Berufsschule"): This pathway combines classroom education with apprenticeships, making it an essential part of the Swiss dual education system. It's an attractive option, with around two-thirds of Swiss students choosing the Vocation Education and Training (VET) route. It’s particularly valued for providing practical skills that are highly regarded by employers.

Curriculum

There is no national curriculum in Swiss education system, as the cantonal governments have largely free reins to design their own curriculum. Nevertheless, the Federal Constitution obliges the Cantons to coordinate and harmonise their educational systems with regard to structure and objectives. The Cantons have, for example, developed language-region curricula for compulsory education, which are currently being introduced.

Typically, the following subjects are covered in the curriculum of most secondary schools in Switzerland:

• Languages: Language instruction is a cornerstone of the Swiss secondary curriculum. Students are typically required to study multiple languages, including their local language, a second national language (German, French, Italian, or Romansh), and English. This multilingual approach not only enhances cognitive skills but also prepares students for a globalised world.
• Mathematics and Sciences: There is a strong emphasis on mathematics and sciences across all streams of secondary education. In Gymnasium, the curriculum includes advanced courses in subjects such as calculus, physics, chemistry, and biology, preparing students for university-level studies.
• Humanities and Social Sciences: Subjects such as history, geography, economics, and philosophy are integral parts of the curriculum, especially in Gymnasium. These subjects encourage critical thinking and a deep understanding of societal issues, which are crucial for developing well-informed citizens.
• Vocational Subjects: For students in Berufsschule, the curriculum is tailored to specific trades or professions. This includes technical subjects, practical workshops, and on-the-job training. The combination of classroom learning and hands-on experience ensures that students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.

Assessment

Turning to assessment methods, the Swiss assessment system also adapts to its dual-track education system and splits into academic and vocational assessments:

• Matura Exams: The Matura exams for Gymnasium students are similar to A-Levels in the UK and is a critical milestone in Swiss secondary education. These exams cover a wide range of subjects and are known for their difficulty. The Matura diploma is a prestigious qualification that opens doors to universities in Switzerland and abroad.
• Federal Vocational Baccalaureate: For students in the vocational stream, the Federal Vocational Baccalaureate or Berufsmaturität is a key qualification. This exam assesses both academic knowledge and vocational skills, allowing graduates to pursue higher education at universities of applied sciences or enter the workforce with a solid foundation.
• Continuous Assessment: In addition to final exams, continuous assessment plays a significant role in the Swiss education system. Students are evaluated through regular tests, projects, and oral presentations, which contribute to their final grades.

Language of Instruction

Switzerland's education system is deeply rooted in its multilingual heritage, reflecting the country’s four national languages: German, French, Italian, and Romansh. The language of instruction in schools is determined by the canton, meaning students are educated primarily in the dominant language of their region. For example:

• German: The primary language in 17 out of 26 cantons.
• French: Used in the western cantons, such as Geneva and Vaud.
• Italian: Predominantly spoken in the canton of Ticino.
• Romansh: Taught in certain parts of the canton of Graubünden.

Multilingual education is compulsory in Switzerland, fostering a high level of language proficiency and making Swiss students among the most multilingual in Europe. According to recent studies, over 60% of Swiss students are fluent in at least two languages, which significantly enhances their competitiveness in the global job market.

Overall, the Swiss secondary education is characterised by a high degree of multilingualism and strong emphasis on vocational training. The success of the public education system makes it a strong rival of tointernational education systems, such as the International Baccalaureate (IB): Expert opinion frequently highlights the effectiveness of Switzerland’s secondary education system in preparing students for both academic and professional success, contributing to the country’s low youth unemployment rate of around 2% as of recent data.

Vocational Education and Training (VET)

Switzerland's Vocational Education and Training (VET) system is a cornerstone of the country’s education landscape, offering a well-structured pathway for students who prefer practical, hands-on learning.

Structure

The VET system offers programmes at upper secondary level (combining an apprenticeship in a training company with 1-2 days of classroom instruction at a vocational school) and broad tertiary-level professional education programmes. At vocational schools, the teaching combines classroom instruction at a Berufsschule with on-the-job training at a host company. This dual approach is highly effective, as students spend about 3-4 days a week gaining real-world experience in their chosen profession, while the remaining days are dedicated to theoretical learning. The VET programme usually lasts 3-4 years, depending on the occupation.

Subjects and Skills Taught

The subjects and skills taught in the VET system are highly specialised and tailored to the specific needs of the industry. For example:

• Technical Professions: Students in fields like engineering or IT might learn subjects such as applied mathematics, programming, and technical drawing.
• Healthcare and Social Professions: Training includes courses on human anatomy, patient care, and ethical practices, combined with practical skills like first aid and patient interaction.
• Business and Commerce: Students focus on subjects like accounting, marketing, and business law, complemented by internships in corporate settings.

Importance and Impact

VET is highly valued in Switzerland, with about 65% of students opting for this pathway. The success of the VET system is evident in Switzerland’s low youth unemployment rate and high job placement rates post-graduation. According to recent data, over 90% of VET graduates find employment soon after completing their training, underscoring the system's effectiveness in aligning education with the needs of the economy.

Higher Education in Switzerland: Universities and Degrees

Types of Universities

Switzerland boasts a diverse range of higher education institutions with public universities being the most prominent:

• Cantonal Universities: These include renowned institutions like the University of Zurich and the University of Geneva, offering a broad range of academic disciplines. These institutions typically focus on providing a comprehensive education across various fields and often have a strong regional focus in terms of student population and research priorities.
• Federal Universities: These are established by the Swiss federal government and have a national and international focus, particularly in the fields of science and technology. For example, the ETH Zurich and EPFL in Lausanne are globally recognised for their focus on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
• Universities of Applied Sciences: These institutions focus on practical and professional education and are the most popular type of universities in Switzerland. Their popularity is due to their practical approach to education, strong connections with industry and focus on employability. As a result, their students are directly aligned with the needs of the job market, making it particularly appealing to students who want to gain hands-on experience and secure employment soon after graduation.

Regardless of the type of universities, public university education is relatively affordable in Switzerland with annual tuition fees ranging from CHF 500 to CHF 2,000. This is significantly lower than in many other countries, making Swiss universities an attractive option for both domestic and international students.

While private univerisities exist in Switzerland, they are less prominent compared to public institutions and have higher cost. These private universities tend to be smaller and more specialised, often focusing on areas like business, hospitality management, and international relations.

Types of Degrees Offered

Swiss universities offer a wide array of degrees, including:

• Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees: Available across various disciplines, with STEM and business programs being particularly popular. Popular programmes include engineering at ETH Zurich.
• Doctoral Degrees: Switzerland is a hub for research, particularly in science and technology. Doctoral programmes are highly competitive and research-intensive. Popular programmes include international relations at the Graduate Institute Geneva.
• Professional Degrees: Offered mainly by Universities of Applied Sciences, these degrees prepare students directly for the workforce.

Quality of Teaching, Facilities, and Employability

Swiss universities are known for their teaching quality, small class size and high employability:

• Quality of Teaching: Swiss universities are known to attract teachers delivering high-quality teaching and creating campuses with state-of-the-art facilities. ETH Zurich and EPFL consistently rank among the top universities globally, particularly for their cutting-edge research facilities.
• Small Class Sizes: Promotes personalised learning and close student-teacher interaction.
• High Employability: Graduates from Swiss universities are highly sought after, with over 90% securing employment within six months of graduation, particularly in fields like engineering and finance.

International Recognition

Swiss degrees are internationally recognised, with Swiss universities frequently appearing in global rankings. The Matura diploma, when combined with a degree from a Swiss university, is particularly valued in the global job market, giving Swiss graduates a competitive edge. Additionally, Switzerland's participation in international academic networks enhances the global mobility of its students.

The Role of the Cantonal vs. Federal Government

Switzerland’s education system is characterised by a high degree of decentralisation, with the 26 cantons playing a significant role. While the federal government sets broad educational objectives and frameworks, the cantons have substantial autonomy in implementing and managing their own education systems. This cantonal control means that educational policies, curricula, and even the school year can vary significantly from one canton to another.

The key areas that the cantonal government has control over include:

• Curriculum Development: Each canton develops its own curriculum, although there are efforts to harmonise key elements across the country which aim to standardise education standards and school years.
• Funding: In Switzerland, public schools are primarily funded by the cantons. Each canton is responsible for financing and managing its education system, which includes setting budgets and determining the level of funding for public schools. The federal government plays a more limited role, mainly providing support for specific national programs and initiatives.
• School Management: Cantons are responsible for the administration of schools, including teacher recruitment, school funding, and infrastructure, while federal governments take a hands-off approach.
• Educational Pathways: The cantons decide on the specific educational pathways available to students, including the criteria for entry into Gymnasium (academic high schools) or vocational training programmes.

The federal government, while less involved in day-to-day operations, plays a crucial role in coordinating education across cantons and ensuring compliance with national standards, especially in areas like vocational education and higher education. This balance between cantonal flexibility and federal oversight is often cited as a strength, allowing for both local adaptation and national cohesion in Swiss education.

International Education Options in Switzerland

Switzerland offers a robust selection of international education options which lie outside the cantonal government's control. This options are particularly attractive for expatriates and globally minded families who wish their children to have more global perspectives. The most prominent curricula include the International Baccalaureate (IB), British A-Levels, and the American High School Diploma, all of which are offered in prestigious international schools across the country.

• International Baccalaureate (IB): Switzerland is home to a large number of IB World Schools, particularly in regions like Vaud and Geneva. The IB programme is highly competitive, with rigorous exams that challenge students in subjects like Mathematics, Science, and Humanities. Given the difficulty, many students seek additional support from an IB tutor in Switzerland to excel in their studies. In specific areas, parents often look for specialised tutors such as an IB tutor in Vaud to help their children navigate the demanding curriculum.
• British A-Levels: These are offered by several schools in cities like Zurich and Geneva. The A-Levels focus on a narrower range of subjects, allowing students to specialise early. Exams are also highly competitive, often leading students to seek private tutoring to achieve top grades.
• American High School Diploma: Available in schools like the American School of Zurich, this programme is more broad-based but includes Advanced Placement (AP) courses that can be equally challenging.

Given the academic intensity, private tutoring is prevalent, especially for the IB and A-Level programmes, with parents investing in additional support to ensure their children succeed.

Is it Better to Study at International Schools or Public Schools in Switzerland?

Choosing between international schools and public schools in Switzerland depends largely on the student’s background and future goals. International schools offer curricula like the International Baccalaureate (IB) or British A-levels, which are recognised globally and may be more suitable for expatriate families or students aiming to study abroad. These schools provide a more global perspective and instruction primarily in English, but they come with high tuition fees.

According to an IB tutor in Geneva,

"The IB curriculum encourages critical thinking and a global mindset, preparing students for universities worldwide."

On the other hand, Swiss public schools are free and deeply integrated into the local culture. They offer high-quality education with a focus on multilingualism, reflecting the country’s linguistic diversity. Public schools also provide direct pathways into Switzerland's robust vocational system and universities.

Statistics show that 95% of Swiss students attend public schools, which are highly regarded for their academic rigour and social integration. Ultimately, the choice depends on whether the student prioritises an international curriculum or a more localised, culturally immersive education.

Future Trends in Swiss Education

Swiss education is evolving to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing world. One key trend is the increasing integration of digital technology into classrooms, with a focus on enhancing digital literacy from an early age. The Swiss government has committed to significant investments in digital infrastructure, aiming to prepare students for the demands of the digital economy.

Another trend is the growing emphasis on lifelong learning. As the job market becomes more dynamic, there is a push to offer more flexible education opportunities for adults, allowing them to upskill and reskill throughout their careers. This includes the expansion of online courses and vocational training programmes.

Additionally, there is a shift towards more personalised learning experiences, supported by data-driven teaching methods. This approach aims to cater to individual student needs, improving engagement and outcomes. As these trends unfold, Switzerland’s education system continues to adapt, ensuring it remains a global leader in education.

Conclusion

The Swiss education system is characterised by its decentralised structure and the unique dual system that effectively combines academic learning with practical apprenticeships. This approach not only equips students with theoretical knowledge but also prepares them for the workforce with hands-on experience. For international students, particularly those seeking a high-quality education that blends academic rigour with real-world skills, Switzerland offers an attractive and well-rounded option.