Swiss Schooling: A Quick Guide for Parents and Students

The Swiss school system is made to help Swiss people and expats learn the skills they need for their careers. It is funded by the government and managed by local areas called cantons. If you want your child to go to a Swiss school, it’s important to know what they offer, if they are selective, and how much schooling is required in each canton.

Swiss schools have short days, usually starting around 8:30 or 9:30 am and ending by 3:30 or 4:30 pm. There’s a long break for lunch, and on Wednesdays, students often have the afternoon off for sports or other activities.

For young children, there are childcare options available from birth to six years old. These facilities, known as KiTa, Kinderkrippen, Kindertagesstätte, and Kindergarten, provide early education and socialization opportunities.

Primary education is mandatory and can last from six to nine years, depending on the canton. Primary school focuses on basic problem-solving, cognitive skills, and social interaction. After primary education, students can go to higher primary education for three years, where they can explore technical skills and receive career counseling.

Secondary education is where students start specializing in their future careers. Many Swiss students choose apprenticeships over higher education. There are different routes, including short grammar school (for quick university entry), long grammar school (for a more extended education), and apprenticeships. Apprenticeships are popular, and students receive state subsidies to learn a trade.

After completing their education at around 16 to 20 years old, students can access higher education in Switzerland. Graduates from apprenticeships can go to evening colleges, applied science universities, or Matura schools. Graduates from grammar school can attend a university in Switzerland.

The school system varies by canton, with mandatory schooling ranging from 9 to 11 years. The length of primary school also differs, with some cantons having 5, 6, or 8 years of mandatory primary education. Most cantons have 3 years of mandatory middle school, except for Appenzell Ausserrhoden (2 years) and Ticino (4 years). It’s essential to understand the schooling system in your local canton when moving to Switzerland.