Secondary Education

In Switzerland, lower secondary education covers students from ages 11-12 to 15-16. The curriculum includes core subjects like the local language, a second national language, mathematics, and sciences. There is no final national exam; student progress is assessed continuously.

After this stage, students choose their path. They can enter a university-preparatory school (Gymnasium/Lycée) to earn a Matura certificate. Alternatively, most opt for Vocational Education and Training (VET), a unique apprenticeship system combining paid work with part-time study. This allows students to tailor their education to their career goals.

Higher Education

Switzerland's higher education system includes traditional universities and Universities of Applied Sciences. It is home to world-class institutions like ETH Zurich and EPFL Lausanne.

University studies focus heavily on research, analysis, and independent learning. A Bachelor's degree typically takes three years, followed by a 1.5-2 year Master's degree. Swiss universities promote early specialization and critical thinking within a highly international and multilingual environment.