The Swiss education system

Compulsory education lasts 11 years in Switzerland. After that the path typically leads to either a secondary school or a vocational apprenticeship. How it is organised depends on the canton.

Mandatory education in Switzerland lasts for 11 years. Under the Swiss constitution, schooling is free and open to all children.

This content was published on Sep 22, 2022 Pupils face an important choice at the end of compulsory: apprenticeships or high school.

How many universities are there in Switzerland? How can students access them? Where do foreign students fit in?

Switzerland’s excellent universities, technology institutes and research centres mean that the country’s education system is among the world’s best.

Switzerland has an inclusive educational approach for children with disabilities and learning difficulties.

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