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The Swiss educational system is distinguished by its diversity, each of the 26
cantons being responsible for all aspects of education in its territory. An
overview of the structure of the Swiss educational system can be accessed
through Related Topics opposite.
Some 156 000 children between the ages of 4 and 6 – that is, 98.5% of
children in this age group – attended nursery school (pre-school level) in
2005. Of these, 8% were enrolled in unsubsidised private schools.
Primary and Secondary level I
Compulsory schooling lasts for nine years and includes a primary and a
secondary cycle (secondary level I) in all cantons. Attendance is compulsory and
free of charge for all children, whether Swiss or foreign.
The municipalities ensure that all children can attend their local public
school or one nearby. The schools directorate of each municipality (or the
municipal administration if there is no schools directorate) can provide
information on general schooling matters (e.g. admission, regulations or
transport). A total of 850,000 pupils were enrolled in compulsory schooling in
2005, 7% of them in private schools.
Secondary level II
The years of compulsory schooling are followed by secondary level II, at
which there are two choices: (1) the general academic route in, for example, ‘Matura’
schools or specialised schools, or (2) vocational training. Some two thirds of
children go on from compulsory schooling to vocational training
(apprenticeship), while one third take the general academic route.
Tertiary
Tertiary level education comprises advanced vocational training, the
universities and vocational schools with university status. In 2005 some 200,000
students were engaged in tertiary education.
Text last edited on: 11/2007
Source: European Union
© European Communities, 1995-2008
Reproduction is authorised.
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