Practical Information

Schools

Much of Switzerland’s economic success stems from its highly-educated population. The Swiss education system is one of the best in the world. Swiss teachers are extremely well-paid, attracting high-quality teaching staff.

The education system changes between the cantons, which provide the majority of each school’s financing. The Swiss educational system is divided into four stages: preschool, primary, secondary (I and II), and tertiary and adult education.

Compulsory education lasts 9 years, consisting of primary and secondary school, and is free of charge. Children enter primary school at the age of six or seven. Kindergartens are not compulsory, but are free of charge. Children normally attend one or two years of kindergarten before attending primary school. Although private schools exist, the majority of children attend state-run schools. At the age of 16, students who wish to continue their education move into Secondary II, which generally lasts from three to four years. For more information on the Education system, see our section on Education.