Secondary level 2 

Finally do what you want to do!

On completion of compulsory education (the ninth school year), young people between the ages of fifteen and sixteen begin their post-compulsory education or secondary level 2, which, although not obligatory, is indispensable for future career prospects. Basically you distinguish between general education and vocational education:

 

General education

  • Matura schools (matura)
  • Specialised Middle Schools

 

Vocational education

  • apprenticeship: 

          - Basic educational vocation and training with basic federal certificate

          - Basic educational vocation and training with advanced federal certificate 

  • Vocational colleges
  • Professional Baccalaureate Schools

 

Duration

Full-time courses last between two and four years.

 

Costs

Courses at public cantonal further education and training institutions  are usually free, although small charges are made for teaching materials and excursions.  Some cantons do charge fees for secondary level 2 courses.

 

An apprentice will receive a small salary, even in his or her first year.

 

Grants are available for further education and training if part of the applicant's first education.

 

For further information, please contact the Education Directorate of the canton in which you reside. It is also important to make direct contact with the future educational establishment.