In Switzerland, parents can chose between the state schooling system or private schools.
State schools
The Swiss public school system benefits from a good reputation and is internationally well graded for its education level.
Schooling is free, non-discriminatory and compulsory from age 6 to 15.
Children can enrol at age 4 (école enfantine, KG1-2) for two years. Primary schooling consists of six years with children from age 6 to 11. Secondary schooling (cycle d’orientation) welcomes children from 12 to 15 years old and is the last phase of compulsory school. Post-obligatory schools comprise three different education systems: college (Collège de Genève) which leads to the maturité (equivalent to the French baccalaureate), professional (school and apprenticeships), or diploma degree (Ecole de culture générale).
Particularities of the State schooling system
- The choice of the schooling establishment (primary and secondary) depends on the parents’ address;
- Pupils start to learn German at the primary level (few hours a week). English is introduced in cycle d’orientation;
- Welcome classes for children who do not speak French with specialised teachers exist;
- Children go to school Monday, Tuesday, Thursdays and Fridays (primary level) and Wednesday morning (cycle d’orientation);
- Schooling is free for everyone (primary and cycles d’orientation). After that, a tuition fee of 500 CHF is requested.
Registration
Registrations can be made from June for a start in September or any time during the year. Parents need to present a valid residency permit and the child’s sickness insurance certificate. Appointment can be scheduled with the Direction de l’Enseignement secondaire.
For more information
Non-obligatory Education
Direction générale
Place de la Taconnerie 7
1204 Genève
Tel. +41 22/ 327 22 92
Fax +41 22 / 327 21 55
Private and international schools
Information and list of private and international schools in the region:
