Secondary education in Geneva 2025

The educational system of Geneva comprises the following stages:

• Primary Education: Covering both kindergarten and primary schooling, this initial phase can extend up to eight years. Preschool focuses on cultivating social skills through engaging activities such as musical exercises, arts and crafts, recreational games, and preliminary lessons in literacy and numeracy. This provides international children with an invaluable opportunity to quickly integrate into Swiss culture and learn a new language.
• Junior Secondary Education: This phase follows primary education.
• Higher Secondary Education: This phase presents options like vocational training (VET), academic high schools, and preparation for undergraduate studies.
• Higher Education: This final phase includes professional training and academic studies at the university level.

Primary Schools in Geneva

Elementary education in Geneva generally spans 4 to 6 years, varying by canton. Teaching is conducted in the canton's official language (German, French, Italian, or Romansh) and covers diverse fields such as languages, mathematics, sciences, social sciences, arts, and physical training.

Asiya Watson

Client Relationship Manager at Hult EF Corporate Education

What makes Swiss schools so special? Why do parents value primary and secondary schools in Switzerland so much?

There are many reasons: safety, the opportunity to participate in activities and play sports all year round (water sports on local lakes, skiing, snowboarding, rock climbing, hiking and trekking, team games), the chance to learn several foreign languages thanks to the rich culture. Switzerland provides education leading to the best universities in the world, and Swiss universities are not only world-class, but almost free (if state-owned!).

The shift to secondary school happens at about age 11 or 12. Middle school provides three years of junior high education. The syllabus includes languages, mathematics, science, social sciences, arts and physical activity. Student advancement is evaluated twice a year, focusing on both academic and personal growth.

Upon completion of junior secondary school, students can advance to upper secondary institutions offering either vocational or academic pathways. The organization and content of these institutions vary across cantons.

Enrollment Requirements for International Students in Geneva's Schools

• Children typically start primary school at age 6.
• Enrollment is based on readiness, assessed through parent-teacher meetings.
• Admission is possible anytime, but ideally at the start of a new semester.
• Admission procedures and requirements vary across cantons.

The cost of study in Geneva starts from 10,000 Swiss Francs. For successful enrollment, international students need to submit:

• Passport copy.
• School report cards.
• International language certificate.
• Teacher recommendations (especially from English and Mathematics teachers).
• Motivation letter (if required).
• Completed registration forms for the chosen school.

The guide describes Geneva's educational environment from primary to secondary education, including the best high schools in Geneva and essential information for international students who want to attend schools in this vibrant city.