Consider the comparative facts between private and state schools provided in the table below.
| Criteria | Private schools | State schools |
|---|---|---|
| Admission | Depending on availability | Depending on the residence address |
| Age | As of 4 years old Most schools offer an Early Childhood programme available as of 3 | As of 4 years old Child must be 4 before 31 July |
| Cost | Private school fees apply | Free education Fees apply for afterschool care |
| Curriculum | International, American, Engligh, French… Each school offers specific programs | Swiss education system |
| Diplomas | International diplomas IB, IGCSE, French baccalaureate… | Swiss Maturity Internationationally recognized/Automatic access to Swiss universities |
| Integration | Less integrated into the local community Multiculturalism | Easier integration into local community |
| Language | Bilingual schools, French schools, English schools… | French German and English are the 2nd and 3rd language |
| Location | Depending on the choice of the school | Depending on the residence address |
| Transport | School bus for most schools Extra fees – specific pickup location | Pedibus, school bus for some schools |
What questions should I ask myself?
How old will my child be when relocating to Switzerland? For how long will I be living in Switzerland ?
What is my child’s personality, flexibility, preferred learning method and interests?
Would I prefer my child to grow up in an international environment or to integrate into the Swiss community? Is it important that my child learns to speak French while living in Switzerland?
Do I agree with the fact that my child’s school is determined according to my residential address? Or would I like to have the choice?
How important are after school facilities on school premises? Am I ready to organise additional care for my child and how much would I pay for it?
Do I know what direction my child would like for post-compulsory school and what would be the best way to get there?
Important points to keep in mind
In Switzerland, both public and private schools have an excellent level of education.
The Swiss education system offers very good alternatives to preparation for university studies (for example apprenticeships).
Children completing the high level of schooling in Switzerland allows them to automatically enter Swiss universities.