Swiss maturité
What is the Swiss maturité? A guide for international parents
21 October 2026 · 6 min · Family School Guide
The gymnasial maturité is the Swiss upper-secondary diploma that gives access to Swiss universities and federal institutes of technology. Here is what parents should know.
A general, demanding diploma
Upper secondary
Broad education rather than early specialisation.
Students study languages, mathematics, sciences, humanities and arts, with a main specialisation subject and a personal research paper (travail de maturité).
Usually 3 to 4 years
After compulsory school
Length depends on the canton and school.
Most pupils start around age 15. Private schools sometimes offer adapted tracks for pupils arriving from other systems.
Direct access to Swiss universities
EPFL, ETH, universities
The most direct route into Swiss higher education.
A recognised Swiss maturité gives access to Swiss universities and the two federal institutes of technology, EPFL and ETH Zurich.
Recognised abroad
Case by case
Each foreign university decides.
Many European universities accept the maturité, but admission rules are set by each institution. Always check the target university's requirements.
Personalised guidance
Let's talk about your child's plan
A free first conversation to see whether the Swiss maturité and a boarding school suit your child.
Book a callFrequently asked questions
Can a French pupil switch to the maturité?+
Yes, often after the French seconde or equivalent, depending on level and languages. Schools assess each file.
Is the maturité harder than the bac?+
It is broad and demanding in every subject. Whether it suits your child depends on their profile, not on reputation.
You may also like
Boarding schools
Top 5 prestigious boarding schools in Switzerland in 2026
Our selection of the 5 reference boarding schools in Switzerland: curricula, atmosphere, admissions and fees.
International schools
Top 5 international schools in French-speaking Switzerland
Our 5 reference international schools in Geneva, Lausanne and the Vaud Riviera.
Ready to find the right school for your child?
A 30-minute confidential call is enough to lay the foundations. We'll get back to you within 24h.
Get in touch