Which Gymnasium Is Best? A Practical Guide for Families
In our previous article, we explored the differences between the Gymnasium and vocational Maturity tracks in Switzerland. But once the decision for the academic route is made, the next question arises: Which Gymnasium should my child attend? With over 20 public Gymnasiums in the Canton of Zurich alone, and various profiles and programs to choose from, the answer isn’t always straightforward.
In this article, we take a closer look at how to evaluate the various options – including the difference between the Langzeitgymnasium (long-term academic track starting after 6th grade) and the Kurzzeitgymnasium (short-term academic track starting after lower secondary school). We’ll also explore what makes one school different from another, how bilingual programs work, and how a Matura can even be obtained in parallel with a practical apprenticeship.
Ultimately, we aim to help families understand what “the best Gymnasium” really means – and why the best choice is always the one that fits your child.
Two Pathways to the Matura: Langzeit- vs. Kurzzeitgymnasium
Zurich’s education system offers two main academic tracks to the Matura: the Langzeitgymnasium (long-term track) and the Kurzzeitgymnasium (short-term track). Both lead to the same university-qualifying diploma, but they begin at different stages and suit different types of students.
The Langzeitgymnasium starts right after the 6th grade, when students are around 12 years old. It lasts six years and includes both lower and upper secondary levels. This path is ideal for children who are academically strong and ready to immerse themselves in an advanced learning environment from an early age. It offers continuity and time to explore subjects in depth, often allowing students to build strong academic habits and relationships over several years.
The Kurzzeitgymnasium, on the other hand, begins later – after the second or third year of Sekundarschule, typically around age 15. Students entering this track benefit from having completed a broader general education and often have a clearer sense of their academic direction. The program is more condensed, lasting four years, and focuses intensely on preparing students for university-level studies.
Both routes are selective. Admission usually requires passing a central entrance examination, though recommendations from teachers may also play a role in certain cases. Ultimately, the choice between long- and short-term Gymnasium depends on the student’s academic readiness, personal maturity, and learning style.
What Makes One Gymnasium Different from Another?
Although all Gymnasien in Zurich follow the same general curriculum and lead to the federally recognized Matura, each school brings its own personality, emphasis, and areas of expertise. What truly differentiates them are the profiles they offer, the program formats, and the school atmosphere.
Some schools, like Kantonsschule Wiedikon or Zürich Nord, offer a broad range of profiles including scientific, artistic, and social sciences. Others, such as Rämibühl’s Literargymnasium, are known for their International Baccalaureate (IB) program or bilingual options. Schools like the KME (Kantonale Maturitätsschule für Erwachsene) are tailored to older students or those balancing work and study.
Many families make their decision based on the profile their child is most drawn to – whether that’s classical languages, mathematics and science, economics and law, or music and the arts. In addition, school culture, accessibility by public transport, and the availability of extracurricular activities all influence what makes a school the “right” one.
Because admission is often determined by test results rather than personal preference, it’s helpful to have a clear understanding of each school’s offerings before applying.
The Value of a Bilingual Matura
In today’s global world, language skills are more valuable than ever – and Zurich’s Gymnasien increasingly reflect this. A number of schools now offer a bilingual Matura, where subjects are taught in two languages (typically German and English or French).
Students in these programs not only develop strong communication skills, but also gain cultural fluency and expanded university access, both in Switzerland and abroad. The program structure can vary: at some schools, bilingual tracks are integrated across all profiles, while at others, they are specific to certain focus areas.
These programs are academically demanding and often require strong language skills from the outset, but they offer a distinct advantage to internationally minded students – especially those considering future studies or careers beyond Switzerland’s borders.
An Alternative Route: Vocational Maturity
Not every path to the Matura goes through a Gymnasium. In Switzerland, students also have the option to complete a vocational Maturity (Berufsmaturität), either during an apprenticeship (BM1) or after completing one (BM2).
This approach combines hands-on professional experience with academic coursework, preparing students for university-level studies – particularly at Universities of Applied Sciences (Fachhochschulen). With an additional qualification (the Passerelle), vocational Matura holders can also gain access to traditional universities.
This path is ideal for students who thrive in practical environments and want to develop real-world experience while keeping academic doors open. It’s a strong and respected option in Switzerland’s dual education system – and for some, it may be a better fit than the purely academic route.
Are There Any Rankings?
Families often ask whether certain Gymnasien are considered “better” than others. Unlike in some countries, Switzerland does not publish official rankings of secondary schools. All Gymnasien are publicly funded and adhere to cantonal and federal standards.
There was a controversial ETH Zurich study in 2008 that attempted to compare how well students from different Gymnasien performed during their first year at university. While it generated attention, it was ultimately seen as too narrow and not representative of broader school quality – and no similar comparisons have been continued since.
Instead of rankings, we recommend families focus on fit: the profiles offered, the school culture, the teaching style, and the unique strengths of each institution. These qualitative factors are far more meaningful than any number.
Final Thoughts: Finding the Right Fit
There is no single “best” Gymnasium in Zurich – but there is likely a school that’s the best fit for your child. Whether they’re ready for Langzeitgymnasium after 6th grade or prefer to start later with Kurzzeitgymnasium, whether they thrive in structured academic environments or benefit from bilingual and international programs – the most important thing is that their school supports and challenges them in the right way.
At Ulrich Educational Consulting, we support families in navigating this complex decision-making process.
Understand each school’s offerings and strengths
Compare profiles and program formats
Prepare for entrance exams and application steps
Explore alternative routes such as vocational Maturity
Make a confident, informed choice based on your child’s unique needs
If you are unsure where to begin, or want personal guidance through this important phase, we are here to help.
For more information on how we can support your family, visit our website or contact us directly to schedule a consultation.
Let Ulrich Educational Consulting be your partner in educational success.
Did You Know?
Did you know that Switzerland has one of the most flexible education systems in the world—allowing students to switch between academic and vocational paths even after starting Gymnasium or an apprenticeship? Thanks to options like the Passerelle program or Berufsmaturität, there are always second chances built into the system. Your child doesn’t have to get it “perfect” on the first try.
Contact us at Ulrich Educational Consulting!