Understand Switzerland's pathways into the working world.
A handy guide for teenagers deciding what comes next — and for the parents and educators helping them. Compare apprenticeships and full-time schools, see what each route leads to, and find the path that fits.
Two main routes after compulsory school
Apprenticeship (dual VET)
Around two thirds of Swiss teenagers learn on the job: a few days a week in a host company, the rest at vocational school. You earn a wage and finish with a federal EFZ or EBA — and further education stays open.
Full-time school
Gymnasium, FMS/ECG, commercial and IT middle schools or full-time vocational schools. More general education, a later start to working life, and routes to university or higher professional education.
Who this site is for
For teenagers
Time to get ready for your next step after compulsory school? Explore 240+ apprenticeships, learn about your options, take the matching quiz and see where every route can take you.
Teen's guide
For parents
EFZ, EBA, Berufsmaturität, FMS, Gymnasium — the vocabulary explained, plus how to support your teenager without deciding for them.
Parent's guide
For educators
Ideas and lesson plans for using What's Next in the classroom as a complementary resource to your 7th, 8th and 9th grade curriculum.
Teacher's guideNot sure where to start?
Take a short quiz to discover whether an apprenticeship, full-time school or another route fits your interests and strengths.