Switzerland has one of the best education systems in Europe, but since each canton is responsible for its education, it differs quite a lot between cantons as do the teaching language. In general, school is compulsory for 9 years and pupils start primary school at the age of 6. Lowe primary school lasts for 4-5 years and is followed by 3-4 years of higher primary school, where pupils are divided into 3 lines depending on their academic and vocational skills.

After primary school students can go into apprenticeships or attending the academic orientated secondary school (gymnasium), which usually lasts 3-4 years. Successful students can after obtaining a degree from their gymnasium apply for entering one of the 14 Swiss universities. Switzerland has a great number of international schools, which can be found in almost all larger towns and cities.