Gymnasial Matura · Switzerland

The Swiss Matura.

Understand the system, choose the right path, plan your academic future. A clear guide for students, parents, and adults considering a career change.

Students smiling in a Swiss classroom
~20,000certificates awarded each year in Switzerland
4 yearstypical duration at a recognised gymnasium
2 pathsrecognised school or centralised exam
100%of Swiss universities and ETH accessible
Explore the topic

Everything you need to know.

In brief

A diploma that opens every door.

The gymnasial matura is Switzerland's most demanding upper secondary diploma. Jointly recognised by the Confederation and the CDPE, it provides direct access to universities and Federal Institutes of Technology without additional entrance exams.

It differs from other upper secondary tracks by its academic vocation: cultivating independent thinking, intellectual rigour and multilingual expression.

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Who is the matura for?

Students and adults aiming for academic higher education who want broad access to tertiary programmes, especially at university level.

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What is its purpose?

To deepen general knowledge, develop critical thinking, and guarantee a federally recognised diploma that opens the doors to higher education.

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Recognised abroad?

Yes. Equivalent to the French Baccalauréat, the Austrian Matura, and widely accepted by European and English-speaking universities.

Recommended schools

Find the school that suits you.

Class at Collège Pierre Viret, Lausanne
Private school · Vaud · Lausanne

Collège Pierre Viret

Collège Pierre Viret in Lausanne offers comprehensive preparation for the gymnasial matura and the Swiss matura exam. Small classes, personalised support and programmes tailored to adult learners.

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Do you run a school preparing students for the gymnasial matura or the Swiss matura exam? Contact us to be listed in this reference guide.

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