No age limit, no prior education requirement. The Swiss matura exam opens the path to university for adults wishing to change careers, return to study, or broaden their horizons.
A growing number of working adults are considering a return to education to access university programmes that were previously out of reach. The gymnasial matura is often the missing prerequisite.
Career change, ambition to study medicine, law or science, desire to teach — the motivations vary, but the goal is the same: obtaining the certificate that opens the doors to higher education.
For adults who did not follow the classic gymnasium route, the Swiss matura exam organised by SERI is the main pathway to a federally recognised gymnasial matura certificate.
Duration varies according to your starting level and chosen pace. As a general rule, serious preparation takes 1 to 3 years, depending on whether you study full time or alongside professional activity.
The Swiss matura exam has a pass rate below 60%. Structured preparation, ideally at a school, is strongly recommended to maximise your chances of success.
Private institutions offer classes at the end of the day, allowing you to work during the day and study in the evening. This format suits working adults who wish to maintain their professional activity during preparation.
Some schools offer full-time intensive courses, accelerating preparation over 12 to 18 months. Ideal for those who can commit fully or who benefit from financial support (unemployment benefit, career transition funding).
Some institutions offer remote or hybrid courses, providing great geographical flexibility. This option suits those who cannot travel regularly.
Medicine is only accessible with a gymnasial matura. Many adults wishing to study medicine, pharmacy or physiotherapy go through the Swiss exam first.
Law, economics, international relations — these university programmes require the gymnasial matura. The Swiss exam is the gateway for those who did not follow the gymnasium route.
Access to universities of teacher education (HEP) requires a gymnasial matura. Teaching at secondary level additionally requires a university degree in the relevant subject.
Collège Pierre Viret in Lausanne specialises in preparing adults for the Swiss matura exam. Adapted schedules, small groups and personalised support are at the heart of their approach.
Preparation for the gymnasial matura and the Swiss exam. Specialised in adult learning pathways.
pierreviret.ch →Consult our FAQ or compare the available routes to find the format suited to your situation.