Language skills open doors
04.10.2024 – Ruth von Gunten, educationsuisse
Understanding and speaking several languages is not only a personal enrichment, but also helps with education or training and later when looking for a job.
Among the many inquiries from all over the world that educationsuisse staff answer every day, one question comes up again and again: Can I study at university or do a training programme in Switzerland without knowing a national language?
The answer is obvious: a good knowledge of the language of instruction is generally required and this varies depending on the language region: German, French or Italian.
Universities, the ETH and universities of applied sciences usually require very good language skills (C1) in the language of instruction. There are only a few bachelor’s degree programmes, the three-year basic course, purely in English. On the other hand, more master’s programmes are offered in English.
The level of language skills required for a three- or four-year vocational training programme that combines theory and practice is lower. Depending on the chosen profession, an intermediate language level (B1 - B2) is demanded.
Language competence is assessed worldwide according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). This assessment scale comprises six levels from A1 to C2 (basic knowledge to native speaker level): Level C1 means very good knowledge of both text comprehension and the use of the language. Level B corresponds to an intermediate level, i.e. understanding the content of longer texts and speaking independently. Level A means low proficiency with elementary use of the language.
How do you learn a language? As early as possible, playing, during school, lifelong. (Online) courses, language apps, books, podcasts, and films can help. Regular practice, speaking and immersing yourself in the language are important. A language study trip can be helpful but is also associated with costs.
We recommend acquiring good language skills and the corresponding recognised certificates in your country of residence. If you have any questions on the subject of education in Switzerland, please contact us!
educationsuisse, Education in Switzerland
Alpenstrasse 26
3006 Bern, Switzerland
Phone +41 31 356 61 04
info@educationsuisse.ch
educationsuisse.ch
Comments