Qualification in English – Gymnasium Secondary level II – Cambridge English Certificate
Qualification in English – Gymnasium Secondary level II – Cambridge English Certificate
Admission to HTC (Higher Technical College), UAS (University of Applied Sciences) or university
Cambridge certificate as “unofficial” qualification in English (gymnasium/secondary schools)
In Switzerland, the Cambridge exams are regarded as an "unofficial" yet significant benchmark for English language skills and competencies, as well as preparation for the next educational stage.
Why "unofficial"?
Even though participation in Cambridge exams is generally voluntary in most cantons and schools within the Swiss education system, they have practically become an indispensable component of a career in nearly all sectors and most professions. This is due to their widespread acceptance and appreciation across various educational levels and in the workplace.
Gymnasiums integrate Cambridge examinations
In Switzerland, gymnasiums increasingly integrate Cambridge examinations to provide their students with internationally recognized certifications of their English proficiency.
These exams, such as
- the Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English (CAE)
- or the Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE),
serve as clear standards for advanced English skills and support students in their language development.
Often, these certificates are used as a fixed component of the curriculum to not only provide students with the opportunity to measure their abilities against a global standard but also to improve their chances for international studies and career opportunities. The integration of Cambridge examinations into school operations promotes a practical and internationally oriented language education, giving students a competitive edge in the global education and job market.
Cambridge Certificate as evidence of English proficiency for universities and UAS (University of Applied Sciences)
Although the general requirements for admission to universities and UAS are the Matura or Berufsmatura in Switzerland, more and more universities and UAS are demanding and even expecting a Cambridge certificate as evidence of English proficiency. This is why most gymnasiums and secondary schools in Switzerland offer their students preparatory courses for Cambridge exams. Additionally, Cambridge certificates are often a requirement for admission to semesters and studies abroad.
What opportunities does a Cambridge certificate offer?
In school
The main purpose is to meet the admission criteria for universities and specifically for programmes conducted in English. This is to ensure that students can follow lectures and are able to write academic papers.
- University Admission: Meets entry requirements
- English Programs: Tailored for English-taught courses
- Academic Skills: Enables lecture comprehension and paper writing
In the workplace
Many students are either already working during their studies or plan to apply for jobs after graduation. Therefore, having already acquired English language qualifications is an advantage in job hunting. Cambridge certificates are lifetime qualifications, and even if obtained during SEK II level, they retain their value for the professional career after graduation. Nevertheless, many students decide to pursue an even higher certificate during their studies, such as the Cambridge C2 Proficiency.
- Employment: Students work during or post-studies
- Job Hunting Advantage: English qualifications enhance job prospects
- Lifetime Value: Cambridge certificates maintain lifelong relevance
- Advanced Certificates: Students often aim for higher levels like C2 Proficiency
How to obtain a Cambridge certificate?
Preparation in school/educational institution
The majority of gymnasiums and secondary schools offer their students preparatory courses for Cambridge exams. Depending on their individual competencies, students are typically prepared for the following certificates:
Preparation via Swiss Exams Academy
Some schools may not be able to offer internal preparatory courses for exams due to various reasons, e.g. small class sizes.
For such cases, our Swiss Exams Academy is available, offering these online courses each autumn and spring semester.
A major advantage of these courses is that the instructors are often experienced Cambridge examiners and have therefore extensive subject knowledge.
Self-study
At SEK II level, there are also students who independently prepare for their exams.
For these ambitious students, various preparation materials and practice exams are available.
- These can be purchased in our online shop
- Practice exams can be found on the respective product pages: Cambridge B2 First | Cambridge C1 Advanced | Cambridge C2 Proficiency
More useful information
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