Guide to language certificates in vocational education and career
Guide to language certificates in vocational education and career
Languages are key competencies in daily life and at work, especially in the AI era. Explore the reasons why recognised certificates in Swiss Vocational Education and Training help apprentices progress and expand their career opportunities.
Equip your apprentices for the future with language certificates
Fill the form below or contact our team at +41 52 209 04 50 to get expert guidance and personal support on language certificates.
Why languages matter in Swiss vocational training
1. Career & further education:
Admission support: Language certificates strengthen access to
- Federal Vocational Baccalaureate (FVB)
- Higher Vocational Education and Training (Higher VET)
- Further education pathways
Opportunities: Recognised certificates enable participation in further training, exchanges, internships, and competitions. These opportunities help learners expand their networks, deepen cultural understanding, and stay competitive in the Swiss job market.
2. Workplace communication & recognition by employers:
- Practical use: Certificates support effective communication in everyday work situations (e.g. answering customer enquiries, writing professional emails, handling supplier calls).
- Fields: Relevant across commercial apprenticeship, retail, hospitality, healthcare, IT, technical trades, and more.
- Employer recognition: Strong communication skills are highly valued by training companies.
3. Digital skills & AI in the workplace:
- Digital tools: Apprentices increasingly work with software, AI-supported applications, and international resources.
- English foundation: Strong skills help them navigate interfaces, online training modules, and global knowledge across professions from logistics to healthcare.
Why language certificates count
- Proof of competence (CEFR A1–C2)
- Support for educational admission and career planning
- Clear progression from school to workplace
- Motivation through transparent learning goals
- Internationally recognised with long-term validity
Language certificates: benefits for learners and companies
For companies, ensuring that apprentices excel in the vocational training program with valuable, internationally recognised proof of their language skills is a win–win. Here is how your company and learners benefit from the language certificates:
For learners:
- Better career opportunities
- Greater confidence in communication
- Work and study mobility in Switzerland and abroad
- Lifelong recognition of language skills
For companies:
- Strong competitive edge with skilled apprentices
- Effective workplace communication, especially in multi-cultural teams
- Attractive employer branding through support of young professionals
Language certificates for vocational training in Switzerland: overview and purpose
Cambridge English Qualifications are in-depth, internationally recognised certification (CEFR A2-C2) for school, work, and university. They are accepted worldwide by universities, colleges, employers, and authorities. Ideal for applications, study visits, international mobility, and as reliable proof of English language skills.
Linguaskill from Cambridge is a digital, multi-level English test (CEFR B1–C1) designed for companies, higher education institutions, and schools. Offered in both General and Business versions, it is ideal for recruitment, internal training, and admission to colleges and universities. The test is flexible, modular, and delivers fast results (3-5 working days).
Looking for a quick and online English test to track apprentices’ progress?
The Cambridge English Skills Test - CEST is CEFR-aligned from A1 to C1 and is designed for internal assessment. It helps track learners’ progress (in reading, writing, listening, and speaking). The skills test also serves as a helpful orientation for schools and learners to prepare for higher-level Cambridge English Certificates. The CEST can be taken anytime, anywhere, with statement of results available in just 48 hours.
Preparation options for English, German, and French tests
Offered directly at school:
- As electives or dedicated language modules
- Preparation embedded in regular classes
For example, BSDPZ integrates "bili" teaching (bilingual instruction in German/English or German/French), where students attend classes in a foreign language to improve their language skills, help them prepare for language certificates, and expand their professional prospects.
Offered at work:
- Internal language courses
- Support from training companies through individual mentoring
- Assistance with taking language examinations (e.g., covering costs, allowing study time, or collaborating with exam management experts such as Swiss Exams)
Private/external:
- Self-study with digital tools or books
- Courses at private language schools
Preparing with Swiss Exams:
- Access to course materials through our online shop
- Online courses through Swiss Exams Academy
- Free placement test (CEPT) to determine learners’ language level
- Personalised advice on exam preparation
Next steps for learners and vocational trainers:
Why apprentices value language certificates
Get your free brochure ‘’Language certificates in vocational education and career’’
Our ''Language certificates in vocational training'' guide helps you understand:
- Why language skills are essential for apprentices today
- How recognised certificates support career and education pathways
- Which language certificates best fit learners across different vocational sectors
- Where to access preparation resources and upcoming webinars
- How to get direct contact for personal guidance from our Swiss Exams team
By downloading the free digital brochure, you will receive it via email instantly. Please note that the brochure is in German language.