Preparation for Gymnasium Entrance Exam: A Guide with Top Strategies
Students should start preparing early for the Gymnasium entrance exam to pass the so-called “Gymiprüfung.” In many cantons, the entrance exam is a prerequisite for securing a spot at the Gymnasium, such as in Zurich, where this entrance exam is officially called the "Zentrale Aufnahmeprüfung (ZAP)" (Central Entrance Examination).
In this article, you will learn which cantons require Gymnasium entrance exams and discover the top strategies for Gymiprüfung preparation.
It's best to start preparing for grammar school in year 4!
In which Cantons is there a Gymiprüfung?
Whether an entrance exam is required for admission to Gymnasium depends on the respective canton, as education matters fall under their jurisdiction. Therefore, there are cantons where an entrance exam is mandatory for Gymnasium, with school grades usually contributing to the overall score. There are also cantons that do not conduct an entrance exam, so no preparation for the Gymiprüfung is necessary. Finally, some cantons allow both scenarios, although the exam is generally considered an exception.
The following table shows which cantons require a Gymiprüfung, which do not, and which offer both options:
Cantons with gymnasium examination | Cantons without a gymnasium examination | Cantons with both |
Schaffhausen | Basel-Landschaft | Appenzell Innerrhoden |
Zürich | Jura | Basel |
Schwyz | Neuenburg | Solothurn |
Glarus | Genf | Bern |
Thurgau | Freiburg | Waadt |
Appenzell Ausserrhoden | Luzern | Aargau |
St. Gallen | Obwalden | Zug |
Graubünden | Nidwalden | Tessin |
| Wallis |
|
| Uri |
|
Top Strategies for Gymnasium Preparation
If an entrance exam is required for Gymnasium (Long-term or Short-term Gymnasium), the overall grade for the tested subjects is usually composed of the average of the so-called preliminary grade and the exam grade, meaning the grade from the school report card and the grade from the entrance exam. In Zurich, the exam subjects are German and Mathematics, with the German exam consisting of two parts: "Writing a Text (Essay)" and "Language Study and Text Comprehension."
To increase the chances of passing the Gymnasium entrance exam, students should begin strategic preparation for the exam early. In the following sections, we explain the top strategies for Gymnasium exam preparation.
Good School Performance Starting from the 4th Grade of Primary School
Since the report card grade usually contributes to the overall grade relevant for Gymnasium admission, students need to keep up well in school from an early age to be successful in the long term. It is advisable to ensure that the student performs well in school starting from the 4th grade.
Boosting Confidence through Parental Support
Parents should strengthen their child's self-confidence by saying things like, "You can do it! You are smart." At the same time, too much pressure should not be applied. Instead, the child should understand that the world will not end if they do not get into Gymnasium and that there are other paths to a good life. Excessive pressure from parents can be counterproductive in the exam situation due to the nervousness it causes.
Targeted Repetition and Practice of School Material
The school material should be practiced regularly. This can be done through questioning by the parents or forming study groups with students who have the same goal. By repeating the material, it is reinforced. Those who start studying just before the exam cannot rely on such a solid foundation of knowledge.
Strengthening Core Skills in Language and Mathematics
Depending on the canton, the exam subjects for the Gymnasium entrance exam can vary. In Zurich, for example, the exam subjects are German and Mathematics. In other cantons, a foreign language like English might also be included. Students who want to attend Gymnasium should therefore focus on language and mathematics and strengthen their core skills in these areas. Pure memorization is not advisable. To ensure that the material is well understood and can be recalled under exam stress, the student should have a deep understanding of the subject matter.
Attending Professional Preparation Courses
In addition to regular school education, students should attend professional preparation courses for Gymnasium preparation. These can be booked as needed, such as a German preparation course if the student is not yet confident in that subject, or a Mathematics preparation course to fill any knowledge gaps. Ideally, students should attend preparation courses for all exam subjects because, as mentioned earlier, repetition reinforces the material and increases the chances of passing the entrance exam.
Repetition of Past Exams
Repeating exams from previous years not only reinforces the material but also helps students practice exam tasks.
Exam Simulation
Finally, the Gymnasium exam should be simulated at least once so that the student gets a feel for what to expect, making the actual entrance exam on test day feel more familiar. This can be a big help in reducing nervousness.
Top Strategies for Gymnasium Preparation Overview:
- Good school performance from the 4th grade
- Boosting self-confidence through parental support
- Targeted repetition and practice of school material
- Strengthening core skills in language and mathematics
- Attending professional preparation courses
- Repeating exams from past years
- Simulating the exam
Gymnasium Entrance Exam Preparation Courses
To increase the chances of passing the Gymnasium exam, students should prepare for the exam. Parents, for example, can book a suitable preparation course for the Gymnasium entrance exam at the Lern-Forum in Zurich. The Lern-Forum also offers courses in Winterthur. And for those who prefer to prepare from home, an online course is also available.
Informations about the preparation courses for the Gymnasium entrance exam offered by Lern-Forum
Conclusion
In this article, we have examined the key factors for children's educational success: state responsibility, parental support, student motivation, and the role of teachers. Despite formal equality in the Swiss education system, studies show that social barriers still exist, and children from less privileged families are often at a disadvantage. The state should create additional structures that provide equal educational opportunities for all children and support parents in creating an optimal learning and educational environment.
Grammar school preparation costs (gymnasium prep costs)
Total cost of gymnasium preparation depends especially on how early the grammar school preparation begins and whether intensive holiday courses are attended.
Multicheck costs: How much does the Multicheck test cost?
How much does the Multicheck cost? Learn how much the Multicheck test costs and what costs may arise during Multicheck preparation here.
Switzerland's dual education system offers opportunities - not for all
The dual education system in Switzerland: an opportunity for some, but not for all: we explain the importance of the dual education system and its advantages.
When should I start the grammar school preparation?
When to start grammar school preparation in Zurich? For long grammar school in Year 4 and for short grammar school in Year 1 of secondary school at the latest.
Gymnasium Zurich ranking: best grammar school in the canton of Zurich
Ranking of grammar schools in canton Zurich (Gymnasium ranking): find best grammar school in Zurich; one of the best cantonal schools in Switzerland.
All grammar schools in canton Zurich and grammar school profiles
All grammar schools in Zurich (Gymnasium): Here is a list of the public grammar/ high schools in the canton of Zurich and their Gymnasium profiles.
Grammar school exam results 2025 in canton Zurich (ZAP 2025)
Grammar school exam results 2025 (Gymi exam) came in mid-May 2025; also the other results of the ZAP, i.e. from FMS, HMS, IMS, BMS; how many have passed.
Should children learn in the holidays?
Should children study during the holidays, for example for the grammar school exam (Gymi exam) or learn essays, French or English during the holidays.
Is there a specific essay theory for grammar school exam?
Essay theory for German essay writing is universal: there is no special essay theory for grammar school exams (Gymi exams) or writing essays at Gymnasium.
Gymnasium preparatory course recommended with poor German
A grammar school preparation course is also recommended, especially if you have poor German language skills, such as a Gymi preparation course in canton Zurich.
Secondary or grammar school: Which is better for the child?
Secondary school or grammar school (Sek or Gymi) is decisive for the choice of many professions; read here which school type is better for your child.
Appeal grammar school exam Zürich - what you need to know
Appeal against grammar school exams in Zurich: If you want to appeal against a failed grammar school exam (Gymi exam), there are a few things to bear in mind.
Poor Multicheck results: apply anyway or repeat?
If the Multicheck results are poor (bad, not good): Can you still apply or should you repeat the Multicheck test; here in our blog article are the answers.
5 reasons why old Gymi exams in Zurich are best learning aid
Old grammar school exams from Zurich (Gymnasium exams) from the archive are ideal for practising for the entrance exam to the long or short grammar school.
Is my child suitable for grammar school?
Is my child suitable for grammar school? Parents can find answers to this question here, where you can train your child's suitability for grammar school.
New Aargau cantonal school in Stein starts in August 2025
Stein cantonal school starts with temporary facilities in the 2025/2026 school year; the final new secondary school building in Fricktal will be ready in 2029.
Planning school career in canton Aargau - 5th grade counts
Aargau school careers are often decided with the transfer from primary school to district school; here are the admission requirements for district school.
Private schools in Switzerland: Is there really a boom?
There are private schools in many places in Switzerland, for example in Zurich, Aargau, Winterthur, Bern and St. Gallen, but is there a private school boom.
Gymi trial period at the Langgymi in Zurich tougher than Gymi exams
Gymi probationary period at long-term Gymnasium in Zurich tougher than Gymi exam; in canton of Aargau, the Gymnasium (Kanti) without a probationary period.
Alternative high school exam: Parents move from Zurich to Aargau
As an alternative to the Gymi exam in Zurich, parents have discovered moving to the canton of Aargau, where there is no grammar school exam (Kanti exam).
Kanti entrance examination in the canton of Aargau in certain cases
In the canton of Aargau, in certain cases there is a grammar school exam (Kanti entrance examination) for transfer to the cantonal school (Gymnasium).
Preparation for gymnasium exam necessary for passing
Preparation for the Gymi exam, e.g. through preparatory courses (Gymi preparation courses), is necessary to pass the entrance exam for the Gymnasium (ZAP).
More equality with increasing quota of gymnasium admission?
Increasing gymnasium quota: Does increasing the gymnasium quota (gymnasial quota, Maturitätsquote) create more equal opportunities (justice in opportunities)?
Pressure from parents to attend gymnasium make children sick
The pressure on children from parents to go to the gymnasium (grammar or high school) can be unhealthy: sleep disorders, stomachaches, depression, and more.
Equal or unequal opportunities in education?
It is unconvincing that there is no equal opportunity in the Swiss education system and that social origin allegedly decides on the school in Switzerland.
The role of private tutoring in the Swiss education system
More successful in the Swiss education system with private tutoring classes. Individual support for pupils to help with school challenges in Switzerland.
Vocational Maturity School BMS as alternative to Gymnasium
The vocational maturity school (BMS) is an alternative to the gymnasium; afterwards with an additional Passerelle exam, one can also go to university.
Tips for parents to support the child during the exam phase
Support your child optimally during the exam phase: Read effective tips for parents to master stress-free and successful exam periods for their children.
Tips for the 2026 grammar school exam (Gymnasium Zurich)
Grammar school examination 2026 in Zurich? Here you will find helpful tips and answers to frequently asked questions to help you prepare for the exam.
Tips for BMS entrance exam 2026 (Vocational Maturity School)
Tips for the BMS 2026 entrance exam (Vocational Maturity School canton Zurich) and preparation; FAQs on registration, the passed BMS exam, and much more.
How to get into gymnasium: Many paths lead to grammar school
Learn about the various paths to the gymnasium (grammar school) and how Lern-Forum supports you in optimally preparing for the gymnasium entrance exam.
For IMS Multicheck necessary: Preparation for Multicheck ICT
To register for the IMS admission test Multicheck test required: Prepare optimally for Multicheck ICT: valuable tips and strategies for passing the test.
Educational trips with family
Join us on an educational journey with the family and discover exciting learning adventures and valuable experiences for children and parents in Switzerland.
Tips for FMS entrance exam 2026 (specialised secondary school)
Tips for FMS entrance exam 2026 (specialised secondary school Canton Zurich) and preparation for FMS exam, FAQs about, for example, registering for FMS exam.
What is the Multicheck?
Get valuable tips for the Multicheck test! Our blog offers comprehensive information and helpful advice for your success.
Multicheck preparation in Wohlen and Zurich
Multicheck preparation in Wohlen & Zurich: Tips and strategies for success in professional aptitude test. Register now and be prepared for multicheck test!
Admission quota for high school in 2024
Results of the Central Entrance Examination (ZAP) 2024: Quotas for the Gymi exam, statistics for the FMS, HMS, IMS, vocational baccalaureate, Gymi trial period.
Passing the Gymi trial period - how your child can do it
Passing the Gymi trial period made easy! Discover effective tips for successfully mastering the trial period and getting closer to success at grammar school.
Gymi Exam Preparation: Guide with Top Strategies
Effective Gymi exam preparation: Top strategies to prepare for the entrance exam at Gymnasium; Gymi preparation in Zurich, Winterthur, online courses.
Educational success: 4 factors for success
Learn the 4 crucial factors for educational success in Switzerland and how they affect your child's learning success. Read our guide on the Lern-Forum site now!
Long-Term Planning for Gymnasium Preparation
Long-term grammar school preparation made easy: Effective learning methods and expert advice for a successful transition to the high school (gymnasium).
Gymi entrance exam 2026 | All info at a glance
✓ Registration deadlines ✓ Exam dates ✓ Exam contents ✓ & more. Here you can find all information about the Gymi entrance exam 2026. Inform yourself now!
Computer science middle school - advantages, suitability and guide 2025
What distinguishes the IMS? What advantages could the student benefit from in the IMS? Where could one attend an IMS? Read more about the topic here.
Why gymnasium? - Is it worth it?
Is attending a gymnasium really that important? Learn more about whether it really pays to attend a gymnasium (grammar school, high school).
Does my child need supplementary courses?
Supplementary courses in English and French at the top of the school report. Good grades are crucial for a successful entrance examination to the Gymnasium.
Education is closely related to personality
Is it really worth acquiring knowledge? Will I become a better person if I am willing to see the world in a differentiated way?
System change - Entrance examination 2023
The Central Entrance Examination for transfer to the Gymnasium in the Canton of Zurich will be uniform for all levels from 2023. (ZAP 1, ZAP2, ZAP3)
The changes affect entry to all secondary schools, including IMS and FMS.
Matura Thesis Guide - Finding a Matura Thesis Topic
Discover comprehensive tips for your Matura paper on Lern-Forum.ch: structure, research, writing techniques. Get your project off to a successful start!
How do I learn best? - The four different learning types
How do I learn best? How many learning types are there? Which learning type am I? Here you can learn how to learn most effectively.
![[Translate to Englisch:] Informationen zur Gymi-Aufnahmeprüfung](/fileadmin/_processed_/c/3/csm_Ferienkurse_Lern-Forum_a7db21c2bf.jpg "[Translate to Englisch:] Informationen zur Gymi-Aufnahmeprüfung")
Information on the 2026 Gymi entrance exam
What is the Gymi exam? When does it take place? Find out more about the 2026 Gymi entrance exam here.
Course start 2025 - also courses on Sundays
Course start 2025, including courses on Sundays: preparatory courses for long-term and short-term grammar school and for BMS, FMS, IMS, HMS are starting.
Traffic light system as a learning strategy
The self-assessment of each learner plays an immense role in their success. But the traffic light system as a learning strategy could be an advantage.
Meet Lern-Forum's team
Our regular taster days give pupils and parents the opportunity to get a first-hand impression of our classrooms and course materials and to get to know us. During a mini-lesson, pupils can gain interesting insights into how a “real” course works. Afterwards, we will be happy to answer any questions you may have.
How do I benefit most from the preparation course?
For many students, our school preparatory courses have already started again. Others will be starting a preparatory course in the coming weeks. The same question arises again and again: How can I benefit most from my preparation course?
Grammar school preparation costs (gymnasium prep costs)
Total cost of gymnasium preparation depends especially on how early the grammar school preparation begins and whether intensive holiday courses are attended.
Multicheck costs: How much does the Multicheck test cost?
How much does the Multicheck cost? Learn how much the Multicheck test costs and what costs may arise during Multicheck preparation here.
Switzerland's dual education system offers opportunities - not for all
The dual education system in Switzerland: an opportunity for some, but not for all: we explain the importance of the dual education system and its advantages.