Question 199 of 350 · Offices, school and social services
When does compulsory schooling begin in the canton of Zurich?
Wann beginnt die obligatorische Schulzeit im Kanton Zürich?
Correct answer: A
Why
In the canton of Zurich, kindergarten is compulsory. So compulsory schooling begins with kindergarten, usually at the age of 4.
Common mistakes
- B: Primary school
- Primary school is already the second stage. Before it come 2 compulsory years of kindergarten.
- C: Playgroup
- Playgroup is voluntary and is not part of compulsory state school.
Topic
State schools in the canton of Zurich
In Switzerland, the cantons and the municipalities are mainly responsible for state schools, not the Confederation. Compulsory school is called Volksschule. It is free of charge. The canton sets the rules and the curriculum. The municipalities organise and pay for the local schools, together with the canton.
Canton and municipality of Zurich · Offices, school and social services
Sources
Official question of the Canton of Zurich (Gemeindeamt, May 2025). Translation and explanation: Swiss Passport.