Applying for Swiss citizenship - tips for success in the Swiss citizenship test!
If you are already familiar with the subject, you may know that Swiss citizenship applicants must, among other things, have knowledge of one of the four Swiss national languages in order to be successful in their application. This is stipulated by federal law. The details are determined by the cantons, and testing is carried out by test providers, who are in turn commissioned by the local authorities. We will help you to achieve your language goals in German, French or Italian!
What language level is required for the Swiss citizenship test?
The language test consists of written and oral sections. In the written part, an A2 level and in the oral part a B1 level on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) must be achieved to pass the test.
Language level A2
You understand everyday expressions and sentences, can introduce yourself and answer questions about yourself. You can communicate in a simple way if your conversation partner speaks slowly and clearly.
Language level B1
You can understand the main ideas of conversations on familiar topics and can talk coherently about work, leisure, school and similar familiar matters. You are also able to talk about past experiences and to express abstract ideas in short sentences.
Important: If you already have the B1 language certificate, you do not need to take the written part of the exam. You only have to take the oral part of the exam at the local council office.
Reach your goals faster with the support of an experienced and qualified teacher. Set up a personalised roadmap with a nativespeakers.ch teacher, who will keep you on track to improve your language to the required level to obtain Swiss citizenship. Book a no-obligation trial lesson now.
What does the Swiss citizenship test look like in detail?
As mentioned above, the language test consists of a written and an oral part. It covers four areas: Listening (listening to short texts and answering questions about them), Reading (reading short texts and answering questions about them), Writing (writing a short text) and Speaking (holding a conversation about a current topic with the examiners or even other candidates).
Can I repeat the test?
You can retake the language test for Swiss citizenship twice. If you do not pass after the third attempt, you will have to wait a few years to try again. If you use aids in the written part or make any other attempt to cheat, you will be prevented from taking the oral examination and the written part will be declared invalid. If you do not come on time, you will have to make a new appointment.
Do I have to know Swiss German for the German language test?
Standard High German is tested in the written part, and you can choose between Swiss German and Standard High German in the oral part. This is conducted by two examiners, at least one of whom speaks Swiss German.
What is the best way to prepare for the Swiss citizenship test?
It is already very helpful that you are familiar with the above-mentioned structure of the test. Our teachers are very familiar with the test and will also help to ensure that you can complete the exercises in the time allowed. In the lessons, we make sure you know exactly what to expect when you take the language test.
If you already speak one of the national languages, we will test your level. This is usually done in 1-2 lessons. After that, we build on your knowledge until you have reached the required language level.
In order to reach the required level for the Swiss citizenship test, about 15-30 hours of lessons are necessary, although the length of time depends very much on your current level and on how quickly you make progress. People with no knowledge of German, French or Italian are also very welcome to embark on a somewhat longer language journey with nativespeakers.ch. We will tailor the lessons to your needs.
We look forward to helping you with the language aspect of your citizenship!
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