Wann findet die Aufnahmeprüfung 2027 in Zürich statt?

Date Montag, 8. März 2026

Procedure

Checklist: What do I need to bring with me?

Materials and aids: Candidates should or must bring the following materials to the exam

• Official identification (passport, identity card)
• Writing materials: Fountain pens, ballpoint pens, or felt-tip pens in blue or black ink are permitted. Tipp-Ex and ink erasers are also permitted. Pencils are only permitted for geometry tasks and only where expressly requested.
• Ruler

For the essay in German:

The dictionary used in primary school OR Duden, Volume 1: “Die deutsche Rechtschreibung” (German Spelling)

For the math exam:

• Pencil and eraser (only allowed for geometry tasks and only where expressly requested).
• Protractor and circle.
• Candidates whose native language is not German may use a bilingual dictionary (“native language – German”) in the mathematics section of the exam. This must be indicated in the comments field when registering for the ZAP.

Not permitted:

• Erasable pens. Only pencils are permitted for the individual tasks.
• Candidates are not allowed to bring their own paper. You will receive sheets of paper at the exam.
• Candidates must hand in all their digital devices (mobile phones, smartwatches, etc.) to the invigilator before the exam. Digital devices cannot be used to display the time.

General note on materials

Be sure to bring enough pens that cannot be erased, such as ballpoint pens or felt-tip pens that write in black or blue. You do not need to bring your own paper. You should still bring a pencil and eraser, but you may only use them for certain tasks. Don't forget your compass and ruler.

Catering

You should also bring water or something else to drink. We all know how it is: we get nervous and our mouths get dry. This will prevent you from frantically searching for water. You will also have short breaks, so bring a small snack with you. You don't need to bring anything huge, because you will be finished by 12 noon and can then enjoy your lunch in peace.

How to find us

You should be there about 20-15 minutes before the exam. This gives you enough time to find out exactly where your exam is taking place. If you cannot find the room straight away, you will have enough time to do so. We also recommend that you come by public transport. Choose a connection that arrives early enough so that you have an alternative if a connection is canceled.

Mobile phones, smartwatches, and laptops

Don't wear a smartwatch. If you need a watch, it must be an analog one. Smartwatches and all other electronic devices must be handed in.

The evening before the exam

Important: Prepare yourself in advance using a study plan so that you can go to bed relaxed the night before, knowing that you have already looked at everything that might come up in the exam and that you would be able to solve it. This will give you a feeling of confidence, which is essential in an exam situation. The most important thing for a clear head is sleep. Go to bed early enough the night before the exam so that you are well rested when you take it. Avoid studying late into the night and stressing yourself out.

The exam day

If you feel nervous on the day of the exam or even before, it can help to know some techniques that will calm your nerves. These include meditation, breathing techniques, yoga, and others. If you want to find out more, you can read our blog post on Fear of exams? Some tips to read.

Unable to take the exam (illness)

All those who take the exam are eligible to do so. Illness cannot be claimed after the fact. Failure cannot therefore be excused retrospectively with a doctor's certificate. If the regular ZAP cannot be taken due to a documented reason for prevention, a medical certificate must be submitted within three days so that a re-examination can be taken.

The exam decision

The exam results will be sent by mail. The results can also be viewed online. Schools will schedule the dates for exam review. Students who pass the ZAP (Central Examination Board) but decide to pursue a different educational path must deregister from the school they will not be attending. This must be done within the deadline specified in the admission decision.

When is the exam automatically considered failed?

If a candidate uses unauthorized aids or commits dishonesty during the examination, the examination will be deemed failed.

Sources

• Informationen zur Prüfung 2027 (August 2026)
• Prevention from taking the exam (August 2026)

The post Ablauf der Gymiprüfung in Zürich – Wichtige Infos für den Prüfungstag appeared first on studypeak.

Die Aufnahmeprüfung ist ein klar definiertes Ziel 

Die Aufnahmeprüfung hat einen entscheidenden Vorteil: Man weiss genau, worauf man sich vorbereiten muss. Die Prüfungsfächer sind bekannt, der Stoff ist begrenzt und es gibt zahlreiche Übungsaufgaben sowie Vorbereitungskurse. Viele Schülerinnen und Schüler können sich mehrere Monate gezielt auf diesen einen Termin vorbereiten. 

Die Probezeit dauert Monate 

Im Gegensatz dazu zieht sich die Probezeit über mehrere Monate, ein ganzes Semester lang. Statt einer einzigen Prüfung müssen Schülerinnen und Schüler konstant gute Leistungen erbringen. Jede Prüfung, jede mündliche Mitarbeit und teilweise sogar Hausaufgaben fliessen in die Noten ein. 

Ein schlechter Tag kann passieren. Problematisch wird es jedoch, wenn mehrere schwächere Leistungen zusammenkommen. Während man sich auf eine Aufnahmeprüfung gezielt vorbereiten kann, verlangt die Probezeit dauerhaft Konzentration und Einsatz. 

Das Lerntempo steigt deutlich 

Ein weiterer Unterschied ist das Tempo. Im Gymnasium wird neuer Stoff oft wesentlich schneller behandelt als in der Sekundarschule. Lehrpersonen setzen voraus, dass Inhalte selbstständig nachgearbeitet werden und nicht jedes Detail mehrfach erklärt werden muss. 

Wer den Anschluss einmal verliert, merkt schnell, wie schwierig es ist, wieder aufzuholen. Neue Themen bauen häufig direkt auf den vorherigen auf. Deshalb reicht kurzfristiges Auswendiglernen meist nicht aus. Selbstständigkeit wird hier zur Voraussetzung. Lernzeiten müssen selbst geplant, Prüfungen organisiert und mehrere Fächer gleichzeitig vorbereitet werden.  

Zeitmanagement wird dadurch fast genauso wichtig wie fachliches Können. Wer seine Aufgaben aufschiebt oder den Überblick verliert, gerät schnell unter Druck und schliesslich ins Straucheln. 

Die psychische Belastung ist höher 

Viele unterschätzen auch den mentalen Aspekt der Probezeit. Der Gedanke, dass jede Note entscheidend sein könnte, begleitet Schülerinnen und Schüler über Wochen hinweg. Zusätzlich kommt dazu, dass man vorher vielleicht immer sehr gut in der Schule war, jetzt aber mit vielen anderen, die auch gut waren, in eine Klasse kommt. Das kann zu weniger guten Noten und Frustration führen. Das erzeugt  schliesslich einen konstanten Leistungsdruck, besser zu werden und die Probezeit zu bestehen. 

Nach einer misslungenen Aufnahmeprüfung kann man sich gezielt auf einen zweiten Versuch vorbereiten. Während der Probezeit hingegen läuft der Unterricht weiter. Es bleibt kaum Zeit, Rückschläge zu verarbeiten, bevor bereits die nächste Prüfung ansteht. 

Nicht nur Wissen entscheidet 

Die Probezeit prüft weit mehr als mathematische oder sprachliche Fähigkeiten. Erfolgreich sind oft diejenigen, die regelmässig lernen, organisiert arbeiten und auch in stressigen Phasen ruhig bleiben. 

Diese Kompetenzen lassen sich nicht innerhalb weniger Wochen aufbauen. Sie entstehen durch Gewohnheiten und konsequentes Arbeiten. Genau deshalb scheitern manche Schülerinnen und Schüler trotz bestandener Aufnahmeprüfung an der Probezeit. 

Nachhilfe endet nicht mit der Aufnahmeprüfung 

Viele verbinden Nachhilfe ausschliesslich mit der Vorbereitung auf die Gymnasium-Aufnahmeprüfung. Tatsächlich kann sie aber auch während der Probezeit einen grossen Unterschied machen. Der Unterricht wird anspruchsvoller, das Lerntempo steigt und viele Schülerinnen und Schüler müssen sich erst an die neue Arbeitsweise gewöhnen. 

Nachhilfe dient in dieser Phase oft nicht nur dazu, Wissenslücken zu schliessen. Genauso wichtig sind das Erarbeiten von Lernstrategien, eine bessere Organisation des Schulalltags und die gezielte Vorbereitung auf Prüfungen. Gerade in den ersten Monaten kann eine regelmässige Unterstützung helfen, den Anschluss nicht zu verlieren und Stress zu reduzieren.  

Auch der Kanton Zürich weist darauf hin, dass Gymnasien Schülerinnen und Schüler in der Probezeit zunehmend mit Coaching und Aufgabenhilfen unterstützen, um den Übergang zu erleichtern. Das zeigt, dass Unterstützung nach der Aufnahmeprüfung keineswegs ungewöhnlich ist, sondern ein wichtiger Erfolgsfaktor sein kann.  

Conclusion 

Die Aufnahmeprüfung öffnet zwar die Tür zum Gymnasium, doch die Probezeit entscheidet darüber, ob man dort bestehen kann. Während die Prüfung eine einmalige Leistung verlangt, fordert die Probezeit über Monate hinweg konstante Leistungen, Selbstorganisation und Durchhaltevermögen. 

Wer das Gymnasium erfolgreich absolvieren möchte, sollte die Aufnahmeprüfung deshalb nicht als Endziel betrachten, sondern als ersten Schritt. Der eigentliche Erfolg beginnt erst danach, mit regelmässigem Lernen, guter Planung und der Bereitschaft, sich kontinuierlich weiterzuentwickeln. 

The post Ist die Probezeit im Gymnasium anspruchsvoller als die Aufnahmeprüfung? appeared first on studypeak.

Heute, nachdem ich die Gymiprüfung erfolgreich bestanden habe, weiss ich, welche Dinge mir wirklich geholfen haben und welche Fehler ich im Nachhinein vermeiden würde. Genau diese Erfahrungen möchte ich in diesem Beitrag teilen. 

Meine Ausgangslage 

Ich kann mich noch gut erinnern, ich befand mich in der 6. Klasse. Jedem Schüler war bewusst, dass die Gymiprüfung in 2 Wochen geschrieben wird. Ich war nervös, aber der Fakt, dass ich mich viel vorbereitet habe, hat mir Selbstbewusstsein geschenkt. 2 Wochen vergehen, ich hatte die Prüfung geschrieben, und nach etwa 3 Wochen bekam ich den Brief, der mir mitteilte, dass ich die Gymiprüfung bestanden hatte. Ich war der glücklichste Mensch der Welt. Hier sind meine wichtigsten Erkenntnisse und Tipps, damit du oder dein Kind auch diese Prüfung erfolgreich absolviert. 

Was mir am meisten geholfen hat: 

Vornoten 

Die fast schon wichtigste Eigenschaft, die mitverantwortlich für meinen Erfolg war: meine Vornoten. Die Noten, die ein Kind im letzten Semester der 6. Klasse Primarschule schreibt, fliessen in die Bewertung der Gymiprüfung ein. Man sagt so schön, “It either makes you or breaks you”, und bei Vornoten finde ich diesen Spruch relativ passend. Die Vornoten können entweder eine riesige Stütze sein, bei einer nicht so gut gelaufenen Gymiprüfung, oder eben der Grund sein, warum man sie nicht besteht. 

Alte Prüfungen lösen 

Einer der grössten Vorteile bei der Vorbereitung war für mich das Lösen von alten Gymiprüfungen. Dadurch habe ich nicht nur den Schwierigkeitsgrad besser erfühlen können, sondern auch verstanden, wie die Aufgaben gestellt werden. Nach einigen Übungsprüfungen wusste ich viel besser, worauf die Lehrpersonen Wert legen und welche Themen besonders häufig vorkommen. Ausserdem wurde ich mit jeder gelösten Prüfung sicherer und konnte meine Nervosität deutlich reduzieren. Ich habe mir ebenfalls zeitlich ein Limit gesetzt und eine reale Gymiprüfung simuliert. 

Regelmässig statt kurzfristig lernen 

Zu Beginn dachte ich, dass ich kurz vor der Prüfung einfach intensiver lernen könnte. Zum Glück hat meine Mutter mir den sehr schlauen Rat gegeben, dass es viel effektiver ist, mehrmals pro Woche für eine überschaubare Zeit zu lernen. Das tat ich und so blieb der Stoff besser im Gedächtnis und ich musste kurz vor der Prüfung nicht alles auf einmal wiederholen. Kontinuität war für mich deutlich wichtiger als einzelne lange Lerntage. 

 Fehler analysieren 

Nach jeder Übungsprüfung habe ich mir genau angeschaut, welche Aufgaben ich falsch gelöst hatte. Anfangs war ich enttäuscht über meine Fehler, später habe ich gemerkt, dass genau diese Fehler meine grösste Lernchance waren. Ich versuchte zu verstehen, warum ich etwas falsch gemacht hatte, und löste ähnliche Aufgaben noch einmal. Dadurch machte ich dieselben Fehler immer seltener. 

 Einen Lernplan erstellen 

Ein Lernplan hat mir geholfen, den Überblick zu behalten. Statt jeden Tag spontan zu entscheiden, was ich lernen möchte, wusste ich bereits im Voraus, welches Thema anstand. Das nahm mir viel Stress und sorgte dafür, dass ich alle Themen rechtzeitig wiederholen konnte. Gleichzeitig blieb genügend Zeit für Pausen und Freizeit. 

 Nachhilfe gezielt nutzen 

Nicht jedes Thema verstand ich sofort. Anstatt stundenlang allein zu versuchen, eine Lösung zu finden, holte ich mir bei schwierigen Themen Unterstützung. Die Nachhilfe half mir nicht nur dabei, Wissenslücken zu schliessen, sondern erklärte viele Inhalte einfacher und verständlicher, als ich sie allein verstanden hätte. Dadurch gewann ich schnell mehr Sicherheit. 

 Den Prüfungstag nicht unterschätzen 

Die Vorbereitung ist wichtig, aber auch der Prüfungstag selbst spielt eine grosse Rolle. Ich habe darauf geachtet, am Vorabend genügend zu schlafen und morgens ausreichend Zeit zu haben. Während der Prüfung begann ich mit den Aufgaben, die mir leichtfielen. Das gab mir Selbstvertrauen und verhinderte, dass ich gleich zu Beginn in Stress geriet. 

 Disziplin über Motivation 

Fleiss gehört bei der Vorbereitung auf die Gymiprüfung unbedingt dazu. Schlussendlich bringen diese Punkte nicht viel, wenn man nicht bereit ist, regelmässig Arbeit zu investieren. Es gab während meiner Vorbereitung viele Tage, an denen ich überhaupt keine Lust hatte, Mathematik zu üben oder einen Aufsatz zu schreiben. Gerade an solchen Tagen war es besonders wichtig, trotzdem anzufangen. 

Ich habe dabei gelernt, dass Motivation nicht zuverlässig ist. Manchmal war ich sehr motiviert und konnte lange konzentriert lernen. An anderen Tagen fiel mir schon der erste Schritt schwer. Hätte ich immer darauf gewartet, motiviert zu sein, wäre ich mit meiner Vorbereitung wahrscheinlich nicht weit gekommen. Deshalb half mir eine feste Lernroutine. Ich wusste im Voraus, an welchen Tagen und wie lange ich lernen wollte. Dadurch musste ich nicht jedes Mal neu entscheiden, ob ich heute Lust darauf hatte. 

Disziplin bedeutet für mich nicht, jeden Tag stundenlang zu lernen oder nie eine Pause zu machen. Es bedeutet vielmehr, auch an schwierigen Tagen zumindest einen kleinen Teil der geplanten Arbeit zu erledigen. Manchmal waren das nur zwanzig Minuten oder einige wenige Aufgaben. Trotzdem blieb ich dadurch im Rhythmus und verlor nicht den Anschluss. 

Conclusion

Rückblickend war diese Regelmässigkeit einer der wichtigsten Gründe, warum ich die Gymiprüfung bestanden habe. Motivation kann den Anfang erleichtern, aber Disziplin sorgt dafür, dass man langfristig dranbleibt. Mein wichtigster Tipp lautet deshalb: Warte nicht auf den perfekten Moment. Fang mit einer kleinen Aufgabe an und arbeite Schritt für Schritt weiter. 

Wenn du wissen möchtest, wie du ohne Motivation lernen kannst, dann entdecke jetzt unseren Blogbeitrag zu diesem Thema: Motivation: Wie man sie nicht dem Zufall überlässt.

The post Wie ich die Gymiprüfung bestanden habe – meine 7 wichtigsten Erkenntnise appeared first on studypeak.

The aim of the reform is clear: greater equality of opportunity and a better distribution of pupils across different schools. However, not everyone welcomes the change, and many parents and young people are now asking themselves: what does this mean for me in concrete terms?

Long-term and short-term high school: What is the difference?

Until now, there were two ways to enter high school in the canton of Zurich:

• Long-term secondary school: Entry after the 6th grade of primary school, lasts 6 years until graduation.
• Short-term high school: Entry after the 3rd year of secondary school, lasts 4 years until graduation.

Some well-known schools (such as the Literargymnasium Rämibühl) were previously exclusively long-term secondary schools. Secondary school students were not able to apply there at all.

That is now changing. From 2029, all secondary schools in Zurich will also offer a short-term Gymnasium program, so that all young people will have the same choice of schools, regardless of whether they come directly from primary school or from secondary school (click here for the official announcement from the Canton of Zurich).

Why is the system being changed?

There are two main reasons for introducing the short high school program at all schools:

• Uneven utilization: In the cities of Zurich and Winterthur, some short-term high schools are bursting at the seams, while some long-term high schools still have places available.
  More fairness: Until now, the chance of getting a place at a high school often depended on where you lived. Those who lived near a long-term high school had to travel long distances after secondary school to find a suitable school.

The new regulations are intended to eliminate these differences. In future, students should have the same opportunities everywhere.

Differences in the curriculum and how they should be balanced

An important aspect of the reform concerns the level of performance. As reported by the Tages-Anzeiger newspaper, there are differences in the curriculum between long and short high schools, particularly in German, mathematics, and French.

To ensure a smooth transition for secondary school students, the canton is planning support courses in these subjects. These courses are designed to help fill gaps in knowledge and ensure that all young people with similar backgrounds can start high school on an equal footing.

These measures are also intended to break down prejudices, such as the idea that secondary school students are fundamentally weaker. In fact, many studies show that many young people only realize their potential in secondary school, when they develop more independence and motivation to learn.

Criticism: "Zurich is dismantling its elite high schools"?

Despite the positive goals, there are also critical voices. In the NZZ and on Inside Paradeplatz, some teachers and parents describe the reform as "the abolition of elite high schools." They fear that standards could fall if more students with different levels of prior knowledge are placed in the same classes in the future.

Others, however, expressly welcome the change. They see it as an important step toward greater permeability in the school system. After all, there are many young people who were not yet ready for the long-term secondary school program in primary school but who develop very positively in secondary school.

Studies show that children from educated families are more likely to transfer to the long-term high school. The short-term high school is therefore often seen as a second chance, which should now finally be open to everyone equally.

What does this mean for students?

For secondary school students, the reform primarily means more freedom. Starting in 2029, they will be able to apply to any secondary school regardless of the type of school, including those that were previously only long-term grammar schools.

This takes some pressure off the system because applications are spread out more evenly. At the same time, the challenge of preparing well for the transition remains. The requirements for high school entrance exams and starting in the short high school program remain high.

This makes targeted preparation all the more important, especially in the core subjects of German, mathematics, and French. Those who start preparing for the high school entrance exam early on can go into the admission process with confidence. At studypeak, you will find learning materials, exercises, and preparation courses specifically designed for both variants.

Implications for parents: What to consider

For parents, the reform initially means more options, but also new decisions. If all middle schools offer both types of high school, location becomes less important. Instead, other questions come to the fore:

• Which profile (language, math, music) best suits the child?
• Should the transition take place immediately after primary school or only after secondary school?
• How can I support my child in a targeted manner without overwhelming them?

The canton of Zurich emphasizes that both paths to the Maturity Certificate will remain equivalent in the future. The aim is not to standardize students, but to ensure fair access opportunities for all.

What is changing for schools

For the schools themselves, the reform is a major organizational step. Existing long-term high schools must introduce new classes, timetables, and admission processes for secondary school students. The canton is planning a transition phase lasting several years in order to implement the change carefully.

Many teachers also see this as an opportunity: mixing primary and secondary school students could give rise to new forms of learning and teaching models, for example through more targeted support and more team teaching.

Conclusion: A reform with great potential

The Zurich high school reform is a milestone for the education system and is also sparking debate. It aims to make access to high school more equitable, reduce pressure to perform, and give young people more paths to a high school diploma.

Whether it achieves this goal depends on how well schools, teachers, and parents support the transition.

However, with good preparation, motivation, and support, there is a good chance that the reform will be a real win for everyone involved.

If you want to prepare yourself optimally for high school, whether long-term or short-term, studypeak is the right place for you. Prepare yourself optimally and try out the training area for the high school entrance exam completely free of charge.

Sources

• https://www.tagesanzeiger.ch/zuerich-langgymnasien-muessen-ab-2029-sekundarschueler-aufnehmen-228401688319
• https://www.zh.ch/de/news-uebersicht/medienmitteilungen/2025/10/kanton-zuerich-fuehrt-an-allen-mittelschulen-das-kurzgymnasium-ein.html
• https://www.nzz.ch/zuerich/kurzgymnasien-ueberall-der-entscheid-in-zuerich-wird-bereits-heftig-kritisiert-ld.1908395
• https://insideparadeplatz.ch/2025/10/23/zuerich-schleift-seine-elite-gymis/

The post Änderung beim Gymnasium-Zugang im Kanton Zürich: Was bedeuten die Reformen? appeared first on studypeak.

There is now a free trial version with which you can try out the platform without obligation. The trial course shows you key math and German topics and is ideal for getting to know studypeak.

Why a gym preparation with studypeak?

studypeak's grammar school preparation was specially developed for pupils who want to optimally prepare for the entrance exam for long-term or short-term grammar schools. Instead of working through boring exercise sheets, children learn digitally, interactively and systematically, step by step and with immediate feedback.

That's what makes studypeak special:

• Structured learning path: The topics are clearly structured and follow the syllabus, ideal for preparing for all important parts of the exam.
• Motivating exercise concept: Varied quizzes and tasks make learning noticeably more fun.
• Direct feedback: Every answer is evaluated immediately, so students can see where they still need to practice and where they are already confident.
• Flexible & location-independent: Whether on a laptop or tablet, studypeak can be used anywhere, without any additional effort.

This creates a learning process that is both efficient and child-friendly, while at the same time giving parents the certainty that their child is receiving targeted training.

Now new: the free test area

You can now test the studypeak training area for free. Students can get a real insight into the learning platform, including selected theory blocks and quizzes, without registration or obligation.

Content from both Gymi programs is available in the free area:

• Short-term Gymnasium
• Long-term Gymnasium

This allows students to get started straight away and try out how learning with studypeak works. The trial course covers key topics in mathematics and German lessons. This allows you to realistically test the structure of the program, completely free of charge and risk-free.

What awaits you in the free trial area

The free test area gives you access to selected content from the long-term and short-term gymnasium training. This allows you to experience the structure and type of exercises for yourself. There is at least one quiz for each topic so that you get a good feel for how the exam is structured and can practice specifically at the same time.

Short-term gymi

• Mathematics: numbers and arithmetic, introduction to variables and algebra, text problems, probability, diagrams, percentages, discounts and currency conversion, and geometry
• German: text comprehension, vocabulary, grammar, and essay

Long-term gym:

• Mathematics: basic operations, proportionality and rule of three, equations, combinatorics, geometry, and imagination
• German: grammar, spelling, vocabulary, text comprehension, and essay

All tasks are interactive and give you immediate feedback as to whether your answer is correct. This way, you can immediately see where you are already confident and what you can still practise.

Conclusion: Start for free and experience gym preparation

The free trial course is the perfect opportunity to try out studypeak without obligation. Students get a realistic insight into the structure, the exercises and the feedback system, just like in the full course.

So you can see for yourself how motivating and effective digital gym preparation is.

Test now for free and take the first step towards Gymi success!

The post Teste jetzt gratis die Gymivorbereitung von studypeak appeared first on studypeak.

General requirements for the Gymnasium entrance exam

To pass the Gymnasium entrance exam, there are some basic requirements that you should fulfill. These can be divided into three important areas: your subject knowledge, your methodological skills and your personal qualities. If you are well positioned in these areas, you have a good chance of passing the exam and making the transition to the Gymnasium.

Technical requirements

You should have a good knowledge of the most important subjects such as German, mathematics and a foreign language such as French. This means, for example, that you have a good command of spelling, grammar and understanding texts. In mathematics, you should be able to do basic arithmetic and solve simple problems well. This specialist knowledge is the basis for many tasks in the exam.

Methodological skills

It is also important that you learn how to approach tasks correctly. You should understand exactly what is being asked and be able to write down your answers in a clear and structured way. It is also important that you manage your time well during the exam and stay focused. These skills will help you to pass the exam successfully.

Personal characteristics

Finally, you should also work on your personal strengths. Exams can sometimes be stressful - so perseverance, calmness and self-confidence are very important. If you are motivated and believe in yourself, you will be able to cope well with difficult tasks and stay focused even under pressure.

Requirements by subject

The Gymnasium entrance exam primarily tests your knowledge and skills in math and German. Below you can find out what is expected of you in both subjects.

German

In German, you should above all show that you understand texts well and can read them correctly. You will have to answer questions about short texts and sometimes write short texts yourself. It is important that you have a good command of spelling, grammar and punctuation. Your expression and your ability to express yourself clearly and comprehensibly also play a major role.

Mathematics

Mathematics tests basic knowledge that you will need in everyday life and at school. This includes, for example, basic arithmetic operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division), fractions, percentages and simple geometry. You should also be able to understand and logically solve text problems. Mathematical thinking and working accurately are very important here.

Which students have the best chance of passing the Gymnasium entrance exam?

You're probably wondering which students have a particularly good chance of passing the Gymnasium entrance exam. Basically, it's those who prepare well, practise regularly and are able to organize themselves well. If you are confident in the most important subjects and know how to approach tasks step by step, you are on the right track.

Your attitude also plays a major role: if you stay motivated, believe in yourself and can deal with setbacks, you have a better chance of being successful. As already mentioned, concentration, stamina and the ability to remain calm are also important in order to master the exam with confidence.

In short: with good specialist knowledge, methodical work and a positive attitude, you too can successfully pass the Gymnasium entrance exam!

How to optimally prepare for the Gymnasium entrance exam

Good preparation is the be-all and end-all if you want to pass the Gymnasium entrance exam successfully. It's best to start strengthening your strengths and working on your weaknesses early on. Practice the most important topics in German and math regularly. It is also important that you learn to understand exam questions correctly and work on them systematically.

Use different learning methods: For example, you can solve exercises, go through sample exams and have difficult topics explained to you again in detail. This will give you confidence in dealing with the exam format and reduce stress.

On Studypeak, you will find a special Gymnasium entrance exam preparation program that provides you with targeted support. There are learning videos, exercises and exam simulations that are precisely tailored to the requirements of the Gymnasium entrance exam. If you are looking for even more individual support, our experienced tutors will be happy to help you. They offer on-site Gymnasium entrance exam preparation courses in Zurich and Küsnacht to prepare you specifically and personally for the exam.

Conclusion

The requirements for the Gymnasium entrance exam are varied and go beyond pure subject knowledge. In order to successfully make the transition to the Gymnasium, you should not only be well prepared in German and mathematics, but also have methodological skills and personal strengths.

With a good dose of motivation, regular practice and the right preparation, you can go into the exam with confidence and significantly increase your chances of success.

The post Anforderungen Gymiprüfung: Was muss ein Primarschüler für den Übertritt ans Gymi können? appeared first on studypeak.

Duration You have 90 minutes. 

Length You should write about 1.5-2 pages.

What types of essays are there in the Gymnasium exam?

• Narrative You act as the narrator and develop a story with a clear structure. This means you write a beginning, a middle, and an end. The aim is to create suspense and interesting characters. The story should follow a common thread.
• Description You describe people, places, or events in as much detail as possible. The aim is to give the reader a vivid and accurate picture by appealing to different senses. You use language that is rich in adjectives.
• Report This essay is similar to a newspaper article or a non-fiction book. You provide factual and objective information about an event or topic without expressing your personal opinion or judgment.
• Argumentation An argument is a type of text that aims to present a specific thesis or opinion on a topic in a convincing manner. It is supported by logical arguments that are backed up with examples, evidence, or quotations.

Typical essay topics for the Gymnasium entrance exam

You will receive either a detailed assignment, a picture, or a text as the basis for your essay. To give you an idea of what the assignment will look like, we have listed some typical essay topics here. These assignments are from the 2023 Zurich short-term Gymnasium entrance exam: 

Topic 1 Waste and recycling
What does the picture show about how we deal with waste and recycling? Discuss
possible problems and opportunities and summarize your opinion at the end.

Image: Paul Langrock/Zenit/laif

Topic 2: Away from home
Describe a situation in which you spent the night alone in an unfamiliar environment without your family.
Make it clear what you were feeling when you were away from home at night.

Topic 3: Changing Switzerland
What would you change in Switzerland? In the main section, explain a specific idea and describe what you hope to achieve with it.

Topic 4: A promise is a promise
Explain exactly what a promise is. In the main part, use an appropriate example to argue and explain
whether, in your opinion, a promise can be broken in a particular situation or not.

Tips for preparing for the essay

1. Read the topic carefully and pay close attention to the task.
2. Then think about a rough outline: What do you want to say in the introduction? What arguments or examples will you use in the main part? And how will you round off your essay in the conclusion?
3. Practice makes perfect – so write sample essays regularly. Have other people read them and give you feedback. This will help you identify what you are already good at and where you can improve.
4. Also, create a study plan for writing essays. Familiarize yourself with the different types of texts and practice with short tests and exercises.

You can also learn all this with our preparatory course for the entrance to the short-term Gymnasium. We will show you step by step how to structure a successful essay, which types of texts are written in which styles, and what you need to pay particular attention to when writing. You will also learn what makes a good paragraph and what typical mistakes you should avoid. In addition, we will review all the important grammar and theory you need for the language exam.

Tips for a good essay

• Divide your essay into an introduction, main body, and conclusion: An essay always consists of an introduction that introduces the topic, a main body that elaborates on the topic in detail, and a conclusion that summarizes and rounds off the topic.
• Make meaningful paragraphs and transitions: Each paragraph should contain a clear thought. Use transitions and connecting words to ensure a flowing text.
• Create a “common thread”: The text should have a logical connection throughout, with each section building on the previous one in a meaningful way without straying from the topic.
• Pay attention to chronological or logical sequences: In a narrative, the text often follows a chronological sequence, while reports and descriptions follow logical structures (e.g., from general to specific).
• Stick to the text type: Make sure you adhere to the characteristics of the respective text type—narratives are story-like and exciting, reports are factual and objective.

Sample essay for the Gymnasium entrance exam

We have written a sample essay on topic 4:

A promise is an integral part of our social fabric. It expresses trust, reliability, and a sense of responsibility. But even though a promise is binding, there are situations in which one might ask: Must a promise really be kept under all circumstances? In the following, I would like to explain what a promise is and use three arguments to illustrate when and why it may be broken under certain circumstances.

A promise is a voluntary commitment. When you make a promise, you signal to the other person that you are reliable. Trust is the foundation of every relationship, and promises help to strengthen that trust. That is why promises should always be taken seriously and kept. Nevertheless, there are situations in which circumstances change drastically. A promise that made sense at one moment may have negative consequences later on. For example, if someone asks for confidentiality, but this puts themselves or others at risk. In such cases, it may be morally imperative to break the original promise in order to prevent greater harm. In extreme situations, the welfare of people must take precedence over the obligation of a promise. If keeping a promise would put someone in serious danger, then it is more responsible to break the promise. Responsibility means not only thinking about one's own honor, but also about the consequences of one's actions for others.

A promise is an important symbol of trust and should not be made or broken lightly. However, there are situations in which breaking a promise is right and necessary, namely when the well-being and safety of people are at stake. Ultimately, true responsibility is demonstrated not only by keeping promises, but also by making wise and compassionate decisions in difficult cases.

Why is this text good?

• Topic reference: The text clearly focuses on the topic of “promises” and the question of whether they can be broken.
• Relevance: The statements are factual, correct and thematically relevant.
• Coherence: There is a clear common thread from the introduction through three arguments to the conclusion.
• Text pattern: The text form of an argumentative discussion is correctly implemented.
• Clarity: The text uses understandable examples that bring the topic to life.
• Grammar & Spelling: No errors in spelling or grammar.
• Punctuation: Punctuation is correct and supports the flow of reading.
• Word choice: Appropriate, precise, in places even stylistically appealing.
• Sentence structure: Varied sentence structures, no monotonous flow of language.
• Linguistic devices: Occasional rhetorical questions and contrasts that make the topic more exciting.

Conclusion

A good essay needs more than just a good idea; it thrives on structure, linguistic precision, and clear expression. This blog article provides a concise overview of what matters in the Gymnasium entrance exam: confident knowledge of essay types, adherence to formal rules, and targeted practice. With practical tips and examples, you will be optimally prepared for the exam and get the most out of the essay section.

The post Aufsatzthemen Kurzzeitgymiprüfung: Beispiele & Tipps zur Vorbereitung appeared first on studypeak.

Duration You have 60 minutes. 

Length You should write about 1.5-2 pages.

What types of essays are there in the Gymnasium exam?

• Narrative You act as the narrator and develop a story with a clear structure. This means you write a beginning, a middle, and an end. The aim is to create suspense and interesting characters. The story should follow a common thread.
• Description You describe people, places or events in as much detail as possible. The aim is to give the reader a vivid and accurate picture by appealing to different senses. You use language that is rich in adjectives. There are different types of descriptions: Description of a people, animals, objects, processes/events, the environment, snd routes.
• Report This essay is similar to a newspaper article or a non-fiction book. You provide factual and objective information about an event or topic without expressing your personal opinion or judgment.
• Letter The letter follows a clear structure with a salutation, main body, and conclusion, with the tone varying depending on the recipient. This means that if you have a personal relationship with the recipient, the letter will be written differently than if you are writing a formal letter. For example, the salutation will vary (from “Dear Sister” to “Dear Ms. Elster”).

Typical essay topics for the Gymnasium entrance exam

To give you an idea of what the tasks will be like, we have listed some typical essay topics here. These tasks are taken from the 2023 Zurich long-term Gymnasium exam: 

Topic 1

1. Confusingly similar

Two identical objects were mixed up. Tell us how this mix-up happened and what the consequences were. The story should be something that could happen in our world.

Take over the title. Tell the story in the past tense.

Topic 2

2. “That was a complete waste of money!”

Tell a story in which a person says or thinks the following sentence: “That was a complete waste of money!” The story must make it clear why money was spent on something and why it was regretted afterwards.

Take over the title. Tell the story in the past tense.

Topic 3

3. …

When a woman came home from work, she found a wild boar on the sofa in her living room. Reports for a newspaper about how this situation came about and what happened next.

Decide on the place and time of the event yourself. Report in the past tense and not in the first person.

Tips for preparing for the essay

1. Read the topic carefully. Pay close attention to the task.
2. Try to make a rough outline on the topic. What will you write in the introduction? In the main part? In the conclusion?
3. Write practice essays as often as possible and have them read and corrected by others.
4. Make a learning plan on the subject of essays. Get to know each individual type of text and practise with quizzes and tasks.

You can learn this with our German course for the entrance to the long-term Gymnasium. In this course, you will learn from scratch how essays are structured, which types of texts need to be written and how, what a paragraph is, and where the pitfalls of essays lie. You will also learn all the important grammar and theory that you will need to apply in the language exam.

Tips for a good essay

• Divide your essay into an introduction, main body, and conclusion: An essay always consists of an introduction that introduces the topic, a main body that elaborates on the topic in detail, and a conclusion that summarizes and rounds off the topic.
• Make meaningful paragraphs and transitions: Each paragraph should contain a clear thought. Use transitions and connecting words to ensure a flowing text.
• Create a “common thread”: The text should have a logical connection throughout, with each section building on the previous one in a meaningful way without straying from the topic.
• Pay attention to chronological or logical sequences: In a narrative, the text often follows a chronological sequence, while reports and descriptions follow logical structures (e.g., from general to specific).
• Stick to the text type: Make sure you adhere to the characteristics of the respective text type—narratives are story-like and exciting, reports are factual and objective.

Sample essay for the Gymnasium entrance exam

We have written a sample essay on topic 1:

Sometimes it's the smallest lapses in concentration that can have major consequences. A brief distraction, reaching for the wrong bag – and suddenly your day takes an unexpected turn. That's what happened to Jonas, a 28-year-old IT consultant from Zurich, who experienced a momentous mix-up on what seemed like a perfectly normal morning. Two identical-looking bags were swapped, a minor detail, you might think, but the consequences were anything but harmless.

It began like any other workday. Jonas left his third-floor apartment while reading an email on his smartphone. In the hallway outside the door, two black laptop bags were sitting on the dresser—one of them was his. He didn't notice that his neighbor, Ms. Meier, a lawyer, had just put her bag there. Without looking too closely, Jonas grabbed what he thought was his bag and hurried to the tram. When he arrived at the office, he wanted to start his presentation right away. However, when he opened the bag, he paused. Instead of his laptop, he found legal literature, an appointment calendar, and documents labeled “Confidential – Meier v. City of Zurich.” At first, he thought he had packed the wrong bag, but a quick glance at the embroidered name tag left no doubt: this bag belonged to Ms. Meier.

Jonas began to panic. The documents were obviously important and highly confidential. At the same time, his own bag, containing his laptop and work files, had disappeared. He immediately called Ms. Meier, whose number he fortunately had from the property management company. The lawyer was initially surprised, then shocked. She hadn't noticed the mistake herself and was on her way to a court appointment. After a quick meeting at the train station, they exchanged bags. Ms. Meier arrived at the court ten minutes late but was still able to make her appointment. Jonas, on the other hand, got off lightly: his work was saved and his laptop was undamaged. Nevertheless, he felt how much the situation had upset him.

This little mix-up had a big impact on Jonas: it opened his eyes to the importance of mindfulness in everyday life. From then on, he paid closer attention to details, not just with bags, but also with decisions, encounters, and processes. The incident remained a reminder to him that even if two things look confusingly similar, their contents can be worlds apart.

Why is this text good?

• The text has a clear structure (introduction, main part, conclusion).
• The essay has a clear thread running through it, because each action builds on the previous one:
  Jonas confuses the bag → realizes this in the office → contacts Ms. Meier → exchange → consequence.
• The story is believable and realistic: an apartment building, identical bags, a mix-up due to carelessness—these things can happen in everyday life. The characters' reactions also seem realistic: first confusion, then concern, then a quick solution.
• The text is written in the past tense, as required in the task.
• There are vivid descriptions that stimulate the imagination without being exaggerated or cheesy.
• This makes the story not only entertaining, but also educational, which is often rated positively in narrative essays.

Conclusion

A good essay is more than just a creative idea; it thrives on a clear structure, linguistic precision, and the ability to convey a story or topic in an understandable and exciting way. This blog article clearly shows what is important in the Gymnasium entrance exam: confident mastery of the different types of essays, adherence to formal requirements and targeted practice with typical tasks.

Concrete tips for preparation and a clear example illustrate how to approach writing systematically in order to achieve the highest possible score in the exam. If you follow these tips and practice regularly, you will be well equipped to impress in the essay section of the Gymnasium entrance exam.

The post Aufsatzthemen Langzeitgymiprüfung: Beispiele & Tipps zur Vorbereitung appeared first on studypeak.

How many passed the entrance exam for the long-term Gymnasium (academic high school)?

Im Jahr 2025 wurden insgesamt 4’562 Schüler und Schülerinnen geprüft. Bestanden haben die Aufnahmeprüfung 2’443 Personen. Das heisst, dass 53,6% der Prüflinge die Gymiprüfung 2025 ins Langzeitgymnasium erfolgreich bestanden haben. Im Vergleich zum Vorjahr, wo die Quote 53,2 Prozent betrug, ist die Quote ganz leicht gestiegen.

Wie viele haben die Gymiprüfung ins Kurzzeitgymnasium bestanden?

Insgesamt 4’133 Personen haben sich für die Prüfung angemeldet und daran teilgenommen. Bestanden haben davon 1’644 Personen. Das macht einen Prozentsatz von 40.9%, welche die Prüfung erfolgreich abgeschlossen haben. Im Vergleich zum Vorjahr, wo die Quote 41.1 Prozent betrug, ist die Quote leicht gesunken.

Wie viele haben insgesamt die Gymiprüfung 2025 bestanden?

Es haben insgesamt 8’695 Schülerinnen und Schüler an der Gymiprüfung im Kanton Zürich teilgenommen, wobei 4’087 von ihnen bestanden haben. Die Quote, die Gymiprüfung zu bestehen, lag im Jahr 2025 demnach bei 47.00 Prozent. Dies zeigt eine Verschlechterung im Vergleich zum Vorjahr, wo die Quote noch bei 47,49 Prozent lag.

What does that mean for me now?

Um die Wahrscheinlichkeit zu erhöhen, unter diesen zu sein, die die Aufnahmeprüfung bestehen, musst du dich gut auf die Prüfung vorbereiten. Die Aufnahmeprüfung und vor allem die Vorbereitung darauf sind nicht auf die leichte Schulter zu nehmen. Mittels Online-Kursen, Kursen vor Ort oder Nachhilfe kannst du dich ideal auf die Prüfung vorbereiten und lernen, wie du Prüfungssituationen gut meistern kannst.

Tips for preparation

To increase your chances of successfully participating in the exam, targeted preparation is essential. Here are some proven tips:

• Frühzeitig beginnen: Beginne mindestens sechs Monate vor der Prüfung mit der gezielten Vorbereitung, um ausreichend Zeit für alle Themen zu haben.
• Strukturierter Lernplan: Erstelle einen realistischen Lernplan, der alle relevanten Fächer (Mathematik, Deutsch, eventuell Französisch) abdeckt.
• Prüfungssimulationen: Regelmässige Bearbeitungen alter Prüfungsaufgaben helfen dir, mit der Prüfungssituation vertraut zu werden. Löse auch Prüfungssimulationen, um den Zeitdruck kennenzulernen.
  Nachhilfe und Online-Kurse: Falls du Schwierigkeiten hast, kann professionelle Nachhilfe oder ein Online-Kurs gezielt helfen.
• Effektive Lernmethoden: Nutze Techniken wie Mindmaps, Karteikarten und aktives Wiederholen, um dein Wissen nachhaltig zu festigen.
• Ruhe und Erholung: Achte darauf, regelmässig Pausen einzulegen und ausreichend zu schlafen, besonders in den letzten Tagen vor der Prüfung.

Conclusion

Die Gymiprüfung ist eine Herausforderung, aber mit der richtigen Vorbereitung durchaus machbar. Die Erfolgsquote zeigt, dass es viele Schüler und Schülerinnen schaffen können. Mit einem strukturierten Lernplan, regelmässigem Übungstraining und gezielter Unterstützung kannst auch du deine Chancen erheblich verbessern.

Sources:

Canton of Zurich. Facts and figures in education. Statistics on the central entrance exam (October 2025)

The post Wie viele haben die Gymiprüfung 2025 bestanden? – Die Resultate 2025 appeared first on studypeak.

Registration window 2026

You can register for the ZAP from January 1, 2026 to February 10, 2026.

Please note: The Kunst und Sport (K+S) Gymnasium Rämibühl has different deadlines: There you can apply from January 1, 2026 until January 15, 2026 can register.

Requirements

You can register for the central entrance examination (ZAP) for a long-term Gymnasium if you

• you are in 6th class
• were born after July 15, 2011 (for admission to the 2026/27 school year)

Required documents

You must submit the report card from the 6th grade, 1st semester (fall semester, or the report card you receive in January).

Registration fee

The registration fee is 50 Swiss francs per school year, which is non-refundable. Even if you register multiple times per school year, you only have to pay the 50 Swiss francs once.

Registration is free for candidates who can transfer to a Maturity school without taking an exam. You can find the conditions required for a transfer without an exam under All exceptions for the ZAP summarized.

Registration portal

You can find the registration portal here.

It should be noted that candidates must re-register for the ZAP every year.

Preliminary work and finalizing the application

If you want to submit your previous qualifications to the ZAP, you must upload your January report card when registering. Without the report card, the registration remains provisional and cannot be completed. The data is stored and visible to the selected school. Only after uploading the report card can the exam fee be paid and the registration finalized.

Note: Since the deadline for K+S Gymnasium is January 15, the report card can still be uploaded after the final registration.

Sources

• Information on the entrance examination (August 2025)
• Registration portal for the long-term Gymnasium (August 2025)

The post Die Anmeldung zur ZAP ins Langgymnasium – Eine Übersicht appeared first on studypeak.