Adult education in accordance with Art. 32 BBV: Target group and procedure for the final examination

The adult apprenticeship in accordance with Art. 32 BBV enables people with several years of professional experience to obtain the Federal VET Diploma or Federal VET Certificate - even without a traditional apprenticeship. As a rule, at least five years of professional experience (two to four of which must be in the desired field) and proof of theoretical knowledge are required. Preparation can take place via school, courses or self-study. The path to the examination leads via the cantonal vocational training office, which checks whether admission to the qualification procedure (QV) is granted.

Adult apprenticeships according to Art. 32 BBV: Who can complete them and how does the path to a vocational qualification work?

Adult apprenticeships in accordance with Art. 32 BBV are a popular way for adults to obtain a Federal VET Diploma or Federal VET Certificate - without a traditional apprenticeship contract. Many people ask themselves the same question: Who is actually eligible?

Below you will find a clear, understandable overview.

People who have gained their professional experience "on the job" - i.e. as unskilled employees - can catch up on their professional qualification via Art. 32.

The most important requirements:

  • At least five years of professional experience at the time of the examination
  • Of which two to four years in the desired occupational field (varies depending on the profession)
  • Part-time work is counted proportionately
  • Auxiliary activities are only recognized to a very limited extent

This is to ensure that there is sufficient practice to pass the final examination.

Many adults have practical skills, but often lack theoretical knowledge. These need to be specifically supplemented before the exam.

Possible paths:

  1. Attending vocational school (full-time / during the week)
    You attend regular classes together with students.
  2. Special preparation courses for adults
    Vocational schools and private schools offer evening and weekend courses, especially in professions with high demand - e.g. basic commercial education and training (VET) or retail.
  3. Self-study
    The preparation can be done completely independently.
    Vocational schools provide information on suitable:
    - Teaching aids
    - Learning aids
    - Examination requirements

Important:
Candidates are responsible for bringing their practical and theoretical skills up to the level of regular learners.

This also includes sufficient language skills at level B1/B2
(Note:Do the language check right here!)

Although no apprenticeship contract is required, it is strongly recommended that you have a job or internship in the occupational field - ideal for exam preparation.

The examination procedure runs via the cantonal vocational training office:

  • Contact with the vocational training office in the canton
    The specialists will provide all the information you need for approval.Here you can find the addresses of the cantonal vocational training offices.
  • Submit the official application form, including all supporting documents:
    • Employment references
    • Diplomas
    • Certificates
  • Examination of the application, the Office assesses:
    • Creditable professional experience
    • Lack of knowledge
    • Necessary preparation
    • Examinations still to be taken
  • Admission decision & confirmation
    Upon acceptance, you will receive a confirmation and information on possible school visits.
  • Contacting the vocational school
    The school will decide which courses you still need based on your previous knowledge.

Info: There is no obligation to attend courses. Self-study is generally permitted. You can read here why we still highly recommend it.

  • Registration for the final exam
    Deadlines and fees vary from canton to canton.
  • Final examination (QV)
    Candidates in catch-up training take the same examinations as regular learners.
  • After passing the exam
    you will receive your Federal Diploma of Vocational Education and Training (Vocational Diploma) or Federal VET Certificate (VET Certificate).

We recommend taking a look at ourGuide to the Swiss Education System- There, all routes are explained clearly and comprehensibly.

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Author:

Ladina Gianom

Ladina Gianom, Educational Counseling, Content-Team Modula AG

Publication:

2.11.2025

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