FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

This page answers the most frequently asked questions about the RILF project.

Questions about the bridging programme

I do not live in a canton that is supported by one of the five participating universities of teacher education. Can I still register for the bridge programme?

Yes, people from all cantons are eligible to register.

I live in a canton where the national language is Italian or French. Can I still register for the bridge programme?

In principle, people from all cantons can apply. However, a B2 German language diploma is a prerequisite for admission. The bridging programme is conducted in German; in addition, participants work toward a German language diploma at level C1/C2.

Will I receive a teaching diploma after completing the bridge programme?

The bridging programme is a one-year course. Upon completion, you will receive a course confirmation, not a certificate. The course confirmation is not a teaching diploma, nor is it recognition of your foreign teaching diploma.
The bridging programme prepares refugee teachers to submit an application for recognition of their foreign teaching diploma. If recognition is not possible, the program prepares them to begin a regular or shortened course of study at a university of teacher education.

How much does the bridging program cost?

The bridging programme costs CHF 13,800 for the entire course (including language course) and must be financed by the relevant authority (integration allowance or social welfare office).

Where will the bridging program take place?

The pilot year will be held in Zurich. From 2027/2028 onwards, the course will be decentralised and held at various locations.

I am a foreign teacher without refugee experience. Can I also participate in the bridge programme?

No, currently only teachers with refugee experience will be admitted. For foreign teachers without refugee experience, the following alternatives are currently available:
– CAS Integral for teachers with a foreign teaching diploma from FHNW
– CAS Teaching with a foreign teaching diploma from PH Bern

Can I also attend individual modules?

No, this option is not currently available.

Am I guaranteed a job after completing the course?

No, the course prepares refugee teachers to submit an application for recognition of their foreign teaching diploma. If recognition is not possible, the course prepares them to begin a regular or shortened course of study at a university of education. The course leads to a course certificate, not a teaching qualification.

Will I be admitted directly to a teacher training college to study after completing the course?

No, the course prepares you to complete a possible degree program (shortened or regular). However, it does not automatically lead to admission to a degree program at a university of education.

How long does the programme last?

The bridging programme lasts almost a year. It begins in August/September and ends in June. The bridge program comprises around 500 lessons. Just over half of these take place in classroom-based lessons. The other lessons consist of school visits and independent learning.

Do I have to be employed at a school to participate in the bridge programme?

No, you do not need to be employed by a school.

Do I have to organize the language course (level GER C1/C2) myself?

The GER C1/C2 language course is an integral part of the bridging programme. You do not need to find or organise your own course. If you are already attending a course, please contact us and we will work with you to find a suitable solution.

Can the bridging programme be completed alongside work?

Basically, yes. The modules take place four times on a Friday and Saturday. The work shadowing and the two internship weeks each take place over one week; the weekdays for the language course have not yet been defined. You can find an overview of the dates under “Information for interested parties” –> “Bridging program” –> “Modules and information about the bridge programme”.

When and where can you register for the bridge programme?

Registration will be open from late February/mid-March until 13 April 2026. You will find the registration link on this website.

When does the bridging program start?

The bridge programme starts on 11 September 2026. As the dates for the language course have not yet been set, it is possible that the language programme will start at the end of August.

Until when can the CEFR B2 language certificate be submitted?

You can submit the language certificate by 5 May 2026 at the latest.

How are different subject areas addressed in the bridge programme?

The bridge programme does not offer any specialist scientific or didactic modules. The modules cover general educational and didactic content.

Can I teach at a Swiss primary school while wearing a headscarf?

The cantons have different regulations in this regard. Depending on the circumstances, these may also affect the internship in the bridging programme. Please contact us if you have any questions: requalifikation.ph@fhnw.ch

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