Preparation for the Vocational Maturity School Entrance Exam (BM1) in Zurich

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ABOUT THE EXAM

More information: BMS Entrance Exam (BM1) Prep Courses in Zurich

What exactly is the Vocational Maturity School 1 (BM 1)?

The BM 1 (Vocational Maturity during an Apprenticeship) enables young people to earn their vocational maturity diploma while completing their basic vocational training. It combines practical vocational training with an expanded academic general education.

Graduation: Upon successful completion, students receive both the Federal Certificate of Competence (EFZ) and the Vocational Maturity Certificate.
Advantage: The vocational baccalaureate qualifies students for admission to a bachelor's degree program at a Swiss university of applied sciences without having to take an entrance exam.
Fields of study in the Canton of Zurich: Technology, Architecture, and Life Sciences (TALS) | Business and Services | Design and Art | Health and Social Services | Nature, Landscape, and Food.

What are the requirements for admission to BM 1?

Admission to the vocational baccalaureate program, which is taken alongside vocational training, requires both academic qualifications and proof of a training position.

Academic Requirements: Application from the 3rd grade of Zurich’s secondary school, Division A or Division B. Students from Division B must submit a written recommendation from their homeroom teacher.
Age limit: For admission to the 2027–28 school year, the cutoff date is June 30, 2009; applicants must have been born after that date.
The most important factor: Passing the entrance exam entitles a student to definitive admission only if a valid apprenticeship contract for a 3- or 4-year vocational apprenticeship is in place by the start of the school year.

How does the BM 1 entrance exam (ZAP 2027) work?

In the Canton of Zurich, the BM 1 program, which is integrated into the curriculum, uses the same examination procedure (ZAP 3) as the Fachmittelschule (FMS). It is a purely written exam.

Exam Subjects: Only proficiency in German and mathematics is tested.
Exam Duration & Structure:
- Mathematics: 90 minutes (arithmetic, algebra, and geometry).
- German, Part 1: 45 minutes (language analysis & reading comprehension).
- German, Part 2: 90 minutes (writing an original text / essay).
Permitted aids: Permanent markers (blue/black), correction fluid/Tipp-Ex, and pencils (to be used exclusively for geometry problems). Calculators are not permitted.

How is the BM 1 exam grade calculated, and when do you pass?

The cantonal assessment makes a strict distinction based on whether prior academic achievements can be taken into account.

With a preliminary grade (Sek A): The final grade is calculated as 50% of the exam grade and 50% of the performance grade from the January report card. For the performance grade, the subjects math, German, French, English, and science and technology are weighted equally. A minimum average of 4.5 is required to pass.
Without a prerequisite grade (Secondary Level B / private schools): The results achieved on the exam count 100%. The passing score here is at least 4.25.

What are the registration deadlines and exam dates for 2027?

The dates for the ZAP procedure are set by each canton and must be strictly adhered to:

Online registration window: From the January 1 through February 10, 2027 through the official portal zh.ch/zap. This also applies to students who meet the criteria for admission without an entrance exam.
Registration fee: Registration costs CHF 50 ( free for those exempt from the exam).
Exam Date: The written BM 1 entrance exam will take place on Wednesday, March 10, 2027.
Validity: Passing the ZAP qualifies the student for admission in the immediately following school year (August 2027) as well as in the subsequent school year, provided that an apprenticeship contract is in place.

How does ILS Tutoring Zurich help students prepare for the BM 1?

Since the level of the Central Entrance Exam is significantly higher than that of standard secondary school curriculum, targeted preparation is crucial for success.

Targeted ZAP simulations: We practice intensively using actual exam questions from previous years to develop the ability to handle time pressure.
Tailored Support to Fill Gaps: Whether it’s algebra, geometry, or text analysis in German class—we systematically reinforce the relevant material from Curriculum 21.
Support During the Probationary Period: The first semester of BM 1, which begins at the same time as the start of the program, is considered a major hurdle. With our preparatory courses, we help students prepare as effectively as possible to balance vocational school, their workplace, and BM 1 without stress.

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