Preparation for the Vocational Maturity School Entrance Exam (BM2) in Zurich

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ABOUT THE EXAM

More info: BMS Entrance Exam (BM2) Prep Courses in Zurich

What exactly is the Vocational Maturity School 2 (BM 2)?

The BM 2 (Vocational Maturity after an Apprenticeship) is designed for adults who have already successfully completed basic vocational training. It provides a direct path to the vocational maturity diploma and combines general academic education with specialized courses in specific fields.

Degree: Swiss Vocational Maturity Certificate.
Duration: Either 2 semesters (full-time) or 3 to 4 semesters (part-time while working).
Career Prospects: This degree qualifies graduates for admission without entrance exams to a bachelor’s program at a Swiss university of applied sciences or, through the Passerelle program, to a university.
Specializations (Fields of Study): In the Canton of Zurich, students are free to choose their specialization: Technology, Architecture, and Life Sciences (TALS) | Business and Services (Business Track or Services Track) | Design and Art | Health and Social Services | Nature, Landscape, and Food.

What are the requirements for admission to BM 2?

Admission to BM 2 in the Canton of Zurich requires completion of a qualifying vocational training program.

Basic requirement: A Swiss Vocational Certificate (EFZ) from a 3- or 4-year vocational apprenticeship.
Admission Pathways: Admission is either granted without an exam (if certain academic criteria are met during the apprenticeship, e.g., passing the BM 1 probationary period) or by passing the Central Admission Exam (ZAP).
No age limit: Unlike BM 1, there is no upper age limit for BM 2.

How does the BM 2 entrance exam (ZAP 2027) work?

All BM 2 programs in the Canton of Zurich use the standardized ZAP examination process. This is a purely written process.

Exam Subjects: The exam assesses only proficiency in German and mathematics.
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 essay).
Special Note: Unlike the BM 1, the BM 2 does not allow multiple registrations for different types of schools within a single exam window. The chosen track is binding at the time of registration.

How is the BM 2 exam grade calculated, and when do you pass?

Since the candidates have already completed their regular schooling, current academic grades do not count toward the BM 2 entrance exam in the canton of Zurich.

Weighting: The final grade is based 100% on the exam score alone.
Calculation: The math exam counts for half (50%), and the two parts of the German exam each count for one-quarter (25% each).
Passing Grade: The exam is considered passed if a grade of at least 4.25 is achieved.
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.

What are the registration deadlines and exam dates for 2027?

The cantonal deadlines for the admission process must be strictly adhered to:

Online registration window: From the January 1 through February 10, 2027 via the portal zh.ch/zap. This also applies without exception to individuals who are eligible to register without taking an exam.
Registration fee: Registration costs CHF 50 ( free for those who can provide proof that they are exempt from the exam).
Exam Date: The written BM 2 entrance exam will take place on Saturday, March 13, 2027.
(Exception for certain 3-semester business programs: In these cases, a separate date in June may apply.)

How does ILS Tutoring Zurich help students prepare for the BM 2?

Since it has often been several years since BM 2 candidates completed their compulsory education, getting back on track in math and language is a challenge. ILS tutoring effectively fills these knowledge gaps:

A refresher on the basics: We help students recall forgotten knowledge in algebra, geometry, and text analysis at the level required by Curriculum 21.
ZAP Mock Exam: By working through actual exam questions from previous years, participants gain experience and reduce exam anxiety.
Succeeding During the Probationary Period: The curriculum at BM 2 is very intensive. Our preparatory courses provide the best possible preparation for the fast pace of study starting in August 2027, ensuring that you successfully navigate the first semester (probationary period).

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