Apprentice CV in Switzerland: tips to land a VET position

The Swiss dual system and the importance of the apprentice CV

Switzerland has an internationally recognised dual vocational training system: approximately two-thirds of young Swiss people follow an apprenticeship leading to a Federal VET Certificate (EFZ/CFC) or a Federal VET Attestation (EBA/AFP). To secure an apprenticeship position, a polished CV is often the first document the training company will evaluate, even before the cover letter. Even without professional experience, it is possible to write a convincing CV by showcasing academic, personal and extracurricular strengths.

What an apprentice CV should contain

• Current education and school (with levels or honours if favourable)
• Completed internships (company, duration, activities performed)
• Extracurricular activities, volunteering, association roles
• Practical skills acquired (tools, software, techniques)
• Languages with levels (courses, language stays, certifications)
• Interests related to the targeted profession

Showcasing internships and informal experiences

In the absence of formal professional experience, observation internships, student jobs and extracurricular activities can demonstrate your seriousness and motivation. Briefly describe what you did and learned during each experience, even short ones. A two-week internship in the targeted sector can make a difference with a training company if you explain it precisely.

Adapting your CV to the targeted training company

In Switzerland, apprenticeship positions are offered by SMEs, large companies and public administrations. It is advisable to slightly customise each CV by highlighting the most relevant skills and interests for the targeted company. A CV for an IT apprenticeship will emphasise digital skills, while a CV for catering will highlight service orientation.