Internship places 2026: stable and varied market (cross-border guide)

Young apprentices during vocational training in Switzerland

The market for traineeships in Switzerland is stable in 2026 with around 76,000 contracts signed at the end of August. Space also at the WorldSkills in Shanghai.

Context

In brief

  • Stable apprenticeship market in 2026
  • Around 76,000 apprenticeship contracts signed by the end of August
  • WorldSkills World Championships in Shanghai from September 22 to 27
  • 42 young professionals in the SwissSkills national team

Key facts

  • Press release date: September 17, 2026
  • Apprenticeship contracts: approximately 76,000
  • Survey: Transition Barometer
  • Polling institute: gfs.bern on behalf of SBFI
  • Survey publication: end of October 2026
  • International event: WorldSkills Shanghai 2026
  • WorldSkills edition: 48th
  • WorldSkills dates: September 22 to 27, 2026
  • World talents: approximately 1,400
  • Swiss delegation: 42 young professionals and 38 experts

The apprenticeship market in Switzerland is proving stable throughout 2026, with around 76,000 signed contracts recorded at the end of August. This figure confirms the strength of Swiss vocational education and training, demonstrating how companies continue to invest concretely in the new generation, offering young people important opportunities to enter the job world and significant career prospects. The observed stability continues in line with the volumes of previous years, highlighting a solid educational structure rooted in the country's economic fabric.

Operational details

The relevance of Swiss vocational education and training is not limited to the domestic market, but also finds resonance and recognition on the international scene thanks to top-tier competitions. From September 22 to 27, 2026, the city of Shanghai will host the 48th edition of the WorldSkills professional championships. In this important global showcase, approximately 1,400 talents from all over the world will compete in a wide range of professional disciplines, offering a concrete demonstration of their technical and operational skills on a premier international stage.

The Swiss Delegation and Global Competition

Switzerland is participating in the international event with the SwissSkills 2026 national team, composed of 42 highly qualified young professionals. Accompanying and supporting the Swiss delegation in this adventure in Shanghai are 38 industry experts. Events of this international magnitude make it possible to highlight the structural strengths of the Swiss educational model, characterized by the close link between classroom theory and daily practice in the workplace, the high quality of the teaching provided, and constant cooperation between the Confederation, the Cantons, and organizations in the world of work. For the young professionals in competition, direct comparison with peers from other nations represents not only a rigorous test of their technical capabilities, but also an experience of personal and professional growth of inestimable value.

Recommended tools

For an updated estimate, use the net salary calculator and the CHF-EUR exchange comparator.

Key points

Perspectives and tools to orient yourself in the labour market

Analyzing the trend of the internship market and following international competitions such as the WorldSkills offers a clear perspective on the effectiveness of the Swiss training system and on opportunities for professional insertion. Those who wish to delve into the economic situation and assess the impact of wages, starting salaries and earnings prospects for those who enter the labour market after a training course or a specialisation can consult the tools made available at national level. Financial planning and an understanding of the pay structure in Switzerland are key steps for young people entering the world of work for the first time or for families planning their children's educational and professional paths.

For a detailed analysis of salaries, income brackets and differences related to the various economic and professional sectors within the Swiss market, you can use the official calculator available on the portal. Check the updated salary estimates now and plan your career using the calcolatore stipendio.

Source: admin.ch

Frequently Asked Questions
How many internship contracts were signed in 2026?
The market for traineeships in Switzerland is stable during 2026, with around 76,000 contracts signed at the end of August. This data confirms the solidity of Swiss vocational training and testifies to how companies continue to invest concretely in new levers, offering young people important opportunities to enter the world of work and important career prospects.
What is the Transition Barometer and when is it published?
The Transition Barometer is a specific survey conducted every year at two different times, specifically in April and August. The tool detects the latest developments in the transition phase from compulsory school to secondary level II. The results of the August survey, carried out by the gfs.bern institute on behalf of SEFRI, will be made public at the end of October 2026.
How does Switzerland participate in the 2026 WorldSkills World Championships?
Switzerland participates in the international event with the SwissSkills 2026 national team, made up of 42 highly qualified young professionals. Accompanying and supporting the Swiss delegation in Shanghai are 38 industry experts. The event takes place from 22 to 27 September 2026 and sees the participation of around 1,400 talents from all over the world.

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