After the primary level, all pupils continue with their education on the lower secondary level.
At the lower secondary level, teaching is realised on the basis of different models at different performance levels. The transfer from the primary level to the lower secondary level occurs differently, according to canton and model. With the integrative model and upon transfer to the performance-based group at basic level, the transfer occurs without an admission test. Transfer to a performance-based group at advanced level occurs on the basis of teachers' recommendations; in some cases, an admission test must be passed. The transfer criteria include school performance and the assessment of work attitude, learning behaviour, cultural skills, individual skills, social skills and individual performance development. Generally, the parents or guardians, or also the pupils themselves, are included in the decision-making process.