For permits and naturalisation in Switzerland, several tests count — they are all on the SEM list. The differences lie in format, procedure and practice material:
SDS — digital and adaptive
- One appointment, everything in a day, on a tablet at the test centre; the interview with an examiner.
- Adaptive: the test starts low and climbs as long as you pass — one sitting covers A1 to B2, and the certificate states each skill separately.
- Results within 2 working days. CHF 239.– (full test) / CHF 150.– (module).
- One peculiarity: there are no past papers in circulation — the regulations forbid sharing any content. Preparing here means training formats and conditions, not memorising old questions.
fide — scenario-based
- The “Swiss” classic for the integration language requirement: everyday scenarios (public offices, work, housing), also with an oral part.
Goethe / telc — the international certificates
- Classic per-level exams (you register specifically for B1 or B2, say), with publicly available model exams to practise on — and international recognition beyond Switzerland.
Rules of thumb
- Everything in one day, fast results, no guessing your own level → SDS.
- You want to practise on real past exams, or need the certificate outside Switzerland too → Goethe/telc.
- Either way: check first which level your canton requires for your specific purpose.