Frequently Asked Questions

SIVT (Swiss International Vocational Training) is an ICT training school that brings Switzerland's world-renowned dual vocational education system to Dubai. We offer two professional programmes — Application Developer and Platform Developer — that combine structured self-paced learning with hands-on lab sessions and real project work. Graduates earn a recognised ICT qualification with international standing.

SIVT is not a short course or a bootcamp. It is a multi-year structured vocational qualification. Unlike bootcamps, you complete a comprehensive curriculum, gain work experience, and receive a recognised diploma. Unlike a university degree, you pay a fraction of the cost and can work while you study.

Yes. The SIVT ICT qualification is recognised by employers across Europe, the Middle East, and globally. It is classified at Level 4 of the European Qualifications Framework (EQF).

SIVT is designed for anyone who wants to build a career in ICT without putting their life on hold. This includes school leavers looking for a practical and affordable alternative to a university degree, working professionals who want to formalise their skills, and international residents in Dubai seeking a recognised qualification that opens doors globally.

SIVT is headquartered at Sheikh Rashid Tower, Floor 21, World Trade Center, Dubai, UAE. The programme is delivered primarily online, allowing students to study from anywhere in the world.

To apply to SIVT, you need a recognised secondary school leaving certificate or equivalent, English proficiency at B2 level or above (IELTS 6.0+ / TOEFL iBT 72+ / Cambridge B2 / EmSAT 1400+ or English-medium schooling for min. 3 years), basic computer literacy, and a motivation letter of maximum 500 words. A copy of your passport or Emirates ID is also required. No prior ICT or programming experience is needed.

No. The programme starts from foundational ICT concepts and builds progressively. A basic comfort with computers and a genuine interest in technology are sufficient.

The minimum age for programme entry is 16 years, provided secondary education has been completed. There is no upper age limit. For applicants under the age of 18, a parent or legal guardian is required to co-sign the training agreement.

Applications for the September 2026 intake are currently open. A February 2027 cohort is also available. Online enrolment is generally possible at any time. We recommend applying at least 2 months before the start date.

No. The application process is free of charge.

You will need: a copy of your passport or Emirates ID, a copy of your secondary school certificate or diploma, proof of English proficiency or evidence of English-medium schooling, and a motivation letter (max. 500 words).

The programme is structured as part-time (approximately 15 hours per week of study). It is specifically designed to be compatible with full-time employment.

Choose Application Developer if you want to build software: websites, mobile apps, databases, and digital products. Choose Platform Developer if you want to manage and secure IT systems: servers, networks, cloud infrastructure, and cybersecurity.

Yes, switching is possible. During the first year, both programmes share several foundational modules, making a switch straightforward. After the first year, switching is still possible but may require completing additional modules. Contact info@sivt.ae to discuss your options.

All learning materials, module content, assessments, projects, and student support are in English.

Each module has a defined completion requirement, which may take the form of a knowledge test, a practical case study, a coding assignment, or a minimum percentage of correctly completed tasks. Passing each module is required before progressing to the next.

The IPA (Individual Project Work) is a 10-day intensive capstone project. You work on a real, self-defined ICT project assessed by Swiss-certified examiners. Upon successful completion, you are awarded a recognised ICT qualification. The one-time examination fee is CHF 3,000. Upon passing, CHF 1,500 is reimbursed.

SIVT does not guarantee a specific job or placement, but actively supports every student in finding a suitable position through its network of international partner companies spanning technology, finance, logistics, and consulting.

Yes. The programme is specifically designed to be completed alongside existing employment. Your current ICT role may qualify as your practical training component, subject to agreement with the SIVT team.

SIVT works with a growing network of international partner companies across the UAE and beyond, covering industries including technology, finance, logistics, healthcare, and consulting. The partner network is supported by the Swiss Business Council.

Monthly tuition is CHF 500. For a 3-year programme, this amounts to CHF 18,000 in tuition. The one-time Final Examination fee of CHF 3,000 (CHF 1,500 reimbursed upon passing) brings the total to approximately CHF 27,000. Payment in UAE Dirhams (AED) is available at the current exchange rate.

No. The CHF 500 monthly fee covers all core and elective module content, access to the online learning platform, and participation in scheduled lab sessions. The only additional mandatory cost is the CHF 3,000 Final Examination fee (CHF 1,500 reimbursed upon passing).

Yes. The monthly payment structure is itself an instalment model. There is no large upfront tuition payment. You pay CHF 500 per month as you progress through the programme.

You will receive a recognised ICT qualification, specialisation Application Developer or Platform Developer. The qualification is internationally recognised and classified at Level 4 of the European Qualifications Framework (EQF).

Application Developer graduates are qualified for roles including Software Engineer, Web Developer (Frontend, Backend, or Full-Stack), Mobile App Developer, Business Application Developer, and IT Project Coordinator. Platform Developer graduates are qualified for System Administrator, Network Engineer, Cloud Infrastructure Specialist, IT Security Analyst, DevOps Engineer, and IT Operations Manager.