Abstract As culturally and geographically close countries, Switzerland and Germany share many similarities, which have led to increased migration between the two countries, especially aft er the implementation of the free movement of persons. However, a closer examination of Swiss and German parents’ perceptions and expec- tations of the school system as well as their aspirations for their children, reveal distinct narratives along national lines. Th is culminates in a discourse around university entrance qualifi cations and the transition to further education as the gateway to a successful life and career. To keep all options open, parents monitor the prerequisites of both educational sys- tems and invest considerable resources to promote the necessary abilities for their chil- dren to succeed in either country. Th e home and target country and their school systems thus both serve as a frame of reference for parents’ educational aspirations for their chil- dren as well as for potential futures. Th is study delves into the intricate interplay of mi- gration, education, and transnational lifestyles, shedding light on how migrants navigate their children’s future within diff ering educational systems.