Boarding schools in Switzerland 2024

Choosing for their children the best and elite private boarding schools in Switzerland (American, British, international), parents rely on the prestige, rating and effectiveness of education. Several elite educational areas are offered to the attention of foreigners, and the choice of the education system is determined by the individual academic requirements and ambitions of the child.

Prestigious secondary private boarding schools in Switzerland are open to students of all nationalities, in fact, they are international - representatives of different countries study here (the Swiss contingent does not exceed 2%). For comparison, in Britain, only 10-20% of foreigners study in boarding schools, the rest of the places are distributed among the citizens of the country.

Samples of entrance tests for admission to best secondary private boarding schools in Switzerland, which you can write with us without visiting the school. Admission services are free of charge.

Studying at the top boarding schools in Switzerland comes with a unique set of advantages:

• Exceptional Comfort and Facilities: Swiss boarding schools prioritize the comfort and well-being of their students. Most of these institutions have state-of-the-art facilities that promote academic, creative, and physical development. The campuses of the best boarding schools in Switzerland are often intimate, accommodating as few as 50 students and up to 100, ensuring a close-knit community.

• Emphasis on Sports: Given Switzerland's geographical features, extreme sports are notably popular. This provides students with both a recreational and physical outlet, enhancing their overall boarding school experience.

• Nurturing Environment: The family-like atmosphere prevalent at Swiss boarding schools aids foreign students in achieving superior academic results. Coupled with the individual attention, opportunities for self-growth, and a supportive student community, it promises an unforgettable educational journey.

Switzerland is renowned for offering high-quality primary and secondary education. International students have a variety of programs to choose from at the best boarding schools in Switzerland:

• International Baccalaureate programme.: The IB certificate is a ticket to any European university. Here, students deeply immerse in English, with options to study additional languages, supplemented by other subjects of their choice.

• A-level programme and GCSE programme: These represent the traditional British education system, ideal for students aiming to further their studies in the UK.

• American programs: Designed for students targeting US universities, this program is prevalent in Switzerland, also facilitating further studies in the USA, Canada, and the UK.

• French Programs: Comprising two cycles, students undergo general education up to age 16 and then proceed to a specialized three-year cycle, culminating in the Diplôme du Baccalaureat de l'Enseignement du Second Degree.

• Abitur: Common in the German-speaking regions of Switzerland, this program guarantees admission to German universities with technical, humanitarian, and natural science tracks.

• Swiss Maturite: A comprehensive program allowing studies in German and French, where students can choose from a wide array of disciplines.

• Italian programs: Mirroring the French structure, students specialize from age 14, focusing on humanities, natural sciences, or exact sciences. They receive the Italian matriculation certificate (Esame di Stato) upon completion.

All students, regardless of their chosen program, engage in physical and creative activities, including skiing, and enjoy weekend holidays.

For those needing additional English support, select schools offer specialized courses to bolster language skills and pave the way for successful studies.

• Value over Prestige: The best colleges aren't always the priciest. Opt for programs that align with your future educational aspirations. For instance, if you aim to study in France, the French Baccalaureat would be apt.

• Traditions, Atmosphere, and Location: Switzerland's modern boarding schools, known for their democratic ethos, welcome global students, ensuring a well-rounded development.

How to apply to Boarding Schools in Switzerland

Tuition fees at the prestigious boarding schools in Switzerland range from 70,000 CHF to 120,000 CHF per academic year. To secure admission, applicants need:

• Passport or ID copy

• Academic records for the past 2 years, plus current year quarterly/trimester grades

• Recent language certificates

• Recommendation letters (English and Math teachers)

• Motivation letter (sometimes)

• Completed registration and school forms

• Skype interview or in-person school visit

In some cases, students might need to take the school's internal tests in Math and English to gauge their preparedness for the program.

For further guidance, feel free to reach out to SMAPSE experts who are always on hand to provide support and address any inquiries.

Asiya Watson

Client Relationship Manager at Hult EF Corporate Education

What else should be considered when choosing a school, in addition to the qualifications of teachers?

Facilities and facilities of the campus (sports grounds, gyms), the quality of the boarding house (how new the rooms are, whether the repair is good), the number of students (including the "density" for each room), their nationality. It is worth paying attention to the educational programs (especially diploma and graduation), the list of universities to which graduates most often enter, the reputation of the school, the countries from which employees come. Location, of course.

Swiss boarding schools are renowned for their high educational standards, holistic approach to learning, and state-of-the-art facilities. However, such excellence often comes with a hefty price tag, especially for foreign students. When considering the costs, it's essential to look beyond just the tuition fees and account for all associated expenses to get a comprehensive understanding of the financial commitment required.

Tuition fees at Swiss boarding schools can vary widely based on the school's reputation, location, facilities, and the programs it offers. On average, fees can range anywhere from CHF 50,000 to CHF 130,000 or more per annum. These fees typically cover basic tuition, accommodation, meals, and some extracurricular activities. But be prepared: some prestigious schools in sought-after locations like Geneva or Zurich can charge at the higher end of this spectrum, given their worldwide reputation and the unparalleled quality of education they offer.

However, the overall cost doesn't stop at tuition. There are often additional charges that can significantly increase the total amount. These can include enrollment fees, examination fees, additional language support for non-native speakers, specialized training or courses, school trips, and personal expenses such as uniforms, books, and personal care items. Some schools might also charge for extracurricular activities that require specialized equipment or coaching. Moreover, while the boarding fees cover accommodation and meals during the term, parents should consider the costs of travel to and from Switzerland during holidays and breaks.

It's also worth noting that while the initial cost can seem overwhelming, many Swiss boarding schools offer financial aid or scholarships for deserving students. Some institutions have provisions based on academic merit, while others may offer assistance based on financial need. Researching and applying for such opportunities can significantly alleviate the financial burden. In conclusion, while the investment in Swiss boarding school education is substantial, many believe the unparalleled quality of education, holistic development opportunities, and the lifelong network one establishes make it worth the cost.

Swiss boarding schools typically accept students between the ages of 12 and 18, covering both high school and pre-university years.

Yes, Switzerland has both co-educational boarding schools and separate schools.

The language of instruction may vary, but many boarding schools offer bilingual or multilingual programs to meet the needs of a diverse student population.

Extracurricular activities at boarding schools range from sports and arts to clubs and community service, helping students develop a range of skills and interests.

The schedule at boarding schools includes academic classes, extracurricular activities, study time, meals and free time. Some schools may also have designated times for outings or visits.

Boarding schools offer a variety of support services ranging from academic and career counseling to personal and health services.

Swiss boarding schools are known for their high standards of education and are often recognized for their excellence on a global level.

The cost of tuition at Swiss boarding schools varies and usually includes tuition, room, board and some activities. Additional fees may apply for things like excursions or special programs.

The student-teacher ratio in boarding schools is usually small, which ensures individualized attention and a favorable learning environment.

Swiss boarding schools emphasize holistic development, developing not only academic but also social, emotional and personal skills.

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