English primary classes in Switzerland for international students
- Education information
- Overview of Best Primary Schools in Switzerland
- Primary and Secondary Education. Full guide for international students
- Cost and Fees to Best Primary and Secondary Schools in Switzerland for International Students
- Swiss Educational Visa for Non-EU Students
- Admission Process to Top Primary Schools in Switzerland
This content was developed with active participation of Mary Bousted.
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In 2023: 37 IB average, 43 highest point, 100% pass rateSwitzerlandMontreuxCurrently watching: 10from 31010.00 CHF / yearApply with documents
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In 2023 100% graduates achieved IB DiplomaSwitzerlandGenevaCurrently watching: 9from 27930.00 CHF / yearApply with documentsProgram namedateAgeFeesPrimary schoolLast booking 1 weeks agoAll year round5-10
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Family based atmosphere at school, study plan is tailored for each student individuallySwitzerlandMontreuxCurrently watching: 6from 67000.00 CHF / yearApply with documentsProgram namedateAgeFeesPrimary schoolLast booking 4 weeks agoAll year round8-10
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Accreditation: Swisslearning; SFPS; International Baccalaureate; ISO; AVEDP; BSASwitzerlandLausanneCurrently watching: 9from 21600.00 CHF / yearApply with documentsProgram namedateAgeFeesPrimary schoolLast booking 1 weeks agoAll year round4-11
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In 2023 an average IB score was 35.2SwitzerlandMontreuxCurrently watching: 10from 41100.00 CHF / semesterApply with documentsProgram namedateAgeFeesPrimary schoolLast booking 4 weeks agoAll year round8-13
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School is in top 3 best bilingual boarding schools in German speaking part of SwitzerlandSwitzerlandZugCurrently watching: 7from 70400.00 CHF / yearApply with documentsProgram namedateAgeFeesSwiss Primary School Program (English, German)All year round10-11
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In 2020 an average IB score made up 34.1SwitzerlandLuganoCurrently watching: 7from 33500.00 CHF / yearApply with documents
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from 11963.00 € / yearApply with documents
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One of the best preparatory boarding schools in EuropeSwitzerlandMontreuxCurrently watching: 7from 67000.00 CHF / yearApply with documents
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from 24400.00 CHF / yearApply with documentsProgram namedateAgeFeesIB preparation(primary school)Last booking 3 weeks agoAll year round6-11
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Education information
Switzerland is a multinational and multicultural country. This is an excellent choice for young international people from different countries who want to get an international diploma. There is a huge number of international students who study undergraduate and graduate programs, and one of the highest rates in the number of doctoral students.
The country is located in the heart of Europe, has 4 national languages:
- German;
- French;
- Italian;
- Romansh.
However, primary education in Switzerland in English is as widespread as possible, as a result, most school students speak at least 2 languages.
The local education system is one of the most advanced in the world and consists of 3 parts:
- Compulsory education;
- Secondary education;
- Higher education.
Education in Swiss schools is regulated by the cantons with mandatory government supervision — SERI (State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation). Each canton has the right to set its own school calendar, curriculum and criteria. A distinctive feature of the academic system is taking into account the wishes and abilities of students.
Overview of Best Primary Schools in Switzerland
Switzerland, renowned for its multilingual environment, offers an exceptional education landscape, particularly for foreign students. Top Swiss primary schools promise a robust foundation in multiple languages given Switzerland's diverse linguistic heritage.
Swiss Educational Institutions for international students
Switzerland boasts a variety of educational institutions, each distinguished by its quality of education and array of programs. The intent behind these best schools in Switzerland ranges from gearing students for higher education to ensuring they're ready for the workforce.
Primary schools in Switzerland fall under various categories:
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State Schools: These focus on holistic personal development and career guidance.
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Montessori Schools: The curriculum here promotes independence from an early age, emphasizing experiential learning through play and communication.
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Religious Schools: These range from Lutheran and Catholic institutions to Jewish ones.
Post the primary education phase, Switzerland's education system provides diverse paths. International students have the flexibility to specialize in sectors such as:
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Public Education - Known for rigorous standards and exceptional teaching.
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Scientific Studies
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Mathematics
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Humanities
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Languages
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Music
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Theater
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Sports
Following secondary schools in Switzerland, colleges stand as another viable option, equipping students with professional qualifications that ensure employability. For those inclined towards English-medium instruction, there are international primary schools in Switzerland tailored for them.
Primary and Secondary Education. Full guide for international students
Foreign students typically commence their mandatory education between ages 4-6, continuing until they're 15. The structure of primary education involves:
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Kindergarten (for ages 4-6): Not mandatory across all cantons. For instance, in German-speaking cantons, kindergarten merges with the initial years of primary education.
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First Cycle of General Education (from ages 6-11).
During their time in primary schools, foreign children acquire fundamental educational and social skills, ranging from socialization and foundational literacy to a deep-rooted understanding of Swiss culture and linguistic diversity.
From age 6, primary school students study in either French, German, Italian, or Romansh, based on the canton's predominant language. English and a second national language are commonly taught subjects.
Secondary education is bifurcated into:
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Preliminary secondary education (from ages 11-12).
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Comprehensive secondary education.
For this segment, foreign students generally attend canton-specific gymnasiums or schools, with core subjects spanning English, foreign languages, math, and sciences. Additional subjects include arts, civics, and career guidance.
In terms of evaluation, students are graded on a scale of 1-6, where 6 signifies excellence. Annual tests determine their progression to subsequent grades.
What are the most important questions parents ask when looking for the right Swiss school?
First of all, safety and reliability for children is assessed. They are also looking for extracurricular activities, opportunities to travel around the country and beyond, in general the lifestyle on campus. Many people choose Surval because they value family values, ethics, a calm atmosphere - this is especially important for girls - the small size of the school, the excellent quality of care and boarding life. Children leave home far and for a long time, because parents so value the opportunity to give their children a family away from the family.
Cost and Fees to Best Primary and Secondary Schools in Switzerland for International Students
Studying in Switzerland doesn't come cheap. Several factors influence tuition fees at top primary and secondary schools in Switzerland:
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Chosen program
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School's reputation
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Additional services offered
Rough fee estimates are: 60,000 – 90,000 CHF (including boarding) and 20,000-50,000 CHF for day scholars. While steep, a Swiss diploma commands significant respect on the global job market.
Is it difficult for a talented child to get a scholarship? What are the average discounts?
Of course, it varies from school to school. We have 10-20% discounts.
Swiss Educational Visa for Non-EU Students
Prospective non-EU students need to approach the Swiss Consulate in their respective countries for a visa. The application process involves:
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School/university certificate from their home country.
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Proof of financial security.
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Commitment letter to leave Switzerland post-study.
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Resume.
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Possibly, a language proficiency test.
Post visa approval, students must then apply for permits, managed by individual cantons. Depending on the study duration, students either receive a Visa C (short-term) or Visa D (long-term).
Admission Process to Top Primary Schools in Switzerland
For admission into Switzerland's premier educational institutions, international applicants generally need:
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Admission application
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Resume
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Passport copy
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Motivation letter
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Bank statements
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Language proficiency proof
Navigating the educational journey in Switzerland is undoubtedly rewarding, especially for those keen on a multicultural, top-tier academic experience.
What ages are covered by primary education in Switzerland?
Is primary education compulsory in Switzerland?
What language is used in elementary school?
How are children in elementary school in Switzerland assessed?
What is the ratio of teachers to students in an elementary Swiss school?
How does Swiss primary education prepare students for secondary school?
Are there private elementary school in Switzerland?
What subjects are taught in elementary school in Switzerland?
Are there any extracurricular activities in Swiss elementary school?
How do elementary school in Switzerland accept students with disabilities?
Learning programs-summary information
Name | Meaning | Equivalent | Min. age | Duration, years |
Next stage | Cost |
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GCSE | General certificate of secondary education | secondary education (non-accomplished) | 14 | 1–2 | A-Levels | 15,000 USD+ |
A-Levels | Advanced level | secondary education (accomplished) | 16 | 2 | University | 15,000 USD+ |
BTEC | Business and Technology Education Board | secondary special education | 14 | 2–3 | University/ work | 15,000 USD+ |
Oxbridge Preparation | Preparing for Oxford and Cambridge | secondary education (accomplished) | 17 | 1 | University | 15,000 USD+ |
International Baccalaureate | International baccalaureate | secondary education (accomplished) | 16 | 2 | University | 18,000 USD+ |
Foundation/ Pathway Year | Preparatory year | admission to the 1st year of university | 17 | 1 | University | 14,000 USD+ |
NCUK | The Northern consortium | 2 year university | 17,5 | 1 | 2 year University of NCUK | 13,000 USD+ |
Special Preparation (Medics/Math/Business) | Specialized training | - | 14 | optional | optional | 4,000 USD+ |
Academic English | Academic English | Language school | 8 + | 6–12 months | School or University | 8,000 USD+ |
Advantages and disadvantages of English schools
Advantages | Disadvantages |
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The opportunity to enter the best universities in England, USA, Canada, Switzerland, Europe, the world | Expensive |
High quality of education and academic standards | Strong workload |
Perfect English after graduation | The need to change the social environment; it takes time to adapt |
Useful contacts | The difficulty of choosing the most suitable school for the child, requires a qualified specialist |
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