Top Boarding Schools In Switzerland (2024)
Famed for its high educational standards and breathtaking landscapes, Switzerland is home to some of the most prestigious boarding schools worldwide. These institutions not only offer top-notch academic programs but also present an array of extracurricular activities, providing a holistic educational experience. Moreover, the multicultural atmosphere in these schools fosters global citizenship among students. In our guide we’ve curated a list of top boarding schools in Switzerland based on factors such as results, rankings, prestige, and holistic student development. Enjoy!
List of Top Switzerland Boarding Schools
Overview
Our article ranks the best boarding schools in Switzerland based on factors like results, rankings, pastoral care, student services, facilities, accomodation and more. Check out our list below.
1. Collège du Léman
Located in Versoix, Collège du Léman is an international boarding school that offers a unique blend of the International Baccalaureate, American High School Diploma, French Baccalaureate, and Swiss Maturité programs. Established in 1960, this institution is renowned for its outstanding academics, broad range of extracurricular activities, and exceptional sports facilities. The diverse student body represents over 100 nationalities, providing an international learning environment that promotes cultural understanding and collaboration.
Students have delivered an outstanding performance across various academic examinations. In the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP), the school achieved a perfect pass rate of 100%, exceeding the global average of 88.9%. The average score was an impressive 36.5 compared to the worldwide average of 31.8, with the highest score reaching a perfect 45. Moreover, 22% of the students achieved an exceptional score of 40 points or above. In the International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme (IBCP), the students again demonstrated a 100% pass rate, earning Certificates of Completion from SUMAS and Les Roches.
The success extended to the High School Diploma and Advanced Placements, with a total pass rate of 100% and an Advanced Placements (APs) pass rate of 91%, outperforming the global average of 60%. For Bac Français, the school boasted a 100% pass rate for the ninth consecutive year, with 92% mentions, including one ‘Congratulations from the Jury’. The students’ average score was 15 points. Lastly, in the Swiss Maturité, the school again maintained a 100% pass rate, with the top score being 112.5 out of a maximum of 126, and an average score of 102.5.
Intake is closing soon. Contact us now to apply or for more information.
2. Collège Champittet
Collège Champittet, located in Lausanne, was founded in 1903 and has long been recognized for its rigorous academics and a deep-rooted sense of tradition. The school offers Swiss Maturité and International Baccalaureate programs and places a strong emphasis on bilingual education (French and English), promoting linguistic versatility among students. It also provides a broad array of extracurriculars, including sports, arts, and community service, fostering the holistic development of its students.
Students here have demonstrated exceptional academic performance across Swiss Maturité, International Baccalaureate, and French Baccalaureate exams. For Swiss Maturité, there was a 100% pass rate, surpassing the global average of 65%. Moreover, students’ average score was 4.82 points, higher than the global average in all subjects. Notably, a Champittet student achieved the highest score among private schools in French-speaking Switzerland, and 56% of students scored over 100 points. In the International Baccalaureate, a 92% pass rate was achieved, exceeding the global average of 86% from 2022. The average score was 32.69 points, with 11% of students scoring 40 points or above, and the highest score was an impressive 43 points.
Lastly, in the French Baccalaureate, the school celebrated a 100% pass rate for the eighth consecutive year, marking consistent excellence in their academic track record.
Intake is closing soon. Contact us now to apply or for more information.
3. Aiglon College
High in the Swiss Alps in Chesières-Villars, Aiglon College, established in 1949, melds the traditional British boarding school experience with the depth of international education. It provides both the IGCSE and the IB programs. Apart from its academic focus, Aiglon places significant emphasis on character development through outdoor activities and community service. Its excellent pastoral care, small class sizes, and state-of-the-art facilities ensure a nurturing learning environment.
4. Brillantmont International School
Brillantmont International School, located in Lausanne, is one of the oldest boarding schools in Switzerland, founded in 1882. It offers the International GCSE program followed by the A Levels or the International Baccalaureate program. The school’s small size fosters a close-knit community where every student receives individual attention. Its strong emphasis on academics, language learning, and cultural immersion, alongside a variety of sports and arts programs, contributes to the comprehensive development of its students.
5. Institut Le Rosey
Last on the list: Also known as ‘the school of kings’, Institut Le Rosey was established in 1880 and is nestled between Geneva and Lausanne, in Rolle. Uniquely, Le Rosey operates a dual-campus system, featuring a winter campus in Gstaad and a spring/summer/autumn campus in Rolle. It provides a comprehensive academic curriculum, with the International Baccalaureate (IB) and French Bac programs. Additionally, a wide variety of extracurricular activities, such as sailing, horse-riding, and an impressive arts program, ensures the all-around development of its students. With pupils from over 70 different nations, Le Rosey is a truly cosmopolitan school.
Frequently Asked Questions
1) Why choose to study in Switzerland?
Switzerland is renowned for its high-quality education, characterized by a rigorous academic curriculum and a wealth of extracurricular activities. Moreover, the beauty of the country, with its picturesque landscapes, breathtaking alpine vistas, and historic cities, enhances the overall learning experience. Studying in Switzerland also offers the opportunity to become part of a multicultural environment, which broadens students’ horizons and fosters a global perspective.
2) What are the language options for studying in Switzerland?
Swiss boarding schools generally offer programs in English, although given the country’s multilingual nature, French, German, and Italian are also commonly taught. Many institutions also provide the opportunity to learn additional languages.
3) Do Swiss boarding schools offer any scholarships?
Yes, many Swiss boarding schools offer scholarships and financial aid to deserving students. The availability and criteria of these scholarships can vary between schools, so it’s advised to check directly with the school for the most accurate information.
Summary
Swiss boarding schools are widely recognized for their commitment to providing top-tier education. The blend of rigorous academic programs, extensive extracurricular offerings, and top-notch facilities, coupled with an immersive multicultural environment, allows students to thrive both academically and personally. These institutions go beyond conventional learning, instilling values like resilience, independence, global awareness, and critical thinking, which equip students for their future careers and lives in an increasingly globalized world. Thus, boarding schools in Switzerland offer much more than education – they offer transformative life experiences that shape well-rounded, enlightened global citizens.
Apply For A Swiss Boarding School - Free Consultation
Join our UK Study newsletter and get helpful articles on UK study, admission tips, courses and more delivered to your inbox.
Apply To A Swiss Boarding School
We provide free boarding school application assistance and advice. Speak to one of our consultants now!