International Schools in Zurich are a great choice for both local and expat families as they offer globally recognized curricula, outstanding academics plus a nurturing environment for children. Discover our selection of the best International Schools in Zurich, including reviews, fees, and why families choose them.
Top International Schools Zurich 2026
-
Zurich International School
Wadenswil, Zurich •Co-Education •- from 3
- to 18 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: American Curriculum - IB Curriculum - Swiss CurriculumLanguage of instruction: Bilingual - English - GermanYearly fee: from 16,300 to 36,600 CHF
Foundation: 1963Nationalities: 70 different nationalitiesNr of students: 70 studentsExaminations: AP - IB Diploma - SATZurich International School: A leading non-profit day school for local & expat children aged 3-18 in Switzerland. Instruction in English; additional bilingual English/German pathway for children 3-9.ZIS provides the challenge and support to ensure that every student becomes their best self and reaches their potential, whatever their interest or passion. Our Preschool to Grade 12 curriculum is shaped and guided by our Learning Principles. Learning outcomes build logically through each grade, preparing students for the next academic challenge. We offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme and Advanced Placement courses.We offer a Bilingual Pathway for students aged 3 – 9. The program will grow in the coming years up to Grade 9.Annual tuition fees at Zurich International School range from CHF 16,300 to CHF 36,600, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition: CHF 26,300 - CHF 37,900Boarding tuition: -
Hull's School, Zurich
Zurich City, Zurich •Co-Education •- from 14
- to 19 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: British CurriculumLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: from 29,400 to 30,600 CHF
Foundation: 1945Nationalities: 20 different nationalitiesNr of students: 20 studentsExaminations: A Level - IGCSEHull’s School is the first English college in Zurich for teenagers.International GCSE's and International Advanced LevelAnnual tuition fees at Hull’s School, Zurich range from CHF 29,400 to CHF 30,600, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition:Boarding tuition: -
International School Zurich North
Zurich, Switzerland •Co-Education •- from 1
- to 19 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: British Curriculum - Cambridge CurriculumLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: from 24,480 to 35,136 CHF
Foundation: 1999Nationalities: 35 different nationalitiesNr of students: 35 studentsExaminations: A Level - Cambridge - IGCSE - Pearson EdexcelFor children aged 3 months to 18 years. Established curricula: IB PYP (Primary), IGCSE, and A-Levels. Strong dual language foundation in English and German with additional French lessons. Leaders in drama, art, music, and competitive sports teams. Wellbeing is a core element of student life. Innovative programmes supporting more than 35 nationalities. Modern campus located just two stops from Zurich’s main train station.Early Years (3 months – 5 years) Our Early Years provision begins in Nursery and extends through Kindergarten 1. Children benefit from a dual language foundation in English and German, alongside the British Early Years framework, which blends structured play with early literacy and numeracy. Learning takes place in a nurturing, international environment that fosters curiosity, creativity, and strong social-emotional skills, preparing children for a confident transition into Primary. Primary School (KG2 – Grade 5) In Primary, students follow the British Curriculum within a skills-based framework that emphasises enquiry, creativity, and critical thinking. Core programmes such as White Rose Maths and Read Write Inc. Literacy ensure measurable progression, while a rigorous German curriculum fu...Annual tuition fees at International School Zurich North range from CHF 24,480 to CHF 35,136, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition: Payment of a capital fund fee is required upon registration for your first child within the school. The capital fund fee for any additional child is charged at a reduced rate.Tuition fees are set on a...Boarding tuition: -
Inter-Community School Zurich
Zurich City, Zurich •Co-Education •- from 1
- to 18 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: IB CurriculumLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: from 12,220 to 36,950 CHF
Foundation: 1960Nationalities: 50 different nationalitiesNr of students: 50 studentsExaminations: IB DiplomaThe Inter-Community School is a fully accredited international school in Zurich, Switzerland, and the only school in Zurich offering the full International Baccalaureate Programme (PYP, MYP, DP).ICS offers the curriculum of the International Baccalaureate (IB) programme for all grade levels: the Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP) and the Diploma Programme (DP).Annual tuition fees at Inter-Community School Zurich range from CHF 12,220 to CHF 36,950, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition:Boarding tuition: -
Lycée Français International de Zurich
Zurich City, Zurich •Co-Education •- from 3
- to 17 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: French Curriculum - German Curriculum - IB Curriculum - OtherLanguage of instruction: Bilingual - French - GermanYearly fee: from 7,500 CHF
Foundation: 1956Nationalities: 35 different nationalitiesNr of students: 35 studentsExaminations: French Baccalaureate - French National Brevet DiplomaThe Lycée Français International de Zurich is a caring school where children learn to become independent, express themselves and develop their creativity. An international school, it offers a bilingual French-German curriculum, a multilingual curriculum and a trilingual international bac. The teaching team works in partnership with families, sharing educational responsibility and ensuring ongoing communication.
The school is part of the worldwide AEFE network, which ensures that teaching conforms to the curricula of the French Ministry of Education. The educational offer is based on early language learning. The school's teaching is also recognized by the Canton of Zurich's Department of Education.Annual tuition fees at Lycée Français International de Zurich range from CHF 7,500 to CHF , depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition: Includes schooling from 8 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. for primary pupils, and until 5 p.m. for secondary pupilsBoarding tuition:
Why choose an international school in Zurich?
Zurich, known for its high quality of life and multicultural environment, offers an array of international schools that stand out not just in Switzerland but globally. These institutions are a beacon for parents who prioritize educational excellence and an international perspective for their children’s upbringing.
Diverse and Inclusive Environment
International schools in Zurich provide a culturally rich atmosphere that brings students from various nationalities together. This diversity is a cornerstone, enabling students to gain unique insights and understand different perspectives. It prepares them for global citizenship in a world where cross-cultural competencies are increasingly valued. Such an environment not only broadens their worldview but also enhances language skills, with many schools offering bilingual curriculums or language immersion programs.
High Academic Standards
The curricula offered by Zurich’s international schools are designed to meet global standards. Many schools follow internationally recognized programs such as the International Baccalaureate (IB), which is renowned for its rigorous academic and personal development framework. This prepares students excellently for higher education worldwide, often giving them a competitive edge in university admissions, especially in prestigious institutions in the USA, UK, and beyond.
Focus on Holistic Development
Beyond academics, international schools in Zurich place a strong emphasis on the holistic development of students. They offer a wide range of extracurricular activities that nurture other essential skills such as leadership, teamwork, and creativity. From sports teams and music classes to robotics clubs and art workshops, these activities provide students with opportunities to explore their interests and talents outside the traditional classroom setting. This well-rounded approach helps in developing confident and capable individuals ready to face the challenges of the future.
State-of-the-Art Facilities
Equipped with modern facilities and resources, international schools in Zurich provide an ideal learning environment. State-of-the-art science labs, technology-rich classrooms, and extensive libraries aid in delivering a comprehensive educational experience. Sports facilities, such as swimming pools and tennis courts, complement the academic offerings by promoting physical health and wellness.
Supportive Communities
The community aspect of international schools in Zurich cannot be overstated. These schools create supportive networks for both students and parents, helping them to integrate into the new environment and connect with each other. Regular events and meetings foster a sense of community and belonging, easing the transition for families relocating to Zurich and enhancing the educational experience.
Choosing an international school in Zurich means investing in a globally oriented education that prepares children not only academically but also socially and personally for the challenges of the modern world. The city’s commitment to maintaining high educational standards, combined with its international ethos, makes it an ideal place for fostering future global leaders.
How much does it cost to attend International Schools in Zurich?
The yearly tuition fees for International Schools in Zurich generally range from $20,000 to $35,000 per year. This cost can vary based on factors like the curriculum, the quality of campus facilities, the standard of boarding, and the services – with some top-tier schools exceeding $40,000 annually.
Category | Low Range | High Range |
|---|---|---|
Annual Tuition | $20,000 | $35,000 |
Monthly Tuition Equivalent | $1,665 | $2,920 |
Registration Fee (one-time) | $500 | $1,000 |
Uniforms & Materials | $200 | $500 |
Extras & Trips | $500 | $1,500 |
Total Est. Annual Cost | $22,200 | $38,000 |
Summary
International schools in Zurich offer a diverse and inclusive environment, high academic standards, and a focus on holistic development. Equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and supportive communities, these schools prepare students for global citizenship and future challenges, making Zurich an ideal city for quality international education.
