Best Boarding Schools in Switzerland: an overview of the most popular and best Swiss boarding schools 2025, with details on their fees, tuition costs, school calendar and location.
Why families choose a Boarding school in Switzerland?
Switzerland is synonymous with high-quality education, offering a unique blend of rigorous academics and holistic development in a serene setting. This compelling combination is why families from around the globe choose Swiss boarding schools for their children. The reasons are manifold, ranging from the multilingual environment to the unparalleled cultural experiences.
Academic Excellence
Swiss boarding schools are renowned for their rigorous educational standards and high academic expectations. These institutions often follow prestigious international curriculums, such as the International Baccalaureate (IB), which are recognized globally for their excellence. The focus on critical thinking, innovation, and real-world applications prepares students exceptionally well for university and beyond.
Language and Cultural Immersion
One of the standout features of boarding schools in Switzerland is the multilingual environment. Students have the opportunity to learn in English, French, German, or Italian, and often, schools offer additional language courses. This linguistic immersion goes hand in hand with a diverse student body, representing dozens of nationalities. This exposure fosters cultural understanding and global citizenship, equipping students with the social skills needed in an interconnected world.
Personal Development and Independence
Boarding schools in Switzerland place a strong emphasis on the personal development of each student. Away from home, students learn to be independent, responsible, and self-reliant. They are encouraged to explore their interests in a variety of extracurricular activities, from sports to arts and social service, promoting a well-rounded personality.
Safety and Quality of Life
Switzerland is known for its safe and secure environment, which is a major draw for parents. The country’s political stability, low crime rate, and high quality of life ensure that students not only receive a top-tier education but also enjoy a safe and nurturing environment. Additionally, the breathtaking landscapes and outdoor activities contribute to physical well-being and mental health.
Networking and Future Opportunities
Attending a boarding school in Switzerland can open doors to prestigious universities and global career opportunities. The alumni networks of these schools are often influential, providing students with connections that can serve them well throughout their professional lives. The international perspective and superior education make Swiss boarding school graduates highly sought after by top universities and employers worldwide.
In sum, choosing a Swiss boarding school means investing in a child’s future. The unique educational environment not only fosters academic success but also cultivates personal growth and global awareness. These factors collectively make Switzerland a premier destination for quality boarding education.
How much does it cost to attend Boarding Schools in Switzerland?
Category | Low Range | High Range |
|---|---|---|
Annual Tuition | $70,000 | $110,000 |
Monthly Tuition Equivalent | $7,000 | $11,000 |
Registration Fee (one-time) | $1,500 | $8,000 |
Uniforms & Materials | $1,000 | $2,500 |
Extras & Trips | $1,500 | $5,000 |
Total Est. Annual Cost | $74,000 | $125,000 |
Top Boarding Schools Switzerland 2025
Discover top Boarding Schools in Switzerland. Use the filters to find the right fit and contact schools directly from their profiles.
Saint-Charles International School 
-
Jura - Porrentruy
- Co-Education
- 8 to 19 years old
- School type:Day & Boarding School
- Yearly fee: 7,900 - 89,500 chf
- Curriculum:IB Curriculum, Swiss Curriculum
- Foundation:1897
- Community: 180 students • 50 nationalities
- Examinations:IB Diploma, Swiss Matura
- Language:Bilingual, English, French
- Swiss Alps' pristine setting
- Bilingual learning environment
- Boarding with 30 nationalities
Annual tuition fees at Saint-Charles International School range from 7,900 chf to 89,500 chf, depending on the student's grade level and program.
Total fee includes tuition and the additional annual fee. The additional annual fee is intended to cover all costs other than school fees - textbooks, school supplies, school outings, ski...Total fee includes tuition, full boarding and accommodation, weekend activities, three extended weekend trips, residence permit fee, books and school supplies, supervised homework, sport uniform, day trips, on premises school...
Copperfield International School Verbier
-
Valais - Verbier
- Co-Education
- 4 to 18 years old
- School type:Day & Boarding School
- Yearly fee: 34,000 - 116,500 chf
- Curriculum:British Curriculum, IB Curriculum
- Foundation:2020
- Community: 50 students • 18 nationalities
- Examinations:IB Diploma
- Language:English, French
- Skiing program incorporated into curriculum
- Bespoke learning with a 1:3 staff ratio
- 360° mountain views foster inspiration
Annual tuition fees at Copperfield International School Verbier range from 34,000 chf to 116,500 chf, depending on the student's grade level and program.
The school offers a variety of individual support programmes to support the students on their individual educational path, such as tuition in specific subjects (most often languages), learning support, executive...From 96,500 to 116,500 CHF
Ecole d’Humanité
-
Bern - Hasliberg
- Co-Education
- 13 to 19 years old
- School type:Boarding School
- Yearly fee: 65,000 - 68,000 chf
- Curriculum:American Curriculum, Swiss Curriculum
- Foundation:1934
- Community: 120 students • 25 nationalities
- Language:English, German
- Bilingual immersion in Swiss Alps.
- Personalized learning; 6:1 student ratio.
- Promotes global citizenship values.
Annual tuition fees at Ecole d’Humanité range from 65,000 chf to 68,000 chf, depending on the student's grade level and program.
Préfleuri International Alpine School
-
Vaud - Villars
- Co-Education
- 3 to 13 years old
- School type:Day & Boarding School
- Yearly fee: 12,500 - 17,850 chf
- Curriculum:British Curriculum, French Curriculum
- Foundation:1948
- Community: 15 nationalities
- Language:English, French
- Bilingual learning in a Swiss Alpine setting
- Integrated skiing and outdoor education
- Nurturing creativity through arts programs
Annual tuition fees at Préfleuri International Alpine School range from 12,500 chf to 17,850 chf, depending on the student's grade level and program.
Day School : From 12'500 to 17'850 chfBoarding School: From 60'000 to 70'000 chf
Haut-Lac International Bilingual School
-
Vaud - Lausanne
- Co-Education
- 3 to 18 years old
- School type:Day & Boarding School
- Yearly fee: 24,400 - 35,400 chf
- Curriculum:American Curriculum, IB Curriculum
- Foundation:1993
- Community: 600 students • 50 nationalities
- Examinations:American Diploma, IB Diploma
- Language:Bilingual, English, French
- Bilingual immersion from age 3
- Outdoor education focus
- Offers International Baccalaureate
Annual tuition fees at Haut-Lac International Bilingual School range from 24,400 chf to 35,400 chf, depending on the student's grade level and program.
College Alpin Beau Soleil
-
Vaud - Villars
- Co-Education
- 11 to 18 years old
- School type:Boarding School
- Yearly fee: 150,000 chf
- Curriculum:American Curriculum, IB Curriculum
- Foundation:1910
- Community: 300 students • 55 nationalities
- Examinations:French Baccalaureate, IB Diploma, IGCSE
- Language:Bilingual, English, French
- Holistic learning on Swiss Alps
- Personalized growth via mentorship
- Cultural immersion in 60+ nationalities
Annual tuition fees at College Alpin Beau Soleil start at 150,000 chf.
ENSR International School
-
Vaud - Lausanne
- Co-Education
- 3 to 18 years old
- School type:Day & Boarding School
- Yearly fee: 12,200 - 25,400 chf
- Curriculum:IB Curriculum, Swiss Curriculum
- Foundation:1906
- Community: 500 students • 40 nationalities
- Examinations:IB Diploma, Swiss Matura
- Language:English, French
- Bilingual Learning: French & English
- Swiss Diploma & IB Available
- Outdoor Education via Alps Proximity
Annual tuition fees at ENSR International School range from 12,200 chf to 25,400 chf, depending on the student's grade level and program.
Leysin American School in Switzerland
-
Vaud - Leysin
- Co-Education
- 12 to 19 years old
- School type:Boarding School
- Yearly fee: 120,000 chf
- Curriculum:American Curriculum, IB Curriculum
- Foundation:1960
- Community: 300 students • 60 nationalities
- Examinations:American Diploma, IB Diploma
- Language:English
- Mountain campus fuels outdoor learning
- Cultural immersion via 60+ nationalities
- Personal growth through service trips
Annual tuition fees at Leysin American School in Switzerland start at 120,000 chf.
ISSH International School of Schaffhausen
-
Switzerland - Schaffhausen
- Co-Education
- 1 to 18 years old
- School type:Day & Boarding School
- Yearly fee: 24,590 - 54,090 chf
- Curriculum:IB Curriculum
- Foundation:1999
- Community: 300 students • 40 nationalities
- Examinations:IB Diploma
- Language:English
- Emphasizes multilingual fluency.
- Unrivaled Swiss Alpine experiences.
- Personalized IB Diploma paths.
Annual tuition fees at ISSH International School of Schaffhausen range from 24,590 chf to 54,090 chf, depending on the student's grade level and program.
Institut Montana Zugerberg
-
Switzerland - Zug
- Co-Education
- 6 to 19 years old
- School type:Day & Boarding School
- Yearly fee: 32,900 - 72,800 chf
- Curriculum:British Curriculum, IB Curriculum, Swiss Curriculum
- Foundation:1926
- Community: 377 students • 55 nationalities
- Language:Bilingual, English, German
- Bilingual Diplomas: English & German
- Idyllic Swiss Mountain Environment
- Personalised Learning via 4:1 Ratio
Annual tuition fees at Institut Montana Zugerberg range from 32,900 chf to 72,800 chf, depending on the student's grade level and program.
Day school - Years 1-12:CHF 32,900 - 36,800 (annual)Boarding school - Years 5-12: Our boarding school begins at the age of 10 - CHF 70,400 - 72,800 (fee per year) Flexi-boarding: On request Note: Your child can stay...
Institut auf dem Rosenberg
-
Switzerland - St Gallen
- Co-Education
- 6 to 19 years old
- School type:Day & Boarding School
- Yearly fee: 150,000 chf
- Curriculum:American Curriculum, British Curriculum, IB Curriculum, Other
- Foundation:1889
- Community: 230 students • 60 nationalities
- Examinations:A Level, American Diploma, AP, IB Diploma, IGCSE, TOEFL
- Language:English
- Pioneering Balanced Learning approach
- Tailored, holistic student development
- Immersion in diverse global cultures
Annual tuition fees at Institut auf dem Rosenberg start at 150,000 chf.
Brillantmont International School
-
Vaud - Lausanne
- Co-Education
- 13 to 18 years old
- School type:Day & Boarding School
- Yearly fee: 31,500 - 103,500 chf
- Curriculum:American Curriculum, British Curriculum
- Foundation:1882
- Community: 95 students • 30 nationalities
- Examinations:A Level, AP, AS, IGCSE, SAT
- Language:English
- Swiss baccalaureate & US High School Diploma
- Breathtaking Lake Geneva views
- Family-owned, nurturing atmosphere
Annual tuition fees at Brillantmont International School range from 31,500 chf to 103,500 chf, depending on the student's grade level and program.
At Brillantmont, we welcome a small group of day students, who live with their parents in the local area. Day students are fully integrated into the school and are encouraged...We want our students to enjoy a full boarding and learning experience and take advantage of the numerous opportunities we offer beyond the classroom. For this reason, many things are...
TASIS The American School in Switzerland
-
Ticino - Lugano
- Co-Education
- 3 to 19 years old
- School type:Day & Boarding School
- Yearly fee: 30,000 - 105,000 usd
- Curriculum:American Curriculum, IB Curriculum
- Foundation:1956
- Community: 765 students • 67 nationalities
- Examinations:AP, IB Diploma
- Language:English
- Breathtaking Swiss Alpine setting
- Renowned Arts and Humanities Program
- Immersive multilingual learning
Annual tuition fees at TASIS The American School in Switzerland range from 30,000 usd to 105,000 usd, depending on the student's grade level and program.
Swiss Boarding Schools Disentis & Zurich
-
Zurich - Winterthur
- Co-Education
- 13 to 18 years old
- School type:Boarding School
- Yearly fee: 82,000 - 82,000 chf
- Curriculum:British Curriculum
- Foundation:2005
- Examinations:A Level, Cambridge, IGCSE
- Language:English
- Bilingual learning in Alpine serenity
- Personalised mentorships for each child
- Seamless transition to Swiss universities
Annual tuition fees at Swiss Boarding Schools Disentis & Zurich range from 82,000 chf to 82,000 chf, depending on the student's grade level and program.
International School Altdorf
-
Uri - Altdorf
- Co-Education
- 14 to 19 years old
- School type:Day & Boarding School
- Yearly fee: 25,000 - 70,000 eur
- Curriculum:Cambridge Curriculum, IB Curriculum
- Foundation:2017
- Community: 58 students
- Examinations:A Level, IB Diploma, IELTS, IGCSE, MYP, TOEFL
- Language:Bilingual, Chinese, English, German, Mandarin
- Bilingual Learning, English-German
- Innovative Tech-Integrated Curriculum
- Outdoor Learning in Swiss Alps
Annual tuition fees at International School Altdorf range from 25,000 eur to 70,000 eur, depending on the student's grade level and program.
Aiglon College
-
Vaud - Villars
- Co-Education
- 7 to 18 years old
- School type:Day & Boarding School
- Yearly fee: 46 - 150 chf
- Curriculum:IB Curriculum
- Foundation:1949
- Community: 480 students • 68 nationalities
- Examinations:IB Diploma, IGCSE
- Language:English
- Mountain backdrop fuels learning
- Exemplary Swiss boarding lifestyle
- Balanced, holistic educational ethos
Annual tuition fees at Aiglon College range from 46 chf to 150 chf, depending on the student's grade level and program.
Hochalpines Institut Ftan – HIF Swiss International School and Sports Academy
-
Engadin - Scuol
- Co-Education
- 12 to 19 years old
- School type:Day & Boarding School
- Yearly fee: 53,400 - 64,400 chf
- Curriculum:British Curriculum, IB Curriculum, Swiss Curriculum
- Foundation:1793
- Community: 100 students • 20 nationalities
- Examinations:IB Diploma, IGCSE
- Language:English, German
- Multilingual learning in Swiss Alps
- Unmatched winter sports academy
- Personalized International Baccalaureate
Annual tuition fees at Hochalpines Institut Ftan – HIF Swiss International School and Sports Academy range from 53,400 chf to 64,400 chf, depending on the student's grade level and program.
College du Leman – International School
-
Geneva - Versoix
- Co-Education
- 2 to 18 years old
- School type:Day & Boarding School
- Yearly fee: 22,700 - 94,400 chf
- Curriculum:IB Curriculum
- Foundation:1960
- Community: 1900 students • 120 nationalities
- Examinations:American Diploma, AP, French Baccalaureate, IB Diploma, IGCSE, Swiss Matura
- Language:English, French
- Bilingual education in French & English
- Access to prestigious Swiss Ski School
- Holistic learning via Creativity, Action, Service
Annual tuition fees at College du Leman – International School range from 22,700 chf to 94,400 chf, depending on the student's grade level and program.
Popular Boarding Schools Destinations in Switzerland
Parent and Student Reviews
- Our son is at Leysin and having an excellent experience. With a fairly strict curriculum he has learned to study and focus on his classes. He has travelled across Europe and skies frequently at multiple Swiss resorts.
- International School Altdorf offers a diverse and academically focused environment for IB students. Small class sizes provide a personalized learning experience that allows students to engage deeply with their subjects. The school is located in a stunning setting, with views of the Alps, creating a unique backdrop for both study and daily life. It offers a range of clubs spanning sports, academics, and creative fields, and strongly supports students in pursuing extracurricular activities and independent projects, helping them make the most of their interests and ambitions.
- ISA maintains high academic standards, especially in its IB program. The teachers are experienced and knowledgeable, supporting students through the curriculum. The small class sizes allow for personalized learning, ensuring that students receive individual attention when needed. ISA’s boarding facilities are well-maintained, and the school offers a supportive environment for international students. The school provides a range of extracurricular activities, from sports to technology and science clubs. Students interested in STEM, debate, or community service can find meaningful opportunities to develop their skills. Weekend trips and school-organized excursions help students explore Switzerland and nearby cities. The boarding staff are attentive, creating a home-like atmosphere. Overall the International School of Altdorf is an excellent choice for students seeking a high-quality IB education in a focused and supportive environment.
- International School Altdorf provides students with great academic opportunities like attending Youth Forums, Model United Nations and engaging in student-led events and competitions supported by the school. Teachers are qualified, kind and helpful, never hesitating to give assistance even if it means staying beyond classroom hours. The low teacher-student ratio makes classes individualized and student focused, ensuring students have an opportunity to reach their maximum potential.
- March, 2025The time spent in the Swiss mountains were some of the most formative years in my childhood. If you want to become who you already are deep down and can’t find it where you are, maybe give this place a visit. As a student or as a teacher – you won’t regret it!
- March, 2025Getting away from home and one’s familiar surroundings for a year or more is a powerful way for teenagers to grow more independent and mature. The Ecole is a great place to learn about oneself and others. I loved the informal atmosphere in classes, where the connection to my teachers motivated me to learn better. I was well prepared for the top-tier college I attended (Vassar).
- February, 2023Academics are very important to me. Verbier is a magical place to live where I have time for family, and we can ski in the winter. But this life has to come without sacrificing my children’ learning. Copperfield offers a top quality individualised plan, so with a programme like this we can stay in Verbier until they leave for a university of their choice.
- February, 2023I love going to school every day. The most important thing is that our teachers allow us to have fun and be creative. They love it when we are happy, and my parents love that too.
- February, 2023We moved from Sweden to Verbier as we wanted our children to have an international upbringing and education, surrounded by different nationalities, cultures, and languages. At Copperfield, they are taught in English and French, and each day they are exposed to many more languages. Add the Verbier lifestyle of outdoors, sports and skiing and we have exactly what we wanted.
- February, 2023The academic programme at Copperfield is truly individualised in small classes. Our two children have weekly sessions with a learning support specialist, individual piano lessons run by Fernando (concert cellist), and a tailored academic plan all the way to higher education. The road to university is very important to us as we want to live in Verbier together with our children.
- February, 2023I didn’t know what a “Homeroom” was, but now my daughters love to start the school day in Homeroom with their pastoral tutor. Together with the weekly assemblies, where all parents are invited, I feel that the school share my focus on wellbeing. It’s no exaggeration to say that everyone in the school community knows each other’s names and faces. That’s special.
- February, 2023The community around the school is important to me and my family. There is a café on site where I meet up with other parents at drop-off/pick-up or during the day. Le Hameau is a safe site, ideal for learning, directly on the ski slopes and generally a beautiful place to go to school.
Summary
Swiss boarding schools offer a harmonious blend of rigorous academics, multilingual and cultural immersion, and personal development in a safe, high-quality environment. This holistic approach prepares students for future success in global universities and careers, making Switzerland a top choice for quality education.