Best Boarding Schools in Switzerland: an overview of the most popular and best Swiss boarding schools 2026, 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.
Curricula Available at Swiss Boarding Schools
To offer students the best international education at Swiss boarding schools, several curricula are available to students. These programs include:
- International Baccalaureate
- UK curriculum
- Swiss national curriculum
- French national curriculum
- US curriculum
- German curriculum
Each curriculum features different approaches to learning, with varying focuses based on the systems on which they’re modeled. Choosing the right curriculum will be one of the most important decisions to make prior to enrollment, which makes it necessary to take the time to learn about and evaluate each approach.
Like other education systems, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all education for every student of a Boarding School in Switzerland, but there are plenty of options available to give students the ideal learning experience. Combined with top-tier institutions and an inspirational learning environment, each curriculum in the Swiss education system can help every student excel.
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 2026
Discover top Boarding Schools in Switzerland. Use the filters to find the right fit and contact schools directly from their profiles.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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...
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
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.
Eastwood Montreux
-
Vaud - Montreux
- Co-Education
- 14 to 18 years old
- School type:Day & Boarding School
- Yearly fee: 42,000 - 92,000 chf
- Curriculum:American Curriculum, IB Curriculum, IB Diploma Programme
- Examinations:American Diploma, Cambridge, IB Diploma, IB Diploma Programme, IGCSE, Pearson Edexcel
- Language:English
- IMPACT teaches real-world skills every day, co-designed with Harvard.
- Highest IB average in Switzerland, with personalised daily coaching.
- Our 53 Leaders mentor students with real insight, skills, and access.
Annual tuition fees at Eastwood Montreux range from 42,000 chf to 92,000 chf, depending on the student's grade level and program.
What the Tuition Includes (For Full Boarding, 5-Day Boarding, and Day Students) Academic Programme •Full IB Diploma or American High School Diploma delivered via Eastwood Global •All academic classes and...
Haut-Lac International Bilingual School
-
Vaud - Lausanne
- Co-Education
- 3 to 18 years old
- School type:Day & Boarding School
- Yearly fee: 21,800 - 40,600 chf
- Curriculum:American Curriculum, IB Curriculum
- Foundation:1993
- Community: 600 students • 60 nationalities
- Examinations:American Diploma, IB Diploma
- Language:Bilingual, English, French
- Day & Boarding School
- Sport & Study Programme
- Bilingual immersion from age 3 & International Baccalaureate
Annual tuition fees at Haut-Lac International Bilingual School range from 21,800 chf to 40,600 chf, depending on the student's grade level and program.
Our annual Boarding feed range from CHF 86’000 to CHF 88’000 for boarding students.
Institut Montana Switzerland
-
Zug - Baar
- Co-Education
- 6 to 19 years old
- School type:Day & Boarding School
- Yearly fee: 32,900 - 72,800 chf
- Curriculum:Cambridge Curriculum, IB Curriculum, Swiss Curriculum
- Foundation:1926
- Community: 380 students • 55 nationalities
- Examinations:Cambridge, IB Diploma, IB Diploma Programme, IGCSE, Swiss Matura
- Language:Bilingual, English, German
- Swiss and International programmes
- Small classes, stronger support to students
- Personalised Learning via 4:1 Ratio
Annual tuition fees at Institut Montana Switzerland range from 32,900 chf to 72,800 chf, depending on the student's grade level and program.
Please check our page: https://www.montana-zug.ch/en/admissions/tuition-fees
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.
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: 47,850 - 159,000 chf
- Curriculum:IB Curriculum, IB Diploma Programme
- 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 47,850 chf to 159,000 chf, depending on the student's grade level and program.
School fees are comprised of annual tuition, joining fees and additional charges based on individual circumstances. Fees are updated by the Board of Directors each December for the following academic...School fees are comprised of annual tuition, joining fees and additional charges based on individual circumstances. Fees are updated by the Board of Directors each December for the following academic...
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, 2023We arrived in Schaffhausen from Mexico in 2016, where Magdalena completed grade 10 at a renowned private school in Colima. Our intention was for her to get assistance from an integration school to attend the local Kantonsschule. Because of the lack of French and limited German, the local school was a struggle, and we looked for alternatives. After visiting some International schools in the area, we decided on the International School of Schaffhausen. Magdalena liked the friendly environment and started to thrive. Although she attended an excellent school in Mexico, the quality of preparation for the future at ISSH is a lot higher. Despite having to work very hard to reach the desired results at grade 11, she enjoyed attending classes, especially because of the quality and professionalism of the teaching. Her favourite subject was Math due to the very clear and practical set-up of the classroom, and although Maths was never her strongest subject, Magdalena achieved well in this. Her main focus was biology because her dream is to study Marine Biology, and her biology teacher motivated her to progress and gathered an in-depth understanding of the topic. The school focuses on deep analysis and investigation, and the level of education is so much higher than in a Mexican school. After her graduation in 2020, Magdalena applied to universities worldwide, and all her applications were accepted. Currently, she is studying at a university in the UK and is getting excellent results due to her strong knowledge base. She even received a partial scholarship. Magdalena feels proud to be part of the ISSH community, and we can wholeheartedly recommend this school to any student from Mexico or around the world.
- February, 2023My name is Maira, I’m 18 and have been living in the boarding house for 2 years. I was looking for an international school in Switzerland and saw ISSH on a website reviewing Swiss private schools. The reason why I chose it was because it offered an opportunity to ‘win’ a full scholarship.
Even though my parents are not very familiar with the international educational system/IB, they expected from the school to understand and respect the cultural differences of the students. As for me, I wanted to have a good experience in an international school that will help to get into a university. Since there were quite a few newbies in my class, making friends was super easy (and people were really nice). Regarding the activities- I’m not sure how to answer this one. There was not a lot of clubs that the school offered, and they were mostly for middle school students. That’s understandable, since we, as the DP students, had to dedicate the majority of our time to school. But I wish there had been more interesting activities for us. My time at the boarding house was fun. I’m glad that Mr Russell considered our ages, subject choices and interests before moving us. I guess there was no particular thing I liked about the boarding house. It all depended on the supervisor, the day of the week,etc. But I definitely enjoyed it when we had our meetings with all the borders together because it also helped me to get over my homesickness. My English has definitely improved thanks to the balance between academic/formal language spoken at school and more ‘everyday’ English in the boarding house. Lastly, I would definitely recommend boarding ISSH to people who want to experience a different kind of boarding life! ISSH boarding is not like other boarding schools, it has a special family-like atmosphere. People are very supportive. Caretakers were on the same wave with us! - February, 2023My name is Veronika and I’m from Russia. I have been at ISSH for only 2 years, but it was enough time for me to feel there like home, and make lifelong friends. I have relatives in Schaffhausen and they told me about ISSH. I have always wanted to study abroad, and when I found out about the school I knew from the start it would be the place where I could fulfill my potential and get new experience. My goal was to get a better education and improve my English, which I have accomplished by being at ISSH and the Boarding house. As it is an international school English is a primary language both at school and at the boarding, which gives everyone an opportunity to learn and/or improve their language skills with support of staff and other students. Being miles away from home for such a long period of time can be a bit difficult sometimes, but all the staff members are trying their best to make all students feel comfortable and provide whatever support and help they might need. Living at the boarding house is an unusual experience that teaches you to be more responsible and independent. But the main thing that I have learnt, from living with other students all from different countries, is to be understanding and accepting towards each other. It gives an opportunity to learn from others and become more open and social with people. When I was there we had several events, like an “open house party” which included dinner. We have sent invitations to our neighbors and school friends, so they can come over to the house and see how it’s like to live there. Also, we had an interesting trip to Geneva organised by the head of the boarding, Mr.Russell. We had a tour at the Swiss chocolate factory and the well known collider. Besides that, with other boarding house students we spent a lot of time together, either baking desserts after dinner or by organizing movie nights. Boarding house in general has a very friendly environment, and it is an experience worth getting.
- February, 2023International environment, beautiful location, great teachers, variegated curriculum and ECAs, interesting excursions, good vibe, great relationship with dorm staff,…
- February, 2023We are very happy with the school and our son only started in January. We feel that its providing our son with not only an excellent education but with a lifetime experience.
- February, 2023My son feels that he is continually encouraged to do his best. He is very motivated
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.