Compare IB Curriculum International Schools in Basel, Switzerland

Instructs in German, English

Ages 1 - 16 years

Fees CHF 21,520 - 27,720

Pupils 140

Type Co-educational

ipso! ISR Rheinfelden is a bilingual all‑day school serving children from 4 to 16, with an adjacent bilingual Early Childhood Center for ages 1.5 to 4. The German–English early childhood program blends international and local curricula within a family atmosphere and is state‑approved. The school follows the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (IB PYP) for kindergarten and primary levels and offers bilingual tuition in Secondary Level I under the cantonal curriculum, enabling smooth transitions between local public education and international paths. ipso! is accredited as an IB World School and undergoes regular IB assessments. Language development covers German, English and French across the curriculum; some subjects are bilingual. The curriculum emphasizes digital skills and 21st‑century competencies through digital learning, robotics, programming and tech labs, alongside cross‑curricular STEM and MINT studies. Regular study trips abroad and a 360° virtual tour support families transitioning to ipso!. The school welcomes international families here.

Location

The school is located in Rheinfelden, Switzerland, at Bahnhofstrasse 26, CH-4310 Rheinfelden, adjacent to the old town. It is within a few minutes' walk from the SBB train station or bus station, accessible via the quiet Schützenweg. It is in a convenient location with optimum connections to public transport services near the playground and sports field next to the Schützenmatt school building.

Stages

Early Childhood Center for ages 1.5–4; bilingual all-day school for ages 4–16, including Preschool, Primary School, and Secondary School. The school follows the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (IB PYP) at kindergarten and primary level; secondary level I offers bilingual tuition according to cantonal curriculum.

Type

Bilingual ECCE and all-day school; IB World School.

Country affiliation

Switzerland

Application / registration fee

- Registration fee (non-recurring): CHF 600.00. The registration fee is due at the time of registration for all programmes.

Tuition fees (by programme / year group)

- Early Childhood Center (full-time place, ages 1.5–4 years): CHF 27,720.00 per year.
- Two-instalment option (per term): CHF 13,880.00 (includes CHF 20.00 surcharge).
- Twelve-instalment option (monthly): CHF 2,330.00 (includes CHF 20.00 surcharge).
- Registration fee: CHF 600.00. Family discount: 10% on the lower invoice starting from enrolment of a second child. Annual fees are invoiced pro rata if a child starts during the year.

- Early Childhood Center (part‑time places, ages 1.5–4 years):
- Minimum occupancy options and annual fees:
- Five mornings per week: CHF 18,900.00 per year.
- Two full days + one morning per week: CHF 16,380.00 per year.
- Registration fee is due at registration; annual fees invoiced pro rata for mid‑year starts.

- Preschool (full‑time place, ages 4–6 years): CHF 21,520.00 per year.
- Two-instalment option (per term): CHF 10,780.00 (includes CHF 20.00 surcharge).
- Twelve-instalment option (monthly): CHF 1,813.35 (includes CHF 20.00 surcharge).
- Registration fee: CHF 600.00. Family discount: 10% on the lower invoice from the second child. Limited reduced attendance reduces fees accordingly.

- Primary School (Years 1–6): CHF 23,520.00 per year.
- Two-instalment option (per term): CHF 11,780.00 (includes CHF 20.00 surcharge).
- Twelve-instalment option (monthly): CHF 1,980.00 (includes CHF 20.00 surcharge).
- Ancillary costs: registration fee CHF 600.00; after‑school activities, longer trips and external examination fees are invoiced separately. Family discount: 10% on the lower invoice from the enrolment of a second child. Annual fees invoiced pro rata if a student starts during the year.

- Secondary School (Years 7–9 / Secondary Years SY1–SY3): CHF 24,520.00 per year.
- Two-instalment option (per term): CHF 12,280.00 (includes CHF 20.00 surcharge).
- Twelve-instalment option (monthly): CHF 2,063.35 (includes CHF 20.00 surcharge).
- Ancillary costs: registration fee CHF 600.00; after‑school activities, trips and external examination fees are invoiced separately.
- Optional programme add‑on: ipso! Booster (personal coaching) CHF 1,800.00 per school year (optional).
- The programme requires students to provide their own laptop (BYOD). Family discount: 10% on the lower invoice from the enrolment of a second child. Annual fees invoiced pro rata if a student starts during the year.

Billing schedule and payment terms

- The registration fee is due at the time of registration. Annual tuition fees are invoiced and, if a student starts during the school year, will be invoiced pro rata.
- Instalment options are published for each programme (commonly 2 instalments per school year or 12 instalments per school year) with a small surcharge (CHF 20.00) applied to instalment plans. Amounts for the instalment options are shown next to each programme above.
- Additional services (early drop‑off, after‑school care, clubs, private lessons) are billed separately according to the registration/additional‑services form; many of these items are payable at the beginning of the school year or on receipt of invoice if joining later, and are stated as non‑refundable on the additional‑services registration form.

Boarding fees

- No boarding provision is listed for ipso! International School; the school operates as a full‑day/part‑time bilingual day school and early childhood centre, so boarding fees are not applicable.

Other costs and typical ancillary fees

- After‑School Care (ASC) options and example prices (from the additional‑services registration form):
- ASC semester/year examples (1 hour/week): CHF 170.00 per semester / CHF 340.00 per year; 1 hour/day options and multi‑day options are listed with semester and annual rates; single bookings are charged per hour. Private lesson example rates: CHF 85.00 per 45‑minute lesson for one child, with scaled prices for multiple children. ipso! Booster (Secondary): CHF 1,800.00 per school year. Early drop‑off (½ hr) example: CHF 90.00 per semester / CHF 180.00 per year for one day per week; single bookings per ½ hour CHF 7.50. Many club and ASC items are billed semester or yearly and are non‑refundable when payable at the start of the year.
- Lunch: a sample lunch booking charge is CHF 10.00 (bookable by quarter) for preschool; lunches are arranged via the school's catering provider and are billed separately.
- Excursions and multi‑day camps: day excursions are included in tuition; camps and excursions lasting several days are invoiced separately. External examination fees are not included in the listed school fees and are charged separately.
- Uniform: no compulsory uniform fee or uniform charge is listed among the ancillary costs on the programme fee pages; ancillary costs listed on the programme pages explicitly include registration, after‑school activities and external examination fees but do not list uniform charges.

Refund information

- Annual fees will be invoiced pro rata if a student starts during the school year. The registration fee is charged at registration; additional‑services amounts (for example ASC, clubs, private lessons) that are payable at the start of the school year or on receipt of invoice are stated as non‑refundable on the registration/additional‑services form. Cancellation of automatic re‑enrolment must be submitted in writing and registered by the school's stated deadline (cancellation by 30 April for the following school year is referenced on the enrolment form). Specific tuition‑refund schedules for mid‑year withdrawal are not listed on the programme fee pages; the enrolment/contract documentation describes automatic re‑enrolment and the April deadline.

Fee payment options (invoicing, instalments and methods listed)

- The school issues invoices and offers instalment schedules for the published annual fees (commonly 2 instalments or 12 instalments with a CHF 20.00 surcharge for instalment plans). Amounts and instalment figures are shown above for each programme.
- The programme pages and registration forms show invoices and instalment plans but do not list explicit payment method types (for example “credit card” or “bank transfer”) on the public fee pages; invoices and the school's registration documentation indicate amounts are payable on receipt of invoice or at the start of the school year. Parents should expect to receive formal invoices that set the payment terms.

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BKA International School

Instructs in English, German

Ages 0 - 18 years

Fees CHF 23,700 - 32,000

Pupils 350

Type Co-educational

BKA International School is a bilingual private IB World School in Basel, Switzerland, educating children from infancy through upper secondary across five campuses. The school teaches in English and German from early years, with French introduced from Grade 3, enabling multilingual development. The youngest learners join at 3 months, with Wettstein, Spalentor, Gellert, and Rittergasse campuses, and Rosental Campus opened in 2021 for upper primary. The Early Years program combines Curriculum 21 with the IB Primary Years Programme in a play-based setting that emphasizes language acquisition. Primary builds on this foundation with developmentally appropriate study across disciplines, while Secondary learners prepare for Swiss and international universities through IGCSEs and A-Levels. BKA holds Basel-Stadt Alignment and Transition Agreement, ensuring the IB framework aligns with Lehrplan 21. The BKA Experience centres on curiosity, discovery, and learning within a bilingual IB framework, with 45+ extracurricular activities and after-school care until 19:00 for families.

Location

Basel, Switzerland. BKA International School Basel operates across Basel city campuses: Wettstein campus (Alemannengasse 22/24, 4058 Basel); Spalentor Campus (Schützengraben 35, 4051 Basel); Gellert 37 campus (Gellertstrasse 37, 4052 Basel); Gellert 25 campus (Gellertstrasse 25, 4052 Basel); Rittergasse campus (Rittergasse 20, 4051 Basel).

Stages

Daycare (3 months – 4 years); Primary (4–12 years; KG, Grades 1–6); Secondary (12–18 years).

Type

Bilingual private IB World School.

Additional learning support

Student Support.

Country affiliation

Switzerland

Application fees
- No separate, published one‑off application or registration fee amount is listed; applications are submitted through the school's online enrolment portal.

Tuition fees by year group (core semester fees — two semesters per academic year)
- Kindergarten Year 1–2 (ages 4–6): CHF 11'850.- per semester (CHF 23'700.- per academic year).
- Primary Grades 1–6 (ages 6–12): CHF 12'250.- per semester (CHF 24'500.- per academic year).
- Lower Secondary Grades 7–9 (ages 12–15): CHF 14'500.- per semester (CHF 29'000.- per academic year).
- Upper Secondary Grades 10–12 (ages 15–18): CHF 16'000.- per semester (CHF 32'000.- per academic year).

Billing schedule and payment terms
- The academic year is divided into two semesters; fees are invoiced on a per‑semester basis. A single payment is expected at the beginning of each semester. On request, fees may be paid in five monthly instalments subject to a 3% surcharge. A 10% sibling discount may be applied to the lowest fee when a second child is enrolled. Core tuition does not include extracurricular activities or holiday camps.

Boarding fees (if applicable)
- No boarding programme or boarding fees are listed for the school; the school operates multiple day campuses for the stated age ranges and does not publish boarding charges.

Other costs and fees
- Uniform: Primary students are required to wear a school uniform from Grade 1; the school sells core items (white or blue polo shirt; dark blue pullover or cardigan). Other items (trousers/shorts/skirts/shoes) may be purchased independently.
- Extracurricular activities: Prices vary by class and semester; these activities are charged separately from core tuition.
- Holiday camps: Coverage options and weekly rates are published as CHF 450 per week (coverage 08:00–15:00) and CHF 585 per week (coverage 08:00–19:00).
- Afterschool care (flexible daily coverage 15:00–19:00): one day per week for a full semester CHF 500; full week for a full semester CHF 2'500.
- Any additional fees for materials, special trips, external exam charges or optional services are billed separately when applicable; core semester fees exclude these items.

Refund information
- No specific, published refund or withdrawal terms are provided alongside the core tuition schedule; families should confirm refund and withdrawal terms as part of the enrolment contract and invoicing process.

Fee payment options
- Fees are payable as a single payment at the start of each semester, or on the offered monthly instalment plan (5 instalments with a 3% surcharge). Specific accepted payment instruments (for example: bank transfer, credit card, direct debit) are not listed in the published fee information and should be confirmed with the school's admissions/finance office during enrolment.

Curriculum

BKA International School is a bilingual private school offering English and German instruction from early years, with French introduced from Grade 3. The early years use Curriculum 21 together with the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP), with a play-based approach and emphasis on language development. Primary builds on that foundation with a developmentally appropriate curriculum that fosters knowledge, skills, and curiosity year by year. In Secondary, the program uses IGCSEs and A-Levels to prepare for Swiss and international universities. BKA holds Basel-Stadt Alignment and Transition Agreement ensuring the IB curriculum aligns with Lehrplan 21 and is an IB World School. The school operates across Wettstein, Spalentor, Gellért, and Rittergasse campuses serving ages 3 months through 18 years.

Higher Education Progression

Through IGCSEs and A-Levels, graduates are prepared for Swiss and international universities, with A-Levels recognised by universities across Europe, the UK, North America, and beyond.

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

The school delivers a bilingual education that nurtures curiosity, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning. It is rooted in a Basel community and guided by international best practice. The school welcomes children from 3 months through Grade 12 into a nurturing and academically strong environment. Students thrive within a culture of excellence, respect, and global citizenship, preparing them to succeed academically, socially, and emotionally in an ever-changing world. The mission emphasizes social and emotional development as an integral part of preparing students to contribute to global communities.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

From day one, English and German are the languages of instruction, with French introduced from Grade 3. Teachers are fluent and guide students through a curriculum that develops strong academic skills in every language. The bilingual approach uses each language in lessons, activities, and daily routines to build reading, writing, speaking, and thinking in both languages. Students become confident communicators who can navigate multiple languages and cultures.

Mental Wellbeing

The school emphasizes emotional intelligence, character development, and social responsibility as part of a holistic approach to education.

Safeguarding

Safety, wellbeing, and protection of every child are the highest priorities. Safeguarding is embedded in school culture and underpins everything the school does. Clear reporting procedures, strong supervision, and openness ensure students feel confident speaking up and seeking support. The school works closely with families and authorities when necessary, always acting in the best interests of the child. Safeguarding is a shared responsibility and forms the foundation for learning, growth, and wellbeing.

Admissions

1. Enquire Or Schedule A Tour: Begin by reaching out to BKA to explore our programmes, curriculum, and community. The admissions team answers questions, provides detailed information, and arranges a personalised school tour so you can see our environment and ethos firsthand. You can schedule a tour or inquire today through the admissions platform.

2. Apply: Decide that BKA is the right fit and submit your application. The admissions team guides families through the necessary paperwork and required documents, ensuring the process is straightforward and transparent through the admissions platform. The Apply Now option starts the submission, and the platform provides status updates as you move through the process. Additional questions are answered by the admissions team as needed.

3. Trial days in School (optional): Trial days in School are optional, but in certain admission cases they may be mandatory. Prospective students spend time in classrooms to experience BKA's learning environment and to engage with teachers and peers. This helps them feel comfortable before joining formally. This experience provides a firsthand impression of daily life at BKA.

4. Admission: Upon successful completion of the paperwork, each application is carefully reviewed, and a formal offer of admission is extended. BKA provides guidance to ensure a seamless transition, including placement in the bilingual programme and support with any remaining administrative or financial matters. This final step marks the beginning of your child's educational journey with us.

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International School Basel

Instructs in English, German

Ages 3 - 19 years

Fees CHF 14,270 - 37,680

Pupils 1200

Type Co-educational

International School Basel is a not-for-profit, co-educational day school delivering the International Baccalaureate across Reinach, Aesch and Fiechten. The school serves students aged 3 to 18 and teaches entirely in English, with an English–German Dual Language Programme available in the Junior School and German, French and Spanish offered as second languages. It offers the IB Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme and Diploma Programme, with over 65 academic courses in Senior School and university counselling. Its multi‑campus design is linked by Basel's tram network, with classroom, science labs, robotics workshops, art studios and performance spaces, plus well‑equipped gymnasia, fields and wellbeing facilities. The curriculum emphasizes inquiry, social, emotional and physical development, and the school features robust co‑curricular options—from music concerts and theatre to Model United Nations and the Duke of Edinburgh's Award. The school fosters environmental stewardship and community involvement through its Vision 2030 framework and Making a Difference initiatives.

Location

ISB operates on three campuses in the Basel region of Switzerland: Aesch Campus at Arlesheimerstrasse 7, 4147 Aesch; Fiechten Campus at Fiechtenweg 72, 4153 Reinach; Reinach Campus at Fleischbachstrasse 2, 4153 Reinach. The Aesch Campus is in the municipality of Aesch, while the Reinach Campuses are in Reinach, Basel-Landschaft. Public transportation is convenient via BLT tram line 11, with Arlesheimerstrasse stop for Aesch Campus, Reinach Süd stop for Fiechten Campus, and Reinach centre stop for Reinach Campus.

Stages

The school is divided into three levels: Junior School for ages 3–11, Middle School for ages 11–14, and Senior School for ages 14–18.

Type

The school is not-for-profit, co-educational day school and an IB World School offering three IB programmes (PYP, MYP, Diploma) taught in English, with an English–German Dual Language Programme available in the Junior School.

Pupil Nationality Mix

1200 students representing 60+ nationalities across three campuses.

Additional learning support

English as an Additional Language (EAL) is provided to support students not yet proficient in English. EAL specialists assist with reading, writing, listening and speaking, with three learning stages: Emerging, Developing and Consolidating. There are no additional fees payable for EAL support.

Country affiliation

Switzerland

School day structure

Opening hours are 07:45–18:00 during term. Drop-off is 07:45–08:20; classes run 08:20–15:50; pick-up is 15:50–18:00.

Bus service

Public transportation is available via BLT tram 11 (and related rail connections) to stops at Arlesheimerstrasse (Aesch Campus), Reinach Süd (Fiechten Campus), and Reinach centre (Reinach Campus); no dedicated school bus service is listed.

Boarding Arrangements

Day school; no boarding is offered.

Uniform Requirement

There is a dress code rather than a formal uniform. Must Wear: a shirt/top with straps or sleeves, pants/jeans or the equivalent, and shoes. Shorts, skirts/dresses and ripped jeans are allowed if underwear is not exposed; shirts should meet the waistband; hats and sunglasses may be worn outside but not inside; appropriate footwear required for lab and PE.

Food Options

Lunch is provided by Passion Food with hot meals including salad and dessert or fruit, or lighter options from the salad bar and freshly prepared sandwiches and snacks. Students can enrol in the lunch program daily, pay on the day, or bring their own lunch. Junior School lunch vouchers are available; Middle & Senior School use a pre-paid card via an app.

Governance and Ownership

The school is owned and operated by International School Basel Region AG (ISBR AG), a not-for-profit company registered under Swiss law. Shareholders include corporations in Basel region and the Association of the International School Basel. The supreme corporate body is the general meeting of shareholders.

Application & admission fees

- Development Fee (one-time, payable when a place is offered): CHF 4,500. This fee is non-refundable and is not deducted from tuition.

- Waiting-list Deposit (when placed on a waiting list): CHF 1,000. Once a place is offered this deposit is offset against tuition; if no place is offered within eight months the deposit is refunded.

Annual tuition fees (by school level and EC1 flexible options)

- Early Childhood 1 (EC1) — flexible enrolment options (annual amounts):
- 5 mornings (minimum): CHF 14,270.
- 5 mornings + 1 full day: CHF 16,130.
- 3 mornings + 2 full days: CHF 17,990.
- 2 mornings + 3 full days: CHF 19,860.
- 1 morning + 4 full days: CHF 21,720.
- 5 full days: CHF 23,780.
- Ad-hoc full day (until 15:00): CHF 100 per day.

- Early Childhood 2 (EC2): CHF 23,780 per year.

- Early Childhood 3 – Grade 5 (Primary Years Programme): CHF 27,970 per year.

- Middle School (Grades 6–8, Middle Years Programme): CHF 32,010 per year.

- Senior School (Grades 9–10): CHF 33,370 per year.

- Diploma Programme (Grades 11–12): CHF 37,680 per year.

Reductions and family discounts

- Second child from same family: CHF 1,000 discount per year.
- Third child from same family: CHF 2,000 discount per year.
- Fourth (and additional) child: CHF 4,000 discount per year.

Billing schedule and payment terms (how tuition is billed and typical payment plans)

- A tuition invoice is issued per household for the school year; invoices are sent electronically (paper copies available for a CHF 5 charge). ISB accepts payments in Swiss francs (CHF) only; any bank charges must be paid by the sender.

- Standard payment options for privately paid tuition (arranged annually with Finance Office):
- Option 1: 100% of the annual tuition due before 15 July.
- Option 2: 70% due before 15 July; remaining 30% due before the last day of school before the Fasnacht break or 15 February, whichever is earlier.
- Option 3: 10 monthly instalments due on the 15th of each month from 15 July through 15 April; this option carries an administration surcharge of 2% per year.

- Company-paid tuition: 100% of annual tuition is due before 15 July.

- Late-enrolment and initial-payment rules for students starting mid-year (examples):
- Enrolment from 1 June to 31 December: 100% of annual tuition is due; private payers also pay a minimum down payment of 20% at least two working days before the student starts.
- Enrolment from 1 January to last day of Spring Break: 60% of annual tuition is due, plus a minimum down payment of 20% before the student starts; remainder invoiced within 30 days.
- Enrolment after the first day of classes following Spring Break: 30% of annual tuition is due, plus a minimum down payment of 20% before the student starts; remainder invoiced within 30 days.

Withdrawal, re-enrolment and refund rules

- Development Fee is non-refundable in all circumstances. Waiting-list deposits are refunded if no place is offered within eight months.

- Re-enrolment withdrawals (examples of charges when a returning family confirms re-enrolment and then withdraws):
- Withdrawal between the re-enrolment deadline and 31 March: no tuition fees due.
- Withdrawal between 1 April and 31 May: late withdrawal fee of CHF 3,000 per student.
- Withdrawal between 1 June and 15 July: late withdrawal fee of CHF 5,000 per student.
- Withdrawal after 15 July: standard early-withdrawal rules apply (below).

- Early withdrawal from the school after the school year has started (tuition owed based on date of written notice):
- Withdrawal between 15 July and 31 December (with at least two months' written notice): 55% of the annual tuition fee is due.
- Withdrawal between 1 January and the last day of Spring Break (with at least two months' written notice): 85% of the annual tuition fee is due.
- Withdrawal after the first day of classes following Spring Break: 100% of the annual tuition fee is due.
- In Payment Option 3 (monthly instalments) partial annual tuition amounts are due 30 days before the date of withdrawal. ISB may withhold school records until outstanding balances are settled.

- No refund is provided for tuition in the event of school closure for force majeure events, for expulsion, or for leave of absence due to illness, accident or mental illness.

Late payment and collection

- Late payment charge: 2% per month on outstanding balances or an administration fee of CHF 50, whichever is greater. ISB may refuse entry to class, withhold records, and engage debt-collection third parties for unpaid invoices.

Other costs and fees (charged separately)

- Costs not included in tuition (examples that are invoiced separately): additional or replacement textbooks; damage or loss of school equipment; field trips, camps and excursions; external examinations (for example IB exam costs); IB DP online courses; psycho-educational evaluations; some therapies and evaluations; extra-curricular programme fees; 1:1 teacher assistant costs; and meals. Such items are invoiced separately and are subject to the payment terms on each invoice.

- After-school and holiday childcare (EC1–Grade 5):
- Extended School Day (15:00–18:00) — Trimester registration: CHF 30 per day; Drop-in registration: CHF 60 per day.
- Holiday Childcare (07:45–17:00 on selected holidays) — Pre-registration: CHF 90 per day; Drop-in registration: CHF 150 per day. Ad-hoc EC1 full-day rate (until 15:00): CHF 100 per day.

- Paper invoice fee (if paper invoices are requested): CHF 5 per invoice. Special billing or changes to payment frequency may incur administration fees (e.g., CHF 100 per change request or special billing).

Boarding / residential provision

- ISB operates as a co-educational day school for students aged 3–19; there is no boarding provision and no boarding fees.

Fee payment options and bank details

- Payments are accepted in Swiss francs (CHF) and may be made by bank transfer. Any bank charges are the responsibility of the payer. The school's bank details for CHF transfers are provided for tuition payment (Bank Cler AG, Basel; IBAN: CH79 0844 0697 0092 9000 0; SWIFT/BIC: BCLRCHBB). Parents should indicate family name and student names when making transfers.

Key administrative provisions

- Parents/guardians must maintain health, accident and liability insurance for each enrolled student. ISB reserves the right to invoice separately for any additional costs described above and to take action for overdue accounts as set out in the financial regulations.

Curriculum

ISB offers the International Baccalaureate across three programmes: Primary Years Programme (PYP) for ages 3–11; Middle Years Programme (MYP) for ages 11–16; and the Diploma Programme (DP) for ages 16–18. The school is English-language. The PYP is offered in English with German as a second language, and a Dual Language Programme (English and German) is available for younger students. The MYP provides an eight-subject-group framework and includes a co-curricular Z-Block for Grades 6–8. The IB Diploma Programme is a rigorous university-preparatory course offered through ISB's Senior School, with ISB offering over 65 academic courses. ISB uses Continuums—subject guides that ensure a seamless educational experience across its three campuses.

Exam Results

IB Diploma results show strong performance. In 2025, 158 students completed the IB Diploma Examinations. Of the 147 students who completed the full Diploma, ISB achieved a 96.6% pass rate and an average of 34.4 points (out of 45), with 17% achieving 40+ points. Diploma Programme Courses: For the 11 students who took Diploma Programme Courses, they completed 48 courses with an average of 4.1 points per course. MAP test results measure reading and mathematics progress for Grades 3–10; Fall 2025 results are posted.

Higher Education Progression

ISB's Pathways to Swiss Universities explains that the IB Diploma earned at ISB is fully recognised by Swiss universities as equivalent to a Swiss Matura, provided it meets the required criteria. The Swiss admission framework includes six IB subject groups (first language, second language, humanities, natural science, mathematics, and an elective) and HL requirements for some universities (e.g., ETH Zürich and EPFL). Most bachelor programmes at Swiss universities are taught in German, French or Italian, with some courses in English; admission decisions are made by the individual universities. ISB provides a dedicated university counselling team to guide Swiss and international applications and hosts annual university fairs with representatives from universities worldwide.

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

SEE Learning guides Social, Emotional and Ethical Learning at ISB. The framework fosters a compassionate and ethical learning environment and places student wellbeing at the heart of teaching and learning. Vision 2030 anchors wellbeing as central to the school's mission, supporting social, mental, physical and emotional development. Age-appropriate approaches develop essential skills such as teamwork, conflict resolution, emotional regulation, empathy and respect across the Junior, Middle and Senior Schools. A dedicated team of School Counsellors provides individual and small-group counselling, restorative interventions and crisis response services, and supports parent involvement in wellbeing.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

English Language Support provides a nurturing environment for students who have little English knowledge. A continuum of support is offered for students with mild and moderate learning needs to ensure a quality and equitable education. Private speech-language, occupational, and physical therapists work with students during the school day. A School Psychologist conducts psycho-educational evaluations to tailor learning environments to individual needs.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

The Dual Language Programme offers instruction in English and German as an alternative to the English Language Programme in the Junior School. The programme is currently available to students aged 3 to 10, with plans to extend to Grade 5 in 2026/27. It enables students to develop proficiency in both languages and facilitates local community integration. Each Dual Language Class is supported by two core teachers (one English-speaking and one German-speaking) and teaching assistants, with 50% of instruction in English and 50% in German. Homeroom teachers provide ongoing support and communicate with parents.

Mental Wellbeing

Wellbeing is at the heart of ISB's mission, with Vision 2030 fostering social, mental, physical and emotional fulfillment. The school embraces SEE Learning to support social, emotional and ethical development. Age-appropriate approaches build teamwork, emotional regulation, empathy and respect across year levels. A team of School Counsellors supports students across Junior, Middle and Senior Schools, offering individual and small-group counselling, restorative interventions and crisis response services. Parents participate in wellbeing workshops and school-wide wellbeing initiatives.

Safeguarding

ISB has a Child Protection Policy and adheres to Swiss Federal and Cantonal laws regarding child protection. The school commits to safeguarding and providing a safe environment for all students in line with the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.

Admissions

1. Explore: Learn about ISBasel's personalised approach to education and schedule an individual consultation in person or online to understand how ISBasel can support your child. The school outlines three levels—Junior School (ages 3–11), Middle School (ages 11–14), and Senior School (ages 14–18)—which you can discuss during this consult. This initial exploration helps families determine fit before moving to the next steps.

2. Visit: ISBasel's doors are open year‑round. Schedule a visit or call, and you will be welcomed for an individual tour at your convenience. During the visit you can explore the school in depth and meet key staff members. This visit is designed to give you a first‑hand sense of the school environment and community.

3. Register & Apply: The Admissions Team is here to assist you every step of the way. ISBasel enrols students throughout the year, dependent on space and fulfillment of entry requirements. They provide personalised support and guidance on documentation, application forms, and admission criteria. You can ask questions about the process and receive help with next steps as you prepare your dossier.

4. Documentation and join requirements: Complete all application forms; all documents must be in English or officially translated (submit both original and translation). Additional assessment outcomes may be required; the level of English proficiency and any student support needs will be reviewed. Availability of space in classes and option groups, sibling availability, and the Director's and Principal's discretion also influence admission decisions.

5. English proficiency and placement: Grade 6 and above require an online English test to determine proficiency, sometimes with an interview. Seniors may have a tailored curriculum if enrolled in external English programs, and they transition as language skills improve. ISB uses the CEFR framework to outline minimum English proficiency by grade: Grade 9 A2/B1; Grade 10 A2/B2; Grade 11 B1/B2; Grade 12 B1/B2 (Only for students currently in the IB Diploma Programme).

6. Student support: ISB provides tailored learning support for mild to moderate learning needs, with close collaboration with families to ensure proper placement and resources. Conditional enrolment may be offered with agreed services and extra costs. In rare cases where the school cannot meet a student's needs, a decision is explained and families are guided toward alternative options.

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Saint Charles International School

Instructs in English, French, German

Ages 8 - 20 years

Fees CHF 15,300 - 74,500

Pupils 259

Type Co-educational, Co-educational (boarding)

Saint-Charles International School is a day and boarding school founded in 1897. It offers Swiss Curriculum and the International Baccalaureate (IB) Programme, with two pathways: the Swiss Programme (primary through maturité) and the IB Diploma Programme (in English). The school is recognised by the Swiss Confederation and authorised to prepare students for maturité examinations. Instruction in the Swiss Programme is multilingual (French, English, German), with Primary taught in English and French and the Middle School in English, French and German; the IB Programme is taught in English with ESL support. Immersion language teaching introduces English and German from early years through language islands, enabling bilingual Matura or IB Diploma. The campus features a swimming pool, gym, tennis courts, music rooms and a cinema; on-campus dining includes vegetarian options. Boarding from age 10; off-campus partnerships support equestrian training and sports. The school educates around 250 students and has 8,000+ alumni worldwide.

Location

Saint-Charles International School is in Porrentruy, Jura, Switzerland at Rue du 24-Septembre 1, 2900 Porrentruy. The campus is less than two hours from Zürich and about one hour from Basel, and is easy to reach by car or train. From Zürich Airport, trains to Zürich Main Station and then to Porrentruy take about 2 to 2.5 hours; from Basel Airport, direct trains to Porrentruy take just over an hour. On arrival in Porrentruy, the campus is minutes away from the train station, with a six-minute walk for travelers without luggage.

Stages

Swiss Programme from primary through middle school and high school (Maturité), with instruction in French, English, and German.

Type

The school is private and offers day schooling and boarding; boarding is available for students from age 10.

Country affiliation

Recognised by the Swiss Confederation and authorised to prepare students for the Maturité exams.

Religious affiliation

Christian; founded with Christian roots and supported by the Diocese of Basel.

School day structure

The day includes standard classroom instruction with after-school Devoirs accompagnés (supervised study) available for students after class.

Boarding Arrangements

Saint-Charles offers 5-day boarding and 7-day boarding. Two separate boarding houses accommodate up to 70 students, each supervised by a dedicated staff team. The 5-day boarding includes boarding school management, full board, residence permit fee, books and school supplies, KVG/LAMAL and private health insurance, and other related costs. The 7-day boarding includes boarding school supervision including weekend activities, full board, residence permit fee, books and school supplies, KVG/LAMAL and private health insurance, and other related costs.

Uniform Requirement

A sports uniform is provided for boarders, consisting of a t-shirt and leggings or jogging pants.

Food Options

Charly's Corner on campus provides breakfast, lunch and dinner for boarders; day students have lunch. The menu is varied daily with vegetarian options, and fresh fruit is available throughout the day. The kitchen holds the Fourchette Verte label and Saint-Charles is a member of the Healthy Schools network; menus are updated daily.

House System

Up to 70 students are accommodated in two separate boarding houses, each supervised by a dedicated staff team.

Governance and Ownership

Saint-Charles International School is governed by a Board of Directors and a management team. The Board comprises five members: Didier Membrez (President), Josiane Sudan-Girardin, Anne Seydoux-Christe, Pierre-Alain Berret, and Abbé Jean-Jacques Theurillat; Esmond Tweedie serves as Executive Director and heads the management team.

Admission & Application Fees:

- Day students (day-school admission): CHF 500 (one-time, non-refundable).
- Boarding students (boarding admission): CHF 3,000 (one-time, non-refundable).

Tuition fees (annual and per-term / per-semester equivalents):

Note: Tuition is quoted as an annual amount. Billing may be processed by semester on request; where a per-term amount is shown below it is the annual figure divided by two (per-semester).

- Primary School (Swiss curriculum):
- Annual: CHF 6'600 (families in the Canton of Jura) / CHF 14'400 (outside the canton).
- Per semester (billing-by-semester equivalent): CHF 3'300 / CHF 7'200.

- Middle School (Collège, Swiss curriculum):
- Annual: CHF 7'200 (Jura) / CHF 18'000 (outside the canton).
- Per semester: CHF 3'600 / CHF 9'000.

- Swiss Lycée – Maturité (French):
- Annual: CHF 9'600 (Jura) / CHF 20'400 (outside the canton).
- Per semester: CHF 4'800 / CHF 10'200.

- Bilingual Lycée (English–French) – Maturité:
- Annual: CHF 12'000 (Jura) / CHF 24'000 (outside the canton).
- Per semester: CHF 6'000 / CHF 12'000.

- International Section (IB MYP and DP):
- IB MYP 3: Annual CHF 20'000 (Jura) / CHF 23'000 (outside). Per semester: CHF 10'000 / CHF 11'500.
- IB MYP 4: Annual CHF 22'000 (Jura) / CHF 33'000 (outside). Per semester: CHF 11'000 / CHF 16'500.
- IB MYP 5: Annual CHF 22'000 (Jura) / CHF 33'000 (outside). Per semester: CHF 11'000 / CHF 16'500.
- IB Diploma Programme (DP): Annual CHF 25'000 (Jura) / CHF 33'000 (outside). Per semester: CHF 12'500 / CHF 16'500.

Boarding fees (packages, inclusions and exclusions):

- 5-day boarding package (board and school week activities): CHF 32'700 per year. Included elements listed for the package: full board during the week, the boarding programme, supervised homework, on-site extracurricular activities, day trips, certain sports outfit items, and some cultural/outings; certain items are excluded (residence permit fees, books and school supplies in some circumstances, certain exam and activity costs, travel, pocket money, occasional laundry, airport transfers and some camps/trips).

- 7-day boarding package (full weekly boarding including weekends): CHF 47'000 per year. The 7-day package includes weekend activities, laundry and additional weekend services; a number of items remain excluded (travel, some lessons/activities charged separately, pocket money, airport transfers, certain exam fees and specialist activities).

- Day-board / lunch options (annual lunch plans):
- 1 lunch per week: CHF 390 (annual). 2 lunches: CHF 780. 3 lunches: CHF 1'170. 4 lunches: CHF 1'560. 5 lunches: CHF 1'950.

Other recurring fees and one-off academic/exam charges:

- General / annual fees (covers textbooks, school supplies, school outings, ski/green camp, graduation trips and administrative costs): billed in two instalments (at the start of the school year and at the start of the second semester). Amounts vary by programme:
- Primary: CHF 1'000 per year.
- Middle School (Collège): CHF 1'500 per year.
- Swiss Lycée / Bilingual Lycée: CHF 1'500 per year.
- International Section MYP levels: CHF 1'500 per year.
- IB DP (final years): CHF 2'500 per year.

- Support / tutoring and extra academic services (examples):
- Private 45-minute lessons: CHF 100 per lesson.
- Semi-private (max 3 students) 45-minute: CHF 60 per lesson.
- Group (4+ students) 45-minute: CHF 30 per lesson.
- Language-exam preparation courses: approx. CHF 1'000 per semester (charged when organised).
- Language examination fees: generally between CHF 400 and CHF 750.
- IB DP examination fees: CHF 2'980.

- Extras commonly excluded from package fees and billed separately: specialist lessons (horse riding, music, golf, aviation), certain travel and airport transfers, replacement of lost/damaged books or licences, some medical or insurance costs beyond those listed, pocket money and occasional laundry/dry-cleaning.

Billing schedule and payment terms:

- Invoices are issued in advance and are payable within the stated payment term; billing may be processed by semester on request. Payments are to be made in Swiss francs (CHF). Payments in cash are not accepted. Late payments incur interest at 1% per month; administrative reminder fees apply (typical reminder fees: CHF 20 / CHF 50 / CHF 100 for successive reminders). No place reservation is processed before payment of the registration/admission fee; students may not attend classes until invoices are paid.

Cancellation, refunds and contractual penalties:

- For new applicants: if registration is cancelled before 30 June, a cancellation fee equal to two months of tuition (and boarding, where applicable) is charged; if cancelled after 30 June a cancellation fee equal to three months of tuition (and boarding where applicable) is charged.

- For current students: withdrawal before the end of the school year makes all expenses for the current trimester and the following one payable. Unless written notice is given by parents before the specified deadline for re-registration (28 February), students are automatically entered for the following school year; cancelling after that date creates a financial obligation (example: tuition for the first three months may be payable as compensation).

Uniform / clothing and included clothing items:

- No separate general uniform fee is listed. For boarding students a sports outfit (t-shirts, leggings or jogging pants) is listed among included items in the boarding packages; additional specialist sports or activity clothing or equipment may be charged separately.

Fee payment options:

- The school accepts international payments via Flywire (enables bank transfers and local payment methods in many currencies) and invoices are payable by bank transfer. Payments in cash are not accepted. Specific payment instructions and the school's Flywire payment portal are used for international transactions.

Summary of the key amounts at a glance (examples):

- Admission fee (day): CHF 500; Admission fee (boarding): CHF 3'000.
- Typical annual tuition (examples, Jura / outside canton): Primary CHF 6'600 / 14'400; Middle CHF 7'200 / 18'000; Swiss Lycée CHF 9'600 / 20'400; Bilingual Lycée CHF 12'000 / 24'000; IB MYP/DP ranges CHF 20'000–25'000 (Jura) and up to CHF 33'000 (outside). Per-semester equivalents are half the annual amounts.

(End of fees overview.)

Curriculum

Saint-Charles offers two curriculum pathways: the Swiss Programme and the International Baccalaureate (IB) Programme. The Swiss Programme covers primary through maturité and uses instruction in French, English and German; Primary is taught in English and French, and the Middle School is multilingual in English, French and German. The Swiss Maturité is bilingual French-English and is recognised by the Swiss Confederation, with the school authorised to prepare students for maturité examinations. The IB Programme is taught in English, offering the Middle Years Programme and the Diploma Programme, with English as the language of instruction for all subjects and ESL support available. Immersion language teaching introduces English and German from early years through 'language islands' where other subjects are taught in additional languages, laying the foundation for bilingual Matura or the IB Diploma Programme.

Exam Results

IB Diploma Programme class of 2025 results: 17% entering a top 25 institution; 1 in 3 graduates joined a top 100 university; 30% were recognised for excellence in their subject areas.

Higher Education Progression

University preparation and guidance are core at Saint-Charles. A dedicated University Support Team helps identify universities and coordinate applications, with university talks and fairs accessible to students. From the Middle Years Programme, students take part in regular guidance lessons and receive tailored advice on IBDP subject selection in MYP5; in the Diploma Programme, guidance becomes more personalised with one-to-one meetings and university representation is facilitated by the school, supported by a University Library.

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

Wellbeing and pastoral care are central to Saint-Charles. The school fosters mental, physical, social, and academic wellbeing to help students grow. A dedicated Wellbeing Team coordinates pastoral care; the team is led by Esmond Tweedie, Executive Director and Designated Safeguarding Lead. Boarding is supported by Head of Boarding José Miquelino, with round-the-clock support, while Antonella Galioto supports day students. A confidential listening ear is available from Paulina Tkaczyk, and an external nurse supports day students. Students' rights are upheld; they can turn to staff with concerns and are cared for in a safe and respectful environment.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

Study support and mentoring help students manage their learning. A dedicated Wellbeing Team coordinates care for all students. ESL (English as a Second Language) assistance is available for students who require language support. Boarding students receive guidance with personal matters, organization, and daily routines, with weekly progress monitoring by the boarding staff and teachers. These measures support students across their academic journey.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

IB programmes are taught in English. English proficiency is emphasized and ESL support is available for students who require it. Language Acquisition includes French and German; Group 2 offers foreign languages from beginner to advanced. From Grade 9, the Middle Years Programme (MYP) is taught entirely in English. Group 1 Studies in Language and Literature are usually taken in the student's mother tongue, while Group 2 Language Acquisition covers foreign languages from beginner to advanced; English is the language of instruction for most subjects.

Mental Wellbeing

Student wellbeing is central to the mission. Pastoral care nurtures mental, physical, social, and academic wellbeing. The Wellbeing Team coordinates this care, led by Esmond Tweedie. Boarding staff provide 24/7 support; a confidential listening ear from Paulina Tkaczyk and a nurse are available to support health needs. Students' rights ensure safety, care, respect, privacy, and a voice to raise concerns.

Safeguarding

A designated safeguarding lead oversees safeguarding within the Wellbeing Team. Boarding staff provide round-the-clock protection and support for students. Students' rights protect privacy and ensure a voice to raise concerns. The school upholds the rights of the child under the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. Staff are available to discuss safeguarding concerns and to provide support.

Admissions

Three steps are required for enrolment: schedule an appointment with the school headmistress; during an interview, all aspects of the curriculum and admissions are discussed, with the child present. The parents complete the enrolment application and send it to the secretariat and pay the enrolment fee, after which enrolment is confirmed. For primary school, motivation to learn in a multilingual environment is sought; for secondary school, candidates must pass entrance tests in French, Math, and German. Saint-Charles offers two high school streams, one in French and one bilingual French-English, both recognised by Swiss educational authorities. Appointments can be booked online or by contacting the school secretary. The admission process includes providing documents (school reports for the last two years, a letter of recommendation, and a color scan of the passport), an interview and admissions testing, and language assessments (IB Diploma: English Proficiency; Swiss Matura: English and French Proficiency) plus a Maths assessment. The Head of Admissions reviews applications and responds in roughly 10 days. Possible outcomes are admittance with a welcome package and visa procedures; provisional acceptance after a language-study period; waitlist; or non-acceptance.

Scholarships

A scholarship fund for Jura-based students exists and allows residents of the canton to attend Saint-Charles. The school administration is available to answer questions in complete confidentiality.

Waitlist

Waitlist: if there is no space in the desired program, a place on the waitlist may be offered until space becomes available.

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