Compare Affordable International Schools in Lugano, Switzerland

Instructs in English

Ages 3 - 18 years

Fees CHF 18,120 - 25,950

Type Co-educational

International School of Ticino (IST) is a private international day school in Ticino, Switzerland, offering the IB continuum: PYP, MYP, DP, and the IB Career-related Programme (IBCP). The school serves ages 3 to 18. The language of instruction is English, with an Italian bilingual programme for Grades 2–10 to meet Ticino cantonal requirements. IST opened as a kindergarten in 2014 and expanded to serve international and local families; in 2017 it joined Inspired Education Group. Facilities include bright, well-resourced classrooms with up-to-date technology, an early years learning zone, a first-floor learning hub, a gymnasium for football, basketball, and volleyball, and expansive outdoor spaces for play. The curriculum follows IB standards with inquiry-based learning in the PYP and across eight subject areas in the MYP and DP, plus CP options with seven career-related pathways. IST is a signatory to the Global Schools Program and supports Sustainable Development Goals.

Location

Via Ponteggia 23, 6814 Cadempino, Switzerland. Located in the Ticino canton near Lugano. Accessible by local transport and road links.

Stages

Ages 3-18/19; IB continuum from Early Years to High School, including the Career-related Programme (CP).

Type

Private international day school; IB World School (IB continuum); part of the Inspired group of schools.

Pupil Nationality Mix

30 different nationalities represented.

Additional learning support

Inclusion Policy and Inclusion Program in place. Referral procedures identify students with additional learning needs and develop an Individual Learning Plan (ILP). Inclusive assessment arrangements can be made where appropriate. Reviews of ILPs and progress occur regularly, including a six‑week review cycle; support may involve external agencies as required.

Country affiliation

Switzerland

Uniform Requirement

The IST Uniform is mandatory for students from Pre-Kinder to MYP 3. The uniform collection comprises mandatory and optional items and can be ordered from IST's official supplier, Unique Uniforms, directly from their online store.

Food Options

The canteen offers a hot lunch programme with a balanced and healthy variety of freshly prepared, nut-free dishes, vegetables and fresh fruit.

Governance and Ownership

The Governing Board includes Nicholas Wergan (Global Education Director for Inspired) and Federica Cravero (CEO Italy). IST is a member of Inspired, a global premium schools group, and the school is also a member of the Swiss Group of International Schools (SGIS).

Application and admission fees

- Student Admission Fee (one‑time, payable at initial enrolment): CHF 3,000.
- Registration Fee (payable annually): CHF 1,950.

Tuition fees by year group (annual and scheduled payments for 2026–2027)

Each line below shows: Annual tuition — 1st payment (due 17 Feb 2026) — 2nd payment (due 23 Aug 2026) — 3rd payment (due 1 Dec 2026).

- Kindergarten — CHF 20,735 — CHF 5,184 — CHF 10,368 — CHF 5,184.
- Kindergarten (Half Day) — CHF 12,300 — CHF 3,075 — CHF 6,150 — CHF 3,075.
- Transition — CHF 20,735 — CHF 5,184 — CHF 10,368 — CHF 5,184.
- Grade 1 — CHF 23,640 — CHF 5,910 — CHF 11,820 — CHF 5,910.
- Grade 2 — CHF 24,840 — CHF 6,210 — CHF 12,420 — CHF 6,210.
- Grade 3 — CHF 24,940 — CHF 6,235 — CHF 12,470 — CHF 6,235.
- Grade 4 — CHF 24,940 — CHF 6,235 — CHF 12,470 — CHF 6,235.
- Grade 5 — CHF 25,190 — CHF 6,297 — CHF 12,595 — CHF 6,297.
- Grade 6 — CHF 26,410 — CHF 6,602 — CHF 13,205 — CHF 6,602.
- Grade 7 — CHF 26,410 — CHF 6,602 — CHF 13,205 — CHF 6,602.
- Grade 8 — CHF 26,410 — CHF 6,602 — CHF 13,205 — CHF 6,602.
- Grade 9 — CHF 26,410 — CHF 6,602 — CHF 13,205 — CHF 6,602.
- Grade 10 — CHF 27,435 — CHF 6,859 — CHF 13,718 — CHF 6,859.
- Grade 11 — CHF 27,435 — CHF 6,859 — CHF 13,718 — CHF 6,859.
- Grade 12 — CHF 29,185 — CHF 7,296 — CHF 14,593 — CHF 7,296.
- Grade 13 — CHF 29,185 — CHF 7,296 — CHF 14,593 — CHF 7,296.

Additional fee items:
- Lunches (annual): CHF 2,600 — billed as CHF 1,300 at the 2nd payment and CHF 1,300 at the 3rd payment (no amount at 1st payment).
- EAL / Additional Inclusion Support (annual): CHF 4,200 (no instalment amounts shown).

Billing schedule and payment terms

- 1st Payment: due by 17 February 2026 — includes NSAF + Registration Fee + 25% of the tuition fee.
- 2nd Payment: due by 23 August 2026 — includes 50% of lunches + 50% of the tuition fee.
- 3rd Payment: due by 1 December 2026 — includes 50% of lunches + 25% of the tuition fee.
- The fee schedule states: "Fees must be paid by the dates indicated."

Boarding fees

- Boarding is not listed in the school fee schedule; there are no boarding fees shown.

Other costs and what tuition does not cover

- Tuition fees do not include bus service, daily school trips, field trips, laptop, school uniforms, and external exams.
- For Grades 12–13, textbooks are listed separately (not included in tuition).
- The Registration Fee is stated to include stationery and educational resources.

Refund information

- The published school fee schedule does not specify a refund policy or refund conditions in the fee document.

Fee payment options and bank details

- Payment method accepted: bank transfer only (credit card payments are not indicated).
- Bank details provided for payments:
- Bank: UBS SA
- Beneficiary: INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF TICINO SA
- IBAN: CH25 0023 6236 1115 0901 A
- BIC / SWIFT: UBSWCHZH80A.

Curriculum

IS Ticino is an IB Continuum school offering the Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP) and Diploma Programme (DP). The language of instruction is English, with an Italian Programme that provides a bilingual structure for Grades 2–10 to meet Ticino Canton requirements. The Early Years curriculum uses a trans-disciplinary inquiry approach inspired by the Reggio Emilia philosophy and provides full immersion in an English language context. The Primary Years Programme focuses on inquiry-based learning through PYP themes, while the Middle Years Programme and Diploma Programme follow IB frameworks across eight subject areas and core components. The school aligns with IB standards and is part of Inspired Education Group.

Student Teacher Ratio

Small class sizes due to a small student population.

Higher Education Progression

Career and higher education counselling is provided by university counsellors to advise on tertiary education pathways. University destinations include the United Kingdom, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, the United States, Switzerland, and elsewhere, with more than 50% of graduates going to UK universities.

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

IST places the student at the centre of learning with a strong focus on social and emotional development within the IB framework and school pastoral care. The school has a dedicated Head of Pastoral who leads welfare and pastoral support across the school. The IB Learner Profile emphasises balance, caring and open-mindedness as core dispositions for students. The Behaviour Policy promotes respectful interactions, positive behaviour management and a no-bullying culture. The Inclusion Program is led by an Inclusion Coordinator and provides social-emotional support through referrals and Individual Learning Plans, with collaboration with families and external agencies when needed.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

IST runs an Inclusion Program with an Inclusion Coordinator to identify students with additional needs and develop Individual Learning Plans. The school provides inclusive assessment arrangements across the IB programmes and can involve external agencies as required. Referral procedures support identifying and addressing needs, with case-by-case planning for learners across the Primary, Middle and Diploma stages.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

The Primary Years Programme and Early Years Programme are taught in English. Early Years is described as a full immersion in an English language context, with literacy developed in English. EAL support is provided as part of the school's inclusion framework, available under EAL / Additional Inclusion Support.

Mental Wellbeing

Pastoral care is a visible priority, with a Head of Pastoral overseeing welfare and support for students. The IB framework promotes balanced, caring and other wellbeing-focused attributes as part of student development. During online learning, the school emphasises looking after the wellbeing of the entire school community and provides guidance to support students' wellbeing in a digital environment.

Safeguarding

The school operates a Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy with a designated senior person for child protection (DSP), Mr. Graeme Wallbank, and clear welfare procedures. Staff are expected to follow safeguarding protocols, including reporting concerns and liaising with the DSP and Principal. The policy includes procedures for recording welfare concerns and coordinating with families and external agencies when necessary.

Admissions

IS Ticino accepts applications via an online form. After submission the admissions team will contact families to discuss the application process. IS Ticino admits international children arriving or leaving in the middle of the academic year. For Early Years and Elementary, IS Ticino provides an international education with English as the main language of instruction and operates a non-discriminatory admission policy. IS Ticino will accept children with no previous experience of speaking English. Although not all families are fluent in English, all communication with the school is primarily in English, and at least one parent should be able to speak English, communicate with staff in English, discuss English-language activities with the child, and read teacher notes and converse with teachers in English. Admission is by the Principal when it is evident the student can benefit from the programme and the school has sufficient staffing and programme capacity; placement for a different grade requires the Principal's recommendation. Priority for entry is given to families with siblings already enrolled and to international families whose children are fluent in English; all other applications are processed in strict chronological order and in compliance with the Admissions Procedure. Submit an application via the contact form (Apply Now). The language of instruction is English and applicants are assessed for English proficiency before a decision is made, including language assessments for PYP and DP where appropriate. Enrollment requires documents such as student and parent passports, Swiss permit if non-Swiss, birth certificate, vaccination record and Swiss health insurance.

Scholarships

Nsouli Scholars Programme: The Nsouli Scholars Programme provides full scholarships to 50 extraordinary students at any one time to attend Inspired schools on a full scholarship for the duration of their education. The endowment honours Nadim Nsouli, and several scholarships are awarded to individuals of Lebanese origin.

Waitlist

Waiting lists: If a class is fully subscribed, successful applicants are invited to place their name on a waiting list. Priority is given to siblings of current IST students, children of ex-IST students, applicants from the international community, and applicants who are proficient in English or transferring from English-medium schools.

View Full Profile

GIS The International School of Lugano

Instructs in English, Italian

Ages 3 - 18 years

Fees CHF 11,200 - 22,500

Type Co-educational

GIS Lugano is a bilingual international school in Lugano, Switzerland, offering a multilingual curriculum for ages 3 to 18. English and Italian are the primary languages of instruction, with intensive Italian for local culture and native-speaking teachers supporting linguistic diversity. The school follows the International Baccalaureate framework and is pursuing authorization for the IB Primary Years Programme and Middle Years Programme, while also delivering a bespoke curriculum that blends inquiry-based learning with a student-centered approach. The campus includes Early Years learning spaces such as Digital Atelier, Clay Atelier, Colour Atelier, The Piazza, Psychomotor Space, and Nature Corner, with a strong emphasis on safety and hands-on exploration. Technology is integrated across learning, including BYOD in upper years and access to interactive whiteboards and coding programs. GIS Lugano supports global perspectives through international exchanges with partner schools in Brazil and Italy, weekly electives, and a 100 Languages Philosophy that celebrates linguistic diversity.

Location

GIS Lugano is located in Lugano, Ticino, Switzerland, at Via Senago 42E, 6912 Lugano, in the Pazzallo neighbourhood. It is easily accessible by public transport, with travel times: about 12 minutes from Lugano city centre, 20 minutes from Mendrisio, 28 minutes from Bellinzona, and 30 minutes from Chiasso.

Stages

GIS Lugano offers education from Early Years (preschool) through secondary school. The secondary section is divided between Middle School (ages 11–14) and Liceo (ages 15–18) and the Liceo is planned to be introduced in a second development phase.

Type

International school

Country affiliation

Switzerland

School day structure

Day arrival and dismissal are age-specific: Early Years arrive 8:15–9:00 (flexible) and are dismissed at 15:45; Elementary arrive 8:15–8:30 (lessons begin 8:30) and are dismissed at 15:50; Middle School arrives 8:10 (lessons begin 8:15) and is dismissed at 15:55. After-School Enrichment starts at 16:00.

Uniform Requirement

Uniform is compulsory across all GIS Lugano campuses and year groups. Uniforms are supplied by CoccoBaby; orders are placed online via myunif.com. Daily attire includes a GIS-logo polo shirt or blouse with trousers, shorts, or a skirt, and a GIS sweater or cardigan; a GIS-branded PE kit is required for physical education.

Food Options

School lunches are prepared and delivered by 1908, Lugano's catering provider, and use locally sourced, organic products. Lunch is supervised by teachers, and the school accommodates special dietary needs in line with health guidelines.

Governance and Ownership

GIS Lugano is GIS The International School of Lugano SA, part of the GIS Group of International Schools Suisse. The GIS Board of Directors comprises the founding group alongside international school leaders who serve as strategic advisers and educational supervisors.

Application & Registration Fees

- Admission fee (one-time, new enrolments only): CHF 2,500.00.
- Registration fee (annual): CHF 1,500.00.

Tuition fees by year group (annual and instalments)

The school publishes annual tuition by year group and the three-instalment breakdown (25% / 50% / 25%). Payment deadlines shown are those published for the 2025/2026 schedule and the instalment percentages apply as indicated below. Amounts and instalment splits:

- Early Years 1 (Half Day)
- Annual tuition: CHF 11,200.00
- 1st payment (25%): CHF 2,800.00
- 2nd payment (50%): CHF 5,600.00
- 3rd payment (25%): CHF 2,800.00.

- Early Years 1 & 2 (Full day)
- Annual tuition: CHF 17,200.00
- 1st payment (25%): CHF 4,300.00
- 2nd payment (50%): CHF 8,600.00
- 3rd payment (25%): CHF 4,300.00.

- Early Years 3
- Annual tuition: CHF 17,800.00
- 1st payment (25%): CHF 4,450.00
- 2nd payment (50%): CHF 8,900.00
- 3rd payment (25%): CHF 4,450.00.

- Primary Years 1–5
- Annual tuition: CHF 19,400.00
- 1st payment (25%): CHF 4,850.00
- 2nd payment (50%): CHF 9,700.00
- 3rd payment (25%): CHF 4,850.00.

- Middle Years 1–3
- Annual tuition: CHF 21,500.00
- 1st payment (25%): CHF 5,375.00
- 2nd payment (50%): CHF 10,750.00
- 3rd payment (25%): CHF 5,375.00.

- Middle Years 4–5
- Annual tuition: CHF 22,500.00
- 1st payment (25%): CHF 5,625.00
- 2nd payment (50%): CHF 11,250.00
- 3rd payment (25%): CHF 5,625.00.

Lunches / Catering fees

- Annual lunches charge: CHF 2,200.00.
- Lunch payments are split: 50% of lunches invoiced with the 2nd instalment and 50% with the 3rd instalment (no lunches charge on the 1st instalment).

Billing schedule and payment terms

- Instalment schedule as published for the 2025/2026 fees:
- 1st payment (25% of tuition) + Registration Fee + Admission Fee — due by 31/01/2025.
- 2nd payment (50% of tuition) + 50% of lunch fees — due by 31/07/2025.
- 3rd payment (25% of tuition) + 50% of lunch fees — due by 15/12/2025.
- Fees must be paid by the dates indicated in the billing schedule.

Discounts and what the tuition includes

- Sibling discounts on tuition: 10% for the second child, 20% for the third child, 25% for the fourth child.
- Upfront payment discount: 5% on tuition if the total tuition amount is paid upfront by the stated upfront-payment deadline (published example: payment by 31/01/2025).
- Tuition includes books and stationery and tablets for school use. Any items not explicitly listed as included are charged extra.

Boarding fees

- The published fee schedule lists no boarding fees. No boarding charge is included in the published annual tuition schedule.

Other costs and typical additional fees

- Uniform: Wearing the school uniform is compulsory. Uniform items are supplied by CoccoBaby and ordered through the designated uniform platform (myunif.com); uniform items are an additional cost and are not included in the tuition line items.
- Items explicitly not included: any items not listed under the tuition inclusions (books, stationery, tablets) will be charged extra; parents should expect additional costs for personal supplies, certain school trips, specialised materials, optional activities and external exam/assessment fees where applicable.

Refund information

- The published annual fee schedule provides the chargeable items, instalment amounts and payment deadlines but does not set out a detailed refund or cancellation schedule within the same fee document. The fees schedule does identify the Admission Fee as a fee charged for new enrolments. For clarity about refunds of specific fees (for example enrolment cancellation, withdrawals, or refunds of payments), the school's formal refund/cancellation terms are not included in the single-page fee schedule and should be confirmed with the school's admissions or finance office.

Fee payment options

- The published fee documents and fee summary do not list specific accepted payment methods (for example bank transfer or card) in the fee schedule itself. Payment method details and invoicing instructions are handled through the school's admissions/finance processes. Confirm available payment channels and any transfer instructions with the admissions/finance office.

Brief note on gaps in the published fee schedule (concise)

- The one-page published annual fee schedule provides amounts, instalment splits, payment deadlines, discounts and what tuition covers, but it does not publish a full refund/cancellation policy or specify accepted payment methods on that same fee sheet. Financial and contractual details such as refund timelines, the treatment of mid-year withdrawals, and the school's accepted payment channels are handled separately by the school's admissions/finance team.

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

Pastoral care is provided with counseling and support services to ensure every child feels safe, supported, and confident in their learning journey. Social-emotional learning is embedded through dedicated programs, including antibullying and cyberbullying initiatives that teach empathy, resilience, and conflict resolution. The school emphasizes a holistic approach to education, integrating social and emotional development with academics. The learning culture supports students through small class sizes and individualized guidance to nurture personal growth and well-being. Students are encouraged to engage with their communities, reflect on personal strengths and attitudes, and develop self-regulation as lifelong learners.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

The curriculum provides a bilingual approach with English as the primary medium of instruction and Italian taught intensively to connect with local culture. Our bilingual program integrates with the International Baccalaureate framework. Some lessons, such as History, Geography, Mathematics and Science, may be conducted in Italian depending on the pathway; Middle School students may take the Terza Media exam if they choose that pathway; all students who continue to High School study these subjects in English.

Mental Wellbeing

Pastoral care and counseling are provided to support student wellbeing. Social-emotional learning includes antibullying and cyberbullying programs, teaching empathy, resilience, and conflict resolution. The school emphasizes holistic development with wellbeing integrated into daily practice and learning experiences.

Safeguarding

Pastoral care and safeguarding measures support student safety and wellbeing. Anti-bullying and cyberbullying programs help protect students from harm. Campus safety includes secure entrances, supervised outdoor areas, and regular safety drills. Transportation services support safe commuting to and from school.

View Full Profile

International School of Switzerland

Instructs in English, Italian

Ages 5 - 18 years

Fees CHF 16,000 - 22,000

Pupils 40

Type Co-educational

The International School of Switzerland is a day school for students aged 6–18 that offers the IB Middle Years Programme, the IB Diploma Programme, and Cambridge A Levels. It operates as an IB World School guided by the K.I.N.D. framework—Kindness, Innovation, Navigation, and Discovery—to shape both academics and co‑curricular life. Instruction is in English, with Italian and German taught at varying levels and CEFR‑based placement. From Grade 10, students can pursue a dual pathway to Advanced Levels or the IB Diploma Programme; the IB Diploma Programme is currently a Candidate School, and the Bridge Program supports language fluency and transitions to IB, A‑Levels, or Liceo. Facilities include modern classrooms with interactive touchscreens and Microsoft tools, a STEAM Center with robotics labs and a makerspace, and Switzerland's first Microsoft Dream Space for AI, VR, and coding projects. Arts spaces include Visual Arts Studios, a professional Performing Arts Theater, and Music Rooms, with on‑campus sports facilities. Co‑curriculars feature the Discovery Program, Masterclasses, and the Immersion Program, which offer diverse activities, masterclasses, cultural excursions, and industry visits.

Location

Located in Lugano, Switzerland. Address: Corso Enrico Pestalozzi 9, Lugano 6900. The campus is in Lugano, in the southern Ticino region.

Stages

Primary School, Middle School, and High School.

Type

IB World School

Additional learning support

Learning Support: Our Super Powers Program provides learning support with a three-step process: assessment to understand strengths and needs; personalized learning programs; ongoing support and growth guided by coaches.

Uniform Requirement

The uniforms are being redesigned and a School Shop will offer uniforms, school accessories, sports gear, and exclusive ISSwitzerland merchandise. The uniform design is intended to provide a polished yet comfortable, durable, and functional fit. Launching soon.

Food Options

A Lunch Program provides meals at Manor, a nearby venue, through a partnership to offer fresh, healthy, and high‑quality meals. Monthly menus will be published in advance and pricing shared; lunch payments can be made termly or in full for the year.

House System

A House System fosters community based on Kindness, Innovation, Navigation, and Discovery. Students participate in House Challenges (sports, trivia, arts, charity), there are leadership opportunities (house captains and committees), and the House Cup is awarded at year end. Each student is allocated to a house on joining ISS, with siblings in the same house; events include Sports Day, House Arts Festival, and Community Service Week.

Application and acceptance fees

- Enrolment deposit: CHF 3,000 per family. This deposit is non‑refundable and applies to new enrolling families.
- The final admission paperwork must be completed and returned with the deposit within four weeks of an offer.

Tuition fees by year group (annual and per‑term equivalents)

- Grade 1 (age 5–6): CHF 16,000 per year. Per term (three‑term division): CHF 5,333.33 per term.
- Grades 2–5 (age 7–10): CHF 18,000 per year. Per term (three‑term division): CHF 6,000.00 per term.
- Grades 6–9 (age 11–14): CHF 20,000 per year. Per term (three‑term division): CHF 6,666.67 per term.
- Grades 10–12 (age 15–17): CHF 22,000 per year. Per term (three‑term division): CHF 7,333.33 per term.

Billing schedule and payment terms

- Payment method for fees is by bank transfer using the school's Swiss account or IBAN/BIC for international transfers; the reference format required by the school is the student's first name and as much of the surname as possible (for example: ISSjohnsmith).
- Computer & Book Levy: CHF 1,000 per student, per year. This levy is due by 1 September or may be included in the initial invoice.
- Lunch payments can be made either termly or in full for the year.
- Compulsory camps (Summer and Winter) and excursions are invoiced in advance; additional or optional activities that incur charges are invoiced separately and communicated in advance.
- Full tuition payment terms and the school's terms & conditions are provided at enrolment.

Boarding fees

- Boarding: Not applicable — the school does not list a boarding programme or boarding fees.

Other costs and compulsory extras

- Computer & Book Levy: CHF 1,000 per student per year (see above).
- Compulsory camps: Two camps per year (Summer and Winter); invoiced in advance.
- Excursions: All curriculum excursions are compulsory and invoiced separately as required.
- Diploma Programme (Grades 10–12): An additional levy applies for any extra Pamoja courses taken beyond the standard programme; these additional costs are invoiced separately.
- Co‑curricular / Discovery programme: Most clubs and activities are included in fees; certain specialist programmes may carry additional charges that will be invoiced separately.
- Local travel pass: Families are encouraged to obtain a yearly local travel pass for children; subsidies may be available from the local municipality.

Refund information

- The enrolment deposit (CHF 3,000) is explicitly non‑refundable.
- Other refund or cancellation terms for tuition, levies, camps or other charges are governed by the school's full terms & conditions provided at enrolment.

Fee payment options and banking details

- Accepted payment method (as stated for fee payments): bank transfer to the school's UBS account for Swiss transfers or the listed IBAN/BIC for international transfers. The school asks that the payment reference include ISS plus the student's first name and as much of the surname as possible.
- Swiss bank transfer details: UBS, Account No: 0247 00251043.02K (use the school's requested reference).
- International bank transfer details: UBS, IBAN: CH42 0024 7247 2510 4302 K; BIC: UBSWCHZH80A (use the school's requested reference).

Scholarships and financial assistance

- Scholarship opportunities and financial assistance programmes are available for qualifying students; details are handled through the school's admissions/financial assistance process.

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

Pastoral Care provides a holistic approach to student well-being, focusing on emotional, social, physical, and spiritual health. Each student is assigned a dedicated mentor who offers personalized guidance and support. The program includes access to professional counselors and mental health resources, with regular well-being workshops to develop emotional regulation and resilience. An inclusive community and peer-support initiatives promote empathy, collaboration, and a sense of belonging. Initiatives such as Well-Being Wednesdays, a House System, Community Circles, and parent partnerships support ongoing well-being. Safety policies and trained staff ensure a safe learning environment and prompt, sensitive responses to concerns.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

Learning support is organized through the Super Powers Program, a personalized, strengths-based approach to teaching and learning. Students are assessed on entry to identify strengths, needs, and learning preferences, guiding a differentiated plan. Coaches provide ongoing support and mentoring as students work on targeted goals, with an emphasis on self-awareness, resilience, and growth. The program goes beyond traditional learning support by focusing on strengths-based learning, growth mindset coaching, and the use of innovative tools and technologies to improve accessibility and engagement. It empowers students by fostering emotional intelligence and confidence as part of their academic development.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

English is the primary language of instruction, with emphasis on academic English across all subjects. Italian is an integral part of the curriculum given the Ticino location, with fluency in both formal and everyday Italian. German is offered at varying levels, from beginner to advanced. Language placement follows the CEFR framework, with entry tests to place students at the appropriate level. Intensive language learning is available through the Language Program and Bridge Program, including options to focus on 1–2 languages and integration into the bilingual ISSwitzerland community.

Mental Wellbeing

The Wellbeing Program provides dedicated mentorship for each student. There is access to professional counselors and mental health resources to help students manage stress, anxiety, and other challenges. Inclusive community programs promote empathy, understanding, and global citizenship. Peer support systems include buddy programs and student-led well-being committees. Initiatives include Well-Being Wednesdays, a House System, Community Circles, and Parent Partnership to support ongoing well-being.

Safeguarding

Safety and security are central to pastoral care. Clear policies and procedures maintain a safe learning environment. Staff are trained to recognize and respond to safeguarding concerns promptly and sensitively.

Admissions

Stage One: Inquiry. An enquiry is the first stage of the admission process. After you contact us, you will be invited to an information evening (virtual options are available), a Taster Day, and an individual visit to tour the school and meet the principal.

Stage Two: Apply Online. Applications for 2024 entry are being accepted, and 2025 entry is open for the Diploma Programme. The admissions portal provides access to all required documents and allows you to create an account to complete and submit the application online. Documents can be uploaded digitally and the portal centralizes submission.

Stage Three: Assessments. All pupils sit papers in Maths, English and Verbal Reasoning, alongside a short interview. If travel to the campus is not possible, exams can be sat externally. For Senior School entry in 2025, students must sit and pass the Common Entrance (CE) exam. English as an Additional Language (EAL) considerations may apply; EAL guidelines are based on CEFR levels, with Year 9 intake minimum at the lower end of B2, and three years to reach upper-intermediate.

Stage Four: Offer and Acceptance. Offers are made on the basis of performance in the entry assessment. The final forms must be completed online and returned within four weeks with the deposit. An enrolment deposit of CHF 3,000 per family applies to new enrolling families and is non-refundable.

Scholarships

Scholarships and Financial Assistance: We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive community. Scholarship opportunities and financial assistance programs will be available to qualifying students.

View Full Profile

Compare Affordable International Schools in Lugano, Switzerland

Location

Stages

Type

Pupil Nationality Mix

Additional learning support

Country affiliation

Uniform Requirement

Food Options

Governance and Ownership

Curriculum

Student Teacher Ratio

Higher Education Progression

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

Mental Wellbeing

Safeguarding

Admissions

Scholarships

Waitlist

Location

Stages

Type

Country affiliation

School day structure

Uniform Requirement

Food Options

Governance and Ownership

Curriculum

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

Mental Wellbeing

Safeguarding

Admissions

Location

Stages

Type

Additional learning support

Uniform Requirement

Food Options

House System

Curriculum

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

Mental Wellbeing

Safeguarding

Admissions

Scholarships

Filters

Currency

Annual fees

Children's Ages

Curriculum offered

Brand

Preschool

Primary

Secondary

Pre-University

National Curriculums

Other Approaches

Language of instruction