Comparing 4 schools side by side in USD.
Montagnola, Ticino, Switzerland. The campus sits on the Collina d'Oro above Lugano. Address: Via Collina d'Oro 15, 6926 Montagnola, Switzerland.
Elementary School, Middle School, High School
Private, co-educational, American international boarding and day school
67 nationalities represented; students from more than 60 nations
English as an Additional Language (EAL) program
American international boarding school in Europe
Shuttle bus service via the 436 Posta Bus; stop Certenago Paese; schedule roughly every 30 minutes from 06:00 to 23:00
Boarding begins in grade six. On-campus dormitories are Monticello (Girls Dorm), Del Sole (Boys Dorm), Scuderia (Boys Dorm), Gianni (Boys Dorm), and Balmelli (Girls Dorm). The High School is predominantly a boarding community, with boarding students living in dormitories that foster a safe, respectful living environment.
Uniforms are required. The standard includes a white or light blue long-sleeve oxford-style shirt, a TASIS tie with crest or striped tie, and a TASIS gray pullover with the crest; shirt accessories are required. Uniform items can be ordered through Unique Uniforms.
Dining services are provided on campus through Convivio (Campus Snack Bar) and a Cafeteria, with meals served in the dining hall typically buffet-style; offerings include beverages, bakery items, sandwiches, pizzas, gelato, and other options.
The school is owned by the non-profit TASIS Foundation.
The TASIS curriculum draws on Core Knowledge, Advanced Placement, and International Baccalaureate programs. English is the primary language of instruction, with a comprehensive English as an Additional Language program. In Pre-K through grade 8, students are taught in parallel English-language and Italian-language programs. IB Diploma Program languages include English, Italian, German, and Russian, with support for other self-taught languages. Fluent students are required to study at least one modern language in addition to their native language. TASIS offers the American Diploma, AP, and IB programs, with bilingual instruction in English and Italian for grades 1–9 in accordance with Cantonal requirements; IB diploma candidates have posted pass rates of 97 percent or higher since 2016, and about 50 percent earn IB bilingual diplomas.
Average class size is 13 and the student–teacher ratio is 6:1.
IB Diploma pass rates have been 97 percent or higher since 2016, and about 50 percent of Diploma candidates earn IB bilingual diplomas. AP Scholar Awards have been earned by dozens of TASIS students, including 67 recipients in a recent year and 48 in another.
The University and College Counseling Office helps students develop a detailed postsecondary plan and has helped students gain acceptance to hundreds of universities worldwide, including Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial College London, Yale, the University of Pennsylvania, Columbia, Cornell, Williams, Duke, UCLA, Johns Hopkins, Bowdoin, and Middlebury.
Social and emotional learning is supported through a Responsive Classroom–inspired framework in TASIS Elementary School, emphasizing five virtues and a student-centered approach. The Counseling Department provides social-emotional support, including stress-management interventions, and the Learning Resource Center runs workshops in learning strategies and parent education. Pastoral care is provided through Residential Life by a dedicated Pastoral Care Coordinator.
Learning Resource Center (LRC) provides services to support students with diverse learning profiles, including a designated Learning Support Specialist, Learning Support Plans, extended time on assignments and tests, proctoring exams, and in-class support for Pre-K–Grade 5. The LRC also offers literacy and mathematics support and executive function strategies, and manages applications for accommodations on standardized exams. Enrollment in the LRC is available through the TASIS enrollment portal. The Elementary School Handbook notes TASIS does not have a comprehensive learning support program.
The school has a comprehensive English as an Additional Language (EAL) program throughout the curriculum.
Mental wellbeing is supported by stress-management interventions and school counseling services. The Elementary School emphasizes social-emotional learning through a Responsive Classroom–based approach, and pastoral care is provided through Residential Life with a dedicated Pastoral Care Coordinator.
The school has a formal Student Protection policy with a comprehensive approach, including staff screening and background checks, education and training for staff, students, and parents, and self-audits of safeguarding procedures. Safeguarding contacts include Tanya Jovanovic, Student Safeguarding Officer, and Paola Sguazza, Director of Operations.
Applications are accepted year-round. Create a profile and begin your application via the Admissions Application Portal. Admissions decisions are communicated promptly by the Admissions Committee; upon acceptance, enrollment information is provided. TASIS admits qualified students of any race, color, nationality, religion, and ethnic origin and does not discriminate on these bases in its admissions policies and practices. TASIS serves students aged 3–19, offering bilingual instruction for grades 1–9, English as an Additional Language (EAL) courses, the Advanced Placement (AP) program, and the International Baccalaureate (IB) program. All students work toward earning an American high school diploma, with many pursuing the IB Diploma. Visiting the campus or meeting with a TASIS representative during off-campus visits is encouraged. Financial aid is awarded on the basis of need and merit. TASIS is accredited by the New England Association of Schools & Colleges and the European Council of International Schools.
Awards and Scholarships: The TASIS Foundation Inc. currently manages three funds that reward students for achievements in a given field: The Cathy Clark Memorial Scholarship, The Pritzlaff Leadership Award, The Lynch Global Service Program Extension Award, and Linda Buchanan Jacob Memorial Fund. The TASIS Foundation maintains an annual CHF 2,000,000 scholarship and financial aid budget. The school invites sponsorship of scholarships or programs and endowment of chairs, and offers opportunities to establish restricted funds to honor loved ones or support projects.
Via Ponteggia 23, 6814 Cadempino, Switzerland. Located in the Ticino canton near Lugano. Accessible by local transport and road links.
Ages 3-18/19; IB continuum from Early Years to High School, including the Career-related Programme (CP).
Private international day school; IB World School (IB continuum); part of the Inspired group of schools.
30 different nationalities represented.
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.
Switzerland
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.
The canteen offers a hot lunch programme with a balanced and healthy variety of freshly prepared, nut-free dishes, vegetables and fresh fruit.
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).
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.
Small class sizes due to a small student population.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
International school
Switzerland
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 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.
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.
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.
GIS The International School of Lugano offers a multilingual, bilingual curriculum with English and Italian instruction. The program emphasizes a student-centered approach, inquiry-based learning, and multilingualism. It aligns with the principles of the Swiss Federal Constitution and is a candidate school for the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) and Middle Years Programme (MYP), pursuing IB World School authorization. The curriculum focuses on nurturing ethical, creative, and intellectual growth, and developing global citizens. English and Italian sound throughout the halls, reflecting a bilingual environment guided by native-speaking teachers who celebrate linguistic diversity and the 100 Languages Philosophy.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The school offers a bilingual education in English and Italian for students from preschool through secondary school. GIS Lugano is part of the GIS Group of International Schools Suisse and follows the IB curriculum merged with the Swiss cantonal standards. Enrollment is open throughout the year following the Admissions Policy, with class placements based on age. Fees information and payment options are available, and documents publish details such as an Admission Fee of CHF 2,500 and a Registration Fee of CHF 1,500 for 2025/2026. Prospective families can book a personalized visit.
Located in Lugano, Switzerland. Address: Corso Enrico Pestalozzi 9, Lugano 6900. The campus is in Lugano, in the southern Ticino region.
Primary School, Middle School, and High School.
IB World School
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.
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.
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.
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.
The curriculum is guided by the K.I.N.D. framework: Kindness, Innovation, Navigation, and Discovery. It combines strong academic foundations with opportunities to develop practical skills and explore interests through the Masterclass Program and the Discovery Program. The Masterclass Program provides workshops and topics led by educators and professionals. The Discovery Program offers time for creativity, sports, and hands-on learning in robotics, design, and the arts. The Language Program centers on English as the primary language of instruction, with Italian and German taught at varying levels and CEFR-based placement. Starting in Grade 10, students follow a dual-pathway to either Advanced Levels (A-Levels) or the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IB Diploma Programme), with the IB Diploma Programme currently a Candidate School; the Bridge Program supports language fluency and transition to IB, A-Levels, or Liceo.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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 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.
