Compare International Schools in Zurich, Switzerland

Instructs in German, English, Italian

Ages 12 - 18 years

Pupils 730

Type Co-educational

Literargymnasium Rämibühl is a public, state-funded grammar school in Zürich offering a six-year pathway to the Swiss Matura, with a bilingual Matura-IB option. Located at Rämistrasse 56, it serves students aged 12 to 18 and teaches under the Swiss curriculum alongside the International Baccalaureate Diploma (DP) from year five. In the first two years, students study German, French, English and Latin, then continue with German as the main language while adding a language (French or Italian) and two more languages from Greek, Latin, English, Italian or Spanish. The bilingual Swiss-Matura-IB track teaches Biology, Mathematics and History in English, while other subjects are in German or the chosen language. English instruction in core subjects begins in year 3 to prepare for DP. The Mediothek serves as the quiet workspace, with an Aula and a Mensa, and gymnasia and a sports field. Extracurriculars: Kultur am LG: Theater, Orchestra, Big Band and Choir.

Location

The Literargymnasium Rämibühl is located on Rämistrasse 56, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland. The campus on Rämistrasse hosts Literargymnasium Rämibühl together with Realgymnasium Rämibühl and Mathematisch-Naturwissenschaftliches Gymnasium Rämibühl in central Zurich.

Stages

Langgymnasium (long-cycle gymnasium) with profiles Neue Sprachen, Alte Sprachen, Philosophie/Psychologie/Pädagogik and International Baccalaureate.

Type

Public, state-funded grammar school.

Additional learning support

German as a second language (DAZ/DAF) courses are offered for non-native German speakers; additional language support is available.

Country affiliation

Switzerland.

School day structure

Weekly timetable comprises roughly 33–35 lessons, varying by class level; the school uses an IB timetable with around 34–35 lessons in key years and includes immersion weeks as part of the program.

Application fees
- Application to Literargymnasium Rämibühl: no separate school application fee beyond the standard registration/examination fees required by the Canton of Zürich for admission. The central entrance examination (Zentrale Aufnahmeprüfung, ZAP) requires a registration/exam fee that must be paid at the time of registration.

Tuition fees by year group (school years 1–6)
- For students with legal residence in the Canton of Zürich: no tuition (CHF 0) is charged for attendance at the cantonal Literargymnasium Rämibühl; regular instruction at the kantonal Matura (Swiss Maturität) level is state‑funded.
- For students without residence in the Canton of Zürich (out‑of‑canton or international residence): a Schulgeld (school fee) is charged; the amount and billing are determined under cantonal regulations and inter‑cantonal agreements and are invoiced and collected on a semester basis according to the Canton's billing rules.

Compulsory/state exam fees (per candidate)
- Swiss Maturitätsprüfungen: a non‑refundable registration fee of CHF 200 is payable; additional examination fees apply per the federal tariff (examples: unilingual full Matura CHF 570; bilingual full Matura CHF 650; individual component and repeat fees as specified in the federal regulation). These exam fees are payable to the competent federal authority or as instructed and must be paid before the examination.
- IB Diploma candidates (bilingual Matura / IB combined course): final IB examination fees are charged to parents; the school states the IB final‑examination costs currently amount to a maximum of CHF 900 per candidate.

Instrumental (fakultative) music instruction and related parental contributions
- The facultative individual instrumental or vocal instruction offered at the cantonal Mittelschulen carries a parental contribution. For cantonal Mittelschulen in the Canton of Zürich the standard parents' contribution for a half‑lesson (30 minutes) of facultative instrumental instruction is CHF 640 per semester. Instrumental instruction billing and parental‑contribution rules follow the Canton's schedule (semester billing).
- Late withdrawal or failure to cancel on time can result in the parent being charged for the following semester; parents' obligations are governed by the instrumental‑instruction regulations and school billing rules.

Billing schedule and payment terms
- Schulgeld for out‑of‑canton students and parental contributions (for optional offers such as instrumental lessons) are generally invoiced on a semester basis; the Canton's processing and invoicing cycle bills such charges per semester and sends invoices to the responsible payer (parents or the home canton as appropriate).
- State exam fees (Matura) must be paid before the exam session to the authority indicated in the examination regulations; the IB final‑examination fee is charged to parents and collected according to the school's schedule for IB candidates. Non‑payment of required examination fees can prevent a candidate from being registered for the exam.

Boarding fees
- Boarding: not applicable. Literargymnasium Rämibühl is a city/ cantonal day grammar school; it does not operate boarding/boarding‑house services.

Other costs or fees (typical items to expect)
- School trips, project weeks, day‑ or multi‑day class trips and special event participation may carry separate charges or contributions; such activities (for example LG‑Tage and project days) are part of the programme and may require parental payments for travel, accommodation or special materials.
- Teaching materials, personal exercise books, specific course materials and optional course fees (for example for some practical courses, special art materials, or optional external preparation courses) are normally the responsibility of the pupil/parents unless explicitly covered by the Canton or a subsidy.
- Instrument hire, ensemble/ensemble contribution or special music‑related charges (where applicable) are additional to the parental contribution for lessons and may be invoiced separately.

Refunds and remission
- Federal Matura registration fees are non‑refundable once paid; candidates in modest financial circumstances can apply for full or partial remission of examination fees to the federal authority on the basis provided in the federal regulation. Examination fees for repeats must be paid again.
- For parental contributions to instrumental instruction, late cancellations and withdrawal rules can lead to charges (for example the parents' contribution for the following semester may be invoiced in the case of late withdrawal). Policies on refunds and cancellations follow the school/department rules for instrumental instruction.

Fee payment options
- State exam fees are payable to the authority specified in the examination instructions (payment details shown on the examination registration documents). IB final‑examination fees are collected according to the school's IB administration instructions. Schulgeld and parental contributions are billed by invoicing (semester invoices) and are settled according to the invoice instructions; invoices for cantonal charges are normally paid by bank transfer following the bank details on the invoice or as otherwise indicated on the billing document.

Summary (key figures)
- Tuition for canton‑resident students: CHF 0 per year (state‑funded).
- Out‑of‑canton Schulgeld: charged under cantonal tariff rules and invoiced per semester.
- Instrumental parental contribution (standard rate for cantonal Mittelschulen): CHF 640 per semester (30‑minute weekly lesson).
- Swiss Matura registration fee: CHF 200 (non‑refundable); example full exam tariffs: unilingual Matura CHF 570, bilingual Matura CHF 650 (federal regulation).
- IB final‑examination costs for IB candidates: currently up to CHF 900 payable by parents.

(These points reflect the school's status as a public, cantonal Matura school and the Canton of Zürich's standard arrangements for parental contributions, schulgeld and state/external examination fees for the 2025/26–2026/27 timeframe.)

Curriculum

The Literargymnasium Re4mibfhl offers a six-year programme culminating in the Swiss Matura. In the first two years, all students study German, French, English, and Latin alongside other subjects. In the final four years, German remains the main language, with French or Italian as a second language and two additional languages drawn from Greek, Latin, English, Italian, or Spanish. The bilingual Swiss-Matura-IB programme teaches Biology, Mathematics, and History in English while other subjects are taught in German or the chosen language; the DP begins in year 5 and leads to the Swiss Matura and the IB Diploma. English-taught instruction in Biology, Mathematics, and History begins in year 3 to prepare for the IB DP. Extracurricular language subjects are offered, including English, Italian, Spanish, and Latin, with additional courses such as DELF/DALF and DAZ/DAF for non-native speakers.

Higher Education Progression

The Matura credential is recognized by the Federal Government of Switzerland and entitles graduates to enroll at all Swiss state higher education institutions. Approximately 80-85% of students follow Swiss Matura courses, and about 15-20% pursue a bilingual Swiss-Matura-IB combined course. The bilingual Matura-IB programme leads to both the Swiss Matura and the IB Diploma.

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

LG Days and LG Weeks interrupt the regular timetable six times per school year to host cross-classroom and cross-year projects that foster curiosity and collaborative learning. Klassengeist und Wohlbefinden is a workshop where everyday conflicts are addressed through theatre-based role-plays to practice conflict-resolution and social skills, with Wir & Jetzt providing the sessions alongside the class teacher. Since 2007, Literargymnasium Rämibühl has been UNESCO-associated, and UNESCO Tag activities promote peace, international understanding, human rights, access to knowledge, and sustainable development. The program includes modules on stress management and handling exam anxiety to support mental well-being. A PUK-Day educates students about alcohol, nicotine, and cannabis; the morning covers substances and the afternoon includes a talk by a psychiatrist with small-group discussions. A third-class module addresses online safety, cyberbullying, and sexual content online, with guided discussions on how to respond and where to obtain help.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

German as a second language (DAZ) and German as a foreign language (DAF) support learners with non-native German backgrounds. Two DAZ courses are organized as double-class formats and a one-to-one coaching period is available to strengthen writing skills. DAZ/DAF courses are free of charge and taught by teachers specially qualified to support language development. Additional language support includes DELF/DALF for French and Cambridge English courses; Heimatliche Sprache und Kultur courses are subsidised. Literargymnasium Rämibühl coordinates these courses with its partner Realgymnasium to ensure integrated language support.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

In the first two years all students are taught German, French, English and Latin alongside other subjects. In the final four years, students study German as the main language, choose French or Italian as a second language, and pick two from Greek, Latin, English, Italian and Spanish. In the bilingual Swiss-Matura-IB programme, German A: Lit HL; English A: LAL HL; and one of French A LAL HL/SL, Italian B HL/SL or Latin CL HL/SL are studied. In bilingual Matura-IB courses, Biology, Mathematics and History are taught in English up to the Matura, and English is the language for assessment in these subjects. Before choices, students and parents are comprehensively informed and can meet language teachers; students undertake language immersion experiences such as a year-three Oxford program and regional language trips. Extracurricular language offerings include English (IELTS) and DELF/DALF for French, as well as Cambridge courses; these courses are coordinated with the school's partner institutions.

Mental Wellbeing

LG Days and LG Weeks interrupt the timetable to support wellbeing and health-related learning through cross-class projects. Klassengeist und Wohlbefinden is a theatre-based workshop that builds conflict-resolution and social skills and promotes a positive class climate. The PUK-Tag educates students about substances like alcohol, nicotine and cannabis, with a psychiatrist-led morning and small-group conversations in the afternoon. The third-class module on online safety addresses violence, hate and sexual content on the net, including guidance on responses and where to obtain help. The program also includes stress-management modules to help students cope with exam stress and general pressure, contributing to mental wellbeing.

Safeguarding

The LG Weeks address safeguarding topics including cyberbullying and online safety; the Violence, Hate and Sex in Netz module discusses forms of online violence, hate speech and sexual harassment, with guidance on responses and access to help. The PUK-Day includes mental health education and discussions with professionals; external prevention organisations such as RSPS support the program, and the school fosters a safe, respectful climate through its broader UNESCO and well-being initiatives.

History

The Literargymnasium Rämibühl traces its origins to the medieval school at the Grossmünsterstift Zürich, which became a Higher School during the Reformation. In 1833 the upper level became the university and the lower the Kantonsschule Zürich, a church-free school open to the city and countryside. The Kantonsschule split into two departments: the Industrieschule (which became the Mathematisch-Naturwissenschaftliche Gymnasium and Wirtschaftsgymnasium) and the Gymnasium, which initially required Latin and Greek, with Greek later replaced by English. After World War II, overcrowding led to the 1947 split into two schools; the Literargymnasium, the smaller, pursued the altsprachliche Typus A, while the Realgymnasium followed Typus B. In 1970-71 both schools moved to the Rämibühl site; MAR introduced altsprachlich and neusprachlich profiles, with three foreign languages and a bilingual IB / Matura option."

Community

The Literargymnasium Rämibühl offers a varied school life in a compact setting, with typically five parallel classes per year. It is centrally located on Rämistrasse in a park near Kunsthaus Zürich and the University, supporting a connected community. There are many artistic and athletic activities, including choirs, chamber music groups, orchestras, jazz formations, a theatre group, and diverse sports. All students study three foreign languages, with French plus two from English, Latin, Italian, Spanish and Ancient Greek, and the school provides preparation for the International Baccalaureate and a bilingual IB / Matura."

Facilities Overview

Literargymnasium Rämibühl operates a Mediothek that is the quiet workspace and living room of the school, with reference works, fiction, non-fiction, comics, DVDs, games and magazines in print and digital formats. It offers workspaces with and without computers and a variety of seating for reading and study. The plan shows an Aula (auditorium) and a Mensa (cafeteria) on site. The Riesbach campus will provide bright classrooms, a generous environment, a Mensa and sports facilities including gymnasia as part of the relocation.

Sports Facilities

Sports facilities include gymnasia on the Riesbach campus. Plans for the Riesbach site show on-site sport facilities, including gymnasia. The current site plan also indicates a Sportplatz (sports field) on the Rämibühl campus, adjacent to the school buildings. On-site sport facilities support physical education and school events.

Academic Facilities

The Mediothek is the quiet workspace and living room of the school, with reference works, fiction, non-fiction, comics, DVDs, games and magazines in print and digital formats. It offers workspaces with and without computers for reading and study. The library catalog and digital resources are accessible online via an online catalog (OPAC) and E-Thek, with Digithek and Swissdox supporting research. The Mediothek is open daily as a study space, and borrowing is available with limits (up to 30 items; books for four weeks, DVDs and journals for one week).

Extra Curricular Facilities

Kultur am LG offers extensive extracurricular arts activities, including Theater AG, Orchestra, Big Band and Choir. The program has a long-standing tradition of student ensembles performing in and beyond the school, with large-scale projects and musicals such as Rämi Lane. Regular rehearsals and public performances are part of the ensembles, and participation welcomes students across year groups.

Academic & Intellectual

The Literargymnasium Rämibühl offers a six-year program leading to the Swiss Matura. A bilingual Swiss‑Matura‑IB combined course is offered, yielding both the Swiss Matura and the IB Diploma. The working language is German for the Swiss Matura; in the bilingual Matura‑IB track, Biology, Mathematics and History are taught in English, while other subjects are taught in German or Italian. The school-leaving diploma is recognized by the Federal Government of Switzerland and entitles graduates to enroll at all state higher education institutions in Switzerland. Most students speak Swiss German or German as their mother tongue; about 80–85% follow the Swiss Matura pathway, and about 15–20% pursue the bilingual Matura‑IB route. The response language is German for Swiss Matura assessments; in the bilingual Matura‑IB courses the response language is English for all assessments (Biology, Mathematics and History).

Cultural & Language

The working language at LG is German; in the bilingual Matura‑IB track some information is available in German and English. The language of instruction in the Swiss Matura courses is German; in the bilingual Matura‑IB courses, English is used for Biology, Mathematics and History, with other subjects taught in German or Italian. The Canton provides Heimatliche Sprache und Kultur courses subsidised to support students' native languages and cultures. The Literargymnasium offers a dual-track pathway combining Swiss Matura with the IB Diploma for students who choose the bilingual route.

Social & Hobbies

Extracurricular activities support civic education and engagement with Swiss culture. Students visit local museums, attend theatre productions and participate in away-day excursions to explore different parts of Switzerland and local cultures.

Language Provision

Four languages are taught: German as the main language; French or Italian as the second language; and two of the following languages to be chosen: Classical Greek, Latin, English, Italian, Spanish. The bilingual Matura-IB programme teaches German A: Lit HL, English A: LAL HL, and one of French A LAL HL/SL, Italian B HL/SL, or Latin CL HL/SL. Extracurricular language subjects include English, Italian, Spanish, and Latin; there are also additional German courses for non-native German students (DAZ and DAF). French DELF/DALF courses and English enhancement options (special English for native/bilingual English speakers; Cambridge C1 Advanced and C2 Proficiency) are offered, with inclusion contingent on demand.

Bilingual Teaching

The Literargymnasium Rämibühl offers a bilingual Matura-IB programme in which core subjects are taught in two languages. German A: Lit HL and English A: LAL HL are part of the bilingual track. Students also choose one of French A LAL HL/SL, Italian B HL/SL, or Latin CL HL/SL. Prior to choosing, students and parents are comprehensively informed and can engage with language teachers during orientation events at school.

Immersion Programs

The school provides immersion elements within the bilingual Matura-IB programme. Students spend at least one week in a region that speaks the language they chose; exceptions include a Francophone region of Switzerland and a study trip to a German- or Austrian-city in year 5. Italian-track students spend a week in Italy, and Latin-track students travel to Italy to study ancient history. The weeks aim to immerse students in the language and culture of the region or country.

Admissions

1. General Admission Policy for the Literargymnasium Rämibfchil. Admission to the Literargymnasium Re4mibfchil (a state school) is regulated by the Regierungsrat in the Reglement ffcr die Aufnahme in die Gymnasien mit Anschluss an die 6. Klasse der Primarschule (English: Regulations for admission to secondary schools following the 6th class of primary school, Appendix 1). To be admitted, students must pass a written admissions examination. Examination subjects are German and Mathematics. Students with disability-related difficulties have the right to request measures to compensate for their difficulties for the admission examination (Nachteilsausgleich). The school management decides on the use of special aids or the arrangement of special conditions so that the students performance can be appropriately assessed. Passing the entrance examination entitles the student to enter a probationary period of one semester. After the probationary period has expired, the class council decides on final admission in accordance with the regulations. Only students who have not reached the age of 15 before August 1st of the year of entry are admitted to the 1st grade. The corresponding higher age applies for admission to a higher school year. Students who want to enter a higher class or the 1st class after the start of the school year must provide evidence of their previous education. The head of school assesses the equivalence of previous education and decides on admission. Students may have to take an extraordinary entrance examination as ordered by the school management. The passed entry examination entitles the student to enter a probationary period of one semester. After the probationary period has expired, the class council decides on final admission in accordance with the regulations.

2. Admission Policy for the IB Diploma Programme. Admission to the bilingual class, which is also enrolled in the IB Diploma Programme at the Literargymnasium Re4mibfchil, is regulated by the Regierungsrat in the Reglement ffcr die Aufnahme in einen zweisprachigen Maturite4tsgang an den Gymnasien des Kantons Zfcrich (English: Regulations for admission to a bilingual Matura programme at the cantonal gymnasia, Appendix 2). Admittance to the bilingual class is open to all students who have successfully completed Grades 1 and 2 of the Literargymnasium or any other Swiss state Gymnasium. Students from Grade 2 of the school or those applying from another school will usually be expected to have a grade of at least 4.5 (6 being the best grade, 4 a pass) in German and Mathematics. There is no entitlement to be accepted into a bilingual baccalaureate course. The head of school and the IB coordination decide on admission: a) depending on the available places; b) based on the grade in German and Mathematics of the February report of the 2nd grade; c) based on interviews with teachers teaching the student at the time of the application; d) priority will be given to students from lower grades of the Literargymnasium. The school management can take special circumstances into account when making the admission decision.

3. Review process. This admission policy is evaluated on a regular basis and will be reviewed no later than 5 years from the date of publication or whenever the head of school and/or the IB diploma programme coordination deem it necessary. January 2025, IB coordination (AN, KH), Literargymnasium Re4mibfchil

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Realgymnasium Rämibühl

Instructs in German, English

Pupils 880

Type Co-educational

Realgymnasium Rämibühl is a public Langgymnasium in central Zürich (grades 7–12) leading to the Eidgenössische Matura and university entrance. It offers altsprachliches and neusprachliches Matura profiles, each with a Schwerpunktfach to deepen a language. The school runs a bilingual pathway combining Matura with the International Baccalaureate Diploma, with one to two classes per year. The curriculum emphasizes mathematics, the natural sciences, and the arts, alongside a broad range of compulsory subjects and Freifächer. The IB Diploma Programme comprises six subjects (German HL, English HL, French/Italian/Latin HL or SL, Mathematics HL or SL, Biology HL or SL, Geography SL) and three core components (Theory of Knowledge, Extended Essay, CAS); the IB subjects align with Matura subjects, with additional Matura options in chemistry, physics, computer science, history, music or art and design, and sport. RG has been an IB World School since 2006, with English immersion in Mathematics, Biology and Geography within the IB programme.

Location

Rämistrasse 56, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland. The Realgymnasium Rämibühl is on a large campus in central Zürich, in the vicinity of the University of Zürich and the Federal Institute of Technology (ETH).

Stages

Six-year program from Grade 7 to Grade 12 leading to the Swiss Matura and Hochschulreife. It offers altsprachliche and neusprachliche Matura profiles, with a bilingual department since 2002 that combines the Swiss Matura with the International Baccalaureate.

Type

Public sector, co-educational day school.

Pupil Nationality Mix

About 15% of students hold international passports; the city is multilingual and many students come from international backgrounds.

Additional learning support

The school provides support as needed through counselling for students and teachers and has a school doctor.

Country affiliation

Switzerland (Canton of Zürich).

School day structure

The school operates on a two-semester basis from late August through early July.

Application fees
- Central entrance exam (Zentrale Aufnahmeprüfung, ZAP): CHF 50 (one-time registration fee per pupil per school year). This fee is non‑refundable.

Tuition fees (by school level and term/year group)
- General tuition: There is no regular tuition charge for day students resident in the Canton of Zürich; attendance at the Realgymnasium Rämibühl is unentgeltlich.

- Mandatory / recurring school charges (applied instead of tuition):
- Copying / administration contribution: CHF 50 per semester (i.e., CHF 100 per school year).
- Teaching materials (Lehrmittel) – estimated annual amounts by level:
- Unterstufe (lower cycle): CHF 600 per school year.
- Oberstufe (upper cycle): CHF 800 per school year.

- Typical additional annual costs (estimates by year group):
- Unterstufe (typical per school year):
- Projects and trips: CHF 100.
- Lunch / midday catering (four days/week average): CHF 1,000.
- Public-transport subscription (majority of pupils): CHF 600.
- Miscellaneous: CHF 200.
- Total estimate (Unterstufe): CHF 2,500 per school year.
- Oberstufe (typical per school year):
- Teaching materials: CHF 800.
- Projects and trips: CHF 800.
- Lunch / midday catering: CHF 1,000.
- Public-transport subscription: CHF 600.
- Miscellaneous: CHF 200.
- Total estimate (Oberstufe): CHF 3,400 per school year.

Instrumental & music-related fees (per semester)
- Fakultativer Instrumentalunterricht (25 min/week): CHF 640 per semester (applies to 1.–6. Klasse and to optional instrumental lessons for Musikmaturandinnen/‑maturanden outside the internal free provision).
- Doppellektion / 2nd instrument (50 min or second instrument): CHF 1,280 per semester (where applicable).
- For music-maturand pupils the internally provided obligatory first instrument in classes 3–5 is free; external lessons continued on parental expense are charged as stated.
- Registration timings and billing implications:
- Enrollment deadlines: 31 May (Autumn semester) and 30 November (Spring semester). Late registration carries an administrative charge of CHF 20. Late cancellations can result in the parents' contribution for the following semester being invoiced.

Tutor and supervised study fees
- Tutorate (peer tutors): CHF 26 per 45‑minute lesson; this amount is paid to the tutor.
- Betreute Aufgabenstunden (supervised homework sessions for first‑year pupils): A small parental contribution (Unkostenbeitrag) is charged; the programme is billed per semester and registration is binding for the semester. Exact rates are set administratively.

Billing schedule and payment terms
- Semester basis: The school charges/estimates above show semester- and year-based billing for copying contributions, instrument lessons, supervised programmes and tutor sessions (copying fee declared per semester; instrumental and tutor fees are explicitly per semester or per lesson as noted). Late-registration and late-cancellation rules for instrumental lessons result in additional invoicing.
- Entrance-exam (ZAP) payment is completed as part of the online ZAP registration process within the ZAP registration windows. The ZAP fee must be paid to finalise registration.

Boarding fees
- Boarding is not offered as part of the Realgymnasium Rämibühl's provision; there are no boarding or residential fees. The school operates as a day school.

Other costs or fees
- School trips, projects and special activities: charged as incurred — estimated amounts are included in the annual averages above (Unterstufe: projects/trips CHF 100; Oberstufe: CHF 800).
- Lunch / midday catering: charged to parents; typical annual estimate CHF 1,000 (four days/week average).
- Public-transport subscription: majority of pupils purchase a subscription; typical annual estimate CHF 600.
- Copying / materials: copying contribution CHF 50 per semester plus the teaching‑materials figures noted above.

Refund information
- ZAP registration fee: non‑refundable after completion of registration.
- Instrumental lessons: late cancellation or missed timely deregistration can lead to invoicing of the parents' contribution for the following semester (see the instrumental‑instruction conditions and deadlines).

Fee payment options / how payments are handled
- Entrance-exam (ZAP): payment is completed online as part of the ZAP registration process.
- School-level charges (copying contributions, instrumental lessons, tutor sessions, supervised homework contributions, trips): these items are invoiced on a semester or per‑event basis according to the specific programme rules; the instrument‑instruction page confirms invoicing consequences for late deregistration. For instrument lessons the school uses semester billing and enforces the stated registration and cancellation deadlines. Parents should follow the invoice's payment instructions.

If a precise payment method (credit card, direct debit, bank transfer, etc.) is required for your database entry, the school or the ZAP registration portal provides the definitive payment channels at the time of billing/registration.

Boarding Arrangements

Language stays with lodging in a local host family may be arranged, with attendance at a school that matches the Realgymnasium's profile.

Food Options

A well-equipped kitchen is available in the Mittelschulfoyer, and lunch breaks can be spent there.

House System

Mittelschulfoyer Kreuzbühl/Pfauen is a shared space for students from the inner-city cantonal schools (Rämibühl, Hohe Promenade, Stadelhofen, Hottingen) and serves as a place to learn, exchange and relax, featuring a kitchen, lounge, terrace, piano, yoga mats, foosball, and various games.

Governance and Ownership

The Realgymnasium Rämibühl is a cantonal school (Kantonsschule) and IB World School. The school has a Student Organisation (SORG) that represents students in school commissions and the general teachers' convention.

Curriculum

The Realgymnasium Rämibühl is a six-year Langgymnasium (grades 7–12) leading to the Eidgenössische Matura and university entrance. It offers altsprachliches (classical languages) and neusprachliches (modern languages) Matura profiles, with each profile allowing a Schwerpunktfach to deepen a language. The school also runs a bilingual pathway with a bilingual Matura and the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma, with one to two classes per year in this double-degree program. The curriculum places strong emphasis on mathematics, the natural sciences, and the arts, complemented by a broad range of compulsory subjects and Freifächer (electives). The IB Diploma Programme comprises six subjects (German HL, English HL, French or Italian or Latin HL or SL, Mathematics HL or SL, Biology HL or SL, Geography SL) and three core components (Theory of Knowledge, Extended Essay, CAS); the six IB subjects align with the corresponding Matura subjects, with additional Matura subjects including chemistry, physics, computer science, history, music or art and design, and sport. The timetable for immersion classes defines the number of lessons per subject in the bilingual Matura/IB pathway, and RG has been an IB World School since 2006. Combinations of Schwerpunktfach and a third language are possible to tailor the curriculum.

Student Teacher Ratio

There are around 880 students and about 120 teachers, yielding a rough student‑teacher ratio of approximately 7.3 to 1.

Exam Results

Resultate des IB-Abschlusses 2026: Nineteen Schülerinnen und Schüler der Klasse 6i schlossen den Doppelabschluss Zweisprachige Maturität und International Baccalaureate (IB) erfolgreich ab. Die schriftlichen IB-Prüfungen fanden im Mai statt; Maximum 45 Punkte, 24 Punkte zum Diplom. Der weltweite Durchschnitt liegt bei ca. 30.5 Punkten; der Klassendurchschnitt des RG-Jahrgangs 2026 betrug 32.7 Punkte. Die besten RG-Ergebnisse 2026 waren: Sofia Vuskovic 40, Nicolas von Zedtwitz 37, Arthur Petrov 36. Die Extended Essay erzielte die seltene Note A bei Noelia Niederer (History), Scarlett Rollinson (Biology) und Nicolas Von Zedtwitz (Music).

Higher Education Progression

Graduates access Swiss universities and international universities; The IB Diploma is a valuable qualification that can facilitate admission to foreign higher education institutions. The bilingual Matura/IB pathway provides entry options to Swiss universities as well as abroad, and the school notes notable alumni such as Max Frisch and Elias Canetti.

Gifted and Talented

The school supports high-achieving students through the double pathway of a bilingual Matura and the IB Diploma; It emphasizes independent thinking and a broad education across languages, mathematics, sciences, and the arts, complemented by extensive extracurricular opportunities (music, drama, clubs) and core IB components (ToK, EE, CAS) to develop advanced academic and personal growth.

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

The Realgymnasium Rämibühl aims to address and develop students' emotional and social skills as part of its educational goals. It fosters a respectful, cooperative, and responsible school culture through a variety of activities and events, and offers tutoring, learning coaching, study and career guidance, student counseling, and access to a school doctor. A team for addiction prevention and health promotion strengthens personal resources and supports a healthy school climate.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

The school provides inclusive education with accommodations (Nachteilsausgleich) for students with disabilities or documented partial learning difficulties. The NAM team advises on procedures and supports the application process in line with cantonal guidelines for Zurich upper secondary schools.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

In the IB program, English is the working language in mathematics, biology, and geography, with papers and examinations written in English. Students receive over 1,300 immersive English lessons from year 3 through the Matura, and the respective subjects are taught in English up to the Matura so a switch back to German is not required. A two-week intensive English course is offered for new classes in year 3 during the first quarter.

Mental Wellbeing

A Team for Suchtprävention und Gesundheitsförderung (TSG) develops and coordinates health-promotion and prevention programs to strengthen personal resources and foster a healthy, respectful school climate. The school provides access to a school physician for health concerns, with weekly consultation hours, and supports student well-being and related services.

Safeguarding

The school maintains crisis-management resources and safeguarding procedures, including contacts for psychological crises (e.g., PUKZ for child and adolescent psychiatry) and emergency support lines such as Pro Juventute (147) for children and adolescents, and a parent helpline. A crisis-intervention guideline guides staff and families in emergencies.

History

Established in 1833, Realgymnasium Rämibühl is a public, co-educational Langgymnasium in central Zürich. It offers altsprachliches and neusprachliches Matura profiles and since 2002 a bilingual program combining Matura with the International Baccalaureate Diploma. The campus is in central Zürich near the University of Zürich and ETH, on a site with a landmark building complex designed by Eduard Neuenschwander that houses three state baccalaureate schools. The school emphasizes a rigorous all-round education with emphasis on languages, mathematics, sciences, and the arts.

Community

The school has strong ties with the surrounding community. Two associations—VEGR (alumni, 800 members) and EVRG (parents, 100 members)—support school life. VEGR funds cultural and language projects, supports student exchanges and the upper-school week. EVRG runs parent lectures and facilitates dialogue with the school leadership.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)

EVRG is the Parents' Association of Realgymnasium Rämibühl. It is a non-profit, politically and confessional-neutral body representing parents in dialogue with the teaching staff and school leadership. EVRG organizes lectures for parents, welcomes new students, and works with the school on defined topics. It funds cultural and language projects and student exchanges. EVRG's homepage is evrg.ch.

Facilities Overview

The Realgymnasium Rämibühl campus comprises two buildings for general teaching and a separate building for scientific instruction, together with a sport tract featuring outdoor sports facilities, a Mensa cafeteria and an Aula (auditorium). The campus includes a Mediothek as the information center with around 16,000 media items and dedicated study spaces. When construction proceeds, RG@Irchel will operate a provisional campus at the University of Irchel from 2027 to 2031; the provisional infrastructure includes classrooms, BG workshops, rooms for instrumental instruction, spaces for natural science practicums, sport halls, a Kraftraum, and a Mensa. An ASVZ Sports Center remains in use alongside the provisional facilities. The school is part of a broader ecosystem including an IB program and immersion options on offer to students.

Sports Facilities

On the main RG campus, a sport tract provides outdoor sports facilities. The RG@Irchel provisional site includes sport halls and a gym. An existing ASVZ Sports Center serves as the baseline sports facility during the interim period.

Academic Facilities

The campus houses two general teaching buildings and a science building with dedicated spaces for scientific instruction and general classes. The RG@Irchel interim provisions include classrooms, BG workshops, rooms for instrumental instruction, and spaces for natural science practicums. The Mediothek library functions as the information center with around 16,000 media items, 25 student workstations, 2 computer workstations, a web OPAC, and printing/scanning resources. Immersion in English is used as the working language in Mathematics, Biology and Geography within the IB program, with over 1,300 immersive English lessons from Year 3 to Matura.

Extra Curricular Facilities

Verein Solidarität runs humanitarian projects and fundraising activities, including a cake sale during visiting days to support projects in India and Albania. VEGR, the alumni association, provides annual reports, career guidance and support for school initiatives. EVRG, the Elternverein (parents' association), represents parents and funds cultural projects and language exchanges. FC Rämibühl (Football Club Racing Rämibühl) offers school-affiliated football opportunities for students and others.

Arts & Creative

VEGR finances cultural projects at the Realgymnasium Rämibühl. Alumni regularly receive the school's annual report and notices of cultural events, including concerts and theatre. The cultural life of the school is supported through these alumni-led communications and VEGR funding. These activities contribute to the school's cultural offerings and events.

Cultural & Language

EVRG is the Parents' Association of Realgymnasium Rämibühl. It represents the interests of the parents in close dialogue with the teaching staff and the school leadership. It finances language projects and student exchanges, helping students participate in language initiatives and exchanges who might otherwise be unable to participate. EVRG aims to ensure the Realgymnasium Rämibühl maintains modern teaching and learning forms, contributes to positive school experiences, supports holistic development, and fosters a tolerant and peaceful school community.

Social & Hobbies

Verein Solidarität aims to help people less privileged and to illuminate the topic of solidarity in the classroom. International projects include a bake sale during visiting days to support aid projects, with annual support for Usthi in India. Local engagement includes a sponsor run to support IPA, which helps Roma girls in Albania attend school. Amnesty International's letter-writing campaign is incorporated into classroom activities to highlight human rights.

Community & Service

Verein Solidarität's activities demonstrate the school's community and service ethos through both international and local engagement. The bake sale and sponsor run raise funds for charitable projects, and the Christmas gift collection supports youths in refugee housing. The school participates in Amnesty International's letter marathon to advocate for human rights, linking service to real-world advocacy. Alumni and organizational partners contribute to ongoing community-centered initiatives.

Leadership & Professional

The VEGR arranges guidance for graduating students on study and career opportunities, including individual counseling. It provides financial support for cultural projects and for language projects and student exchanges. The VEGR also supports upper-secondary excursions and travel, offering contributions to culturally or naturwissenschaftliche (nature-focused) trips. It enables special teaching acquisitions for the school, helping to fund resources the school otherwise could not afford.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing

FC Rämibühl is the school's own football club, founded in 2006 by Roy Bernheim, Basil Bolliger, and Chris Goodman. Since its inception, it has provided Realgymnasium students (and others) with opportunities to play football alongside peers with similar interests. The club began as Switzerland's first school-owned football club and continues to offer football as part of student life. The FC Rämibühl also maintains a presence online with its own site and social media.

Language Provision

English is the immersion language for three IB subjects—Mathematics, Biology, and Geography—and is used for instruction and assessment through Matura. Over 1,300 immersive English lessons are delivered from Year 3 onward, including a two-week English-intensive course for new Year 3 cohorts. Lower-school immersion began in 2023/24, with Geography, Music, Religions, Cultures, and Ethics taught in English from the second semester of the first grade; no prior English knowledge is required. Admission to immersion in the lower school depends on passing the central entrance exam (Langgymnasium); there is no entitlement if seats are limited, and the school may decide not to form an immersion class if demand is too low.

Bilingual Teaching

Immersion education uses English as the working language in three IB subjects: Mathematics, Biology, and Geography. Papers and examinations are written in English. Students receive over 1,300 immersive English lessons from Year 3 through Matura, and the subjects are taught in English up to Matura, so there is no need to switch back to German. A two-week English-language immersion course is provided for the newly formed class during the first quarter of Year 3.

Immersion Programs

Immersion in the IB program uses English as the working language in Mathematics, Biology, and Geography, with papers and exams in English. Since 2023/24, immersion is also offered in the lower school, with one immersion class formed each year. In the lower school, Geography, Music, Religions, Cultures, and Ethics are taught in English from the second semester of the first grade, and no prior English language knowledge is required. Admission to immersion classes is tied to the Langgymnasium entrance exam; admission is not guaranteed if applications exceed places, and selection is based on the exam average; the principal reserves the right not to form an immersion class if there are too few applicants.

Admissions

0. Admission overview. Realgymnasium Rämibühl is a selective six-year Langgymnasium that directly follows primary school (6th grade) and leads to the Swiss Matura and university entrance. It offers both a classical-language Matura profile and a modern-language Matura profile, and per cohort one to two classes may pursue a bilingual Matura together with the International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma. The school also places emphasis on mathematics and the natural sciences as well as the arts, and a rigorous entrance examination is required for admission to the six-year program.

1. Information session and introduction to the RG and the admissions process. An information session about RG and the admission process is held on November 9, 2026 in the Aula Rämibühl and can be streamed online. It provides prospective students and parents with details about the school, its offerings, and the admission procedure.

2. Schnuppertag (trial day) for prospective RG students. A Schnuppertag is scheduled for November 26, 2026, with registration opening on November 9, 2026. This gives students a hands-on sense of the RG environment and a chance to experience classroom structure.

3. Central entrance examination (Zentralen Aufnahmeprüfung, ZAP) registration. Registration for the ZAP opens January 1, 2027 and all required documents must be uploaded by February 10, 2027. Registration for immersion class occurs together with ZAP registration. The Immersion option is available only if admission requirements are met and there are available places.

4. Central entrance examination (ZAP) and immersion-class conditions. The ZAP assesses Deutsch and Mathematics according to the Zürcher Lehrplan and the ZAP1 requirements. For non-native German speakers, a bilingual dictionary may be used in the Mathematics section; no calculators are allowed in the math portion; candidates may request a Nachteilsausgleich (disadvantage accommodation) by February 10 with appropriate documentation. Immersion-class admission is not guaranteed; if applications exceed places, selection is based on the average score from the entrance examination. The Immersion class, when offered in the Unterstufe, uses English for Geography, Music, and Religions/Cultures/Ethics from the second semester of the first grade.

5. Outcomes and notification. The selection decision is communicated in late March via written letter and through zap.ch. The process follows the guidelines set out for ZAP and the school's immersion-policy, with final decisions communicated to families accordingly.

6. Post-admission considerations. For candidates with special needs, a Nachteilsausgleich can be requested, but such requests must be submitted by February 10 as part of the application to the admission process. The terms of the immersion-program and the selection criteria apply as described above.

Scholarships

The Canton of Zurich offers training contributions (Stipendien/Ausbildungsbeiträge) that may be applied for by students at cantonal secondary schools when families are in financially modest circumstances. These contributions are part of cantonal education policy and aim to promote equal opportunities for students. Information on Ausbildungsbeiträge for 2026 and related checklists are provided for applicants.

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