Switzerland, Basel
Let the school know you're thinking of applying — they can share their prerequisites and help you through the process.
It's best to ask — circumstances can change at any time.
1. Explore: Learn about ISBasel's personalised approach to education and schedule an individual consultation in person or online to understand how ISBasel can support your child. The school outlines three levels—Junior School (ages 3–11), Middle School (ages 11–14), and Senior School (ages 14–18)—which you can discuss during this consult. This initial exploration helps families determine fit before moving to the next steps.
2. Visit: ISBasel's doors are open year‑round. Schedule a visit or call, and you will be welcomed for an individual tour at your convenience. During the visit you can explore the school in depth and meet key staff members. This visit is designed to give you a first‑hand sense of the school environment and community.
3. Register & Apply: The Admissions Team is here to assist you every step of the way. ISBasel enrols students throughout the year, dependent on space and fulfillment of entry requirements. They provide personalised support and guidance on documentation, application forms, and admission criteria. You can ask questions about the process and receive help with next steps as you prepare your dossier.
4. Documentation and join requirements: Complete all application forms; all documents must be in English or officially translated (submit both original and translation). Additional assessment outcomes may be required; the level of English proficiency and any student support needs will be reviewed. Availability of space in classes and option groups, sibling availability, and the Director's and Principal's discretion also influence admission decisions.
5. English proficiency and placement: Grade 6 and above require an online English test to determine proficiency, sometimes with an interview. Seniors may have a tailored curriculum if enrolled in external English programs, and they transition as language skills improve. ISB uses the CEFR framework to outline minimum English proficiency by grade: Grade 9 A2/B1; Grade 10 A2/B2; Grade 11 B1/B2; Grade 12 B1/B2 (Only for students currently in the IB Diploma Programme).
6. Student support: ISB provides tailored learning support for mild to moderate learning needs, with close collaboration with families to ensure proper placement and resources. Conditional enrolment may be offered with agreed services and extra costs. In rare cases where the school cannot meet a student's needs, a decision is explained and families are guided toward alternative options.
International School Basel is a not-for-profit, co-educational day school delivering the International Baccalaureate across Reinach, Aesch and Fiechten. The school serves students aged 3 to 18 and teaches entirely in English, with an English–German Dual Language Programme available in the Junior School and German, French and Spanish offered as second languages. It offers the IB Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme and Diploma Programme, with over 65 academic courses in Senior School and university counselling. Its multi‑campus design is linked by Basel's tram network, with classroom, science labs, robotics workshops, art studios and performance spaces, plus well‑equipped gymnasia, fields and wellbeing facilities. The curriculum emphasizes inquiry, social, emotional and physical development, and the school features robust co‑curricular options—from music concerts and theatre to Model United Nations and the Duke of Edinburgh's Award. The school fosters environmental stewardship and community involvement through its Vision 2030 framework and Making a Difference initiatives.