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Clubs Academic and Intellectual, Arts and Creative, Community and Service
Stages Infant/Toddler Care, Early Years, Primary School, Secondary School, Sixth Form
Introduction
International School of Schaffhausen (ISSH) offers a bilingual, globally minded education in Switzerland for ages 0 to 18. The school delivers the International Baccalaureate across all divisions, with the Primary Years Programme available from the Early Learning Centre through Primary (ages 3-12). In secondary, a bespoke pathway combines a pre-IB programme for Grades 9-10 with dedicated career guidance to prepare for the Diploma Programme (DP), a two-year programme for ages 16-19 that leads to higher education. The campus blends historic and modern spaces, featuring an Early Learning Centre and Primary Logierhaus, a dedicated Secondary Building, outdoor learning areas including the Waldsofa forest, and two boarding houses. Facilities include a gym, a soccer pitch, a basketball court, science labs, and a well-stocked secondary library. Extracurriculars span MUN, STEM and UNESCO clubs, arts and crafts, and sport, with forest-based learning, community service, and leadership opportunities central to student life for curious learners.
Childcare: ages 3 months to 3 years; Early Learning Centre: ages 3 to 6; Primary School: ages 6 to 11; Secondary School: ages 11 to 16. ISSH High School Diploma: ages 16 to 19, accredited by the Middle States Association (MSA); International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme: ages 16 to 19.
Type
Private day and boarding school
Additional learning support
English as an Additional Language (EAL) support; inclusive learning with the Learning Support Department; individualised learning plans for mild to moderate educational needs; EAL and Learning Support services may incur extra costs.
Country affiliation
Switzerland
School day structure
The school day begins at 8:15 and ends at 15:30. Wednesdays are early release days at 12:00 for Primary and up to Grade 10 for Secondary.
Bus service
ISSH operates a free shuttle service in the morning and at home time to/from the Schaffhausen main station, available to students from grade 1 onwards.
Fees
Annual tuition at International School of Schaffhausen ranges from CHF 26,750 to CHF 70,640 for 2026/27.
Application & one-time fees - One-time enrolment fee for Day students (Grades 1–12): CHF 600. - One-time enrolment fee for Early Learning Centre/Childcare: CHF 200. - One-time capital building fund fee (day students, billed with first invoice): CHF 3,500 (not applicable for Early Learning Centre).
Early Learning Centre & Childcare fees (ages 0–6) — fees charged per day - Age 0–3: Full day (07:45–18:00) CHF 138; Core time (07:45–15:45) CHF 118; Morning (07:45–12:30) CHF 87; Afternoon (12:30–18:00) CHF 92. - Age 3–4: Full day CHF 118; Core time CHF 102; Morning CHF 77; Afternoon CHF 87. - Age 4–6: Full day CHF 113; Core time CHF 97; Morning CHF 72; Afternoon CHF 72. Minimum booking rules apply by age group. Meals, diapers and hygiene items are included for babies; hot lunch for ELC pre-schoolers is optional and charged separately. Holiday-week refunds apply under specified conditions. Trial period and notice periods apply for cancellation.
Day-school tuition (Grades 1–12) — quarterly and annual amounts - Grades 1–2: Quarterly CHF 6,690 | Annual CHF 26,750. - Grades 3–5: Quarterly CHF 6,970 | Annual CHF 27,870. (Grades 3, 4 & 5 shown at this rate). - Grades 6–8: Quarterly CHF 7,530 | Annual CHF 30,090. (Grades 6, 7 & 8 shown at this rate). - Grades 9–10: Quarterly CHF 7,800 | Annual CHF 31,200 (Grades 9 & 10 figures). - Grades 11–12 (High School / Diploma Programme): Quarterly CHF 8,330 | Annual CHF 33,300. Note that IB examination fees are not included in the tuition for Diploma students.
Boarding fees (full boarding; grades 9–12) — all-inclusive annual tuition & accommodation - One-time enrolment fee for boarding students: CHF 600; one-time capital building fund fee: CHF 3,500. Annual boarding tuition (includes tuition, accommodation, meals, supervision, most excursions and many boarding-house services): - Grades 9 & 10 (boarding): CHF 65,580 per year. - Grades 11 & 12 (IB Diploma / Pre-IB boarding): CHF 70,640 per year. Boarding fees exclude IB examination fees, private lessons, insurance and certain personal costs; boarding students from non-EU/non-EFTA countries must pay the yearly boarding fees in advance for visa documentation.
Billing schedule, payment terms and instalments - Currency: All fees are payable in Swiss francs (CHF). Any exchange-rate losses are the family's responsibility. - Payment frequency options: families may choose quarterly payments in advance or a single annual payment in advance for Grades 1–12; the Early Learning Centre and Childcare are billed monthly. Quarterly bills may be paid by monthly instalments. Alternative payment arrangements may be granted only in exceptional circumstances and carry administrative conditions. - Payment dates (quarterly schedule): August 15, November 1, February 1 and May 1. Single annual payment due by August 15. The capital building fund fee is billed with the first invoice. Late payments may incur interest and recovery costs.
Other costs and typical additional fees - English or German as an additional language: CHF 1,300 (listed fee). - Learning support (where applicable): CHF 1,300 (listed fee; reduced rates may be available via financial assistance). - Residential trips (approximate per-trip charges by grade): Grade 2 CHF 200; Grade 3 CHF 300; Grade 4 CHF 400; Grade 5 (Ski) CHF 950; Grades 6–8 CHF 800; Grades 9–12 CHF 950. - Diploma-related fees: IB registration and exam fees (DP2) approx. CHF 1,500; DP camp fees approx. CHF 800. IB exam fees are explicitly excluded from Diploma tuition. - Additional services: music lessons, specialist support and some extracurricular offerings are charged at the external teacher rate; lunch service, holiday camps, after-school clubs and other optional programmes may incur separate charges. Some shuttle-bus or transit services may be provided as described by the school.
Refund, withdrawal and cancellation rules (key points) - The enrolment fee and the capital building fund fee are non‑refundable. - Early withdrawal charges (day students): - Withdrawals between July 1 and December 31 with notice given before October 31: 50% of the annual school fees will be charged. - Withdrawals between January 1 and March 31 with notice given before December 31 of the previous year: 75% of the annual school fees will be charged. - If notice is given after January 1, the full annual school fees will be charged. - Re-registration and no-show fees: withdrawal between April 30 and June 30 triggers an administrative charge of CHF 800; students who are registered and withdrawn after June 30 or who do not show up at the start of the school year will be billed 50% of the annual tuition (not applicable to ELC). - Early Learning Centre (ELC/Childcare) cancellations: a 4-week trial period applies; thereafter the contract may be cancelled with two months' notice at the end of a month. Holiday-week refunds for additional booked weeks: 50% refund if booked six weeks in advance (maximum of 12 additional weeks). No refunds for illness or other absences. - Force majeure: no refund of fees will be issued if part of the school must close for reasons beyond the school's control.
Sibling discount & financial assistance - Sibling discount: second‑oldest child receives a 10% discount; each additional younger child receives a 5% discount (oldest child receives no discount). The discount is not available if other financial assistance has been granted and applies to families (not companies). Financial assistance is available for tuition only and is subject to annual reassessment and documentary verification.
Accepted payment method(s) and invoicing - The school accepts tuition payments by bank transfer. Detailed payment instructions are provided on school invoices. Boarding students from certain countries must pay fees in full in advance for visa purposes. Invoices and billing correspondence are issued by the school's administration.
Notes on inclusions and exclusions - Tuition and boarding fee descriptions indicate which items are included (regular tuition, course books and materials, many school-day activities; boarding also covers accommodation, three meals per day and supervision for the stated teaching weeks) and which are excluded (IB exam fees, private tuition/coaching, musical instrument lessons, liability/medical insurance, personal travel and personal expenses). Visa-related documentation requires proof of payment for boarding students when applicable.
Academics
International School of Schaffhausen teaches IB (PYP), IB (DP), Bespoke Curriculum for students aged 0 to 18.
Curriculum
The school uses the International Baccalaureate framework across all divisions. The Primary Years Programme is offered from the Early Learning Centre through Primary for ages 3-12. The bespoken secondary curriculum brings the IB philosophy to life, with Grades 9-10 following a pre-IB programme and dedicated career guidance to prepare for the Diploma Programme. The Diploma Programme is a two-year programme for students aged 16-19 that prepares them for higher education and beyond.
Exam Results
The Diploma Programme has maintained a 100% pass rate for several consecutive years.
Higher Education Progression
The Diploma Programme prepares students for higher education and beyond.
Wellbeing
Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)
The school uses the Boarding Programme to develop core skills and to foster ethical, personal, and social growth. The school provides a safe, nurturing boarding environment where students build confidence, responsibility, autonomy, integrity and strong interpersonal abilities. The school uses small boarding groups to provide attentive, individualized support through regular check-ins and meetings with the Head of Boarding. The school integrates skill development with academic life, helping students plan study schedules and meet academic deadlines. The school embeds wellbeing and personal development in daily routines, with emphasis on stress-management techniques and meaningful social connections.
Special Educational Needs (SEN)
The school provides in-house learning support with a Learning Support Coordinator who collaborates with teachers, parents and students to tailor recommendations for those with specific learning needs. The school offers one-on-one lessons and small-group pull-out lessons, with push-in services available at an additional cost. When needed, the school helps families connect with external assessments or therapies. Individualised Learning Plans are put in place to enhance the student's learning experience and overall success.
English as an Additional Language (EAL)
The school provides tailored language support to ensure all students achieve academic success across all stages, from Primary through to the Diploma Programme.
Mental Wellbeing
The school integrates wellbeing into every aspect of ISSH life. The school prioritizes physical health and mental wellbeing within the boarding programme, with care staff providing guidance and structure. The Safeguarding Committee continually reviews policies to protect students' wellbeing. Boarding houses are supervised by caregivers, with small groups enabling individualized attention. The school teaches stress-reduction techniques, particularly during examination periods, and promotes balanced living with healthy sleep, regular activity, digital safety and constructive relationships with technology.
Safeguarding
The school has a Safeguarding Committee that regularly reviews programmes, policies and procedures to protect student wellbeing at all times. The school recognises students' right to be protected from harm, and that learning cannot occur without physical and emotional security. The school maintains a comprehensive safeguarding framework, a secure neighbourhood environment, and boarding-house security protocols. The school promotes digital safety and media literacy as part of safeguarding.
Admissions
Admissions
1. Begin your application via the online application form. The online application form is hosted on OpenApply, and our admissions team is available to support you from the first enquiry to the first day of school. From the first enquiry to the first day of school, our admissions team guides you through the process, answering questions to ensure that ISSH is the right fit for your child. For personalised support, you can reach the admissions team throughout the process. 2. If applying to the Early Learning Centre (ELC), the admissions process takes about two weeks. We have limited places available in the ELC Programme, so it is advisable to begin your application early and schedule a personalised tour of the ELC. You can schedule a tour and seek further information by contacting the admissions team. 3. For Primary School admissions (ages 6 to 11), after submitting the application documents you will be invited to visit ISSH and meet our admissions team in person. A trial day for your child is encouraged as part of the process. If relocation makes in-person visits difficult, we are happy to meet you online. 4. For Secondary School or High School Diploma programmes (ages 11 to 19), submit the completed application form along with supporting documents, including school reports and letters of recommendation. ISSH will arrange academic assessments in English and mathematics, followed by an interview with the admissions team. For local Schaffhausen applicants, a trial period at ISSH will also be organised to ensure a good fit with our community. 5. For the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP), complete the application form and submit supporting documents. We will conduct an academic assessment to evaluate English and mathematics skills, then arrange a meeting with our academic team to discuss university aspirations. A trial day is encouraged to give your child a genuine taste of IB learning at ISSH. 6. For the Boarding Programme (ages 14 to 19), schedule an online meeting with our admissions team to guide you through submitting the boarding application and supporting documents. We will arrange assessments in English and mathematics, as well as interviews with both our academic team and Head of Boarding. You are welcome to visit the campus to experience daily life at ISSH.
Scholarships
ISSH offers a financial assistance programme with reduced rates. Reduced rates may be available through the financial assistance programme, and eligibility details are described in the Financial Regulations. Cantonal childcare subsidies may be available for families registered in the Canton of Schaffhausen who are employed or unemployed; details are in the Financial Regulations.
FAQs
What curriculum does International School of Schaffhausen offer?
International School of Schaffhausen offers IB, International Baccalaureate curriculums. The school uses the International Baccalaureate framework across all divisions. The Primary Years Programme is offered from the Early Learning Centre through Primary for ages 3-12.
What age range does International School of Schaffhausen cater for?
International School of Schaffhausen accepts students from age 0 to 18. Childcare: ages 3 months to 3 years; Early Learning Centre: ages 3 to 6; Primary School: ages 6 to 11; Secondary School: ages 11 to 16.
What are the fees at International School of Schaffhausen?
Annual fees at International School of Schaffhausen range from approximately 26,750 to 70,640. **Application & one-time fees** - One-time enrolment fee for Day students (Grades 1–12): CHF 600. - One-time enrolment fee for Early Learning Centre/Childcare: CHF 200. - One-time capital building fund fee (day students, billed with first invoice): CHF 3,500 (not applicable for Early Learning Centre).
Where is International School of Schaffhausen located?
International School of Schaffhausen is located in Switzerland.
Is International School of Schaffhausen co-educational?
International School of Schaffhausen is a co-educational, co-educational (boarding) school. Private day and boarding school.
How do I apply to International School of Schaffhausen?
The admissions process at International School of Schaffhausen: 1) Begin your application via the online application form. The online application form is hosted on OpenApply, and our admissions team is available to support you from the first enquiry to the first day of school.
Does International School of Schaffhausen offer scholarships or financial aid?
International School of Schaffhausen offers scholarships and financial aid. ISSH offers a financial assistance programme with reduced rates.
Does International School of Schaffhausen offer boarding?
The boarding houses are off-campus in quiet residential neighbourhoods, a short bus ride from campus. The dorms are co-ed, with one boys' floor and one girls' floor, and each dorm accommodates up to ten students (most in double rooms).
What learning support does International School of Schaffhausen provide?
International School of Schaffhausen provides learning support services. The school provides in-house learning support with a Learning Support Coordinator who collaborates with teachers, parents and students to tailor recommendations for those with specific learning needs.
Does International School of Schaffhausen offer English as an Additional Language (EAL) support?
The school provides tailored language support to ensure all students achieve academic success across all stages, from Primary through to the Diploma Programme.
What facilities does International School of Schaffhausen have?
Our campus blends history, innovation, and nature to support learning, play, and community. It includes an Early Learning Centre and Primary building (Logierhaus), a Secondary Building, an outdoor learning area, physical and play spaces, and two boarding houses. Sports facilities include: Physical activity and well-being are central to life at ISSH.
What extra-curricular activities are available at International School of Schaffhausen?
International School of Schaffhausen offers a range of extra-curricular activities. The school has an Arts & Crafts Club and a Creative Expression program for imaginative projects. The clubs encourage creativity, expression, and confidence through art. The school has clubs that promote academic inquiry and global awareness. MUN, STEM, and UNESCO clubs offer hands-on, inquiry-driven experiences related to global issues and science.
What languages are taught at International School of Schaffhausen?
English is the language of instruction across all grade levels, with English as an Additional Language (EAL) support for non-native English speakers. German is taught as a Second Language in the Primary School.
Who is the head of International School of Schaffhausen?
The head of school at International School of Schaffhausen is Ebru Güver.
How many students attend International School of Schaffhausen?
International School of Schaffhausen has approximately 280 students. The school serves students from age 0 to 18.
When was International School of Schaffhausen founded?
International School of Schaffhausen was founded in 1999. The International School of Schaffhausen was founded in 1999 to support the economic development of the Schaffhausen region by meeting the educational needs of both international and local families.
What accreditations does International School of Schaffhausen hold?
MSA accreditation for the ISSH High School Diploma.
Where do graduates of International School of Schaffhausen go to university?
The Diploma Programme prepares students for higher education and beyond.
Does International School of Schaffhausen have a uniform policy?
ISSH does not require a school uniform.
What is the parent community like at International School of Schaffhausen?
ISSH fosters a global community where international families and local Swiss families come together, united by shared values. Our caring staff and small class sizes support a personalised learning jou The Parents' Association serves as the voice of parents.
