British schools in Switzerland: Zurich, Geneva, Basel and the boarding schools
British and international schooling in Switzerland: day schools in the main cities, the famous boarding schools, cantonal rules, costs and how to choose.
Switzerland has a long tradition of international education. It has world-famous boarding schools and large international day schools serving the multinational companies, banks and international organisations based in Zurich, Geneva and Basel.
Day schools in the main cities
- Zurich and Zug: the largest international business community, with a wide choice of schools, including British-curriculum options.
- Geneva and Lausanne: home to UN agencies and other international organisations. Many schools here offer the IB, and some offer English-curriculum pathways.
- Basel: pharmaceutical and life sciences industries, with international schools on both the Swiss side and close to the French and German borders.
- Bern and Lugano: smaller international communities with fewer options.
The boarding school tradition
Switzerland’s boarding schools, many in the Lake Geneva region and the Alps, attract students from around the world. Some follow British pathways, with IGCSEs and A-Levels, while many offer the IB or a mix. Boarding brings a different set of questions: pastoral care, supervision, the student mix and weekend life. Visit if you possibly can.
Education is cantonal
Each of the 26 cantons runs its own education system, coordinated nationally by the EDK. This affects private school regulation, school calendars and the language of public schools. The age of school entry and the timing of the move to secondary school can vary between cantons.
Public, international or bilingual?
| Option | Language | Cost | Good fit for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Swiss public school | Local language | Free | Long stays, younger children |
| Bilingual private school | Local language + English | Fee-paying | Families wanting integration and English |
| British/international day school | English | High fees | Short to medium stays, mobile families |
| Boarding school | English (often) | Very high fees | Families seeking full-time boarding |
Practical points
- School holidays vary by canton.
- The cost of living is high, so an employer’s education allowance makes a big difference. Negotiate before you sign.
- Learning the local language helps the whole family, whatever school you choose.
See also: international school fees and British vs IB vs American.
Directory: British schools in Switzerland
| School | City | Ages | Curricula |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aiglon College | Chesières-Villars | Years 2–13 | IGCSE, IB Diploma |
Frequently asked questions
Are Swiss public schools an option for international families?
Yes. Swiss public schools are free and highly regarded, and teach in the local language (German, French or Italian, depending on the canton). Younger children often integrate well; older children arriving without the local language may find it harder.
Why are international schools in Switzerland so expensive?
High salaries, property costs and the general cost of living in Switzerland make international school fees among the highest in the world, particularly at boarding schools.