Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in Zurich
Summary: If you're moving to Zurich with kids, choosing a school if often your first decisions and impacts where you'll live. Here are some popular bilingual and international schools in Zurich
Zurich, is a hub for expats and digital nomads, offering a high quality of life and a strong international community. The city boasts a number of international and bilingual schools, catering to the diverse needs of expat families. Among the most popular are the International School of Zurich and Zurich International School, both known for their comprehensive curriculums and multicultural environments. With a variety of options available, parents can choose a school that best fits their child's educational needs and their family's lifestyle.
International School of Zurich (ISZL)
Grades: Age 3 through Grade 12
Location(s): Baar and Zug
Website: www.iszl.ch
The International School of Zurich offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) program from primary years to the diploma level. With state-of-the-art facilities, including a high-tech media center, sports fields, and science labs, ISZL provides a well-rounded education. Extracurricular activities range from arts to athletics, and the school prides itself on its diverse student body representing over 50 nationalities.
Zurich International School (ZIS)
Grades: Age 3 through Grade 12
Location(s): Adliswil, Kilchberg, Wädenswil, and Baden
Website: www.zis.ch
Zurich International School is another prestigious institution offering the IB program. ZIS focuses on personalized learning, ensuring that each student's educational journey is tailored to their individual needs. The school's facilities include modern classrooms, a performing arts center, and competitive sports teams. With a strong emphasis on community service, ZIS encourages students to become active, compassionate global citizens.
Inter-Community School Zurich (ICS)
Grades: Age 3 through Grade 12
Location(s): Zumikon
Website: www.icsz.ch
Inter-Community School Zurich offers a comprehensive educational program with the IB curriculum. ICS boasts a multicultural environment with students from over 50 countries and a strong support system for non-native English speakers. The school's facilities include a modern library, science labs, and a variety of sports and arts options, fostering a balanced and inclusive education.
TASIS The American School in Switzerland
Grades: Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12
Location(s): Lugano
Website: www.tasis.ch
While a bit further from Zurich, TASIS The American School in Switzerland is within a 40-minute drive and offers an American and IB curriculum. The school's picturesque campus provides a unique learning environment with advanced facilities, including a theater and visual arts studios. TASIS emphasizes academic excellence, character development, and cultural literacy, preparing students for universities worldwide.
Swiss International School (SIS)
Grades: Kindergarten through Grade 12
Location(s): Wallisellen, Pfäffikon, and other locations
Website: www.swissinternationalschool.ch
The Swiss International School offers bilingual education in German and English, following both the Swiss curriculum and the IB program. SIS's modern campuses are designed to foster interactive learning, with a focus on digital literacy and individual growth. Extracurricular activities include language clubs, sports teams, and music programs, providing a well-rounded educational experience.
Lakeside School Küsnacht
Grades: Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 6
Location(s): Küsnacht
Website: www.lakesideschool.ch
Lakeside School Küsnacht is a bilingual school offering education in German and English. With a focus on early childhood and primary education, Lakeside School provides a nurturing environment that encourages inquiry-based learning. The school's lakeside location and small class sizes create a unique and intimate learning atmosphere for young students.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
Additional Information:
- Health Care in Zurich
- Discover the Best of Zurich
- 5 Tips for Living in Zurich, Switzerland
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Switzerland
- Best Places to Live in Switzerland
- Real Estate in Switzerland
- Pros & Cons of Living in Switzerland
- Enrolling in the Public Healthcare System in Switzerland
- What It's Like Living in Zurich
- Pros and Cons of Living in Switzerland 2024
- 2024 Guide to Moving to Switzerland