Admissions Process
Welcoming local and international families throughout the school year
At the International School of Berne (ISBerne), we know that choosing a school is an important family decision. Our admissions process is designed to be welcoming, personal, and straightforward, and our team will support you every step of the way.
Founded in 1961, ISBerne is a private day school in Gümligen near Bern, welcoming both local Swiss and international families.
As an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School, we offer internationally recognised International Baccalaureate programmes as well as dual language programmes aligned with the Swiss national curriculum, Lehrplan 21, in our Kindergarten, and Primary School.
We offer year-round enrollment with flexible start dates throughout the school year, allowing students to join at any time when places are available.
Whether you are relocating to Switzerland or already living in the Bern region, we look forward to learning more about your child and helping you explore whether ISBerne may be the right fit for your family.
Before You Apply
We encourage families to contact our Welcome Team before beginning the application process. A conversation or inquiry can help you learn more about our programmes, ask questions, and explore whether ISBerne may be the right fit for your child. Our Welcome Desk specialists, Ms Françoise Boillat and Ms Alice Germann, are happy to advise you in English, German and French:
+41 31 959 10 00
office@isberne.ch
Getting Started Step by Step
Step 1: Visit ISBerne
Families are warmly invited to visit our campus in Gümligen and experience our warm, welcoming atmosphere at ISBerne.
You may choose to:
- schedule a personal campus tour or consultation
- attend one of our upcoming admissions events or Open Mornings
- meet members of our admissions and leadership team
- learn more about our curriculum pathways and programmes
- ask questions about your child’s educational needs and transition to ISBerne
Virtual consultations are also available for families relocating to Switzerland.
Upcoming Tours and Information Events
-
ISBerne Campus
-
ISBerne Campus
-
ISBerne Campus
Step 2: Submit Your Application
Families interested in joining ISBerne are invited to complete an application form and submit the required supporting documents.
Application requirements vary depending on your child’s age, grade level, language background, and programme pathway. Our Welcome Team is happy to guide families through the process and answer questions at any stage.
Application Forms
Please download and complete the appropriate application packet for your child’s school division. Please submit a separate application packet for each child you wish to enroll.
Submitting Your Forms and Documents
Completed applications and supporting documents may be emailed to: office@isberne.ch
After submitting your application, our team will send you a confirmation of receipt by email. If you do not receive a response from us within 2 business days, please contact us.
Step 3: Application Review and Assessment
Once all application materials have been received, our school leadership will carefully review your child’s application.
Depending on your child’s age, grade level, educational background, and language proficiencies, the admissions process may also include:
- a student meeting or interview
- classroom visits or trial days
- language or academic assessments
- conversations with parents or guardians
These steps help us better understand your child’s learning profile, strengths, and support needs, while ensuring that ISBerne is the right fit for both the student and the school community. Our goal is to support each child’s successful transition into school life at ISBerne.
Step 4: Admissions Decision and Enrollment
Once all required application materials have been received and verified as complete, your child’s application will be reviewed by the relevant Divisional Principal and the School Director.
Following the admissions review process, families will receive an email with the admissions decision and next steps for enrollment at ISBerne.
Our team works closely with new families to help students transition smoothly into school life and feel welcomed from their first day.
Applying for Financial Aid & Scholarships (Optional)
The International School of Berne Foundation offers a limited number of scholarships and financial assistance opportunities to support eligible students and families.
Applications for financial aid and scholarships are managed separately from the admissions process and must be submitted directly to the International School of Berne Foundation. Applications are reviewed based on individual family circumstances and available funding.
Our team is happy to speak confidentially with families interested in learning more about available financial aid and scholarship opportunities.
Getting Started at ISBerne
Here to support you every step of the way
Our team will take the time to understand your family’s needs, answer your questions, and help you determine whether ISBerne is the right fit for your child and your family. Our Welcome Desk specialists, Ms Françoise Boillat and Ms Alice Germann, are happy to advise you by phone. If you prefer to make initial contact by email, they will also be pleased to respond to your written inquiry:
+41 31 959 10 00
office@isberne.ch