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Upper School: Grades 11-12

Now enrolling Swiss and international students for Autumn 2025

At the International School of Berne (ISBerne), your teenager will step into a dynamic environment designed to challenge, inspire, and prepare them for what comes next. As an International Baccalaureate® (IB) World School, our Grade 9 and 10 students build a strong foundation through the International Baccalaureate® Middle Years Programme. By Grades 11 and 12, they benefit from flexible curriculum pathways grounded in the IB approach, culminating in a fully accredited U.S. High School Diploma. They may also choose to earn the prestigious IB Diploma—offered in English or as a bilingual diploma—expanding their academic opportunities worldwide.

Throughout their journey, our caring, committed educators bring out the best in your child, ensuring that they graduate not only with leading academic credentials, but also with the confidence, curiosity, and global perspective needed to excel. At ISBerne, your family may select the pathway that best aligns with your child’s talents, strengths, and future plans.

ISBerne's diploma pathways

International Baccalaureate® Diploma Programme (IBDP) International Baccalaureate® Bilingual Diploma Programme (IBDP) Diploma Courses Pathway ISBerne Diploma Pathway
6 subjects in the IBDP,
including 3 Higher Level and 3 Standard Level 
6 subjects in the IBDP,
including 3 High Level and 3 Standard Level
5 subjects in ISBerne Diploma Programme and at least 1 subject in the IBDP

6 subjects in ISBerne Diploma Programme

Students who select 2 Language A subjects receive a bilingual ISBerne Diploma

Required:

  • Theory of Knowledge
  • Extended Essay 
  • Creativity, Activity, Service

Required:

  • English and another language
  • Theory of Knowledge 
  • Extended Essay
  • Creativity, Activity, Service

Required:

  • Creativity, Activity, Service

Optional:

  • Theory of Knowledge
  • Extended Essay 

Required:

  • Creativity, Activity, Service 

Optional:

  • Theory of Knowledge 
  • Extended Essay 
Accepted by universities around the world Accepted by universities in North America and some in Europe

 

Equipping students to thrive in life


We welcome and connect. 

At ISBerne, inclusivity is at the heart of our approach. We are a warm, vibrant community of over 50 nationalities, with around 55 to 60 students enrolled in our Diploma Programmes each year. Our school operates with a non-selective, open-enrollment admissions policy, and we welcome both local Swiss and international students to our Diploma programmes in Grades 11 to 12. For over sixty years, our school has welcomed transfer students of all ages and nationalities to our school with a diverse array of backgrounds, interests, needs, and talents. Your child will quickly feel integrated at our school and supported by our dedicated faculty and staff.

We nurture and inspire. 

We offer a flexible, holistic, and personalized education to our students.  All courses aim to develop successful, internationally-minded, creative, and environmentally responsible individuals. A strong emphasis is placed on character development and the skills they need to lead a flourishing life.

We understand that this is an important time as your child will be making critical decisions about their future. Preparing your teen for adulthood requires more than just academics. You want them to have experience leading, problem-solving, working together as a team, and recovering from mistakes. At ISBerne, your teen also will have the opportunity to grow through:

Through our advisory and counselling programmes, students (and families) are guided and supported as they navigate adolescence, grow in their academic understanding, contribute meaningfully to society, and plan for their future. 

We challenge and prepare.

No two students are the same, and at ISBerne, we work with each student individually to select a diploma pathway.  Whether it is continuing their studies at universities around the world, working in their field of interest, or taking some time off to pursue passions and discovery, our experienced Principal,  counsellors and educators will provide guidance and support.

ISBerne is proud of all our graduates, many of whom pursue their education at some of the world's top colleges and universities. Upon graduation, ISBerne students are possess a drive to excel and positively influence the world, and are prepared to take on an ever-changing world. Alumni frequently characterize their time at ISBerne as "the best years of my life."

Our goal is that our students are successful and challenged, safe and healthy, and feel supported throughout their teenage years.

Grades 11 and 12 in depth

Join our upcoming information events

We strongly encourage you to visit our school in person and experience what makes ISBerne such a special place to learn. You may either register for a private consulation or join an upcoming group event:

We invite local and international families to experience firsthand the world-class International Baccalaureate (IB) education we offer students from ages 3 to 18 across our Early Learning Centre, Primary Years, Middle Years, Grade 10 Bridging Year, and Diploma Pathways. Parents, students, and community members are warmly welcome to attend our Open Day.

What to Expect:

  • Guided Campus Tour: In small groups, tour our purpose-built campus, visit our classrooms, observe IB lessons in action, and experience our vibrant learning environment firsthand.
  • Interactive Q&A: Ask questions along the way to learn more about our IB programs.
  • Meet Our Team: Speak individually with our Principals and Admissions team about your child's needs and aspirations.

Please note that the event will be conducted in English, and our German and French speaking staff will be available to assist.

Pre-registration is appreciatedSecure your spot and come see the difference ISBerne can make for your child!

Learn More and Register

Parents and students are warmly invited to an informative evening at ISBerne. Discover how our exceptional programs can shape your child's future!

What to Expect:

  • Presentations by Our Principals: Gain insights into our International Baccalaureate (IB) Middle Years Programme (Grades 6–10), the unique Grade 10 Bridging Year, and our Diploma Pathways (Grades 11–12).
  • Interactive Q&A Session: Have your questions answered and learn how ISBerne can support your child's academic journey.
  • Campus Tour: Explore our modern campus, step inside our state-of-the-art classrooms, and experience our vibrant learning environment firsthand.
  • Meet Our Team: Speak individually with our dedicated staff about your child's needs and aspirations.

Please note that the event will be conducted in English, and our German speaking staff will be available to assist.

Pre-registration is appreciated. Secure your spot and come see the difference ISBerne can make for your child!

Learn More and Register

Getting started at ISBerne

Are you considering the International School of Berne for your child? We're thrilled to hear that! We want to make sure you have all the information you need to make the best decision for your family.

To start exploring the admissions process, please visit the admissions section of the site. You'll find everything you need to know about scheduling a personal visit or trial day, making an online inquiry, and more. Remember, your child may join ISBerne anytime during the school year if space is available.

If you have any questions or would like to speak to someone directly, please contact us. You can email us at office@isberne.ch or call us at +41 31 959 10 00. We can't wait to hear from you!