Upper School: Grades 11-12
Choose a Pathway that Fits Your Child's Future
The International School of Berne (ISBerne) is a private day school in Switzerland's capital city, and our High School is where learning culminates. As an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School, our Grade 9 and 10 students study the International Baccalaureate® Middle Years Programme. Secondary school students in Grades 11 and 12 continue on one of our four pathways to pursue the International Baccalaureate® Diploma and a fully accredited US High School Diploma. Your family can select the most suitable option for your child's talents, strengths, and future plans.
Explore Our Pathways
ISBerne ensures that every graduate earns a US-accredited High School Diploma. Students have the choice of pursuing the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, and we provide multiple opportunities to study for this prestigious diploma and its course certifications. Guided by caring and passionate educators, your child can pursue one of our four pathways of study:
- International Baccalaureate® Diploma Programme (IBDP)
- Bilingual International Baccalaureate® Diploma Programme
- Diploma Courses Pathway
- ISBerne High School Diploma Pathway
International Baccalaureate® Diploma Programme (IBDP)
Bilingual International Baccalaureate® Diploma Programme
Diploma Courses Pathway
ISBerne High School Diploma Pathway
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:
- Arts
- Athletics
- Diploma Programme Retreat Week
- Ski and Skate Fridays
- Duke of Edinburgh International Awards
- Creativity, Action, Service (CAS) Programme
- Weekly Advisory
- Model United Nations
- Youth Forum Switzerland
- Villars Institute Symposium
- Student Council
Through our advisory and counseling 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, counselors 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
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 and show you why ISBerne is the perfect place for your child to thrive!