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Comparing to the Swiss Matura

Know your options!

Both the Swiss Matura and the International Baccalaureate® (IB) Diploma are certifications of an excellent education. We congratulate you for being in the position to assess your options and choose the best path forward for your or your child’s education.

At the International School of Berne, we are proud to be an International Baccalaureate World School offering the Middle Years Programme in Grades 9 - 10 and the Diploma Programme and ISBerne High School Programme in Grades 11 -12.

To help you may make an informed decision, below we provide a direct, at-a-glance comparison of the top Diplomas awarded at public and private schools in Bern, Switzerland:

 
Programme

Swiss Matura

International Baccalaureate® (IB) Diploma at ISBerne
Duration 3 - 5 years 2 years

Curriculum

13 core subjects, including 3 languages

  • A primary and secondary focus of study is selected, for which a thesis is required.
  • 2-3 required supplemental courses.

6 subjects,
including 2 languages

3 core components:

  • Theory of Knowledge
  • Extended Essay
  • Creativity, Activity, and Service
Where it is Officially Recognized Switzerland Worldwide
including Switzerland
Where Accepted by Universities and Colleges  Switzerland Worldwide
including Switzerland
Language of Instruction German, French or Italian
(School/ Canton dependant)		 English
Bilingual Option School/ Canton dependant
  • English/German 
  • English/French
  • English/Mother-tongue option also available
Entrance Requirements
 

Canton dependant. Exams, interviews, past grades, and teacher referrals can all be required to enter the programme.

Transcripts, interview, and C1 level of English required to enter the programme.

 

 

Comparing the Pathways

By clicking on the image, you can view and download a pdf version in a larger size.

ISBerne Diploma Option

All students at ISBerne who graduate with the IBDP also receive the ISBerne Diploma, an accredited American High School Diploma. Students who are interested in attending the United States can choose to study only for the ISBerne Diploma, which follows the same curriculum as the IBDP but has modified requirements resulting in a lighter workload. The ISBerne Diploma, combined with your grades and an SAT score, grants you access to universities and colleges in North American colleges and Universities.

For more information

We invite you to learn more about the public and private educational options in Bern, Switzerland by scheduling a consultation with our team.