A-Level in Switzerland for international students

Prominent among students aiming for international university applications, the A-Level program in Switzerland equips them with a high school diploma that's esteemed by baccalaureate universities worldwide.

This two-year journey forms an integral part of Switzerland's general education mandate and culminates in the General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) Advanced Level. Completing A-Levels in International Baccalaureate schools in Switzerland sets students on the path towards pursuing Bachelor's degree programs at universities.

Schools with A-level focus primarily on fostering university readiness. The outcomes of A-level exams provide universities with a lens into a student's academic prowess, informing their admission decisions.

• Global University Access: Being the curriculum of choice for international students, A-levels in IB schools Switzerland unlock the gates to premier universities in the UK and beyond.

• Specialization Benefits: A-levels allow students to delve deep into subjects that match their university ambitions, facilitating specialization even before university commences.

• Online Program Availability: With the rise of digital education, numerous institutions now offer A-levels online, catering to international students who might prefer remote learning.

The Coursework

With a vast array of 45 subjects on offer, students typically select 3-6 to study intensively. Their choices should resonate with their intended university course. For instance, budding engineers might prioritize mathematics and chemistry.

Although there's a wide range of subjects available, it's pivotal to note that the subject list varies per school. While core subjects are typically available across IB schools Switzerland, niche ones might be limited to specific institutions.

A-Level's academic trajectory is split between AS (Advanced Subsidiary) and A2 (AL), with each spanning a year. Post the first year, students achieve an AS-Level qualification, advancing to A2-Level by the end of the second year. The culmination involves A-Level examinations that determine university eligibility.

Grading follows an A-B-C-D-E scale, with A being superior. Exceptional students might earn an A+, marking their distinction.

Choosing Your A-Level Subjects in Switzerland

Given the weight of the decision, selecting A-Level subjects is intricate. For those unfamiliar with the preceding GCSEs, the task might appear even more daunting.

The range of A-Level subjects surpasses 45, but the offerings vary per institution. Classical subjects are universally accessible, but specialized subjects like religious studies might be confined to specific schools. Elite institutions might even cater to unique subject requests via personalized sessions.

Aligning A-Level subjects with university aspirations is key. For prospective medical students targeting Oxford, chemistry and biology are essential, complemented by a third choice like physics.

For those unsure of their path, gravitating towards classic subjects or personal strengths is advisable. School tutors, present in most institutions, offer valuable guidance.

A-Level studies in Switzerland range from $15,000 per annum, potentially reaching $60,000 in elite institutions.

Admission prerequisites include:

• Age range of 16-18.

• A high school diploma with a grade of 4 or above.

• An IELTS score of at least 5.0 (varies per institution) or a TOEFL score of 500+.

• Recommendation letters from educators.

Top A-Level Institutions in Switzerland

• Monte Rosa Institute

• Aiglon College

• Institut Le Rosey

• Institut Auf Dem Rosenberg

• Leysin American School.

Switzerland's embrace of the A-Level curriculum in its prestigious IB schools Switzerland offers students a world-class educational experience, setting them on a trajectory towards global academic success.

Arnold I. Szepesi

Global Direct Sales Manager in EHL Hospitality Business School

What's the best time to apply to Swiss schools, and what should applicants prepare for?

It's best to start early, showing interest and getting in touch with the admissions office. Plan a visit, talk to current students and teachers, and make sure you feel comfortable with the surroundings.