How ISZN Aligns with the
Swiss School System
A straightforward overview from Nursery to A-Levels, showing how each stage at ISZN corresponds to the local Swiss school system in Zurich.
Choosing a school in Switzerland can be exciting, yet daunting. We’re here to help to compare the different academic systems. This page walks you through ISZN’s progression from Nursery to A-Levels, showing how each stage fits with the Swiss education system and highlighting the ideal moments to transition between them.
Overview of ISZN and
Zurich Local School Phases
In Zurich, mandatory schooling starts with Kindergarten, then progresses to Primary and Lower Secondary school, with multiple options available after grade 9, when mandatory schooling ends. ISZN offers an international curriculum from Early Years (beginning at 3 months old) through to A-Levels (completion of Upper Secondary). This guide gives you a clear overview of each stage and highlights key transition points within Zurich’s education system.
Ages are average age of entry; entry can shift by birthdate cut-off and transition decisions. Admissions criteria apply.
Zurich Local School System
Lower Secondary (Sekundarstufe I / Oberstufe):
Lower Secondary is the three-year stage after Primary and is part of compulsory schooling. These three years are commonly referred to as: Sek 1, Sek 2 & Sek 3.
Upper Secondary (Sekundarstufe II / Sek II)
Upper Secondary begins after compulsory schooling and includes different pathways depending on a student’s goals. These include: Gymnasium (Maturitätsschule), Fachmittelschule (FMS) & Berufslehre (Apprenticeship).
Stage-by-stage Comparison
We know families may want a pathway that keeps local options open as circumstances change. That’s why we support planned transitions and explain the most realistic timing, especially around Zurich’s branching points after Primary school and the later entry opportunities into university.
Early Years at ISZN
Kita/Crèche and Kindergarten.
Primary Years at ISZN
Primary Schools (Kindergarten 2 to Grade 6).
Lower Secondary at ISZN
Lower Secondary or Langgymnasium
Upper Secondary at ISZN
Kurzgymnasium, apprenticeships and vocational routes.
Early Years
Immersive bilingual learning in English and German from the start.
From three months onwards, children grow in a warm, secure environment with consistent routines, play-based learning, and attentive support. Our Early Years programme is immersive bilingual: children experience English and German naturally throughout the day—through stories, songs, discovery, outdoor play, and everyday interactions.
Common entry moments:
Families relocating to Switzerland
Families seeking immersive bilingual learning early
Families looking for a calm, well-supported start
Primary Years
Primary at ISZN builds rigorous foundations in literacy, mathematics, science & humanities.
With a strong focus on personal skill development, ISZN supports language growth in English and German. Children learn in a structured, supportive setting that encourages confidence and steady academic progress.
Common entry moments:
Start of a school year
In-year entry for relocating families
Families planning ahead for secondary pathway choices
Lower Secondary
Lower Secondary supports students as learning becomes more subject-focused and independent.
Students strengthen academic skills, study habits, and confidence, while preparing for the next stage of qualifications. These years provide a broad range of core subjects, plus extended curriculum offers such as the Duke of Edinburgh Award.
Common entry moments:
Start of Grade 6 or - following the finish of local primary school - start of lower secondary
Families seeking a clear route to internationally recognised qualifications and an alternative to the International Baccalaureate through Grades 6-8
Families seeking an alternative to Langgymnasium
*No entrance exam is required for admission, other criteria are discussed during our Admissions consultation.
Upper Secondary
ISZN provides a well-defined route from IGCSEs and A-Levels to admission into Swiss and international universities.
Students gain thorough subject expertise, advanced academic writing skills, and the self-reliance essential for success at university. Course selections can be tailored to individual strengths and career goals.
Common entry moments:
Start of Grade 9, following Sek 2
Start of Grade 10, following Sek 3
Start of Grade 11
Frequently Asked Questions
A-Levels are recognised worldwide and can be used for admission to Swiss universities, as long as students meet the required subjects and language criteria. We advise families early on about subject selection to ensure Swiss university options remain available. Our tailored pathways are designed to support successful entry into Swiss institutions.
After finishing Primary School in Grade 6, students may advance to Langgymnasium if they take and pass an entrance exam, while others move on to Secondary I (Sekundarstufe I). Entry into Kurzgymnasium is also possible after the second or third year of Secondary I, but it likewise requires passing an entrance exam.
In many year groups, yes. Admissions will advise on availability, settling-in support, and the best timing for your child.
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Smooth transitions are easiest at defined points, such as the end of a school year or stage.
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Language development - especially German - plays an important role in reintegration into local schooling. In the Early Years, our pupils build the German they need for a smooth transition into local Kindergarten or Primary.
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Zurich routes can include Langgymnasium after Grade 6, later entry into Kurzgymnasium, and other post-Grade 9 options such as apprenticeships, FMS, and others. We advise families individually based on goals and readiness.
Let's Plan your Child's Next Steps
Share your child’s age, family’s language and pathway goals. We’ll recommend a natural entry point and outline what to expect next.
+41 44 830 70 07 | admissions@iszn.ch | Industriestrasse 50, Wallisellen, Switzerland
