A-Levels at ISZN
Grades (11-12)
A focused two-year pathway where students specialise, build real academic depth, and prepare for university in Switzerland and internationally.
At ISZN, A-Levels are studied during the final two years of Upper Secondary. Students select subjects that match their abilities and future university aspirations, benefiting from experienced teachers, small class groups, and tailored wellbeing guidance.
This creates a rigorous academic programme with a focus on both subject knowledge and personal development. Students emerge from the A-Level qualification with the skills and support needed for advanced study at university.
Jump down to:
At a Glance
Entry Point
Duration
Earned Qualifications
Designed For
Support
Exam Boards
Exact subject combinations depend on a student’s goals and prior academic preparation.
Routes into A-Levels at ISZN
Students typically reach A-Levels at ISZN in one of these ways. We confirm the best entry route during consultation, based on academic background and university goals.
Comprehensive 4 Year Pathway
Accelerated 3 Year Pathway
Direct Entry in Grade 11
Is this the right fit?
A-Levels are a strong fit for students who want to specialise and study fewer subjects in greater depth. Students succeed when their subject choices align with both academic strengths and university pathway goals.
This programme is a strong fit for students who:
Enjoy academic depth and clear subject focus
Are ready to manage increasing independent study over two years
Want a programme recognised by universities in Switzerland and internationally
Benefit from structured monitoring and clear progress checkpoints
Can engage confidently with academic study in English
For students joining us from other schools, we review prior study to confirm readiness and subject fit.
Programme Structure
At ISZN, A-Level students typically study three to four subjects over two years, choosing a combination that aligns with their academic interests and university goals.
This depth allows them to build real subject mastery and develop analytical and communication skills essential for higher education and beyond.
Subject selection and planning
A-Level subject choices span sciences, humanities, mathematics, languages, arts, and business. We work closely with students and their families during the subject selection process to ensure each student’s choices reflect both their strengths and future pathway.
Subject areas include:
- Sciences
- Mathematics
- Languages
- Humanities
- Arts
- Business
Additional Course Requirements
Alongside A-Levels, students complete:
- The International Project Qualification (IPQ), a research-based project that develops skills in independent learning, critical analysis, and independent research.
- Weekly sessions in Personal Social Health Education (PSHE) that prepare them thoroughly for life and work - including mental and physical health, economic wellbeing and relationships.
- Weekly, non graded physical education classes and have the option to join sports teams like basketball, football, or skiing.
Our Approach in A-Levels
ISZN’s A-Levels is designed to offer each student a personalised academic experience. Students are taught by subject specialists, and small class sizes allow for individual attention and mentoring. A dedicated Head of Upper Secondary oversees learning progress and supports students through academic leadership, pastoral care, and the Cognita Sixth Form network – a global community of professionals who provide additional insight into university admissions processes worldwide.
What sets our approach apart:
Academic mentoring and regular progress reviews
Leadership and enrichment opportunities, including service projects and international experiences
Expert university and career guidance for Swiss and international applications
A school culture that values wellbeing, independence, and global readiness
Assessment and Reporting
A-Levels are examined through Pearson Edexcel and Cambridge International, with examinations sat at ISZN and graded externally.
Formative assessment and mock examinations to track progress
Timetabled revision and exam preparation workshops
Three formal grade reports per year and two parent-teacher conferences
University Pathways
Requirements vary by university and faculty; we discuss this directly during consultation based on each student’s pathway.
International Universities
A-Levels are accepted by universities across the UK, Europe, North America, and many other countries. We support students in selecting subjects and planning applications to match their preferred study locations.
Swiss Universities
Admission to Swiss universities depends on your chosen subjects, language skills, and specific faculty criteria. Our A-Level German course satisfies the language requirement for universities in the German speaking region of Switzerland. We guide families in programme planning to ensure students meet the academic and language requirements and keep a wide range of options open.
University Destinations
ISZN students go on to study at leading universities in Switzerland and around the world. Our recent graduates have been accepted to institutions including:
ETH Zurich
University of Groningen
University of Zurich
University of Basel
London School of Economics
King's College London
Personalised University Application Support
In Grades 11 and 12, students follow a structured university preparation process, including:
One-on-one counselling and coordinated academic planning
Essay and personal statement support
Alumni insights and career exploration workshops
Guidance on the UK University Application Platform (UCAS), Common App, Swiss university systems, as well as other international university platforms
Extra support for international university admissions is available through the Cognita European support hub. This includes online seminars from leading universities on what to expect, how to apply, and Q&A sessions, as well as jurisdiction-specific guidance and parent information sessions.
Guidance that starts early
We support students and families with pathway planning throughout Upper Secondary. Additional offerings are discussed during consultation and are based on individual needs.
Subject planning aligned to university goals
Ongoing academic monitoring and exam preparation
University guidance and application
Additional offerings available, including English or German language support where needed
Beyond the Classroom
Students can take part in a wide co-curricular programme including sport, performing arts, clubs, and enrichment opportunities. Leadership roles and service projects support personal development and university applications.
Sports
Performing Arts
Service Projects
Ready to Explore the Right Pathway for Your Child?
Set up the next step to confirm fit and subject planning.
+41 44 830 70 07 | admissions@iszn.ch | Industriestrasse 50, Wallisellen, Switzerland
