Your Gateway to Swiss and
International Universities
ISZN Upper Secondary brings university pathways into focus through internationally recognised qualifications and structured guidance, helping students progress with clarity towards Swiss universities, international destinations, or a route that keeps both options open.
Depending on the point of entry, prior curriculum, and intended university pathway, students can join a comprehensive four-year pathway, an accelerated three-year pathway, or a focused two-year A-Level programme.
Choose Your Pathway
Three flexible entry points are designed to meet your child’s academic goals and university aspirations.
4 Years
Comprehensive
Grade 9 → Grade 12Two years iGCSEs & two years A-Levels.
Who it's for:
Students entering in Grade 9 who wish to enjoy the complete four-year Upper Secondary programme at ISZN, allowing ample time to explore a wide range of subjects before focusing on specific areas.
University Pathways:
Swiss or international universities.
Earned Qualifications:
Six to nine iGCSEs (Grade 10) + three A-Levels (Grade 12).
Learn more about iGCSEs >
Learn more about A-Levels >
3 Years
Accelerated
Grade 10 → Grade 12IGCSE Bridge Year & two years A-Levels, including German A-Level.
Who it's for:
Grade 10 students seeking a programme that allows entry to Swiss universities, even without prior GCSE qualifications. Entry conditions apply.
University Pathways:
Swiss* or international universities.
Earned Qualifications:
Six iGCSEs (Grade 10) + three A-Levels, including German (Grade 12).
Learn more about the Accelerated Pathway >
2 Years
A-Level Programme
Grade 11 → Grade 12Direct entry into A-Levels.
Who it's for:
Grade 11 entrants who have finished iGCSEs or similar qualifications and are prepared to start A-Level studies right away.
University Pathways:
Swiss** or international universities.
Earned Qualifications:
Three A-Levels (Grade 12).
Learn more about A-Levels >
*University entry requirements vary by institution and faculty. Subject and language planning is guided during consultation. German A-Level meets Swiss university language requirements. **A-Level Programme entries with GCSE qualifications could meet Swiss university requirements.
What are iGCSEs and A-Levels?
A progressive curriculum built for university success.
iGCSEs
The iGCSE program offers a broad range of subjects, helping students build a strong academic basis, sharpen their critical thinking, grow into confident independent learners, and improve their exam techniques.
These globally recognised qualifications equip students for further education and open opportunities to explore diverse career options. To gain entry into Swiss universities, students need at least six iGCSEs - ISZN students typically study 9 - plus a minimum of three A-Levels.
A-Levels
Students typically select three to four A-Level subjects that match their university goals and career ambitions.
This programme offers comprehensive learning, rigorous academic standards, and a wide choice of subjects, with qualifications recognised internationally, including by top universities in Switzerland.
What is the Accelerated Pathway?
A progressive curriculum built for university success.
ISZN's Accelerated Pathway is a challenging three-year program designed for Grade 10 entrants seeking a direct progression to A-Levels and access to diverse university opportunities. It starts with an intensive iGCSE bridge year to complete the necessary iGCSE subjects, followed by two years of A-Level studies, including German A-Level to meet Swiss university admission requirements.
Offering tailored subject selections and flexible entry options for students from Swiss, international, or national educational systems, this pathway provides a strong alternative to the Swiss Matura or IB, while enabling admission to universities in Switzerland and worldwide.
Your University Gateway
Opening doors to leading universities in Switzerland and around the world.
Swiss Universities
Int. Universities
Dedicated Guidance
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
