Accelerated Pathway at ISZN
Grades (10-12)
A focused three-year route into A-Levels and Swiss university pathways.
ISZN’s Accelerated Pathway is a rigorous three-year program for students entering in Grade 10 who want a direct route to A-Levels and a wide range of university options. The program begins with an intensive iGCSE bridge year to complete the required iGCSE courses, followed by two years of A-Level studies, including German A-Level* to fulfill Swiss university admission criteria.
With personalized subject choices and flexible entry points for students from Swiss, international, or national systems, this pathway offers a strong alternative to the Swiss Matura or IB while opening doors to universities both in Switzerland and around the world.
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At a Glance
Entry Point
Duration
Earned Qualifications
Designed For
Exam Boards
Support
*An A-Level in German fulfils the language admission requirement for universities in the German speaking regions of Switzerland. For universities in other language regions, you will generally need to demonstrate C1-level proficiency in the appropriate language.
Routes into the Accelerated Pathway at ISZN
Students typically enter the ISZN Accelerated Pathway in one of the following ways. We confirm the best entry route during consultation, based on academic background and pathway goals.
Transfer from a public school from abroad
Transfer from another international school
Transition from Swiss Lower Secondary or Gymnasium
Is this the right fit?
This pathway is designed for students joining in Grade 10 who want an alternative to Swiss Matura or the IB, with a structured bridge year that prepares them for A-Levels and keeps Swiss and international university options open.
This programme is a strong fit for students who:
Enroll without prior GCSE experience
Wish to complete their Secondary education in 3 years
Aim for Swiss universities or international universities
Benefit from a structured bridge year before A-Levels
Can engage confidently with academic study in English
Programme Structure
Subject availability may depend on cohort size and is confirmed during subject planning.
Grade 10: Academic Bridge Year (6 iGCSE foundations)
Grade 10 is a structured bridge year designed to build strong academic foundations and prepare students for A-Level study.
Subject areas include:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Computer Science
- Business Studies
- iGCSE Combined Science (Biology/Chemistry/Physics; counts as two iGCSE grades)
- Lifeskills + Sport (non-examined)
Grades 11–12: Three A-Levels
Students study three A-Levels: 2 A-Levels of your choice + German A-Level*.
A-Level options for the two chosen subjects:
- Mathematics
- Biology
- Physics
- Computer Science
- Chemistry
Pathways to Swiss Universities
Swiss university entry depends on subject choices and language proficiency. We guide families early on subject and language planning so students can keep realistic options open.
Subject planning aligned to intended faculty (for example, sciences for engineering or medicine)
German A-Level meets the language requirements of German-speaking Swiss universities
Guidance for families considering French- or Italian-speaking regions, where C1 proficiency is typically required
Where requirements vary, we discuss them directly during consultation based on the student’s goals.
International University Options
A-Levels are widely recognised internationally. ISZN supports subject selection and application planning for a range of university systems, including the UK, Europe, North America, and beyond.
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
