Leysin American Boarding School

Course Description: Leysin American Boarding School

Welcome to Switzerland’s Premier Elite Boarding School

At the heart of the Swiss Alps lies a transformative education experience like no other—where academic excellence, global citizenship, and lifelong friendships flourish in an environment of safety, care, and opportunity. Our school blends the best of American boarding traditions with international standards, offering a world-class residential and academic experience.

Academic Excellence with Global Recognition

Students at our elite boarding school benefit from an exceptional academic framework tailored to diverse goals. With personalized guidance from Academic Deans and expert advisors, students can pursue:

• International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme

• Advanced Placement® (AP)

• U.S. High School Diploma

Whether aiming for Ivy League schools, top U.K. universities, or global institutions, students are supported every step of the way to reach their highest potential.

A Classroom Beyond Borders

Switzerland is our extended classroom. Students enrich their education through unforgettable experiences:

• Skiing and mountaineering in Zermatt, St. Moritz, and Leysin

• Cultural discovery in Lugano, Geneva, Paris, Milan, and beyond

• Excursions and study trips to over 32 destinations annually

Extraordinary Faculty, Exceptional Mentorship

Our educators are globally trained, deeply experienced, and passionate about innovation in teaching:

• 56% of faculty have over 10 years of experience

• 40+ hold school-sponsored master's degrees

• 20% have published or presented academic research

• 20 external research fellowships awarded

Students learn from teachers who are not only educators but lifelong learners themselves.

Pathways to Top Universities

Our comprehensive University Advising Office begins guiding students from Grade 9, helping shape future academic and career success:

• University Ateliers from Grade 9; one-on-one advising from Grade 10

• 92% of graduates accepted into one of their top three university choices

• 89% enroll in schools ranked within the top 5% worldwide

• 100+ university visits annually to our campus

A Supportive and Inclusive Community

Our 60-nationality student body and 98% on-campus residency rate foster a deeply connected environment where everyone belongs:

• 1:4 faculty-to-student ratio for individualized attention

• 9.3 students per class on average

• Supervised residential life, promoting independence and responsibility

• Weekly Faculty Family meetings nurture bonds and mentorship

A Home That Lasts Beyond Graduation

We are more than a school—we’re a lifelong network:

• Students are part of Faculty Families with six “siblings” and two “faculty parents”

• Managed by the third generation of the founding family

• Parents visit up to three times annually; the school also visits 70% of families globally

• Our alumni community spans 3,000+ members in 85+ countries

Personalized Learning. Passion-Driven Progress.

We believe students excel when they are inspired. Our academic and extracurricular programming is designed to spark curiosity and encourage exploration:

• Two strong university pathways: IB Diploma and U.S. High School Diploma

• Hands-on learning in Leadership, Science, Arts, Entrepreneurship, and Service

• Over 46 clubs, teams, and after-school activities

• Individualized academic schedules built around passions and strengths

Academic Journey

Middle School (Grades 7–8): Building Foundations

Students thrive in a secure and stimulating environment with:

• Core subjects in English, Math, Science, and Physical Education

• Weekly enrichment through trips, cultural outings, and after-school activities

• Gender-separated dormitories, supervised by supportive residential staff

• Faculty “Families” fostering emotional, academic, and social wellbeing

• Programs in skiing, theater, yoga, and leadership to develop the whole student

Preparatory Years (Grades 9–10): Discover & Define

These early high school years help students find their voice and direction:

• Core academics and electives enhanced by experiential learning

• Leadership opportunities like Model UN, Alpine Institute, and Robotics Lab

• Supportive ELA (English Language Acquisition) pathways for multilingual learners

• Student prefect roles and dormitory life build responsibility and confidence

• An array of activities including martial arts, dance, climbing, and gardening

Diploma Years (Grades 11–12): Aim for Excellence

Students tailor their education for university success and beyond:

• Choice of IB Diploma Programme or LAS Diploma (with or without AP courses)

• Course advising focused on student interests and university requirements

• One-on-one mentorship and university application support

• Theory of Knowledge and essay writing workshops

• Leadership roles in Student Council, clubs, and community initiatives

• Required participation in seasonal sports or activities, including skiing and performing arts

Academic Pathways at a Glance

International Baccalaureate (IB):

• 40+ course options, including bilingual diplomas

• Emphasis on depth, critical thinking, and global context

• 100% pass rate and strong track record of high scores

Advanced Placement (AP):

• Subjects include Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Calculus, and Economics

• Ideal for students strong in standardized testing

• University credit potential

Comprehensive Student Support

We nurture lifelong learners through:

• Challenging academic environments that promote resilience and independence

• Immersive, real-world learning experiences

• Active participation in clubs, leadership, and global service

University Advising Services

Our four-year, progressive university advising curriculum includes:

• University Ateliers (Grade 9 onward)

• Personalized advising, course planning, essay support, and interview training

• Standardized test strategy and planning

• Ongoing workshops, research tools, and parent consultations

Tuition and Fees (CHF)

Fee TypeAmountApplication Fee500 CHFSecurity Deposit10,000 CHFTuition (Annual)120,000 CHFCapital Improvement Fund10,000 CHFPersonal Account Estimate10,000 CHF

Where Education Meets Elevation

This is more than an education—it’s a launchpad for global leaders, dreamers, and innovators. Surrounded by Swiss serenity, supported by a global community, and inspired by limitless opportunities—students here don’t just graduate. They flourish.

Welcome to your home away from home. Welcome to excellence.