BKA International School vs International School Basel

	B BKA International School Basel, Switzerland	I International School Basel Basel, Switzerland
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year CHF 23,700 - 32,000	Fees / year CHF 14,270 - 37,680
Age range	Age range 0 - 18 years	Age range 3 - 19 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP), Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge A Levels, Swiss Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP)
Pupils	Pupils 350	Pupils 1,200
Typical class size	Typical class size —	Typical class size 18
Instruction language	Instruction language English, German	Instruction language English, German
Opened	Opened —	Opened 1979
Bus service	Bus service No	Bus service No
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location Basel, Switzerland. BKA International School Basel operates across Basel city campuses: Wettstein campus (Alemannengasse 22/24, 4058 Basel); Spalentor Campus (Schützengraben 35, 4051 Basel); Gellert 37 campus (Gellertstrasse 37, 4052 Basel); Gellert 25 campus (Gellertstrasse 25, 4052 Basel); Rittergasse campus (Rittergasse 20, 4051 Basel).	Location ISB operates on three campuses in the Basel region of Switzerland: Aesch Campus at Arlesheimerstrasse 7, 4147 Aesch; Fiechten Campus at Fiechtenweg 72, 4153 Reinach; Reinach Campus at Fleischbachstrasse 2, 4153 Reinach. The Aesch Campus is in the municipality of Aesch, while the Reinach Campuses are in Reinach, Basel-Landschaft. Public transportation is convenient via BLT tram line 11, with Arlesheimerstrasse stop for Aesch Campus, Reinach Süd stop for Fiechten Campus, and Reinach centre stop for Reinach Campus.
Stages	Stages Daycare (3 months – 4 years); Primary (4–12 years; KG, Grades 1–6); Secondary (12–18 years).	Stages The school is divided into three levels: Junior School for ages 3–11, Middle School for ages 11–14, and Senior School for ages 14–18.
School type	School type Bilingual private IB World School.	School type The school is not-for-profit, co-educational day school and an IB World School offering three IB programmes (PYP, MYP, Diploma) taught in English, with an English–German Dual Language Programme available in the Junior School.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix —	Pupil nationality mix 1200 students representing 60+ nationalities across three campuses.
Additional learning support	Additional learning support Student Support.	Additional learning support English as an Additional Language (EAL) is provided to support students not yet proficient in English. EAL specialists assist with reading, writing, listening and speaking, with three learning stages: Emerging, Developing and Consolidating. There are no additional fees payable for EAL support.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation Switzerland	Country affiliation Switzerland
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation —	Religious affiliation —
School day structure	School day structure —	School day structure Opening hours are 07:45–18:00 during term. Drop-off is 07:45–08:20; classes run 08:20–15:50; pick-up is 15:50–18:00.
Bus service details	Bus service details —	Bus service details Public transportation is available via BLT tram 11 (and related rail connections) to stops at Arlesheimerstrasse (Aesch Campus), Reinach Süd (Fiechten Campus), and Reinach centre (Reinach Campus); no dedicated school bus service is listed.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application fees - No separate, published one‑off application or registration fee amount is listed; applications are submitted through the school's online enrolment portal. Tuition fees by year group (core semester fees — two semesters per academic year) - Kindergarten Year 1–2 (ages 4–6): CHF 11'850.- per semester (CHF 23'700.- per academic year). - Primary Grades 1–6 (ages 6–12): CHF 12'250.- per semester (CHF 24'500.- per academic year). - Lower Secondary Grades 7–9 (ages 12–15): CHF 14'500.- per semester (CHF 29'000.- per academic year). - Upper Secondary Grades 10–12 (ages 15–18): CHF 16'000.- per semester (CHF 32'000.- per academic year). Billing schedule and payment terms - The academic year is divided into two semesters; fees are invoiced on a per‑semester basis. A single payment is expected at the beginning of each semester. On request, fees may be paid in five monthly instalments subject to a 3% surcharge. A 10% sibling discount may be applied to the lowest fee when a second child is enrolled. Core tuition does not include extracurricular activities or holiday camps. Boarding fees (if applicable) - No boarding programme or boarding fees are listed for the school; the school operates multiple day campuses for the stated age ranges and does not publish boarding charges. Other costs and fees - Uniform: Primary students are required to wear a school uniform from Grade 1; the school sells core items (white or blue polo shirt; dark blue pullover or cardigan). Other items (trousers/shorts/skirts/shoes) may be purchased independently. - Extracurricular activities: Prices vary by class and semester; these activities are charged separately from core tuition. - Holiday camps: Coverage options and weekly rates are published as CHF 450 per week (coverage 08:00–15:00) and CHF 585 per week (coverage 08:00–19:00). - Afterschool care (flexible daily coverage 15:00–19:00): one day per week for a full semester CHF 500; full week for a full semester CHF 2'500. - Any additional fees for materials, special trips, external exam charges or optional services are billed separately when applicable; core semester fees exclude these items. Refund information - No specific, published refund or withdrawal terms are provided alongside the core tuition schedule; families should confirm refund and withdrawal terms as part of the enrolment contract and invoicing process. Fee payment options - Fees are payable as a single payment at the start of each semester, or on the offered monthly instalment plan (5 instalments with a 3% surcharge). Specific accepted payment instruments (for example: bank transfer, credit card, direct debit) are not listed in the published fee information and should be confirmed with the school's admissions/finance office during enrolment.	Fee details Application & admission fees - Development Fee (one-time, payable when a place is offered): CHF 4,500. This fee is non-refundable and is not deducted from tuition. - Waiting-list Deposit (when placed on a waiting list): CHF 1,000. Once a place is offered this deposit is offset against tuition; if no place is offered within eight months the deposit is refunded. Annual tuition fees (by school level and EC1 flexible options) - Early Childhood 1 (EC1) — flexible enrolment options (annual amounts): - 5 mornings (minimum): CHF 14,270. - 5 mornings + 1 full day: CHF 16,130. - 3 mornings + 2 full days: CHF 17,990. - 2 mornings + 3 full days: CHF 19,860. - 1 morning + 4 full days: CHF 21,720. - 5 full days: CHF 23,780. - Ad-hoc full day (until 15:00): CHF 100 per day. - Early Childhood 2 (EC2): CHF 23,780 per year. - Early Childhood 3 – Grade 5 (Primary Years Programme): CHF 27,970 per year. - Middle School (Grades 6–8, Middle Years Programme): CHF 32,010 per year. - Senior School (Grades 9–10): CHF 33,370 per year. - Diploma Programme (Grades 11–12): CHF 37,680 per year. Reductions and family discounts - Second child from same family: CHF 1,000 discount per year. - Third child from same family: CHF 2,000 discount per year. - Fourth (and additional) child: CHF 4,000 discount per year. Billing schedule and payment terms (how tuition is billed and typical payment plans) - A tuition invoice is issued per household for the school year; invoices are sent electronically (paper copies available for a CHF 5 charge). ISB accepts payments in Swiss francs (CHF) only; any bank charges must be paid by the sender. - Standard payment options for privately paid tuition (arranged annually with Finance Office): - Option 1: 100% of the annual tuition due before 15 July. - Option 2: 70% due before 15 July; remaining 30% due before the last day of school before the Fasnacht break or 15 February, whichever is earlier. - Option 3: 10 monthly instalments due on the 15th of each month from 15 July through 15 April; this option carries an administration surcharge of 2% per year. - Company-paid tuition: 100% of annual tuition is due before 15 July. - Late-enrolment and initial-payment rules for students starting mid-year (examples): - Enrolment from 1 June to 31 December: 100% of annual tuition is due; private payers also pay a minimum down payment of 20% at least two working days before the student starts. - Enrolment from 1 January to last day of Spring Break: 60% of annual tuition is due, plus a minimum down payment of 20% before the student starts; remainder invoiced within 30 days. - Enrolment after the first day of classes following Spring Break: 30% of annual tuition is due, plus a minimum down payment of 20% before the student starts; remainder invoiced within 30 days. Withdrawal, re-enrolment and refund rules - Development Fee is non-refundable in all circumstances. Waiting-list deposits are refunded if no place is offered within eight months. - Re-enrolment withdrawals (examples of charges when a returning family confirms re-enrolment and then withdraws): - Withdrawal between the re-enrolment deadline and 31 March: no tuition fees due. - Withdrawal between 1 April and 31 May: late withdrawal fee of CHF 3,000 per student. - Withdrawal between 1 June and 15 July: late withdrawal fee of CHF 5,000 per student. - Withdrawal after 15 July: standard early-withdrawal rules apply (below). - Early withdrawal from the school after the school year has started (tuition owed based on date of written notice): - Withdrawal between 15 July and 31 December (with at least two months' written notice): 55% of the annual tuition fee is due. - Withdrawal between 1 January and the last day of Spring Break (with at least two months' written notice): 85% of the annual tuition fee is due. - Withdrawal after the first day of classes following Spring Break: 100% of the annual tuition fee is due. - In Payment Option 3 (monthly instalments) partial annual tuition amounts are due 30 days before the date of withdrawal. ISB may withhold school records until outstanding balances are settled. - No refund is provided for tuition in the event of school closure for force majeure events, for expulsion, or for leave of absence due to illness, accident or mental illness. Late payment and collection - Late payment charge: 2% per month on outstanding balances or an administration fee of CHF 50, whichever is greater. ISB may refuse entry to class, withhold records, and engage debt-collection third parties for unpaid invoices. Other costs and fees (charged separately) - Costs not included in tuition (examples that are invoiced separately): additional or replacement textbooks; damage or loss of school equipment; field trips, camps and excursions; external examinations (for example IB exam costs); IB DP online courses; psycho-educational evaluations; some therapies and evaluations; extra-curricular programme fees; 1:1 teacher assistant costs; and meals. Such items are invoiced separately and are subject to the payment terms on each invoice. - After-school and holiday childcare (EC1–Grade 5): - Extended School Day (15:00–18:00) — Trimester registration: CHF 30 per day; Drop-in registration: CHF 60 per day. - Holiday Childcare (07:45–17:00 on selected holidays) — Pre-registration: CHF 90 per day; Drop-in registration: CHF 150 per day. Ad-hoc EC1 full-day rate (until 15:00): CHF 100 per day. - Paper invoice fee (if paper invoices are requested): CHF 5 per invoice. Special billing or changes to payment frequency may incur administration fees (e.g., CHF 100 per change request or special billing). Boarding / residential provision - ISB operates as a co-educational day school for students aged 3–19; there is no boarding provision and no boarding fees. Fee payment options and bank details - Payments are accepted in Swiss francs (CHF) and may be made by bank transfer. Any bank charges are the responsibility of the payer. The school's bank details for CHF transfers are provided for tuition payment (Bank Cler AG, Basel; IBAN: CH79 0844 0697 0092 9000 0; SWIFT/BIC: BCLRCHBB). Parents should indicate family name and student names when making transfers. Key administrative provisions - Parents/guardians must maintain health, accident and liability insurance for each enrolled student. ISB reserves the right to invoice separately for any additional costs described above and to take action for overdue accounts as set out in the financial regulations.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements Day school; no boarding is offered.
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement —	Uniform requirement There is a dress code rather than a formal uniform. Must Wear: a shirt/top with straps or sleeves, pants/jeans or the equivalent, and shoes. Shorts, skirts/dresses and ripped jeans are allowed if underwear is not exposed; shirts should meet the waistband; hats and sunglasses may be worn outside but not inside; appropriate footwear required for lab and PE.
Food options	Food options —	Food options Lunch is provided by Passion Food with hot meals including salad and dessert or fruit, or lighter options from the salad bar and freshly prepared sandwiches and snacks. Students can enrol in the lunch program daily, pay on the day, or bring their own lunch. Junior School lunch vouchers are available; Middle & Senior School use a pre-paid card via an app.
House system	House system —	House system —
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership —	Governance and ownership The school is owned and operated by International School Basel Region AG (ISBR AG), a not-for-profit company registered under Swiss law. Shareholders include corporations in Basel region and the Association of the International School Basel. The supreme corporate body is the general meeting of shareholders.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details BKA International School is a bilingual private school offering English and German instruction from early years, with French introduced from Grade 3. The early years use Curriculum 21 together with the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP), with a play-based approach and emphasis on language development. Primary builds on that foundation with a developmentally appropriate curriculum that fosters knowledge, skills, and curiosity year by year. In Secondary, the program uses IGCSEs and A-Levels to prepare for Swiss and international universities. BKA holds Basel-Stadt Alignment and Transition Agreement ensuring the IB curriculum aligns with Lehrplan 21 and is an IB World School. The school operates across Wettstein, Spalentor, Gellért, and Rittergasse campuses serving ages 3 months through 18 years.	Curriculum details ISB offers the International Baccalaureate across three programmes: Primary Years Programme (PYP) for ages 3–11; Middle Years Programme (MYP) for ages 11–16; and the Diploma Programme (DP) for ages 16–18. The school is English-language. The PYP is offered in English with German as a second language, and a Dual Language Programme (English and German) is available for younger students. The MYP provides an eight-subject-group framework and includes a co-curricular Z-Block for Grades 6–8. The IB Diploma Programme is a rigorous university-preparatory course offered through ISB's Senior School, with ISB offering over 65 academic courses. ISB uses Continuums—subject guides that ensure a seamless educational experience across its three campuses.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results —	Exam results IB Diploma results show strong performance. In 2025, 158 students completed the IB Diploma Examinations. Of the 147 students who completed the full Diploma, ISB achieved a 96.6% pass rate and an average of 34.4 points (out of 45), with 17% achieving 40+ points. Diploma Programme Courses: For the 11 students who took Diploma Programme Courses, they completed 48 courses with an average of 4.1 points per course. MAP test results measure reading and mathematics progress for Grades 3–10; Fall 2025 results are posted.
Higher education progression	Higher education progression Through IGCSEs and A-Levels, graduates are prepared for Swiss and international universities, with A-Levels recognised by universities across Europe, the UK, North America, and beyond.	Higher education progression ISB's Pathways to Swiss Universities explains that the IB Diploma earned at ISB is fully recognised by Swiss universities as equivalent to a Swiss Matura, provided it meets the required criteria. The Swiss admission framework includes six IB subject groups (first language, second language, humanities, natural science, mathematics, and an elective) and HL requirements for some universities (e.g., ETH Zürich and EPFL). Most bachelor programmes at Swiss universities are taught in German, French or Italian, with some courses in English; admission decisions are made by the individual universities. ISB provides a dedicated university counselling team to guide Swiss and international applications and hosts annual university fairs with representatives from universities worldwide.
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented —	Gifted and talented —
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning The school delivers a bilingual education that nurtures curiosity, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning. It is rooted in a Basel community and guided by international best practice. The school welcomes children from 3 months through Grade 12 into a nurturing and academically strong environment. Students thrive within a culture of excellence, respect, and global citizenship, preparing them to succeed academically, socially, and emotionally in an ever-changing world. The mission emphasizes social and emotional development as an integral part of preparing students to contribute to global communities.	Social & emotional learning SEE Learning guides Social, Emotional and Ethical Learning at ISB. The framework fosters a compassionate and ethical learning environment and places student wellbeing at the heart of teaching and learning. Vision 2030 anchors wellbeing as central to the school's mission, supporting social, mental, physical and emotional development. Age-appropriate approaches develop essential skills such as teamwork, conflict resolution, emotional regulation, empathy and respect across the Junior, Middle and Senior Schools. A dedicated team of School Counsellors provides individual and small-group counselling, restorative interventions and crisis response services, and supports parent involvement in wellbeing.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) —	Special educational needs (SEN) English Language Support provides a nurturing environment for students who have little English knowledge. A continuum of support is offered for students with mild and moderate learning needs to ensure a quality and equitable education. Private speech-language, occupational, and physical therapists work with students during the school day. A School Psychologist conducts psycho-educational evaluations to tailor learning environments to individual needs.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language From day one, English and German are the languages of instruction, with French introduced from Grade 3. Teachers are fluent and guide students through a curriculum that develops strong academic skills in every language. The bilingual approach uses each language in lessons, activities, and daily routines to build reading, writing, speaking, and thinking in both languages. Students become confident communicators who can navigate multiple languages and cultures.	English as an additional language The Dual Language Programme offers instruction in English and German as an alternative to the English Language Programme in the Junior School. The programme is currently available to students aged 3 to 10, with plans to extend to Grade 5 in 2026/27. It enables students to develop proficiency in both languages and facilitates local community integration. Each Dual Language Class is supported by two core teachers (one English-speaking and one German-speaking) and teaching assistants, with 50% of instruction in English and 50% in German. Homeroom teachers provide ongoing support and communicate with parents.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing The school emphasizes emotional intelligence, character development, and social responsibility as part of a holistic approach to education.	Mental wellbeing Wellbeing is at the heart of ISB's mission, with Vision 2030 fostering social, mental, physical and emotional fulfillment. The school embraces SEE Learning to support social, emotional and ethical development. Age-appropriate approaches build teamwork, emotional regulation, empathy and respect across year levels. A team of School Counsellors supports students across Junior, Middle and Senior Schools, offering individual and small-group counselling, restorative interventions and crisis response services. Parents participate in wellbeing workshops and school-wide wellbeing initiatives.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding Safety, wellbeing, and protection of every child are the highest priorities. Safeguarding is embedded in school culture and underpins everything the school does. Clear reporting procedures, strong supervision, and openness ensure students feel confident speaking up and seeking support. The school works closely with families and authorities when necessary, always acting in the best interests of the child. Safeguarding is a shared responsibility and forms the foundation for learning, growth, and wellbeing.	Safeguarding ISB has a Child Protection Policy and adheres to Swiss Federal and Cantonal laws regarding child protection. The school commits to safeguarding and providing a safe environment for all students in line with the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview The school operates across five Basel campuses: Wettstein campus (Alemannengasse 22/24, 4058 Basel) for ages 3 months–6 years; Spalentor Campus (Schützengraben 35, 4051 Basel) for ages 3 months–6 years; Gellert 37 campus (Gellertstrasse 37, 4052 Basel) for ages 3 months–6 years; Gellert 25 campus (Gellertstrasse 25, 4052 Basel) for ages 6–9 years; Rittergasse campus (Rittergasse 20, 4051 Basel) for ages 9–18 years. The school is bilingual and internationally accredited as an IB World School, with an alignment and transition agreement with Basel-Stadt based on the Swiss national curriculum.	Facilities overview ISB operates across three campuses in Reinach, Aesch, and Fiechten, connected by Basel's tram network and located near the A18 motorway. The campuses feature dynamic, innovative learning spaces with flexible layouts and integrated technology. Indoor and outdoor multipurpose sports facilities include a gymnasium, sports fields, and fitness rooms to support physical education and teamwork. Dedicated wellbeing spaces include counselling offices, quiet zones, and wellness rooms to support mental and emotional health. Specialised subject areas include science labs, robotics workshops, and dedicated art studios and performance spaces, enabling hands-on exploration. The campuses are designed with eco-friendly practices and green spaces, reinforcing environmental stewardship and community hub activities.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities —	Sports facilities ISB offers multipurpose indoor and outdoor sports facilities to support a range of activities. The gymnasium, sports fields, fitness rooms, and flexible multi-purpose spaces enable a variety of sports and physical education. The facilities are designed to foster teamwork and healthy lifestyles across all age groups. They form part of ISB's dynamic campus design that supports active living and collaboration.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities —	Academic facilities ISB provides dynamic, specialised subject areas including science labs, robotics workshops, art studios, and performance spaces. Classrooms and learning spaces are designed to be flexible, with modern technology to support collaboration and inquiry. Dedicated spaces enable hands-on exploration in STEM and the arts. The facilities support immersive and experiential learning across disciplines. Sustainable design features are integrated into campus facilities to support environmental education.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities Across five campuses, students can choose from over 45 enriching extra-curricular activities spanning sports, the arts, humanities, technology, and more. On-site after-school care runs until 19:00, including homework support and enrichment activities.	Extra curricular facilities Sports, drama, music, art, debate, representation, and recreation are offered; ISB provides numerous ways for students to cooperate and compete to develop their skills or try something new. ASPIRE provides after-school care for Junior School students, with options to register per semester or as a drop-in, available until 18:00 on school days. The Music program includes regular concerts and choirs, with on- and off-campus performances. Students can participate in 200+ school-organized co-curricular activities, both on- and off-campus. Leadership opportunities include the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award, Model United Nations, Student Ambassadors, Student Council, Student Librarians, Student Representatives, Student Sports Council, and Yearbook Club. Theatre and Visual Arts offer annual productions and exhibitions, artist workshops, field trips, and university visits.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History BKA International School is a bilingual private school in Basel that is internationally accredited as an IB World School and has an alignment and transition agreement with Basel-Stadt based on the Swiss national curriculum. The school operates across five Basel campuses, with Wettstein (Alemannengasse 22/24, 4058 Basel) and Spalentor (Schützengraben 35, 4051 Basel) for early years; Gellert 37 (Gellertstrasse 37, 4052 Basel) for ages 3 months–6 years; Gellert 25 (Gellertstrasse 25, 4052 Basel) for ages 6–9; and Rittergasse (Rittergasse 20, 4051 Basel) for ages 9–18. The Rosental Campus opened in August 2021 to welcome upper primary classes. The BKA Experience centers on curiosity, discovery, and learning within a bilingual IB framework.	History ISB was founded in 1979 by Janet Galli with 15 students. It is a not-for-profit, co-educational day school offering three IB programmes (PYP for ages 3–11, MYP for ages 11–16, and DP for ages 16–19) across three campuses. In May 1999 the school's name was changed to International School of the Basel Region AG. The Reinach campus opened in 2002, the Aesch campus opened in 2007, and the Fiechten Campus began serving Grade 6 in 2012 and Grade 7 in 2013. In 2022 ISB launched an English-German Dual Language Programme in Junior School and the school now serves more than 1,200 students across three campuses.
Community	Community Community at BKA is built around a five-campus, international environment with a broad program of campus life. The school offers more than 45 extracurricular activities across its campuses, spanning sports, the arts, humanities, technology, and more, and provides on-site after-school care until 19:00 with homework support. Holiday programs are available across the campuses, expanding opportunities for students during school breaks. The campus-life program emphasizes inclusion and opportunities for students to connect beyond classroom learning.	Community All ISB parents and staff are members of the ISB Community Association. The Association welcomes new families, supports educational enrichment, and maintains an active dialogue between parents and ISB staff. A wide range of activities is organized to foster community, including social events for parent networking and liaison roles such as Campus Affairs and the Welcome Programme. Local community engagement emphasizes participation in Basel's associations and clubs to enrich the school experience.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association The PTA at BKA is made up of committed and engaged parent members who play an active role in supporting the life of the school. Representing a diverse international community, PTA members work with school leadership and staff to enhance students' educational experience and well-being. PTA members contribute their time, expertise, and perspectives to strengthen communication between families and the school, support community-building initiatives, and assist with events and projects that enrich school life. Their involvement reflects a shared commitment to the school's values and to fostering a positive, inclusive, and supportive learning environment. Through constructive dialogue and active participation, PTA members serve as an important link between the parent community and the school.	Parent teacher association The ISB Community Association includes all ISB parents and staff. The CA welcomes new families, supports educational enrichment, and maintains an active dialogue between parents and ISB staff. Campus Affairs provides liaison parents on each campus to help families find information within the school community. Arts & Sports Boosters support ISB's arts and athletics programmes and foster spirit across campuses. Educational Enrichment is a volunteer group that brings innovative projects and activities to learning, and a Sustainability Team comprises parents, faculty and staff to promote environmental sustainability. There is a complete calendar of parent networking and involvement opportunities through governance, boosters, welcoming new families, and event planning.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual There are over 45 extra-curricular activities spanning sports, the arts, humanities, technology, and more. These activities extend learning beyond the classroom and help students develop new skills. Activities are available across five campuses.	Academic & intellectual ISBasel delivers the International Baccalaureate across three programmes: Junior School (Primary Years Programme, PYP), Middle School (MYP), and Senior School (Diploma Programme, DP). The PYP is offered in English with German as a second language, and a Dual Language Programme (English and German) is available for younger students. The school provides over 65 academic courses across the IB framework, and the Diploma Programme is university‑preparatory while emphasising social, emotional, and physical growth. Senior School students receive career and university guidance through dedicated university counselling and related support.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative The arts are included in the extra-curricular activities.	Arts & creative Artistic expression is central to ISBasel and is organised through Music, Theatre, and Visual Arts. Music includes regular concerts and choirs with on- and off-campus performances. Drama and Theatre feature annual productions and special performances. Visual Arts offer artist workshops, field trips, university visits, internships, and art exhibitions. The ISB community also hosts a podcast related to performing arts.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language English and German are used from day one, with French introduced from Grade 3.	Cultural & language The language of instruction is English. The Youngest students (ages 3–8) may enrol in an English‑German Programme, and an English‑German Dual Language Programme is available for ages 3–10. Older students can study a combination of German, French, and Spanish as second languages, with English as an Additional Language (EAL) support for students with limited English. The school draws on a diverse community representing more than 50 nationalities.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies On-site after-school care until 19:00 includes homework support, enrichment activities, and social time. This supports social interaction and flexible family schedules.	Social & hobbies ISBasel offers a broad range of co‑curricular activities beyond the classroom, spanning sports, drama, music, arts, robotics, debate, and exploration. An activities catalogue lists programs such as Basketball Academy and Football Academy, alongside academic support and other enrichment opportunities, with many activities open to students from outside ISB.
Community & service	Community & service —	Community & service Making a Difference highlights student‑led service, creative initiatives, and acts of kindness as central to ISB's mission. Students demonstrate empathy, take initiative, and aim to make a positive impact through service projects. Examples include student‑led homeroom competitions and other community‑focused initiatives across grade levels.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional —	Leadership & professional ISB provides extensive university and career guidance, including mentoring and interview preparation for Senior School students. The school supports leadership development through a large set of clubs and co‑curricular opportunities (hundreds of options across campuses) and assigns University Advisors to assist with university planning. There are multiple school counselors and university advisors to support student leadership and professional preparation.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing The program includes sports as part of the extra-curricular activities, contributing to students' lifestyle and wellbeing.	Lifestyle & wellbeing Vision 2030 places wellbeing at the heart of ISB's mission, promoting social, mental, physical, and emotional fulfillment. The SEE Learning framework guides Social, Emotional and Ethical development, supported by a dedicated team of wellbeing counsellors. After‑school programming (ASPIRE) provides extended day care, and ISB's Athletics Programme offers training, tournaments, and the Elite Performance Pathway for high‑level athletes. ISB also emphasises creativity and digital learning as part of a healthy, balanced lifestyle.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision Languages taught are English, German, and French. In the early years, instruction uses English and German as the primary languages, with French introduced from Grade 3. Teachers are fluent in all three languages and guide students through a curriculum that develops reading, writing, speaking, and thinking skills in each language.	Language provision English is the language of instruction. German, French and Spanish are offered as secondary languages. The Junior School provides an English-German Dual Language Programme, and older students may study German, French and Spanish as secondary languages.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching From the first day, students are immersed in English and German. French is introduced from Grade 3. Lessons, activities, and daily routines are structured so children practice thinking, reading, writing, and speaking in both languages. Qualified teachers fluent in these languages guide the curriculum to develop strong academic skills in each language.	Bilingual teaching The school offers an English-German Dual Language Programme in the Junior School. Two dedicated teachers, one English-speaking and one German-speaking, support each class, with teaching assistants. In Middle School, the English-German Dual Language Programme will be introduced gradually, beginning in August 2027.
Immersion programs	Immersion programs English and German immersion begins on day one. French is introduced starting in Grade 3. The language-rich environment supports multilingual communication and cross-cultural understanding.	Immersion programs Daily practice with immersion opportunities in the second language (German) is part of the Dual Language Programme. The programme is supported by two dedicated teachers, one English-speaking and one German-speaking, with teaching assistants.
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations —	Accreditations New England Association of Schools and Colleges; International Baccalaureate Organization
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions 1. Enquire Or Schedule A Tour: Begin by reaching out to BKA to explore our programmes, curriculum, and community. The admissions team answers questions, provides detailed information, and arranges a personalised school tour so you can see our environment and ethos firsthand. You can schedule a tour or inquire today through the admissions platform. 2. Apply: Decide that BKA is the right fit and submit your application. The admissions team guides families through the necessary paperwork and required documents, ensuring the process is straightforward and transparent through the admissions platform. The Apply Now option starts the submission, and the platform provides status updates as you move through the process. Additional questions are answered by the admissions team as needed. 3. Trial days in School (optional): Trial days in School are optional, but in certain admission cases they may be mandatory. Prospective students spend time in classrooms to experience BKA's learning environment and to engage with teachers and peers. This helps them feel comfortable before joining formally. This experience provides a firsthand impression of daily life at BKA. 4. Admission: Upon successful completion of the paperwork, each application is carefully reviewed, and a formal offer of admission is extended. BKA provides guidance to ensure a seamless transition, including placement in the bilingual programme and support with any remaining administrative or financial matters. This final step marks the beginning of your child's educational journey with us.	Admissions 1. Explore: Learn about ISBasel's personalised approach to education and schedule an individual consultation in person or online to understand how ISBasel can support your child. The school outlines three levels—Junior School (ages 3–11), Middle School (ages 11–14), and Senior School (ages 14–18)—which you can discuss during this consult. This initial exploration helps families determine fit before moving to the next steps. 2. Visit: ISBasel's doors are open year‑round. Schedule a visit or call, and you will be welcomed for an individual tour at your convenience. During the visit you can explore the school in depth and meet key staff members. This visit is designed to give you a first‑hand sense of the school environment and community. 3. Register & Apply: The Admissions Team is here to assist you every step of the way. ISBasel enrols students throughout the year, dependent on space and fulfillment of entry requirements. They provide personalised support and guidance on documentation, application forms, and admission criteria. You can ask questions about the process and receive help with next steps as you prepare your dossier. 4. Documentation and join requirements: Complete all application forms; all documents must be in English or officially translated (submit both original and translation). Additional assessment outcomes may be required; the level of English proficiency and any student support needs will be reviewed. Availability of space in classes and option groups, sibling availability, and the Director's and Principal's discretion also influence admission decisions. 5. English proficiency and placement: Grade 6 and above require an online English test to determine proficiency, sometimes with an interview. Seniors may have a tailored curriculum if enrolled in external English programs, and they transition as language skills improve. ISB uses the CEFR framework to outline minimum English proficiency by grade: Grade 9 A2/B1; Grade 10 A2/B2; Grade 11 B1/B2; Grade 12 B1/B2 (Only for students currently in the IB Diploma Programme). 6. Student support: ISB provides tailored learning support for mild to moderate learning needs, with close collaboration with families to ensure proper placement and resources. Conditional enrolment may be offered with agreed services and extra costs. In rare cases where the school cannot meet a student's needs, a decision is explained and families are guided toward alternative options.
Scholarships	Scholarships —	Scholarships —
Waitlist	Waitlist —	Waitlist —
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