Inter-Community School Zurich vs International School of Zug and Luzern - Zug Campus

	I Inter-Community School Zurich Zug, Switzerland	I International School of Zug and Luzern - Zug Campus Zug, Switzerland
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year CHF 12,600 - 39,700	Fees / year CHF 16,800 - 36,700
Age range	Age range 2 - 18 years	Age range 3 - 14 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP)	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP)
Pupils	Pupils 850	Pupils 800
Typical class size	Typical class size —	Typical class size 18
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 1960	Opened 1961
Bus service	Bus service Yes	Bus service No
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location The Inter-Community School Zurich is located at Strubenacher 3, 8126 Zumikon, Switzerland. It is the oldest international school in the Greater Zurich Area. ICS is an English-language international school in Zurich, serving students aged 24 months to 18 years. ICS offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) Programme for Primary Years, Middle Years and Diploma Studies, with a bilingual diploma option.	Location Two ISZL campuses are located in Central Switzerland: Baar (Zug Campus) and Hünenberg (Riverside Campus). The Zug Campus address is Walterswil 1, 6340 Baar, Switzerland. The Riverside Campus address is Rothusstrasse 4B, 6331 Hünenberg, Switzerland. The campuses are about 33 km from Zürich Airport.
Stages	Stages Preschool (Nursery to K2); Primary School (Grades 1-5); Middle School (Grades 6-8); Diploma Studies (Grades 11-12).	Stages Primary School (ages 3–11) follows the IB Primary Years Programme; Middle School (ages 11–14) follows the IB Middle Years Programme; High School (ages 14–18) offers the IB Diploma Programme or the ISZL High School Diploma.
School type	School type English-language international school offering the IB Programme across all levels (PYP, MYP, DP).	School type The school is a private, non-profit international day school.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix 50+ nationalities are represented; families come from 55 countries.	Pupil nationality mix 60 nationalities represented.
Additional learning support	Additional learning support The Learning Support Department provides support for students with learning challenges, offering in-class and withdrawal services and developing individual support plans with input from parents and teachers to help each student access the curriculum.	Additional learning support Support for Additional Learning Needs is tailored to the individual and provided in-class, in small groups, or one-on-one.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation —	Country affiliation Switzerland
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation —	Religious affiliation Non-denominational
School day structure	School day structure —	School day structure School hours are Primary and Middle School 08:50–15:30 and High School 08:40–16:00, Monday–Friday. A daily hot lunch is available at an additional cost, and the Eagles after-school care runs 15:30–18:00 for Early Years–Grade 8.
Bus service details	Bus service details ICS runs its own school bus service for students aged 4 and older, with drivers licensed for safety; registration is via the Parent Portal. Public transport access includes Bus 919 and the Forchbahn S18 to Waltikon, with a short 5–7 minute walk from the stops.	Bus service details Transportation includes a school bus for the Zug Campus; parents may drive or students can use public transport; High School students primarily use public transport.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application Fees - Application Fee: CHF 500 per student, one-time, non-refundable. Payment of the Application Fee is required before an application will be considered; it is paid online by credit card (MasterCard or VISA). Capital Fund Fee (one-time) - Nursery entrants: CHF 1,000, one-time, non-refundable. - Pre-Kindergarten or higher entrants: CHF 5,000, one-time, non-refundable. - Children moving from Nursery to Pre-Kindergarten are invoiced CHF 4,000 with the first tuition invoice (returning students pay the difference if applicable). Tuition Fees (annual and per-term breakdown) Note: Tuition is billed in two portions: 60% due at the start of the school year and 40% due in the winter term. The per-term amounts below show Term 1 = 60% and Term 2 = 40% of the annual fee. - Nursery – Half Days: Annual CHF 13,100. Term 1 (60%): CHF 7,860. Term 2 (40%): CHF 5,240. - Nursery – Full Days: Annual CHF 24,300. Term 1: CHF 14,580. Term 2: CHF 9,720. - Preschool (Pre-Kindergarten & Kindergarten 1) – Half Days: Annual CHF 17,100. Term 1: CHF 10,260. Term 2: CHF 6,840. - Preschool (Pre-Kindergarten & Kindergarten 1) – Full Days: Annual CHF 26,900. Term 1: CHF 16,140. Term 2: CHF 10,760. - Kindergarten 2: Annual CHF 33,000. Term 1: CHF 19,800. Term 2: CHF 13,200. - Primary School (Grades 1–5): Annual CHF 33,000. Term 1: CHF 19,800. Term 2: CHF 13,200. - Middle School (Grades 6–8): Annual CHF 37,100. Term 1: CHF 22,260. Term 2: CHF 14,840. - Senior School (Grades 9–10): Annual CHF 38,200. Term 1: CHF 22,920. Term 2: CHF 15,280. - Senior School (Grades 11–12): Annual CHF 39,900 (this amount includes IB/DP examination fees). Term 1: CHF 23,940. Term 2: CHF 15,960. (All tuition figures and the 60%/40% billing split are defined in the school Financial Regulations & Schedule of Fees.) Billing schedule and payment terms - Standard billing: First portion of tuition (60%) is due in August; second portion (40%) is due in January. An optional instalment plan is available subject to a 2% administration charge (arrangements must be made with the Finance Office). - Late payment charge: 2% per month applied to any past-due balance. The school may require immediate payment of the full amount if instalments are missed and may withhold access to classes, examinations, diplomas, reports or transcripts for unresolved arrears. - Administrative charge for withdrawal: CHF 2,000 if a student is withdrawn after confirming re-enrolment for the upcoming academic year (does not apply to Nursery). Nursery cancellations given less than two months before contract start incur a CHF 200 cancellation fee. - Late enrolment: Tuition is prorated monthly (11 months from the start to the end of the academic year) and includes an enrolment surcharge of 5% of the annual fee (not applicable to Nursery). - Early withdrawal: Written notice required with two months' notice to the end of the month; tuition will be prorated monthly and a 5% withdrawal surcharge of the annual fee applies (different notice terms apply for Nursery). Boarding fees - Boarding is not listed as an offered service or fee in the school's Schedule of Fees; no boarding fees are charged. Other costs and separately invoiced items - Items invoiced separately include (but are not limited to): school bus service; additional learning support beyond the included hours; after-school care; after-school clubs; lunch (except Nursery, which includes meals as noted); extra-curricular activities and associated transportation; hire of musical instruments; additional or replacement IT devices, textbooks or library books; athletics equipment; retaking or remarking of IB examinations; and other specific assessments or costs as notified. Refund information and fee remission - No refunds of fees are issued for absences due to family holidays, public holidays, illness, accident, or temporary closure of the school for reasons beyond the school's control. No refunds are granted in the event of permanent exclusion. - The school may grant a limited tuition fee remission in exceptional circumstances for one year only; remission requests can only be considered after completion of the student's first year at the school and must meet published deadlines for application. Fee payment options and bank details - Tuition payment method: Credit cards are not accepted for tuition fee payments. International bank transfer in Swiss Francs (CHF) is the recommended method for tuition payments; payor-borne bank charges apply. - Bank details on tuition payment instructions: - Account holder: Stiftung für die Inter-Community School Zurich - Bank: Zürcher Kantonalbank - IBAN: CH12 0070 0111 0014 6486 7 - BIC / SWIFT: ZKBKCHZZ80A - Application Fee payment method: The non-refundable application fee is paid online by credit card (MasterCard or VISA). Administrative and contractual notes (financial liabilities) - Parents/guardians are contractually responsible for all fees regardless of billing address. Charges for late payment, actions for debt recovery, and withholding of academic records for outstanding balances are applied in accordance with the Financial Regulations. The school requires parents to maintain health, accident and liability insurance for each enrolled child.	Fee details Application / registration fee - A non‑refundable registration fee is required to confirm each student's place. Starting amounts are: CHF 2,000 for entry in Early Years 1; CHF 3,000 for entry in Early Years 2; and CHF 5,000 for entry in Kindergarten or any grade above. The registration fee is one‑time and is not credited toward tuition. Tuition fees by year group (annual and per term) - Early Years 1 (mornings only): Annual CHF 16,650 — Per term CHF 5,550.00. - Early Years 1 (full time): Annual CHF 26,050 — Per term CHF 8,683.33. - Early Years 2 (mornings only): Annual CHF 16,850 — Per term CHF 5,616.67. - Early Years 2 (full time): Annual CHF 27,800 — Per term CHF 9,266.67. - Kindergarten: Annual CHF 32,700 — Per term CHF 10,900.00. - Grades 1–5 (Primary): Annual CHF 32,900 — Per term CHF 10,966.67. - Grades 6–8 (Middle School): Annual CHF 36,300 — Per term CHF 12,100.00. - Grades 9–10 (High School): Annual CHF 38,700 — Per term CHF 12,900.00. - Grades 11–12 (High School senior years): Annual CHF 39,200 — Per term CHF 13,066.67. (Per‑term figures are the annual tuition divided by three terms and shown to two decimal places.) Billing schedule and payment terms - Enrolment is for the full school year. All invoices are sent electronically and tuition invoices are payable within thirty (30) days of the invoice date or before the start of the next payment period. Any bank fees charged when transferring funds must be paid by the sender. Interest on overdue amounts is charged at 12% per year. Payment options for private payers may be arranged in 2, 3, 4 or 8 instalments; an administration fee of CHF 200 per child per year applies to any instalment plan. Instalment due dates are specified in the school's financial regulations (examples: for 3 instalments — payments due around July 31, November 30 and February 28; for 4 instalments — July 31, September 30, November 30 and February 28; for 2 instalments — July 31 and January 31). Employer payments (registration or tuition paid directly by an employer) can be indicated on the fees/payment information. Boarding fees - Boarding is not offered; ISZL operates as a non‑profit co‑educational day school (no boarding fees apply). Other costs and typical additional fees - Lunch programme: charged separately. - School bus / transport service: charged separately. - Music Academy lessons and other optional co‑curricular lessons: charged separately. - Multilingual Academy / extra language classes: charged separately. - External exam and course fees for Grades 11–12 (AP/IB/College Board exam fees) and college application‑related expenses: charged to families as applicable. - Optional trips, tournaments and some extracurricular trips: charged separately as applicable. - Parents' Association annual membership fee: CHF 40 per child, added to the invoice. - Uniform: there is no formal compulsory uniform; a dress code applies and optional branded sports/PE items are available for purchase. Any costs for optional branded items are additional. Refunds and withdrawal charges (summary of main rules) - The registration fee is non‑refundable. - New students who cancel a confirmed enrolment before classes start will be charged a percentage of the relevant tuition if cancellation is within the notice window (examples given in the school's enrolment and finance policies: a 25% charge applies for new‑student cancellations unless notice is received at least four calendar months before the start date). Re‑enrolment and late withdrawal rules include a 25% late withdrawal charge if a student is withdrawn after re‑enrolment. - Force majeure, school closure for reasons beyond the school's control, and student disciplinary suspension/expulsion do not entitle families to a refund of tuition or other fees. - Unpaid invoices may be pursued externally and related collection costs may be charged to the family. Fee payment methods and practical notes - Invoices are issued electronically. Payment instructions require the payer to cover any bank transfer charges. Payment is arranged via the Business Office; instalment plans must be pre‑arranged each year. Employer direct payment of registration and/or tuition is accommodated where indicated. The school's published materials specify bank transfer and invoicing as the standard mechanisms; families should follow the invoice payment instructions. Overdue fees incur interest (12% p.a.) and missed or late payments may trigger collection action. Summary statement - Annual tuition at ISZL varies by age and grade from CHF 16,650 (Early Years 1 mornings) up to CHF 39,200 (Grades 11–12) with standard billing aligned to the school's three‑term academic year. Registration fees, instalment administration fees, and a set of optional additional charges (meals, transport, extracurricular lessons, exam fees, trips, parents' association fee) are applied in addition to tuition. The school is a day school and does not charge boarding fees. Refunds are limited: the registration fee is non‑refundable and withdrawal/cancellation charges apply per the school's enrolment and financial regulations; force majeure and disciplinary exclusions to refunds apply.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement No uniform is required. Students dress respectfully, safely, and appropriately for school activities. For PE, wear dark shorts or sweatpants and a white or orange T-shirt.	Uniform requirement No formal uniform is required. Students must dress appropriately and in accordance with the ISZL Dress Code.
Food options	Food options Hot lunch programme offered. Primary School students register for hot lunch each semester; Middle and Senior School students receive a lunch card that can be preloaded with credit and may use it to purchase breakfast, hot or cold lunch, and snacks; Senior School students may use their own debit card or pay with cash. Menus and more details are available on the School Services page.	Food options The Zug Campus offers an optional hot lunch programme; meals are prepared on-site in the school kitchen and served daily in the cafeteria. Menus can be viewed by parents via the Parent Portal.
House system	House system —	House system —
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership The school is a non-profit foundation governed by a Board of Trustees.	Governance and ownership ISZL is a non-profit foundation under Swiss law, approved by the educational authorities of Zug and Luzern. The Board of Trustees defines the mission, vision, and strategic goals, appoints the Director, and oversees finances, with four standing committees: Governance, Facilities, Finance and Audit, and Fundraising.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details The school offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) programmes for Primary Years, Middle Years, and Diploma Studies. It is the only school in Zurich offering all three IB programmes. ICS teaches in English and offers a bilingual IB Diploma option. The school serves students from 24 months to 18 years across Early Childhood, Primary Years, Middle Years, and the Diploma Programme. The IB framework emphasizes an international mindset and inquiry-based learning. The ICS difference comes from developing the whole child and supporting community engagement through Round Square.	Curriculum details ISZL follows the International Baccalaureate framework across the Primary, Middle, and High School. Primary School uses the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP). Middle School uses the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP). High School offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) or the ISZL High School Diploma, with pathways that include Advanced Placement (AP) courses and the BTEC Diploma in Creative Media. The school operates on two campuses: Zug (Zug Campus for Primary and Middle) and Riverside (High School), with English as the main language of instruction and dedicated EAL support and German offered as an additional language.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio 1:7
Exam results	Exam results ICS is an IB World School offering the Diploma Programme. All Diploma students are encouraged to take the IB Diploma exams. ICS Diploma students can qualify for the IB Bilingual Diploma. Diploma students on average earn significantly better scores than the worldwide average.	Exam results ISZL high school students in Grades 11 and 12 earn a range of internationally recognised qualifications, including Advanced Placement exams, BTEC Diplomas in Creative Media, and the International Baccalaureate Diploma. Our students consistently achieve results well above global averages.
Higher education progression	Higher education progression Top university admission is supported by a rigorous university counselling programme that opens doors to universities around the world. In the IB Diploma Programme, students choose six courses to study, three at Higher Level and three at Standard Level from the IB groups; the sixth subject can be from the Arts or a second subject in Sciences or Individuals and Societies.	Higher education progression ISZL provides university advising with personalised guidance on course selection and curriculum pathways, psychometric testing, information about external assessments, and guidance on university applications (including UK UCAS, Netherlands Studielink, and the USA Common Application). Formal university preparation begins in Grade 10, with Grade 11 offering biweekly university seminars and Grade 12 focused on applications; students can submit up to ten university applications worldwide.
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented —	Gifted and talented Enrichment programmes include the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award, Youth Forum Switzerland, after‑school clubs, competitive sports, and service learning, which support leadership, creativity, and global citizenship as part of ISZL's enrichment offering.
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning There are programmes across the school focusing on the emotional, social and physical well‑being of students. In Senior School, positive pro‑social behaviours are promoted through five principles: safe, ready to learn, respectful, responsible, and kind.	Social & emotional learning Wellbeing is embedded in ISZL's daily life across both campuses. The wellbeing approach is holistic, addressing emotional, social, and physical health. Strong relationships, dedicated guidance and a caring community help students build confidence and life skills. The four pillars of wellbeing are awareness, insight, connection and purpose. Small homeroom groups provide daily mentoring, circle discussions and grade assemblies to support self-awareness and empathy. Residential and experiential trips, including the Duke of Edinburgh activities and time at the school chalet in Wengen, extend wellbeing learning beyond the classroom.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) The Learning Support Department provides necessary support for students with learning challenges to participate in the school community and access the curriculum while recognising their strengths. Support is delivered along a continuum through consultation with classroom or specialist teachers, in‑class support, withdrawal sessions, or a combination, based on each learner's needs and documented in an individual plan developed with the student, parents and staff. The Primary Learning Support Programme supports unique student needs to maximise academic and social‑emotional growth, while the Senior School Learning Support helps identified learners access the IB curriculum and develop effective study skills, with both out‑of‑class and in‑class options plus after‑school support as needed.	Special educational needs (SEN) All ISZL campuses provide support for students with identified mild to moderate learning needs. The High School Learning Support team works with students, teachers and families to understand individual needs and develop personalised learning plans. Support may include in-class assistance, small group sessions, or one-to-one instruction. A trained mental health professional supports student wellbeing as part of the broader support services. The policy framework supports inclusive practice for diverse learning needs.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language English as an Additional Language (EAL) support is provided to help students succeed in the mainstream classroom. EAL support is available in the Primary School, and an English as an Additional Language Programme is in place to assist non‑native speakers within the ICS curriculum.	English as an additional language English as an Additional Language (EAL) is provided for students who do not have English as their first language or who have been educated in a different language. From building vocabulary and reading comprehension to supporting classroom participation, the EAL team helps students grow language skills and confidence in the ISZL community. The Primary School EAL programme is built on the PYP framework. The school also supports multilingual learners through first language programmes and multilingual resources. EAL support is integrated with curriculum to enable access to subject content.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing There are school‑wide programmes focused on the emotional, social and physical well‑being of students, with emphasis on positive behaviours in Senior School through the five pro‑social principles: safe, ready to learn, respectful, responsible, and kind.	Mental wellbeing Trained mental health professionals play a key role in student wellbeing. They help students navigate challenges, build resilience, and set personal goals. They also contribute to the PSHE programme and provide staff with strategies to support students' social and emotional development. Wellbeing is supported through dedicated guidance and a caring community, with small homeroom groups fostering personal development. Residential and school chalet experiences, such as Personal Development Week and other trips, contribute to students' wellbeing and social-emotional growth.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding The safety, welfare and wellbeing of students is ICS's highest priority. The safeguarding framework is the Child Protection Policy, outlining expectations and practices around safe recruitment and ongoing professional development of staff, aligned with international child protection standards. All prospective staff undergo background checks, including criminal record checks and reference checks.	Safeguarding Safeguarding students is central to recruitment and daily practice. Annual child protection training is provided. We use reporting platforms such as MyConcern and Confide for reporting concerns. All staff undergo criminal background checks and reference checks before hiring. The Child Protection Handbook shows how we create a safe environment for our students.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview The campus hosts nearly 1,000 people daily. The ICS Cafeteria provides nutritionally evaluated lunches with vegetarian options; students may bring lunch or buy hot meals. The campus includes a gym, a dance studio, and outdoor spaces including the ICS Research Garden. There is on-site health services with a school nurse. A bus service transports students, and an after-school care programme is provided.	Facilities overview ISZL operates two campuses in Central Switzerland: the Zug Campus for Early Years through Middle School and the Riverside Campus in Hünenberg for High School. The Zug Campus centers on the historic Wettinger House (17th century) surrounded by modern buildings, with 75 rooms to explore. The Riverside Campus features the main building with over 20 classrooms, science labs, a library, an art atelier and music rooms, the triple gym, and additional space in the neighboring Seeblick and Alpenblick buildings. ISZL also owns Chalet Bergheim, a wooden Outdoor Education Centre in Wengen for outdoor learning and residential trips.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities ICS offers a diverse Athletics programme to students from Grade 4 through Grade 12. In 2023-2024, 44 teams competed across 3 seasons and 420 student participants. Seasonal sports include Boys' and Girls' Basketball, Cross Country, Indoor Soccer, Skiing, Swimming, Outdoor Soccer, Track & Field, Tennis, Volleyball, and Softball. ICS is a member of SGIS, ISSL, and SCIS leagues, with fixtures and tournaments. Signups open via myICS 3-4 weeks before the start of a season.	Sports facilities The Riverside Campus features the triple gym.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities English is the language of instruction and the IB Programme is offered for the Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme, and the Diploma Programme. The English as an Additional Language (EAL) programme supports students with limited English, with dedicated teachers and assistants. German is taught from Preschool through Grade 10, and students can study German as Language A or Language B. After-school Home Language classes are available in a wide range of languages, with reimbursement support for recognised Home Language courses. In Senior School, French and Spanish are offered as language options alongside German, and IB Diploma Programme students study at least two languages, with the Self-Taught Language A option available. The Forest Programme provides outdoor learning (Waldkinder); the Preschool has access to two courtyards, a mud kitchen, a vegetable patch, a pond, and a large wood-chipped playground.	Academic facilities Zug Campus comprises the historic Wettinger House (17th century) and modern buildings, with 75 rooms to explore. The Riverside Campus houses the High School with over 20 classrooms, science labs, a library, an art atelier and music rooms.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities All ICS students have opportunities to participate in extra-curricular activities beyond the regular school day; more than 50 rotating clubs are offered across three terms. Examples of Middle and Senior School ECAs include Model United Nations, Duke of Edinburgh, Math Competition Club, LEGO Robotics Club, Debate Club, Philosophy Club, Visual Arts Club, Design Club, String Ensemble, Vocal Group, Rock Club, Science Club, Theatre Production, Board Games Club, Literature Club, and Esports Club. Senior lunchtime activities include Environmental Committee, Student Bridge, Performing Arts Council, Athletics Council, Service as Action, Phoenix Club, Buddy Program, Yearbook Club, Student Lens Newspaper, International Club and Chess Club. Primary School ECAs include School Garden Club, Mindfulness, Maths Club, Ecovengers, iPad Photography, Board Games Club, Musical Club, Tuneful Tigers, Perform a Play, Yoga Adventures, Story Workshop, Show Tunes Club, Just Dance, Art Jam, and Beginners Violin; some clubs are offered bilingually in English and German. Specialised ECAs provided by external organisations include Creative Coding & LEGO Robotics, Science Clubs, Intersoccer, Playball, Acrokids Gymnastics, Young Engineers, Chess Club, Breaking & Streetdance, Ballet and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu; not all clubs are offered every season.	Extra curricular facilities Chalet Bergheim Outdoor Education Centre in Wengen serves as the school's outdoor education centre.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History ICS was founded in 1960 as a Primary school for English-speaking expatriates, starting with 80 students from 10 nationalities. It is the first international school in Zurich. Today, ICS is an International Baccalaureate World School educating children aged 24 months to 18 years, with around 800 students from 55 nationalities. It is fully authorized by the International Baccalaureate Organisation to offer three IB programmes (PYP, MYP, DP) and is the only Round Square school in Zurich, with accreditation from CIS and NEASC.	History ISZL has a deeply rooted history in the canton of Zug in Central Switzerland, where our story began long before we embraced the name ISZL. For more than 60 years, ISZL has grown from a small tutoring group for 14 American children of Willy's employees, known as Willy's School, to an expansive multicampus community serving around 1,200 students from 60 countries. What began as Willy's School was renamed the Zug Anglo-American School in 1964, and the campus relocated through the 1960s to accommodate growth. In 2008, the merger of the International School of Zug, the International School of Luzern, and the Riverside School formed the ISZL we know today, followed by expansion such as Chalet Bergheim and the mission 'Respect, Motivate, Achieve'. Plans for a new Middle School campus next to the High School in Hünenberg are planned for opening in 2028.
Community	Community With families from 55 countries, the ICS Parent Association offers a vibrant social network within the ICS community. The Parents' Association is an important part of the school community, aiming to enhance the children's educational experience and foster a welcoming, international community. All parents and guardians of ICS students are members of the PA, and it is guided by an Executive Board each year. The PA supports charities and organizes events throughout the year, including the Welcome Back Picnic, Book Fairs, Halloween Party, Winter Market, Zurich Walking Tour, and the International Festival.	Community ISZL has strong ties with the wider Swiss community. Orientation Day is held on both the Zug and Riverside campuses to welcome new families, and the PA provides Community Representatives to connect families with others who share cultural backgrounds. The annual ISZL Community events include International Day, Community Festival, the Winter Market, Welcome Fair, Trunk or Treat, Quiz Night, and Wine & Cheese tasting. The PA's Neighbourhood Networks help connect families with local services, carers and clubs.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association The ICS Parents' Association is a strong, supportive community with families from 55 countries. All parents and guardians of ICS students are members of the PA. An Executive Board oversees the PA each year; the 2025-2026 Board includes Carli Shelley as President, Marianne Nourbakhsh as Primary Vice-President, Lorena Moro as Middle School Vice-President, Nienke Sijbring as Senior School Vice-President, Elisabetta Vigano Rizzi as Secretary, Zurine Catalano-Aperribay as Treasurer, and Stefania Vancheri as Communications. The PA supports several charities, including ICS scholarship students from Nepal who study IB Diploma at ICS with host families. Throughout the school year, the PA organizes Welcome Back Picnic, Book Fairs, Halloween Party, Winter Market, Zurich Walking Tour, the International Festival, Workshops, and PA/Parent Conversations with the ICS Leadership Team.	Parent teacher association ISZL's Parents' Association (PA) is the active volunteer body behind the ISZL community, with over 300 volunteers who help organise events and welcome new families. It supports school initiatives and offers social and cultural activities, informal coffee mornings, and practical advice to families settling in. Class and Grade Representatives act as a bridge between parents and the school, with class representatives in Primary and grade representatives in Middle and High School. The PA connects families through Neighbourhood Networks to share local tips and arrange carpooling. The PA also leads and supports a range of clubs and events, including the annual International Day.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual The school offers more than 50 rotating clubs in Middle and Senior School. Examples include Model United Nations, Duke of Edinburgh International Award, Math Competition Club, LEGO Robotics, Debate, Philosophy, Visual Arts, Design, Science, Theatre Production, Board Games, Literature and Esports. Senior Student Leadership lunchtime activities include Environmental Committee, Student Bridge, Performing Arts Council, Athletics Council, Service as Action and International Club; students may lead or co-create activities under staff supervision, developing leadership and collaboration skills.	Academic & intellectual The Activities Programme offers opportunities for personal growth, creativity, and connection. The activities are organized into three categories: Visual and Performing Arts; Recreational Sports; and Academic Enrichment And Student Leadership. In Academic Enrichment And Student Leadership, ISZL offers Digital Creators, German, Leadership & Action, Aquaponics/Urban Gardening, Swiss Young Naturalists Tournament, Creative Thinking, SATs Prep, Debate, Vex Robotics, Eco-schools, Model United Nations, Live Media Technicians, Medical Society, Student Ambassadors, Spanish, and Student-led Activities in the Primary School. Students learn new skills, understand the importance of commitment and resilience, and develop creativity, independence, communication, and leadership, while engaging in service projects.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative The arts and creative program includes Visual Arts Club, Theatre Production, String Ensemble, Vocal Group and Rock Club. Primary School ECAs include Musical Club, Tuneful Tigers, Show Tunes, Just Dance, Art Jam, Beginnings Violin and Jewellery Making, with some clubs offered bilingually in English and German. External providers offer specialised ECAs such as Creative Coding & LEGO Robotics with TechSpark Academy and XLabs Science Clubs.	Arts & creative Visual and Performing Arts is one of the three activity categories. ISZL provides Drama; Guitar or Wind Band; Photography; Sinfonia; Theatre Production; Improv; Raku Ceramics; and Mural Creating and Painting. Some activities, such as orchestra and choir, run all year round.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language International Club provides opportunities for cultural exchange and global connections. Duolingo Club supports language learning, and some Primary School ECAs are offered bilingually in English and German.	Cultural & language German and Spanish are featured in Academic Enrichment. Model United Nations is included as an academic enrichment activity. Youth Forum Switzerland provides an international platform for student leaders to discuss global issues and to develop leadership and communication skills through inviting speakers, shaping programmes, and coordinating activities.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies Board Games Club and Esports Club provide social and hobby-based activities. Chess Club is available as a senior activity, alongside lunchtime clubs such as Yearbook and International Club. Senior Student Leadership Lunchtime Activities foster collaboration and friendships through varied clubs.	Social & hobbies The Activities Programme offers opportunities to pursue passions and connect with others. ISZL's activity categories—Visual and Performing Arts, Recreational Sports, and Academic Enrichment—allow students to pursue a wide range of interests and hobbies. The program encourages students to step out of their comfort zone and pursue their passions while building empathy through service projects.
Community & service	Community & service The Duke of Edinburgh International Award is offered as an ECA, combining physical activity, service and outdoor journeys. Service as Action is a Senior Leadership lunchtime activity focusing on service and community projects. Environmental Committee and other service-oriented clubs encourage hands-on community engagement.	Community & service Students engage in service projects through Academic Enrichment and Student Leadership activities. Youth Forum Switzerland includes initiatives focused on sustainability and environmental responsibility. Personal Development Week, with a school chalet in Wengen, focuses on teamwork and social and environmental responsibility, laying the foundation for project-based service learning. ISZL also provides on-campus health and wellbeing support through registered nurses and mental health professionals.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional Senior students may lead or co-create activities under staff supervision, developing leadership skills. Leadership opportunities include Environmental Committee, Performing Arts Council, Athletics Council, CAS Committee, Yearbook Club, and International Club. The Duke of Edinburgh program and other clubs provide experience in project planning, teamwork and professional skills.	Leadership & professional Youth Forum Switzerland is entirely student-led, with Grade 11 and 12 students taking ownership of every aspect. Participants develop real-world skills in organisation, public speaking, media engagement, and strategic thinking. ISZL students lead in inviting speakers, shaping the programme, and coordinating logistics for the forum.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing Extra-curricular activities support a well-balanced lifestyle and personal growth. Primary School ECAs include Mindfulness and Yoga Adventures to promote well-being. The Duke of Edinburgh International Award encourages physical activity and outdoor journeys as part of holistic development.	Lifestyle & wellbeing Wellbeing in High School is holistic, recognizing the importance of emotional, social, and physical health. The four pillars of wellbeing are awareness, insight, connection, and purpose. Small homeroom groups provide daily one-to-one mentoring, circle discussions, and assemblies to build self-awareness, empathy, and confidence. Personal Development Week includes grade-level trips across Europe and a school chalet in Wengen, hosting Duke of Edinburgh International Award activities and ski trips, supporting teamwork and leadership, while on-campus nurses and mental health professionals support student wellbeing.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision English is the language of instruction; the IB programme is offered across the Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme and Diploma Programme. The DP includes an IB Bilingual Diploma option, with English A and German A as Language A courses, and other languages available as Self-Taught Language A. In Senior School, French and Spanish are offered in addition to German (through Grades 11–12). German is the language of the host community; all students study German through Grade 10, with EAL support for learners of English.	Language provision The main language of instruction is English. German, French and Spanish are offered as foreign language courses. The school runs a First Language Programme to support home/heritage languages, with a broad range of languages studied (including Brazilian Portuguese, Chinese, Czech, Danish, Dutch, Finnish, French, Greek, Hungarian, Italian, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, Swedish, and more). English language support (EAL) is provided for about 20% of students to access the curriculum.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching English is the language of instruction. The IB Diploma Programme includes an IB Bilingual Diploma option; English A and German A are offered as Language A courses, with other languages available as Self-Taught Language A.	Bilingual teaching The school has a First Language Programme to support students' home languages and enable IB Bilingual Diploma. German, French and Spanish are offered as foreign language courses. The main language of instruction is English. English as an Additional Language (EAL) support is provided for about 20% of students.
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards The school has earned the Eco-Schools Green Flag Award.
Accreditations	Accreditations —	Accreditations The school is an IB World School. It carries accreditation/membership with NEASC and CIS, ECIS, ISTA and other associations as part of its international standing.
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions ICS Inter-Community School Zurich accepts applications year-round via the online application portal. To apply, provide English school reports for the past two years, a recent photograph, a copy of the child's birth certificate or passport, any educational test results, a teacher's recommendation, a completed and signed financial regulations form, and a non-refundable application fee of 500 Swiss Francs for the 2025-2026 academic year. The Admissions Handbook explains the admission process and is available for 2025-2026 and 2026-2027. The school is an English-language international school located in Strubenacher 3, 8126 Zumikon, Switzerland. Processing begins once the completed documentation and the fee are received, and the school provides a timeline: in February, ICS invites current families to re-enrol; in March, applications from corporate partners are processed; in April, all applications are processed with priority to corporate-partner families with a child already enrolled, then corporate-partner families, then families with a child already enrolled, then alumni children, then international families, then local internationally mobile families; processing continues from April to August; the school year begins in August and new students may join during the school year where space permits.	Admissions 1. Submitting Your Application: Applications are accepted throughout the year, depending on availability; there is no application fee, but a registration fee is required once a place is offered. For Primary School (Ages 3–11), complete the online application and upload the passport, school reports, and a teacher evaluation. For Middle and High School (Ages 11–18), submit the online form, passport, transcripts, and two teacher evaluations, including one from a current maths teacher. An English language assessment may be required for mid-year entry from Grade 7. 2. Application Review and Language Assessment: After submission, the Admissions Committee reviews the application and aims to provide an outcome within 10 working days; if support services are required, the process may take longer. If admitted but there is no space, the child may be placed on a waiting list. If entering mid-year (Grade 7+), an English language assessment may be required. 3. Offer and Registration: If admission is granted, a formal offer and a non-refundable registration fee are issued. After payment, the place is confirmed. The offer outlines the next steps and the start date. 4. Preparation and Portal Access: Before your child begins classes, you will receive access to the Parent Portal with resources and the ability to sign up for school services. The portal helps you prepare for the first day at ISZL. Access is provided prior to the start date. 5. The Zug Campus (Early Years–Grade 8) is Walterswil 1, 6340 Baar. The Riverside Campus (Grade 9–12) is Rothusstrasse 4B, 6331 Hünenberg.
Scholarships	Scholarships —	Scholarships —
Waitlist	Waitlist —	Waitlist If admission is granted but there is no space, the child may be placed on a waiting list.
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