Montagnola, Lugano, Switzerland Boarding · Coed Ages 3–19TASIS The American School in Switzerland
The first American boarding school founded in Europe (1956) — a 740-pupil day+boarding campus in Lugano, American Diploma + AP + IB Diploma, 63 nationalities.
AI Fit Summary
Why this school may fit your child: TASIS The American School in Switzerland pairs a American / AP / IB academic track with a rural campus and a 1:8 student-teacher ratio. It's a strong consideration for students drawn to US universities / UK universities pathways.
- Strong fit for US universities / UK universities pathway
- 1:8 ratio supports individualized attention
- American · AP · IB curriculum aligns with university aspirations
- Mature pastoral and house structure
Academic overview
TASIS Switzerland was founded in 1956 in Montagnola above Lake Lugano — the first American international boarding school established in Europe. Today around 740 students from 63 nationalities, ages 3-18, with boarding from Grade 7. The Senior School offers the American high school diploma with AP courses alongside the IB Diploma — letting families pick US or international university pathways. Published 2026-27 annual tuition: Boarding CHF 106,500; Middle/High School Day CHF 55,000; Grades 9-12 (& PG) CHF 49,000; Grades 7-8 CHF 44,200; Grade 6 CHF 34,000; Kindergarten-Grade 5 ranges below. Accredited by CIS and NEASC. Class size of 14 with a 1:8 student-teacher ratio enables tutorial-style instruction and mentor-led research projects.
Curriculum & subjects
Boarding life
Houses are organized around year-group cohorts with a dedicated houseparent and tutorial team. Weekend programming combines structured academic catch-up, trips into the surrounding region, and creative downtime.
University pathways
Placement score is BestPeopleDo's internal estimate of the school's recent university outcomes (0–100), based on publicly available data and advisor knowledge. Detailed per-cohort offer counts are confirmed during the advisor call.
Fees & scholarships
Estimate the all-in cost
Most families budget against tuition + 10–20% in living, travel and ancillary costs. Adjust the inputs to plan against scholarships, length of stay, and your home currency.
Location
TASIS The American School in Switzerland sits in Montagnola, Lugano, Switzerland — a rural campus. Tap "Request virtual tour" above to have an advisor send walkthrough video links and schedule a live tour.
Admissions process
- 1Inquiry & profile reviewWe share your child's Student Fit Profile with the admissions team.
- 2Application & documentsSchool-specific form, transcripts, recommendations, English test if required.
- 3AssessmentOnline interview, sample lesson, or admissions test depending on the school.
- 4Offer & enrollmentOffer letter, contract, and visa support if needed.
Important dates
FAQ
Is TASIS The American School in Switzerland a good fit for international families?
Yes. TASIS The American School in Switzerland actively supports families relocating internationally with visa guidance, language transitions, and pastoral care designed for mobile households.
What does the typical application timeline look like?
Most families start 12–18 months before intended intake. Early application is strongly recommended for boarding.
Are scholarships available?
Yes. Merit-based and need-based scholarships are reviewed annually.
What's the average class size?
Approximately 14 students per class with a 1:8 student-teacher ratio.
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