German Intensive Year Hero

Your gateway to Switzerland’s prestigious universities: an excellent foundation in German

Master German within a year with the German Intensive Year at the renowned international boarding school in Switzerland – your first step towards studying at ETH Zurich or the University of St. Gallen

Launch your path to Switzerland’s renowned universities with our specialized German preparatory year. In just 12 months, master the language skills needed for the Swiss Matura Programme – your ticket to institutions like ETH Zurich and University of St. Gallen. Designed specifically for international students, our programme combines intensive German learning with academic excellence.

Low teacher-student ratio
for ideal learning progress

100% German immersion
for grades 7-10

45+ nationalities –
international environment

100% success rate
for Swiss university entry

Benefits of the German Intensive Year at Lyceum Alpinum Zuoz

Learning success through full immersion: Study in an immersive environment whether in class, during activities, or in boarding life. Master academic German while studying core subjects – the perfect preparation for success in the Swiss Matura Programme. Our proven method helps students reach B1 level and beyond, essential for the Matura.

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The gateway to world-class education

Fast-track to Swiss university admission: Achieve the essential German B1 certificate for the Matura programme while mastering core academic subjects. Our integrated approach helps you develop the linguistic proficiency necessary to succeed in the prestigious Swiss Matura qualification and gain access to leading Swiss institutions such as ETH Zurich through the Matura.

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Intensive and closely supervised

Success through personal attention: Our small classes enables rapid German language progress. Individual mentoring and individual learning ensure you advance at your optimal pace. Experience tailored support from language experts who understand your unique learning journey.

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A unique community

Join Switzerland’s highest boarding school (1750 m.a.s.l.) where immersion in the German language meets global perspective. Make lifelong connections in our diverse community of 45+ nationalities. Experience authentic Swiss culture while building international friendships that expand your worldview.

Would you like to learn more?
Schedule a video chat or a conversation with our admissions team.

Entry into the Swiss Matura: no simple task

Only 25% of students in Switzerland achieve the prestigious Matura. Our German Intensive Year ensures you’re fully prepared for this challenging programme.

Designed specifically for international students

As one of few Swiss boarding schools specializing in preparing non-German speakers for Matura success, we understand your unique challenges. Our 120 years of experience help international students master both language and academic requirements.

Finding a second home

Find your home away from home in our close-knit Alpine community. Our experienced boarding staff provide 24/7 support, ensuring your child thrives while mastering German. 

School with a strong support network

Your child’s success relies on comprehensive support. Our dedicated team includes language specialists, academic tutors, and mental health professionals. Regular progress reports keep you informed, while our 24/7 house parents ensure round-the-clock care.

Access to excellent higher education opportunities in Switzerland

Your investment secures access to Switzerland’s top universities. Our international Matura students are accepted at prestigious Swiss universities, including ETH Zürich and University of St. Gallen. Start your journey to world-class higher education today.

The Lyceum Alpinum Zuoz

Tradition and innovation in perfect harmony

The Lyceum Alpinum Zuoz combines traditional values with modern teaching methods. Our teachers support your child individually with a teacher-student ratio of 1:5 to ensure close supervision and the development of personal strengths. The combination of traditional values and a future-oriented educational approach ensures your child’s holistic academic and personal development.

The Lyceum Alpinum Zuoz, an international community with students from over 45 countries, prepares your child for the future with a bilingual curriculum and a global worldview. Our graduates leave school with excellent qualifications and a global network of friends. 

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The gateway to Swiss excellence

With the German Intensive Year, Sophie gained the necessary language skills and academic foundation to enter the Swiss Matura programme confidently.

I didn’t speak any German at all and in just one year I was ready for the Matura. Now I’m confidently pursuing my Swiss university dreams. The German Intensive Year was challenging but worth every moment – the perfect preparation for academic success in Switzerland.

Sophie
Student at the Lyceum Alpinum Zuoz
Language classes (3)

Well supported

Marcus is currently in the German Intensive Year at Lyceum Alpinum Zuoz and shares his experiences.

Within 6 months, my German improved from A1 to B1. The teachers and house parents support you 24/7 – from homework help to conversation practice. It’s not just a school, it’s a family that helps you achieve your goals.

Marcus
Student at the Lyceum Alpinum Zuoz
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Connections for life

What makes the Lyceum Alpinum Zuoz different from other secondary schools in Switzerland is the opportunity students have to become familiar with many different cultures from all over the world. The school is cosmopolitan and friendships are made for life. It is precisely this gathering of people who live and learn together regardless of origin and culture that makes this school so special for me.

Alex
Student at the Lyceum Alpinum Zuoz
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The best prospects

I always wanted to study at the University of St. Gallen, so I decided to move from London to Lyceum Alpinum Zuoz. The German Intensive Year is giving me the perfect foundation to enter the Swiss Matura programme, which will allow me to study at any university in Switzerland without restrictions.

Sara
Student at the Lyceum Alpinum Zuoz

3 simple steps to apply:

Free consultation

Submit application

Admission test and interview

Your path to success:

  • Entry requirements: A1+ level of German and A2 English OR A2 German
  • Placement tests: Maths and German
  • Start date: Beginning of a new school year, at the end of August. Admission during the school year is possible, but not recommended.

Our Admissions team will support you in your decision-making process with a personal consultation tailored to your family.

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Secure your path to a renowned Swiss university now

• Free consultation
• Meet our admission experts
• Get your personalized study roadmap

Questions?

Would you like to register your child, do you have further questions or need more information? Then please do not hesitate to contact us.

Admission Lyceum Christine Hoelzle

Chris­tine Hölzle
Head of Admission

FAQs

Frequently asked questions about our school. If your question is not listed, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Which subjects are taught in the German Intensive Year?

Depending on the grade, the curriculum includes German, English, French, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, History, Economics and Law, Music and Art.

How many lessons of German are taught in the German Intensive Year?

It is of particular importance to note the significant allocation of time dedicated to German and Mathematics lessons, with 12 and 10 lessons per week, respectively.

What is the typical class size?

On average, there are 8 students in a German Intensive Year class.

What are the next steps to register for the German Intensive Year?

There are three simple steps that start with scheduling a free consultation with our admission team. Find out more here.

How much does German Intensive Year at the Lyceum Alpinum Zuoz cost?

Normal school fees apply. See our transparent all-inclusive fee structure here.

Get in touch with us! Admission & Contact Meet Admissions