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A group of male and female students dressed in their graduation outfits throw away their graduation caps.

Entry age

11/12

Grades

6-12

Language of instruction

Other languages offered

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Diplomas to obtain
International Baccalaureate Diploma
High School Diploma
Cambridge IGCSE certificates
Middle School
Upper Secondary
Cambridge Lower Secondary

Opening minds and a world of opportunities

International School

Our international school welcomes students from all over the world, including Switzerland. They are part of a lively learning community working towards globally recognised qualifications. Their ultimate goal is the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma or a High School Diploma, but there are rich learning experiences and many adventures along the way.  We take a holistic approach to learning and development, as we believe that overall well-being - both physical and emotional - is important for academic success. Our teachers are highly skilled and passionate educators. They guide students through the curriculum according to their individual learning needs, and so help everyone to discover where their talents lie.

Accreditations and memberships for the pursuit of excellence

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178

students
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12

average class size
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45

nationalities
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100%

pass rate IB Diploma (2024)

Overview of our International School programmes

Two girl students and a boy student are on a floor of a library working on something.

Cambridge Lower Secondary Programme (CLSP)

A broad and balanced curriculum that is an excellent foundation, preparing students from all over the world for future academic studies. It brings learning to life, helping students to develop creativity, curiosity and a lasting passion for learning that will serve them well as they progress.

Age 11-14
Grades 6-8
Language of instruction   gb 
A group of female students in a class concentrating on their assignment.

Cambridge International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE)

The Cambridge IGCSE teaches students to think analytically and creatively, as well as acquire the intellectual inquisitiveness and problem-solving skills that are important for the next stage of their academic career.  

Age 14-16
Grades 9-10
Language of instruction gb
A female student sit in front of two other students, they are in a discussion.

International Baccalaureate Diploma programme

A passport to higher education all over the world, this demanding programme is structured to combine breadth and depth. It equips students with the insights to operate as respectful, tolerant global citizens. They grow into enquiring, knowledgeable, lifelong learners.

Age 16-19
Grades 11-12
Language of instruction gb
Two girl students give high-five to two boy students in a forest.

Building a strong foundation for further studies

CLSP

Designed to help children transition from primary education and prepare them for future studies, the CLSP has a broad-based curriculum. Clear learning objectives focus on developing knowledge and skills across all subjects while enabling space and flexibility for creativity and expression. Its international perspective is both culturally sensitive and inspiring, opening students' minds as well as their future opportunities. It is excellent preparation for Cambridge IGCSE in years 9 and 10. 

A truly international qualification that prepares for advanced study

IGCSE 

The Cambridge IGCSE is a well-respected, globally-recognised syllabus. It has an intellectually stimulating curriculum that schools make relevant to their unique needs. A foundation of core subjects enables extra subjects to be added for breadth as well as cross-curricular perspectives that enliven the whole curriculum. Along with the mandatory subjects, students are guided towards choosing options that best suit their abilities and ambitions. Externally graded assessment takes place at the end of the 2 year course, and the IGCSE certificate is recognised worldwide as evidence of academic ability. 

Results and demographics (2024):  

  • 85.3% scored A-C
  • 44% took their certificates in under 1 year of study

A female teacher and her other students are in a discussion in a lab.
A group of students dressed in their graduation outfits throw away their graduation caps.

A passport to higher education all over the world 

International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme

The IBDP is a challenging two-year programme that is recognised by the world's most prestigious universities. It is designed for ambitious students to acquire the breadth and depth of knowledge as well as the personal qualities and academic skills that they need to thrive and succeed in higher education. IB students become strong analytical thinkers by continuously challenging themselves, and strive to build a better world through intercultural understanding and respect. They choose six subjects, each from a different discipline. They also study Theory of Knowledge and write an extended essay on a research question of their choice. As part of the CAS programme, they engage in creative and active experiences, as well as a project in service of those in need. They graduate as well-rounded, mature young people, ready for advanced studies anywhere in the world. Having offered the IBDP since 1987, we have a wealth of experience with the programme that our students benefit from every day on their path to sucess.

Results and demographics (2024) 

  • Pass rate: 100%
  • Highest score: 43 (out of 45)
  • Average score: 32

An alternative secondary track awarding a recognised academic certificate.

High School Diploma

A High School Diploma is awarded to students who have successfully completed their higher secondary studies and meet our graduation requirements by accruing the required credits in core subjects and another of their choice in which they have particular interest and strength. We provide guidance to help individual students choose wisely from various options, combining IB courses with our own High School Diploma classes to devise a programme suited to each student's strengths, interests and personal goals. This qualification is recognised by many institutions in the USA, Canada, and some private European universities.

Two female students in sit next to each other in a class discussing some assignments.

Studying at our International School 

  • Qualifications that are recognised and highly respected all over the world
  • Options to cater for a range of abilities, talents and ambitions
  • Extensive options for language studies
  • Comprehensive language instruction
  • Individual support programme
  • Strong bond between teachers and students
  • Teacher-led Studium for boarding students

Beyond the classroom

Benefits of Team Days for our students 

At the beginning of the new school year, each class has a special excursion with exciting activities.


These are called our Team Days. This is a chance to socialise outside of the classroom, learn about each other and make friends. Students and their teachers also get to challenge themselves with outdoor activities that make the most of our wonderful location in the heart of Switzerland.

Two female students talking and laughing in a dining hall.

Meet our Heads of Programmes

Simone Burban

Head of CLSP programme
simone.burban@montana-zug.ch
Languages spoken
Grey-haired senior female teacher smile at the camera.

Siobhán Gleeson

Head of IGCSE programme
siobhan.gleeson@montana-zug.ch
Languages spoken
A female teacher smiles in blue scarf smiles at the camera.

Michael Meier

Head of IB DP & HSD programme
michael.meier@montana-zug.ch
Languages spoken
A male teacher with beard and glasses smile at camera.

International education towards global citizenship 

Why choose our International School?

A student dressed in a white lab robe interracting with another student.

Targeted support 

At Montana, each student is a valued individual. We believe that every one of them has their own talent, so we look at the whole person to identify where their strengths lie. Our subject teachers and class advisors work closely together to develop an understanding of how best to support each child as they develop intellectually and personally. They help them find what truly motivates their learning, and motivation is a key to success. 
A woman squatting in a forest who giving instructions.

Beyond the classroom   

We put a lot of value on learning beyond the taught curriculum. Qualifications are important, but learning skills are enhanced by different motivators, therefore co-curricular activities have a positive impact on academic success too. Our students sing and play music, join poetry and science clubs, join study trips to exciting cities or local firms like Novartis and much more.

 

Three male students sitting in a class discussing something.

Smooth transitions from one programme to another   

The international programmes we offer are designed to build on each other. This harmony is enhanced as we have teachers who work across all the programmes. They get to know their students well and understand how to get the best out of them. 
A group of students having lesson in a class, with the focus being a female student in the front.

Multiple language learning opportunities

The language of instruction is English, and we have an expert language support team who work with our students to bring their English up to the required level. We also have a wide selection of languages to study at different levels from native to beginner.

International School Experience

Hear what our staff and students say about us

Simone Burban

Head of CLSP

Speaks about XXX

bilingual-elementary-school

Siobhan Gleeson

Head of IGCSE

Speaks about XXX

bilingual-elementary-school

Michael Meier

Head of IB DP & HD

Speaks about XXX

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                                                                                                                                                       7th grade BSS                     Lessons in learn studio
                                                                                                                                     Core level           extended level   core level   extended level
 

Languages 14 14 5 5
Cocoa Break 

 

      
10:45 – 11:25

English

 Mathematics Social Science Sports
11:35 12:15 English Sports Music Sports
Lunch 

 

      
13:10-13:50

English I EAL

 Handwriting Extra-curricular activities English
13:55-14:35
 Social Science Crafts   Art
14:40 - 15:20
 Social Science Craft   Art
Tea Break
        
Activities** until 16:40
        

 

Life after our International School

Your child can continue

with the IB Diploma to

universities all over the world and in Switzerland. IB score will be an important factor, depending on the institution. Many universities and courses will also take into account other achievements, such as activities beyond the curriculum. The key elements of the IB - Theory of Knowledge, Extended Essay and CAS - are looked on favourably by many universities, including the most well-subscribed.

with the High School Diploma

In the USA and Canada, the HSD is widely accepted as a valid qualification by numerous institutions. In Switzerland, private universities and hospitality management schools (excluding EHL) recognise this qualification, as do some private universities and institutions across continental Europe that follow a US-style university system. In the UK, direct entry to less selective universities may be possible, and students can also apply for an International Foundation Programme.

FAQ

Your Academic Path

What kind of school is Institut Montana?
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Institut Montana is an international day and boarding school in Switzerland.

Where is Institut Montana located?
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Institut Montana is conveniently connected to the city of Zug and less than one hour by car to Zürich airport. There are rich opportunities for students to immerse themselves in culture and the outdoors. The surrounding lakes and mountains offer activities in all seasons: boating and mountain biking in summer, skiing and sledging in winter.

What educational programmes does Institut Montana offer?
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At Institut Montana, we offer different academic pathways to suit the individual needs of our students. Bilingual Primary and Secondary Schools follow the national (Lehrplan 21) curriculum. A Swiss High School (Schweizer Gymnasium) leads to the Swiss Matura in either German or Bilingual DE/EN. An International School follows international programmes that lead to the IB Diploma Programme. At the high school level, we provide personalised college counselling that guides students towards the higher education choices that will meet their ambitions for the future. 

What age of students does Institut Montana admit?
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Institut Montana admits students from ages 6 to 19, offering programmes for primary (Grade 1) through to secondary education. Students from age 10 years and older can join our international boarding programme.  

How many students study at Institut Montana and where are they from?
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Institut Montana has around 360 students. We are a close-knit community in a beautiful setting surrounded by mountains and forests. We maintain small class sizes of around 10 students for a more personalised learning experience. Our students come from all over the world, representing over 55 nationalities. Institut Montana truly offers an international education in a Swiss environment and a Swiss education in an international environment.

What are the language requirements for students?
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Students are required to achieve proficiency in at least one first language and a second language. English and/or German are the main languages of instruction, with additional language support provided as needed.

What boarding options does Institut Montana offer?
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Institut Montana offers full boarding, weekly boarding, and flexible boarding options. Full boarding includes accommodation, class instruction, supervision, meals and access to school facilities and activities.

What co-curricular activities are available at Institut Montana?
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Our students enjoy a variety of co-curricular activities including ice hockey, skiing/cross-country skiing, tennis, beach volleyball, hiking. There are also activities that encourage creative thinking such Model United Nations, Drama Club, Entrepreneurship Club, Choir, private music lessons, Yoga, Archery and more.

Is there a deadline for applications?
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Institut Montana offers enrolment on a rolling basis throughout the school year. Please contact our Admissions Office for more information on our admissions process.

How do day students arrive and depart Institut Montana each school day?
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Our day students take a very special, panoramic 8-minute ride on the Zugerbergbahn, a funicular railway that climbs every 30 minutes up to the Zugerberg from Schönegg, on the edge of the city of Zug. Our campus sits conveniently just above the Zugerbergbahn funicular station.

Do you offer summer activities for students?
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Each year, we welcome students from around the world to experience the spirit of Institut Montana at our Summer Camp. For 2-3 weeks, students ages 10 – 15 years old can take intensive English and German courses, participate in exciting workshops and activities, and make lasting friendships. Day and boarding options are available. Please contact our Admissions Office for more information.

Does Institut Montana provide assistance with visa applications?
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We can assist our boarding students with their visa application and residence permit. We also provide invitation letters for visits from family members of enrolled students. However, we cannot assist day students or family members of any student with their Swiss residence permit.