TASIS The American School In Switzerland

General information

Founded by M. Crist Fleming in 1956, TASIS is a day and boarding school committed to creating global citizens through education, travel, and citizenship. The oldest American boarding school in Europe, TASIS celebrated its 60th anniversary during the summer of 2016.

TASIS welcomes international students from Pre-Kindergarten through Postgraduate. 730 students made up the Elementary, Middle, and High Schools for the 2015-2016 Academic Year, with 260 students between ages 12-19 residing on campus.

TASIS is distinguished by both its diversity and its unity. The student body represents more than 65 nationalities and speaks more than 35 different languages. Cultural differences are celebrated as students challenge and inspire one another to become global citizens. Students leave TASIS with links to a vibrant worldwide community that celebrates the unique nature of this remarkable place.

High School students can choose from individual Advanced Placement courses or pursue the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma, providing access to outstanding colleges and universities around the world. The School offers an extensive Fine Arts program that includes courses in Drama, Music, and the Visual Arts, enabling aspiring artists of any ilk to find their creative voice and nurture their talent. The Elementary School supplements the Core Knowledge curriculum with the Singapore Math program, a Reading Mastery curriculum, a robust English as an Additional Language program, and an Italian section—preparing all students for academic success at the next level.

Accredited by the European Council of International Schools (ECIS) and the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC), TASIS is proud to employ gifted, passionate educators who encourage intellectual curiosity. More than 75 percent of the faculty hold advanced degrees.

The campus includes more than 25 buildings dating from the 17th century Villa De Nobili to the Campo Science Center, which opened in 2014. Perched on a hillside in sunny southern Switzerland with commanding views of snow-capped mountains, palm trees, and Lake Lugano, the School's enviable location makes possible an impressive Academic Travel program. Travel experiences throughout the year bring students face-to-face with the rich cultural heritage of Europe and the spectacular natural beauty of the Alps and beyond.

The School’s pioneering Global Service Program transforms lives by providing every High School student with a unique opportunity to connect across borders—whether geographic, economic, or social—through comprehensive experiences that build empathy and encourage personal responsibility. The Program awakens students to humanitarian needs; inspires them to build enduring, mutually beneficial relationships; and leads them toward a life of active citizenship and committed service.

TASIS encourages physical fitness and healthy lifestyles. Sports teams compete throughout Switzerland and Europe, and a variety of other fitness activities are offered to cater to all interests. Each year also brings many opportunities to ski and explore the breathtaking Alps.

Each summer, hundreds of students aged 4-18 journey to Lugano for the TASIS Summer Programs, which feature intensive language programs, robust offerings in Visual and Performing Arts, and convenient access to adventures around Europe.