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ISZL Deputy Director and student meeting in the library for discussion.
Home High School University Preparation

University Preparation

In High School, we are committed to preparing students for success beyond ISZL. Open and proactive communication ensures that students and families feel informed and supported in making academic and social choices that align with their university and career aspirations.

How Our University Advisors Support Students

Our university advising team provides:

  • Personalised guidance on course selection and curriculum pathways at ISZL
  • Psychometric testing to help students explore their interests and future options
  • Information about external assessments, such as SAT or TMUA
  • Meetings to explain higher education options, financial requirements, and application processes
  • Group sessions for university applications, including UK UCAS, Netherlands Studielink and the USA Common Application
  • Opportunities to connect with university representatives who visit ISZL, helping students explore options and strengthen their applications
classroom study

University Entrance Requirements

University entrance requirements vary across countries and institutions. By the end of Grade 10, students and parents should have a clear understanding of their options.

ISZL students typically choose between the full International Baccalaureate® (IB) Diploma Programme or a combination of the BTEC Diploma in Creative Media and Advanced Placement exams, each with specific entry criteria. These choices are carefully discussed with the University Advising team.

Preparing for University

Grade 10: Exploring Options

Formal university preparation starts in the second semester of Grade 10. Students and families meet with the University Advisors to discuss subject choice, programme options, and university-specific requirements. The High School Course Guide is updated annually to support this process.

Grade 11: Narrowing Down Choices

In Grade 11, students participate in university seminars every two weeks to learn about different study options and opportunities in Europe and around the world.

In the second semester, they work closely with their University Advisor to create a shortlist of universities based on the concept of “best fit.” This year is focused on self-reflection, identifying strengths, and beginning university essays, CVs, and motivation letters.

Grade 12: The Application Process

Grade 12 is application time. Deadlines vary by country and course, so students are encouraged to stay organised and on top of requirements. Parents should note that universities typically communicate directly with applicants. Teachers and University Advisors provide guidance throughout the process, particularly on essays, application requirements, and supporting documents.

To ensure a focused and intentional approach, ISZL students can submit up to ten university applications worldwide (with UCAS and UC applications each counting as one). Universities that receive applications from ISZL can be assured that each student has made a well-considered choice.

Graduation and Beyond

The University Advising team remains available during the summer after graduation, providing support as students transition to university.

For those taking a gap year or fulfilling military service, advisors offer guidance and assistance with necessary documentation.

Contact Us

For any questions, please contact us:  International School of Zug and Luzern, Rothusstrasse 4B, 6331 Hünenberg, Switzerland.

+41 41 768 29 57
janie.digby@iszl.ch

+41 41 768 29 58
zoe.whittle@iszl.ch

Our Commitment

The University Advising team is dedicated to empowering students to realise their full potential as lifelong learners, promoting a positive and supportive school environment, and ensuring they are well-prepared for the next step.

For more information about ISZL student’s historic exam successes and university destinations, please visit our Exam Results page.

Exam Results

Zoe Whittle

University Advisor

Read more

Zoe Whittle

University Advisor

Zoe joined the ISZL community as a University Advisor in August 2024. She brings with her over 20 years’ of experience in the field of international education working with universities, governments, businesses and the third sector. Prior to joining ISZL, she worked at the Universities of Bath and Bristol in the UK as an integral part of the Recruitment, Admissions, and International Student Support teams, counselling students on their future pathways. She has been privileged to work with students and families from across the world and is passionate about creating opportunities for young people to fulfil their true potential. Zoe loves to travel, swim and hike and has enjoyed exploring the beautiful lakes and mountains of Switzerland.

Contact Zoe Whittle, at zoe.whittle@iszl.ch

Janie Digby

University Advisor

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Janie Digby

University Advisor

A relentlessly enthusiastic educator, Janie thrives on supporting students as they grow and ultimately matriculate at universities that align with their passions, both inside and outside the classroom. With experience in American, British, and international schools across England, Hong Kong, Wales, and Switzerland, Janie brings a truly global perspective to education. Janie has guided students through university applications to institutions in North America, Europe, the UK, Southeast Asia, Australasia, and the Middle East. A passionate traveller, Janie embraces every opportunity to explore new cultures and cuisines. In her free time, she enjoys baking, reading, spending time with friends, and is currently taking on the personal challenge of swimming in a lake in every canton of Switzerland.

Contact Janie Digby, at janie.digby@iszl.ch

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Walterswil 1
6340 Baar, Switzerland

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+41 41 768 29 00 (Primary)


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Riverside Campus
Rothusstrasse 4B
6331 Hünenberg, Switzerland

office.riverside@iszl.ch

+41 41 768 29 50

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