2027-28 ACADEMIC YEAR
CANADIAN HIGH SCHOOL IN SWITZERLAND
Transforming curious minds into global citizens through life-changing experiential Grade 12 and gap year studies. Preparing students for university and for life.
A MESSAGE FROM OUR HEAD OF SCHOOL At Neuchâtel Junior College (NJC), we believe some of the most important learning happens when you step beyond what is familiar. In the heart of Frenchspeaking Switzerland, NJC offers you the chance to challenge yourself academically, experience the world differently, and discover what you are capable of. More than 20 years ago, I began my career at NJC as a young teacher. I left deeply shaped by the College’s “Step Outside” philosophy and by the people, places, and experiences that made my time here so memorable. Returning now as Head of School, I am excited to share that same opportunity with a new generation of students. At NJC, your classroom extends far beyond the school. You will live with a local French-speaking family, travel throughout Switzerland and Europe, experience history and culture firsthand, and build friendships that can last a lifetime. Along the way you will become more confident, independent, and curious about the world around you. NJC will challenge you, but that is part of what makes the experience so rewarding. If you are ready to work hard, try new things, and step outside your comfort zone, an extraordinary year awaits you in Neuchâtel. À bientôt,
Philippe Caron-Audet Head of School
OUR PURPOSE Neuchâtel Junior College offers the exceptional opportunity to study Canadian curriculum in Switzerland. Students take Ontario grade 12 courses in their final year of high school or gap year with an international focus. They gain an authentic cultural and French language experience by living with Swiss, French-speaking hosts, and travel extensively. Neuchâtel Junior College ignites a lifelong sense of adventure, courage, and purpose through an extraordinary, immersive education.
STRIVE FOR EXCELLENCE
RESPONSIBILITY
BE CURIOUS
RESPECT
Aim high. Put in effort and dedication to achieve goals.
Be accountable for your words, actions, and choices. Be compassionate about mistakes.
Discover more about yourself, the people you encounter, and the world around you.
Respect, as our foundation and daily mindset means treating all people well and being genuinely open to different views, different paths, and different choices.
BE ENGAGED
TAKE RISKS
INTEGRITY
Big or small, local or global, contribute to make a difference.
Be open to new things and try new opportunities. Embrace the word “try” and learn from failure.
Have courage to do the right thing. Always.
ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE Founded in 1956, Neuchâtel Junior College is an independent school combining rigorous academics with immersive international travel, giving students unparalleled opportunities to broaden their horizons and understand diverse cultures. NJC students experience small class sizes and a supportive environment during their pre-university program of study. The pre-university year is defined in two ways: a student’s last year of high school, grade 12, or gap year of enrichment. Students earn Ontario Grade 12 credits leading to an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD), and recieve admission into universities in Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, and beyond. Course descriptions are available upon request.
“NJC has forever changed my life. This experience will shape my future at university … But most importantly, NJC has introduced me to people I will be in touch with for life, and for that, I am thankful.”
Frazer’26 - Westmount, QC University of Western Ontario - Mechanical Engineering
NJC CURRICULUM FEATURES The foundation of all courses is the Ontario Ministry of Education curriculum. NJC is audited by the Ontario Ministry of Education on an annual basis and is categorized as an independent Ontario secondary school located abroad. NJC is a member of the Swiss Group of International Schools (SGIS). Course descriptions are available upon request. •
Graduates earn the internationally recognized Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD).
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Graduates strive to achieve the Neuchâtel Junior College International Diploma (optional).
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Students are able to take Advanced Placement (AP) examinations in May.
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NJC is a testing centre, and students are able to write the College Board SAT in the autumn.
FRENCH LANGUAGE DEVELOPMENT The study of French is mandatory at NJC, however students are not required to have French language proficiency prior to their arrival. Students will expand their vocabulary and improve their ability to express themselves in French. Through French classes and an immersive experience, students develop their French language skills while living within the French-speaking town of Neuchâtel, Switzerland and environs.
STUDENTS FROM OUTSIDE OF ONTARIO Canadian students who attend school outside of Ontario, as well as students from outside of Canada, can study at Neuchâtel Junior College (NJC) in their final year of high school to obtain their Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or following graduation from high school for a gap year or semester of enrichment. Students who join NJC from outside of the province of Ontario and have completed a minimum standard 3-year high school program (Grade 9-11) will have their transcript reviewed for an equivalency assessment to determine the number of credits necessary (up to 7 credits) for them to graduate with the OSSD. “Traveling on my own, and balancing academics with personal responsibilities taught me how to adapt to change quickly, problem solve, and remain flexible in all types of situations.”
Sophia’26 - Edmonton, AB Dalhousie University - Science
THE NJC GAP YEAR PROGRAM ONE MORE YEAR. A WORLD OF POSSIBILITIES. The NJC Gap Year Program offers students the opportunity to spend an extraordinary year in Switzerland combining academics, leadership, cultural immersion, and real-world experiences, all while being fully integrated in the NJC community. Designed for students looking to make the most of the year between high school and their next chapter, the program goes far beyond the traditional classroom. Students can build a personalized experience that may include interdisciplinary studies focused on Europe and intercultural learning, leadership development, additional language study, experiential learning, travel, and potential internship or work-experience opportunities. Living and learning in the heart of Europe gives students the chance to develop independence, confidence and a broader understanding of the world, while still benefiting from the close-knit community and support that define the NJC experience. Students who successfully complete the program requirements will earn an NJC Gap Year Certificate, recognizing a year of meaningful learning, exploration, and personal growth. A gap year can be more than a pause between high school and university. It can be a chance to discover new interests, strengthen skills, gain meaningful experience, and return to the next stage of your education with greater clarity, confidence, and purpose.
“It is a year that allows an invaluable opportunity to dig deeper, exploring and expanding interests, and learning to enjoy learning again.” Kari’90, mother of Spencer’25
UNIVERSITY PLACEMENT AND GUIDANCE UNIVERSITY PLACEMENT Students receive dedicated university placement counselling and support from NJC’s Guidance Department. With a 100% postsecondary acceptance rate, the program has a focus on research, program requirements, admissions procedures and deadlines, and applications for scholarships. The Guidance Department provides careful, personalized attention to the needs of each student to ensure they reach their full potential and achieve their goals.
STUDENT SERVICES
Neuchâtel Junior College Class of 2026 graduates received offers of admission into highly competitive programs and will be attending universities across Canada, the United States, and Europe.
NJC offers a small class size ratio and accommodates For more information on the universities students who may require our graduates attend, please contact additional support. Through admissions@neuchatel.org. academic support, peer support and tutoring, NJC students receive support beyond the classroom. Our dedicated faculty, supportive homestay families, and engaged alumni families offer encouragement and guidance every step of the way. Whether through academic mentoring or emotional support, we ensure every student feels cared for and supported throughout their NJC journey.
“I applied to a European school, something I never would have done if I had been living in Toronto. Not only did NJC and its staff give me the support and encouragement to apply directly to a European medical school, but attending NJC and living on my own in Europe instilled the confidence and belief in myself that I could pursue my dream.”
Madeleine’25 - Toronto, ON Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland
LIVING IN SWITZERLAND
LIVING EN PENSION NJC’s Pension Program has been an integral part of the student experience since the school was founded in 1956. By living ‘en pension’ with a local Swiss family, students become immersed in Swiss culture and daily life, experiencing what it is like to live as Europeans. Most pension families have welcomed NJC students into their homes for many years and typically host one or two students at a time. Our dedicated pension coordinator takes great care in matching students with pension families. Students create lasting relationships, develop their French language skills, and learn to adapt to new environments. Many students reflect on this unique opportunity to live in a local environment and remain in touch with their host families in years to come.
“My [host] family taught me a lot about their values and made me feel like I really did have a family in Switzerland. They have... introduced me to their communities and taught us about resourcefulness.”
Dane’26 - Ridgeville, ON Wilfred Laurier University - Business Administration
STUDENT LEADERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES Students have opportunities to become involved in a variety of leadership initiatives. Students must apply for these positions within the first weeks of school. Selection is completed promptly by the end of September.
THE FOYER COUNCIL This group of leaders organizes student activities and is similar to Student Council or Prefects in other schools, providing input on school policy.
YOUTH WELLBEING AMBASSADORS This group works to foster mental wellbeing as it pertains to personal, academic, and wellbeing through raising awareness about mental health issues and providing outlets for students to release stress.
MODEL UNITED NATIONS NJC competes in international conferences semiannually in places such as Barcelona and the United Kingdom. This club meets weekly at the school to prepare for these conferences.
DARE TO DREAM, DARE TO LEAD Inspired by their own experiences, and to celebrate their 50th anniversary, the Class of 1975 sought to make a lasting impact on future generations of NJC students. Their vision materialized in the Dare to Dream, Dare to Lead grant, a bold initiative that provides $10,000 CAD annually to empower students to become innovative leaders and active community members.
“As a result of the experience studying at NJC and living and travelling in Europe, I feel much more independent and confident. I have gained the ability to take initiative in my own life and to take responsibility for my actions… I will build upon this experience by continuing to step outside of my comfort zone, because that is where the most growth happens.”
Lucy’26 - Vancouver, BC McGill University - Arts
EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES & ATHLETICS
Neuchâtel Junior College provides a wide range of extracurricular activities organized by the school and involving other international schools. Teams may compete in tournaments in the local community and amongst members of the Swiss Group of International Schools (SGIS). NJC is fortunate to have connections to a range of community resources including sports teams, music, and language interests. Students are able to take Italian and German noncredit language classes for language development at a local language school for an additional cost.
EDUCATIONAL TRAVEL PROGRAM NJC offers, structured, school-organized travel to expose students to a variety of cultural, scientific, environmental, and historical sites across Europe. These trips are often integrated into the curriculum, enriching the academic program, the learning process and students’ understanding of the world in which they live and will lead. The travel is divided into four areas; les défis et les découvertes (challenges and discoveries), mandatory travel, optional travel, and independent travel.
LOCAL EXCURSIONS: “LES DÉFIS ET LES DÉCOUVERTES” •
Cailler Chocolate Factory & Gruyères
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European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN) in Geneva
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Rafting in Pre-Alps
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United Nations Headquarters in Geneva
MANDATORY TRAVEL •
Orientation Trip in Switzerland
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World War I & II Battlegrounds in France
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Spring: Easter-break Trip curriculum-based or service-based
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Additional trip information to be provided
“Having barely touched Europe before this year, I’m proud to have added seven new countries to my travel list. To my surprise, even on independent trips I found myself often thinking of what I had learned in classes like Law or Politics and applying it to the place I was in.”
Madeleine’26 - Toronto, ON University of British Columbia - Arts
OPTIONAL & INDEPENDENT TRAVEL OPTIONAL SCHOOL TRIPS •
Jaun hike in the pre Alps
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First Semester: Munich, Germany or Krakow, Poland Holocaust studies curriculum
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Model UN trip to Barcelona, Spain and the United Kingdom
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Semester Break: Zermatt, Switzerland
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Second Semester: Florence, Italy or Wengen, Switzerland
Trip destinations are subject to change.
INDEPENDENT TRAVEL Independent travel inspires confidence, personal discovery, strong friendships, and maturity. Following the first report card, students are permitted to organize a trip and travel independently in small groups for a maximum of three weekends per semester.
“Travelling Europe further deepened my appreciation for different cultures and ways of life. These experiences made me more internationally aware and more conscious of my role in a global community.”
Reese’26 - Oakville, ON University of Miami - Business Administration, Entrepreneurship
ADMISSIONS AND APPLICATION FOR THE 2027-28 ACADEMIC YEAR Neuchâtel Junior College selects students on the basis of their academic performance, character, interests, talents, and potential. Successful applicants are those who seek to challenge and advance themselves through a transformational experience of intense personal and intellectual growth. The school favours applicants who respond positively to new challenges and who express sufficient maturity, international curiosity, and personal responsibility with which to embrace this experience. An application for the 2027-28 academic year can be initiated on the school website www.neuchatel.org on the admissions page by clicking apply now! A COMPLETE APPLICATION INCLUDES: •
Complete online application and application fee
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High school transcript to date
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Report card for the 2026-27 academic year (interim mid-term acceptable)
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Character reference (optional)
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Student interview
We are accepting applications on a rolling basis. Each application will be reviewed upon receipt. Admissions decisions are made once all of the application requirements are complete. We aim to have admissions decisions to families within two weeks of the submission of a complete application. The general application deadline is January 15, 2027. There is a tuition incentive for applying early. There is no need to wait until the application deadline, so complete the application now!
“NJC is not just any other Grade 12 year… There’s a type of selfunderstanding you cannot find in a regular classroom or textbook. An understanding that can only be earned through experience. Through being placed far outside the familiar.”
Mac’26 - Oakville, ON Queen’s University - Commerce Valedictorian and recipient of the Governor General’s Academic Medal for outstanding achievement.
TUITION FEES | ACADEMIC YEAR 2027-28 Tuition Fees | Academic Year All fees are paid in CHF (Swiss Francs) Students registered for the full academic year (September to mid-June) Payment
Due date
Amount
Registration fee (Non-refundable)
Upon Enrollment
7,500 CHF
Installment 1
June 1, 2027
19,000 CHF
Installment 2
August 4, 2027
18,800 CHF
Installment 3
November 2, 2027
18,815 CHF
Total tuition
64,115 CHF*
Sundry account deposit
August 4, 2027
1,500 CHF
*The Easter break mandatory trip (curriculum-based or service-based) are not included in tuition fees. Students from outside of Canada and the United States should contact admissions for more details on international fees.
Tuition Fees | First Semester
Tuition Fees | Second Semester
All fees are paid in CHF (Swiss Francs)
All fees are paid in CHF (Swiss Francs)
Payment
Due date
Amount
Payment
Due date
Amount
Registration fee (Non-refundable)
Upon Enrollment
7,500 CHF
Registration fee (Non-refundable)
Upon Enrollment
7,500 CHF
Installment 1
June 1, 2027
13,000 CHF
Installment 1
November 2, 2027
13,000 CHF
Installment 2
August 4, 2027
13,805 CHF
Installment 2
January 4, 2028
13,805 CHF
34,305 CHF*
Total tuition
1,000 CHF
Sundry account deposit
Total tuition Sundry account deposit
August 4, 2027
34,305 CHF* January 4, 2028
1,000 CHF
Please note there are 2 mandatory trips in the first semester. Both trips are included in tuition:
Please note there are 2 mandatory trips in the second semester.
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Trips included in tuition fees • Second semester curriculum-based trip
Orientation (September) World War I & II Battlegrounds in France
Trip billed separately, estimated additional costs are 4,000 CHF •
Spring: Easter-break Trip - curriculum-based or service-based
CELEBRATING 70 YEARS Apply today for the 2027-28 academic year. Questions? We are here to help. Contact admissions@neuchatel.org Check neuchatel.org for Student Recruiting events throughout the year!
SCAN TO LEARN MORE AND APPLY TODAY!
Grade 12 | Gap Year | www.neuchatel.org