At a Glance
Boarding FeesFrom CHF 18’000
Students300
Nationalities15
CurriculaSwiss Matura, Italian Maturità
Ages11–19
Ratio1:8
Accredited by:
Swiss Federation
About Collegio Papio
Collegio Papio is the oldest private school in Ticino, founded in 1585 by Cardinal Carlo Borromeo. Located in the historic heart of Ascona overlooking Lake Maggiore, it offers the Swiss Maturità with a unique Italian-English bilingual option — the only high school in Ticino to do so. The school's illustrious alumni include Swiss presidents, cabinet ministers, and UN officials. Its stunning Renaissance cloisters and Mediterranean climate create a distinctive educational atmosphere quite unlike any other Swiss boarding school.
300
Students
15
Nationalities
1585
Founded
N/A
IB Score
Facilities
Historic CloistersLibraryScience LabsArt StudioMusic RoomSports HallChapelDining HallStudy Rooms
Sports
FootballBasketballVolleyballSwimmingTennisAthleticsHiking
Extracurriculars
ChoirOrchestraTheatreArtDebateCommunity ServiceLanguagesPhilosophy
Frequently Asked Questions About Collegio Papio
What curricula does Collegio Papio offer?+
Collegio Papio offers 2 curriculums: Swiss Matura, Italian Maturità. This broad academic offering allows students to pursue the pathway that best suits their university goals.
How much does it cost to attend Collegio Papio?+
Annual tuition at Collegio Papio ranges from CHF 20’000 to CHF 35’000. Boarding fees are approximately CHF 18’000 per year. Families should also budget for additional fees totaling around CHF 3’400, which cover items such as lunch program, materials fee, cultural activities.
What age range does Collegio Papio accept?+
Collegio Papio accepts students between the ages of 11 and 19. The school is open to both boys and girls. This age range covers students from middle school through to pre-university level.
How many students attend Collegio Papio?+
Collegio Papio has a student body of approximately 300 students representing 15 nationalities. The student-to-teacher ratio is 1:8, with 60 boarding students and 240 day students. This diverse, international community creates a rich multicultural learning environment.
What languages are taught at Collegio Papio?+
The primary languages of instruction at Collegio Papio are Italian, English. The school also offers courses in Italian, English, German, French. This multilingual approach prepares students for success in an increasingly global world.
What sports and activities are available at Collegio Papio?+
Collegio Papio offers a wide range of sports including Football, Basketball, Volleyball, Swimming, Tennis, Athletics, and 1 more. Extracurricular activities include Choir, Orchestra, Theatre, Art, Debate, among others. These programs help students develop teamwork, discipline, and a well-rounded character beyond the classroom.
What accreditations does Collegio Papio hold?+
Collegio Papio holds accreditations from Swiss Federation. These accreditations ensure that the school meets rigorous international standards for academic quality, governance, and student welfare. They also facilitate smoother university admissions processes worldwide.
Where is Collegio Papio located?+
Collegio Papio is located in Ascona, in the canton of Ticino, Switzerland. The campus sits at an altitude of 200m. The school grounds span Historic cloisters and grounds. The location provides students with access to both cultural amenities and the natural beauty of the Swiss landscape.
What are the hidden fees at Collegio Papio?+
Beyond standard tuition, Collegio Papio has additional fees that families should be aware of: Lunch Program: CHF 2’000 (annual); Materials Fee: CHF 600 (annual); Cultural Activities: CHF 800 (annual). These fees total approximately CHF 3’400. It is important to factor in these costs when planning the overall budget for attendance.