Graduation Information
Programs of Study
Students may choose from three LAS academic programs:
- LAS Diploma For ELA (English Language Acquisition)
- ELA Placement Policy
- LAS Diploma
- LAS High School Diploma with Optional AP Courses
LAS Diploma For ELA (English Language Acquisition)
ELA Placement Policy
Students speaking another language at home must take the OOPT or submit TOEFL/IELTS scores for placement. Reassessment may occur before enrollment. The ELA Department reviews progress each semester for advancement. Updates are via PowerSchool. ELA level changes after the semester starts happen only in exceptional cases.
LAS Diploma
LAS High School Diploma with Optional AP Courses
All LAS graduates earn the LAS High School Diploma, accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, including AP and IB students.
The LAS AP program offers college-level courses in 13 subjects, with optional May exams. Scores of 3+ may earn college credit or waive introductory courses at U.S. universities. AP courses also enhance college applications by demonstrating academic rigor. Students are encouraged to explore AP options for university-level experience in a supportive setting.
International baccalaureate (IB)
LAS offers the IB Diploma and High School Diploma. Students can also take individual IB courses for certificates. Guidance helps families decide if IB fits their goals. IB coursework starts in grade 11 and lasts two years.
Principles of the Procedure
Leysin American School follows the IB’s Complaints Procedure (Nov 2018) based on Fairness (Equal treatment for all), Courtesy (Respectful, professional communication), Accessibility (Clear, easy-to-follow process), Timeliness (Prompt resolution), Effectiveness (Regular review for efficiency), Attentiveness (Active listening and updates).
Review & Publication
These procedures are in the LAS Student and Family Handbook and on the school website. Effective August 2024, they will be reviewed biennially, with the next review in April 2026. Approved by the School Operations Committee.
Scope
This procedure aligns with, LAS Code of Conduct, LAS Student and Family Handbook, LAS Guide to Learning in the Diploma Years.
IB Programme Appeals
Students may appeal IB-related decisions by first discussing concerns with the relevant staff member. If unresolved within two weeks, the student or parent contacts the Associate Dean of Diploma Years.
Next steps:
- The Associate Dean and IB Diploma Coordinator investigate and consult stakeholders.
- A meeting with the student, Associate Dean, IB Coordinator, and invited parties follows.
- If unresolved, the Dean of Academics reviews the case.
- If still unsettled, the Head of School makes the final decision.
Complaints should be submitted within three months of the issue.
Formal Complaints
If unresolved, email:
- Dean of Academics: Sabina Lynch (slynch@las.ch)
- Head of School: Marc Ott (mott@las.ch)
Include name & contact details, complaint details, prior resolution attempts, and supporting documents
Acknowledgment is sent within three business days, and a response is provided within 15 business days. LAS may cease correspondence if complaints are frivolous, abusive, or resolved.
For inquiries, contact:
- Associate Dean of Diploma Years: Chris Taylor (ctaylor@las.ch)
- Associate Dean of Preparatory Years: Keri Porter (kporter@las.ch)
- IB Diploma Coordinator: Ronan Lynch (rlynch@las.ch)
- Director of University Advising: Rich Modica (rmodica@las.ch)
Expectations
LAS guarantees respectful, fair handling of complaints, confidentiality, and timely responses.
Students/parents must be respectful and factual, raise concerns promptly, and seek resolution in good faith.
IBDP World Exam Appeals
The IB accepts appeals in:
- Results – Disputes after completing Enquiry Upon Results (EUR).
- Academic Misconduct – Challenging a misconduct ruling (not penalties).
- Special Consideration – Denied requests for adverse circumstances.
- Administrative Decisions – Errors affecting candidate results.
Appeals require a fee, refunded if upheld.
- Stage One: The Head of School or DP Coordinator submits the appeal.
Stage Two: If denied, the candidate, legal guardian(s), Head of School, or DP Coordinator may appeal.
Graduation Requirements
To graduate, students must complete required coursework; ELA students need an IELTS score of 5.5.
The school year runs August–June with two semesters. Students take at least seven classes per semester, earning 24+ credits (0.5 per course per semester).
| Mainstream | ELA | |
| English/ELA | 4 | 7 |
| Modern Language | 3 | 0 |
| Social Studies | 3 | 3 |
| Science | 3 | 3 |
| Math | 3 | 3 |
| 6a. TOK/FOLK | 1 | 1 |
| 6b. Electives, Core, Activities | 7 | 7 |
| Total Units (Miniumum) | 24 | 24 |
Graduation requirements may be adjusted based on a student's previous coursework, as determined by our Admissions Office.