Higher Education Advisor

Haut-Lac International Bilingual School near Vevey (Vaud), Switzerland, is looking for a University Advisor for the Secondary School, starting mid-August 2025. This role offers the opportunity to work with motivated, internationally-minded students in the final years of Secondary school. Reporting directly to the Head of Secondary, the University Advisor’s University Advisor primary responsibility is to provide a comprehensive university and career counselling program, supporting students in their academic and career pathways in alignment with Haut-Lac’s IB curriculum and international aspirations. Applicants should be enthusiastic educators with experience supporting students in their university applications, particularly within international school contexts. This position may be combined with a part-time Guidance Counsellor position (30%) to create a full-time role.

Key Responsibilities:

1. University and Career Guidance:

• Support students in their university application processes, specializing in systems for:
• US universities: including the Common App, essays, financial aid, and standardized testing (SAT/ACT).
• UK universities: including UCAS applications, course selection, and personal statement writing.
• Swiss universities: including program selection, admissions criteria, and language requirements.
• Other European and global Universities: focusing on English-taught programs in countries such as the Netherlands, Ireland, Germany, Spain, Italy and Scandinavian nations.   
• Develop and deliver a structured university counselling curriculum for students in MYP4, 5, IB1 and 2, including assemblies and 1:1 sessions for students and workshops for parents.
• Facilitate career exploration opportunities, such as inviting guest speakers and organizing an annual careers fair.
• Accompany students to local University fairs; organize University fairs and visits at Haut-Lac as appropriate.
• Provide support to students and families over the summer during critical stages, such as IB results release.

1. Collaboration and Advocacy:

• Write detailed and personalized recommendation letters and manage the submission of application documentation (transcripts, reports, teacher recommendations).
• Build and maintain relationships with university admissions officers to support applications and enhance Haut-Lac’s profile.
• Collaborate with teachers, Programme Coordinators, and the Guidance Counsellor to ensure a holistic approach to academic and personal support.

1. Global University Expertise:

• Stay up-to-date on global trends in higher education and emerging opportunities for students.
• Attend relevant yearly conferences, such as the CIS global forum on international admission and guidance.
• Provide guidance on financial aid and Scolarship opportunities in various regions.

Assessment and Administration:

• Administer external assessments such university entrance exams, coordinating preparation and support as needed.
• Advice students on SAT/ACT exam preparation
• Manage and maintain accurate student records, ensuring they are accessible to relevant staff.
• Track and report student application outcomes, using data to refine counselling strategies.

Professional Qualifications and Profile:

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in education, counselling, or a related field.
• Minimum of 4 years’ experience in university counselling, preferably in international schools; knowledge of the Swiss university system is highly desired.
• Familiarity with IB MYP, DP, and CP programs, including university recognition policies for the IB Diploma and the IBCP.
• Experience with university application systems (e.g., UCAS, Common App) and tools like Unifrog, ManageBac, and Turnitin.
• Fluency in English is essential; French language skills are highly desirable.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to support students, parents, and staff.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills, including managing multiple deadlines effectively and crafting recommendation letters.
• Ability to work independently while contributing to a collaborative team environment.

Core Competencies:

• Respect: Demonstrate respect for students’ diverse ambitions and cultural backgrounds.
• Resilience: Adapt to the evolving demands of university admissions processes with confidence and professionalism.
• Sense of Belonging: Foster a supportive and inclusive environment for all students and families.
• Open-mindedness: Embrace diverse career and education pathways, understanding that each student’s journey is unique.

Additional Expectations:

• Travel and work during times of school closure may be required, together with occasional work on evenings and weekends.

We Offer:

• A dynamic and creative working environment.
• A nurturing school community and a modern campus ideally located in the hills above Vevey.

Due to Swiss immigration law, only Swiss citizens, Swiss permit holders, or EU member country passport holders can apply.

Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.