SWITZERLAND
HOME/ SWITZERLAND
Are you considering studying in SWITZERLAND? Switzerland is known for its world-class academic institutions and decentralized education system. Studying in Switzerland offers ample opportunities and scope for international students to grow. Especially popular for its hospitality, medical sciences, and PhD programs, it is an excellent choice to study in Switzerland for international students.
Moreover, it houses many highly ranked universities, an optimum student/faculty ratio, excellent research facilities, and low tuition fees. The fees of each university can vary and are decided by the responsible canton; however, they generally range between 800 and 8000 CHF per semester.
The country is also one of the most preferred studies abroad destinations for students. An important part of studying in Switzerland for students is that they need to meet the requirements set by an individual educational institute and the study visa. The country is safe and houses several reputed multinational companies, thus offering a promising job market. The scope for research and innovation is huge too.
In this comprehensive guide, we will cover all the important aspects of studying in Switzerland. Read further to learn more about the top reasons to study in Switzerland for international students.
Country Information – Benefits to be in SWITZERLAND
Studying in Switzerland, Visiting Switzerland or moving for work to Switzerland! In recent years, Switzerland, one of Europe’s overlooked studies abroad destinations, has experienced a huge boost in interest from prospective students, and we think we know why. The Bologna Education Scheme based on the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS credits) is followed in Switzerland. In this system, the international students can get their educational qualifications transferred to their home institutions. Students can enrol in the following degrees:
- Bachelor’s Degree: It is a full-time undergraduate degree which generally has a 3 years duration. However, specializations like medical and information technology may take up to five years. In a Swiss bachelor’s degree, there are major and minor optional subjects. Students have to complete a total of 180 ECTS credits.
- Master’s Degree: It can be completed within two years. For a PhD or doctoral program, a master’s degree is compulsory. To complete it 90–120 credit hours are required.
- Master of Advanced Studies (MAS): It is a postgraduate degree that generally lasts for 1-2 years and usually consists of independent study, course work, and a master’s thesis. Students would need to complete 60–120 ECTS.
- Doctorate Degree: A doctorate degree takes a total of 3 to 5 years to complete. Also, it requires students to complete 240 ECTS credits.
Moreover, the Swiss academic year is from September to May, having two semesters in an annual year. Students can opt for Italian, German, and English language courses.
Details about Educational institutes, Colleges, Universities
Student have lots of institutions to choose from for education in Switzerland. A desire to pursue higher education and earn a degree doesn’t have to be stressful, boring or something to trudge through especially if you vault over one of the top universities or colleges in Switzerland.
The education system in Switzerland is flexible. The decentralized education system offers a wide array of possibilities for international students to receive a quality education. International students can opt for undergraduate, postgraduate, and PhD programs at prestigious Swiss universities.
The country is home to some of the high-ranked educational institutes. Universities like ETH Zurich, University of Lausanne, University of Zurich, University of Bern, University of Geneva and others are known for their excellence in education globally.
Education in Swiss institutions is offered in different languages, German, French, and English. The best thing about Swiss universities is that they do not ask for English language proficiency test scores from Indian students. If the students know basic English language writing and speaking, they can apply for a program. The IELTS exam is optional, as the majority of universities do not ask for one. Thus, an international student can study in Switzerland without IELTS.
Two Switzerland cities have been featured in the Top 20 Best Student Cities, as per QS Rankings 2023. It is home to 15 companies that are listed under Fortune 500. These companies offer international students a platform to build a rewarding career. As per the Global Innovation Index 2022, Switzerland is the most creative country.
Around 25% of the country’s total population are international students who have settled there after completion of the course. It means Switzerland offers ample permanent residency and employment opportunities.
Switzerland offers partial and full funding opportunities to international students. Scholarships like Swiss Excellence Scholarships for Foreign Students and ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarships offer 100% funding to deserving students.
Switzerland welcomes international students wholeheartedly. The country has a vibrant lifestyle and multicultural environment that allows international students to integrate and mix well with the Swiss way of life.
List of Top Switzerland Universities:
- Swiss Federal Institute of Technology
- Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich
- University of Zurich
- University of Geneva
- University of Basel
- University of Bern
- University of Lausanne
- Università della Svizzera italiana
- University of St. Gallen
- University of Fribourg
- University of Neuchâtel
- University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Western Switzerland
- University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Northwestern Switzerland
- Lucerne University of Applied Sciences
- Bern University of Applied Sciences
- Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies
- University of Lucerne
- Ecole hôtelière de Lausanne
- Eastern Switzerland University of Applied Sciences
- Zurich University of the Arts
- Geneva, Webster University
- Kalaidos University of Applied Sciences
- University of Applied Sciences of Eastern Switzerland
- Zurich School of Education
- Glion Institute of Higher Education
- Zurich University of Applied Sciences
- Swiss Finance Institute
- Geneva School of Art and Design | la Haute école d’art et de design – Genève
- Les Roches-Gruyère University of Applied Sciences
- Les Roches Global Hospitality Education
- International University in Geneva
- University of Human Sciences and Technology
- Taylor Institute for Global Enterprise Management, Franklin College Switzerland
Language Tests or Language requirements
Do I need to pass and ENGLISH LANGUAGE TEST to study in Switzerland? Is the question you must be having in your mind. Let us make it clear and precise for you. If your first language is not English, you’ll need to show excellent language proficiency to apply to a Swiss university.
English Language Tests for International Students: Every university in Switzerland accepts IELTS Academic as well as TOEFL iBT or PBT, and almost all also accept the Pearson Test of English (PTE Academic), and Duolingo.
- IELTS: IELTS is a commonly accepted English test all over the world. The most common requirement to study in Switzerland in an English-language Masters or Bachelor’s degree programme. an IELTS score of 5.5 (with no section below 5.5), an IELTS score of 6.0 (with no section below 5.5), and/or an IELTS score of 6.5 (with no section below 6.0). When applying to universities in Switzerland, keep in mind that the minimum IELTS score required may vary depending on the institution and program.
- TOEFL: TOEFL or Test of English as a Foreign Language is accepted by most Switzerland universities and colleges. A TOEFL PBT overall score of 450–483, a TOEFL iBT an overall score of 70–80, and/or a TOEFL cBT score of 212–237 in the written test with an overall score of 90, When applying to universities in Switzerland, it’s important to research which English proficiency tests are accepted by your desired institutions and programs. The minimum required TOEFL score varies depending on the institution, with a typical range of 60 to 70.
- DUOLINGO: Going a bit virtual, Duolingo English Test is an online English proficiency test gaining popularity among Swiss universities. The Duolingo test also measures the same four language skills but in an adaptive format. Universities accepting Duolingo scores are the University of Eastern Switzerland and Metropolia University of Applied Sciences. The minimum accepted score varies, but most universities require at least 75 out of 160. But as compared to the other two, Duolingo offers an affordable and accessible option for students who need to prove their English proficiency.
- PTE: PTE is accepted by 60% of Swiss schools and universities. It is usually available in over 50 countries. However, it is currently available in 10 countries, including India and Nepal. Results are available immediately. The minimum PTE score required in Switzerland is 55 and it may go up to the highest depending on the course level.
VISA types and Its Understandings
A student visa is a type of visa required by foreign nationals to study and stay in Switzerland for the duration of their studies. A student who is not a citizen of Switzerland but wants to study in Switzerland requires a Switzerland Student Visa to fulfil this purpose. Any foreign student who enrols on a course lasting three months or more in Switzerland will require a student visa.
There are different types of visas meant for people intending to pursue educational activities in Switzerland. The type of visa that you require to travel or migrate to Switzerland depends on your purpose of visit and the number of days you intend to remain there. The Different Types Of Visas To Switzerland: The people who wish to travel to Switzerland have to apply for a visa at least 3 months before the date of travel. Depending on the period of stay the Swiss visas are classified as short-stay visas and long-stay visas.
Type of Visa for Switzerland
- Short Stay Swiss Student Visa (Type C):A Swiss Student Visa is an official document that authorizes international students to stay in Switzerland for enrolment in a Switzerland-based educational institution. The visa is usually valid for the student’s study duration in Switzerland which is less than 90 days.
- Long Stay Swiss Student Visa (Type D): If your study is going to last for more than 90 days, than you need to apply for a Visa D and that gives you access to study in Switzerland for the entire duration of your study. A foreign national who wishes to pursue higher education in Switzerland for more than 90 days require a student visa to Switzerland. A residence permit is also required, to stay in Switzerland legally. You must be over 18 years of age. Proof of enrollment in a college/university that is legally approved in Switzerland.
Admission & VISA Application Process
Admission process explained in a simplified way
Apply for a school in Switzerland
Receive Offer Letter & Pay Initial Fees
Submit Visa Application & Book Biometric at VAC
Attend Visa Interview
Visa Approve or Decline
1. Apply for a school in Switzerland
Before you apply for a student visa you will need to apply for admission into the Undergraduate or Graduate program. Before starting your study abroad in Switzerland, you will have to be admitted and get a study visa. As a potential future student in Switzerland, the first thing you need to do is find a university there that suits your study program. As soon as you have a school in mind then you should apply at the university. If you are not accepted, you won’t receive a student visa. Proof of enrolment is obligatory.
2. Receive Offer Letter & Pay Initial Fees
Now that you have been admitted and you receive a document called Letter of Acceptance from the institution’s international student office. You will be instructed to pay some fees to confirm your admission to the institution. Pay the fees from your bank account for safer transactions and then get Final Offer Letter from the college.
Once you receive your acceptance letter then you can apply for a student visa. In this case, you actually need a residence permit on the basis of studying. The application process for the permit starts by creating a user account. Once you create an account select the application form for a ‘residence permit on the grounds of a study program’ in the e-service.
Fill in the online application with the correct information and submit your application. You must attach scanned copies of the required documents (see above) to your application. If by any chance you can’t fill in an online application then you can visit a local embassy or consulate and fill in a paper application in person.
3. Submit Visa Application & Book your Biometric at VAC
You must submit the student visa application to the Swiss Agency Once you submit your application through the e-service then you have to go to the embassy to prove your identity and submit your fingerprints. Bring all the documents you submitted in the online service with you. Additionally, you must pay the application fee at the embassy/consulate. If you apply in person then similarly you will be asked to submit your fingerprints and pay the fee. You might also be asked to sit for an interview. The interview is just to get a feel of your personality and your reasons why you want to study in Switzerland.
4. Attend Visa Interview
Now is the time to wait for reply from High Commission and based on your application, biometric and details you will be asked to submit documents (if required). Attend the interview.The embassy will ask you to show up for an interview to ask questions related to your application process and education. Then, you must wait to receive an answer whether your application has been accepted or rejected.
5. VISA Approve or Decline
- Once you submit your application you must patiently wait for an answer. The Swiss Immigration Office evaluates students’ applications as a top priority so the processing time will be done as soon as possible.
- The time will vary especially if you are missing anything from your application and the embassy contacts you to submit the missing documents, but, the usual time it takes to review an application is usually sometime between 1 to 3 months. As soon as your application has been approved the Swiss Immigration Office will send your residence card to the embassy where you can then pick it up and leave for Switzerland.
Applying for Student Visa?
Understand the procedure and then only start the visa application process. You are expected to apply six months in advance of your trip. It takes about four to eight weeks to get your visa if you do not forget to submit any documents or have to re-submit them. Here are the steps for applying for your Switzerland student visa:
Eligibility Criteria for Swiss Student Visa: To be eligible for a visa to study in Switzerland you must fulfil the following conditions. These are some of the documents you need to submit during the application for a residence permit:
- Proof of English language proficiency.
- Valid passport. Enclose a valid and original passport with two blank pages for stamping. Your passport must be issued within the last 10 years.
- Visa Application Form. Fill out the application form for a student visa with true information and submit it to the competent authority.
- Passport-size photographs. Attach two recently taken photos within the last six months to your application. Glue one photo to the application and include the other in the documents. Photos should conform to the Schengen requirements.
- Medical insurance. The university in Switzerland should state in the invitation letter whether the medical insurance is covered by them. If not, you must include a document of travel insurance proving you have an amount of €30.000 to cover your medical expenses. The medical insurance must be valid for the whole Schengen Area.
- Letter of acceptance from the university. The letter should contain information on the beginning date of classes and payment information (if applicable).
- Proof of accommodation. If the Swiss University provides accommodation, it must be noted in the invitation letter. If you have to provide an accommodation place for yourself, you must submit a rental agreement with the owner of the building and a property document issued within the last month.
- Proof of paid fee.
- Letter of Motivation.
- Financial status. Everyone must submit a translated bank reference and bank statement of the last six months.
- Students should also submit a letter from the university (in English or translated into English), including the address and contacts of the educational institution, signature, and stamp of the person in charge.
- If there is a lack of income, you should present a sponsorship letter from your parents stating they will cover all costs.
- Copy of marriage certificate with notarized translation into English. (if applicable)
- Visa Fee will not be reimbursed in case of visa refusal.
Dos and Don’ts for Switzerland Student Visa Application: You need to remember the following dos and don’ts while applying for Switzerland student visa.
Dos
- Apply for a student visa at least 5 weeks in advance of your planned travel date to allow enough time for the application procedure to be completed on time for you to join your course.
- Remember that if you are applying online, you can only apply for your visa a maximum of 180 days before your course starts
- Fill up your visa application form carefully with all accurate details.
- Submit all the required supporting documents along with your visa application form.
Don’ts
- Do not present false documents for your visa.
- Do not provide any false information.
- Do not hide or misrepresent facts in your visa application.
Financial requirements, Finances & Cost of Living
How much does it cost to study in Switzerland? Switzerland remains the most preferred among most international students when it comes to popular study-abroad destination options. However, proof of clear available funds is required to pursue studies in Switzerland to cover tuition and living expenses.
How much are the tuition fees in Switzerland?
How to prove funds for Switzerland?
How much does student accommodation costs in Switzerland?
How much does it cost to live in Switzerland?
What financial support is available to international students in Switzerland?
How much are the TUITION FEES in Switzerland?
Switzerland is one of the most popular destinations for university study but, like the UK, Australia, Canada and the US, it is not much expensive.
Swiss universities charge tuition fees, but compared to other countries in Europe they are very affordable.
Tuition fees at public universities: Public Swiss universities receive significant funding from the government. That’s why tuition fees are more affordable when compared to fees charged by universities from the UK or the US. International students who come to Switzerland on an exchange programme don’t pay any tuition fee.
Average tuition fees at Swiss public universities: Bachelor’s and Master’s programmes: 800 – 8,700 EURO/year, PhD degrees: 900 – 9000 EUR/year; Tuition fees at private universities.
Swiss Private universities usually have higher tuition fees that can reach 43,000 EURO per year. Some universities offer a discount if students pay the full amount when they begin the study programme. For some degrees, tuition is calculated based on the total number of courses or credits.
How to prove FUNDS for Switzerland?
In order to pursue your studies in Switzerland, proof of sufficient funds is required to cover tuition and living expenses. You can prove to fund with the following.
International students interested to study in Switzerland must have financial ability to live during their study in Switzerland. If you are a student of outside the European Union you should look at this sponsor money matters. You need to prove that you have sufficient funds available to study and live in Switzerland using your personal bank statement.
Amount: When you apply for the study permit and visa to Switzerland you must provide financial information by providing your personal bank statement. All applicants must prove they can afford their living expenses during their studies. The amount is 13,500 Euros per year.
Proof you paid for tuition and housing. Travellers’ cheque, your international bank account also can be an added document.
A savings book or deposits in a bank (the account has to be accessible from Switzerland). Proof of purchase of traveller’s cheques. A letter of guarantee from a person living in Switzerland or an institution domiciled in Switzerland. A personal bank statement indicating your financial movements (for at least 6 last months).
How much does the student ACCOMMODATION costs in Switzerland?
Accommodation Cost: Rates for accommodation in Switzerland are around 600 – 700 EURO/month, well above the international average of 300 EURO/month. The most common housing choices among international students in Switzerland are: Student halls of residence – between 450 and 800 EURO/month. The number of places is limited. Rent/share an apartment – average prices range between 700 and 1,200 EURO/month. It’s one of the most popular accommodation options among students. You can reduce your costs by sharing the apartment with other students.
How much does it cost to LIVE in Switzerland?
The living costs in Switzerland are comparatively low to other European countries. Costs are naturally higher in major cities such as Budapest. Students in Switzerland should be able to live with approximately €850 per month, allowing enough for not only rent but also for public transport, health insurance, study materials, and a few nights out on the town.
- Transport Cost: Around 11% of students choose to get around by foot, 10% use the bicycle, and another 10% use public transport. A monthly pass for public transportation is around 55 EUR. In major Swiss cities like Zurich, Basel, Bern, Geneva, Lausanne and Neuchâtel, any public transportation ticket is valid on trains, tramways, buses and even ships.
- Cost of Food in Switzerland: Most students choose to buy food from supermarkets and eat out only once in a while. You can expect to pay between 400 – 550 EURO/month for food. Try making most of your shopping after 5 p.m. when many stores offer 25 – 50% discounts on perishable items. Inexpensive restaurants in Switzerland serve meals at prices that range from 16 to 27 EUR per person. Restaurants that serve international cuisine can have lower prices. A good option is the university dining hall, where you would only pay 8 – 10 EURO, or the snack bars or restaurants located in department stores (like Migros, Coop or Manor).
Extra costs and savings: Monthly health insurance: between 250 and 330 EURO. You might be exempt from paying this fee if you meet certain requirements. To make sure students have access to the best insurance out there, we found a reliable partner in Aon. You can easily get advise and insight in costs based on your personal needs: Get free advise now. Books and supplies: 100 EURO/month.
What financial support is available to INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS in Switzerland?
Financial aid comes in many formats: Scholarships, Grants, Assistantships, and Work–Study Schemes. In Switzerland, there are 2 main ways that students can fund their studies–scholarships and financial aid. There are a few scholarships that students can apply for which can help towards living expenses and tuition fees.
Scholarships in Switzerland: International students can get scholarships offered by the Swiss government, based on partnerships established with several countries. Most of these scholarships are granted to postgraduate candidates and researchers. Other funding opportunities are offered by individual universities and other organizations. You should check if you are entitled to receive a scholarship by contacting the Swiss embassy or consulate in your home country.
Other scholarships are offered by some of the Swiss universities; you can benefit from grants ranging from 9,200 EUR to 13,700 EUR, available only for one year, with the possibility of extension, provided you will be academically successful at the end of your first semester of studies. Here are some scholarships offered by the University of Geneva.
Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships for Foreign Scholars and Artists – scholarships awarded by the Federal Commission to foreign artists with a Bachelor’s degree or young researchers with a Master’s or PhD degree.
Student Loan: In some universities, you can apply for an interest-free loan of up to 11,000 EUR per year, which covers up to 40 % of fees and living costs. In Zurich, you can also opt for the solidarity fund for foreign students.
Work Opportunities and Work environment
Currently, Switzerland has announced that there will be a temporary lift in the current work hour restrictions placed on international students in Switzerland. Working in Switzerland as an international student.
- Career Opportunities in Switzerland- Top Organisations: While offering a comparatively stable and flourishing economy, Switzerland is still a smaller market. Hence, there is steady competition for employment, especially since locals are first preferred for jobs over their foreign counterparts as far as many Swiss companies are concerned. International workers, however, have better prospects in leading cities like Geneva, Basel, Bern, Zurich, and Lausanne. Jobs are mostly available throughout the hospitality sector and industries like banking, IT, insurance, engineering, and pharmaceuticals. Those looking to build pharma careers will find openings in Basel, while insurance and banking careers are primarily in demand throughout Zurich. Some of the biggest recruiters in Switzerland include various MNCs such as Glencore, Adecco, Credit Suisse, Roche Group, Nestle, Zurich Insurance, Novartis, ABB, SGS, and even leading global organizations like the World Economic Forum, The United Stations, the Red Cross, the World Trade Organisation, and the International Olympic Committee.
- Highest Paying Jobs in Switzerland: Salaries in Switzerland are amongst the highest throughout the EU/EFTA nations as per reports. Gross wages stood at CHF 6,538 for 2018, according to studies with Zurich offering the highest salaries of CHF 6,965. The highest (per month) salaries in Switzerland include CHF 15,000 for those in top management and public service positions and CHF 10,000 for auditors and tax advisors. Doctors, nurses, medical assistants, and pharmacists usually earn around CHF 10,770-20,000 Legal professionals earn approximately CHF 9,000, while engineers may earn up to CHF 8,420 At the same time, software or IT engineers may earn CHF 7,730, while skilled technicians may earn up to CHF 7,700. Teachers usually earn approximately CHF 7,280 per month. These are some of the highest-paid jobs in Switzerland. The working hours can be long, ranging from 45 to 50 hours a week.
Frequently Asked Questions
Switzerland is relatively expensive when it comes to living costs in comparison to other European countries. The good news is education in Switzerland is affordable. The cost of living for international students will largely depend on the city or location. The cost of accommodation can be shared to keep the living cost manageable. On average, an Indian student needs around 2,250 CHF every monthly. The transportation cost is around 100 CHF, and the accommodation cost varies upon the type of accommodation.
Yes, a permanent residency is available to international students after they have got a Swiss Work Visa. The foreign nationals need to work for 10 years in Switzerland to get a Permit C PR and settle in Switzerland. However, there are exceptions when an international student may earn a PR after five years. If you are proficient in any one of the Swiss official languages or have good relations with the local population, getting a PR becomes easier.
Switzerland has a promising and growing job market with 14 companies listed under Fortune 500. The most in-demand jobs for international students are in the following sectors–engineering, pharmaceuticals, technology, banking, insurance, and analysts. On average, at an entry-level an international student earns approximately 2,200–2,800 CHF per month.
Around 25% of the total population in the country are international students. It speaks for the flexibility in employment opportunities for international students. International students can stay up to six months after completing their course to look for job opportunities. The job market is very promising, and international students get the opportunity to work with Fortune 500 companies.
After arriving in Switzerland, you have 14 days to register at your cantonal migration office. If you’ve acquired a long-stay category D visa, then you’ll also need to apply for a residence permit at your cantonal migration office. You should do this within the first 90 days of your stay, and you’ll need to provide your ID, Swiss visa details, and proof of Swiss address. A successful application will result in a B residence permit, valid for only a year, but you can renew it multiple times. This may take a few weeks to arrive, and you’re not allowed to leave the country during this period.
Almost all institutions in Switzerland offer IELTS waivers for selected bachelor and master’s degree programs, provided they meet academic entry requirements. To make it seamless to study in Switzerland; scholarship and internship programs are also available without IELTS. Some of the renowned Swiss Universities that do not require IELTS are the University of Geneva, University of Bern, University of Lausanne, University of Basel and others.