Study in Switzerland
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Switzerland is bordered by other popular nations like Liechtenstein, France, Germany, and Austria. Recently, Switzerland has also seen a significant number of international students, almost 98,000, which is a remarkable increase of 20% compared to the previous year.
Switzerland also emerged as a premier destination for offering world-class and conducive learning experiences. Education in Switzerland also has a rich history with some of the world's oldest and most prestigious universities.
It is also one of Europe's most diverse, multicultural, and safest countries. There are Universities in Switzerland like Zurich, Ecole Polytechnique Federale de Lausanne (EPFL), and Geneva, which are among the country's oldest and finest institutes and are consistently ranked among the top 100 institutions of the world according to the QS world rankings.
To enter legally as a student to study in Switzerland, the student must apply for a Switzerland study visa. A Switzerland study visa enables an international student to study abroad in Switzerland. The Switzerland student visa is quite structural, hassle-free, and straightforward, similar to those of the European countries.
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Part-time Employment opportunities: To go abroad in Switzerland, whether to study or work, can be expensive, and to cover these costs, Switzerland also provides international students the opportunity to work part-time along while they study in Switzerland
The success rate of the Switzerland study visa is more than 90%, and a rejection rate of 12.1%
The Swiss education system remains to secure a top-ranking place in the list of top 10 education systems of the world. Switzerland has 26 cantons, and every canton is responsible for its educational matters, including compulsory education. The Swiss education system is divided into three parts namely:
Universities in Switzerland stand as a beacon of academic excellence. In the last few years, admissions at the colleges of Switzerland (UIT, UAS, or UTE) have increased by 18%. As of now, approximately 276,500 students are enrolled in these universities in Switzerland. This is the list of top universities in Switzerland:
QS Ranking |
University |
Average annual tuition Fee (INR) |
Best courses available |
7 |
ETH Zurich – Swiss Federal Institute of Technology |
1.2 L |
Engineering and Natural Sciences |
36 |
Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne |
1.2 L |
Bioengineering and Research |
91 |
University of Zurich |
1.3 L |
Comprehensive research |
126 |
University of Bern |
1.5 L |
Interdisciplinary research |
124 |
University of Basel |
1.5 L |
Medicine and Humanities |
220 |
University of Lausanne |
1 L |
Law and Criminal justice |
128 |
University of Geneva |
90 K |
International studies |
328 |
Universita della Svizzera Italiana(USI) |
3.5 L |
Computer Science and Research |
436 |
University of St Gallen (HSG) |
3.2 L |
Business administration |
563 |
University of Fribourg |
1.8 L |
Architecture |
Usually, the bachelor’s degree programs in hospitality management last 3.5 years. There are other courses, such as higher diploma courses. Also, some hospitality institutes in Switzerland give students to take up higher education in Ecole Hoteliere de Lausanne or other partner institutes to transfer their credits and convert the higher diploma into a degree in Hospitality. Here is a list of some of the best universities in Switzerland, along with their location.
Best University in Switzerland |
Location |
Glion Institute of Higher education |
Montreaux and Gillon |
Ecole Hoteliere de Lausanne |
Lausanne |
Les Roches International school of Management |
Crans Montana |
Cesar Ritz colleges |
Le Bouveret |
Business and Hotel Management school Lucerne |
Lucerne |
Swiss school of Tourism and Hospitality |
Passugg |
Hotel Institute |
Montreaux |
University of Applied sciences HTW |
Chur |
Switzerland is a country of wealth and education that offers a range of world-class master's degrees. Switzerland today is leading in scientific research and has some of the largest science laboratories in the world. Here are some of the top universities in Switzerland for Masters.
Name of the University |
Popular Master’s programs |
Average annual fees |
Architecture, Geomatics, Civil Engineering, Management and Technology & International studies |
CHF 1740 |
|
EPFL |
Communication System, Cyber security, Financial engineering, Applied Physics & Micro engineering |
CHF 1560 |
Neutral systems and Computation, Economics, Banking and Finance, Law & Dental medicine |
CHF 1440 |
|
Economics, European studies, Astrophysics, Speech and Language therapy, Political science & capitalism |
CHF 1000 |
|
Artificial Intelligence, Biomedical science, Business administration, Psychology, World Literature |
CHF 1420 |
|
Anthropology, Animal Biology, Business and Technology, Computer science &Data science |
CHF 1700 |
|
Medical Biology, Law, Management, Digital Humanities, Nursing sciences |
CHF 1160 |
|
International tourism, Communication, management & Health, Media Management, Finance and Architecture |
CHF 8000 |
|
Computer Science, Accounting & Finance, Economics, International law, Marketing Management |
CHF 2830 |
|
Philosophy, Business communication, Biochemistry, Contemporary History, Ethics and economics |
CHF 1440 |
Switzerland provides international students with a wide range and spectrum of courses, from limited to popular and futuristic courses. These courses add value to academic education, improve students' learning experience, and help develop practical skill sets with real-time experiences in their chosen field. Few educational programs have grown higher in demand, and here is an overview:
Do you want to pursue an MBA in Switzerland?
Programme |
Courses to Pursue |
Description |
Top Universities |
Engineering |
Mechanical, Electrical And Civil |
Universities for engineering in Switzerland are highly ranked and offer wide range of programs. There are 160 engineering study programs in Switzerland. |
ETH Zurich, Ecole Polytechnique Federale de Lausanne and Zurich University of Applied Sciences. |
Technology |
Information Systems, Computer Science, Cyber security |
Studying technology in A Swiss university is quite affordable and often guarantees a well-paid career. |
ETH Zurich, Ecole Polytechnique Federale de Lausanne and University of Zurich. |
Healthcare |
Nursing, MBBS, Pharmacy |
Studying healthcare in Switzerland has a lot to offer. Swiss Healthcare is also globally one of the bets in the world |
University of Basel, University of Bern and University of Geneva. |
Hospitality And Tourism |
Tourism and Hospitality Management, Hotel Management, International Hospitality and Tourism Management |
Switzerland is globally recognized for its hospitality and tourism which has become a natural choice for the students to select. You can get a nuanced understanding about the tourism and hospitality industry. |
Glion Institute of Higher Education, Cesar Ritz Colleges Switzerland and EHL Hospitality Business School. |
Business Administration and Management |
MBA, Strategy and Digital Business |
There are about 41 universities in Switzerland that offer courses in Business administration and around 58,000 students apply for this course. Switzerland is an excellent choice to study and do business. |
University of St.Gallen, Rushford business school, Geneva Business school |
Banking And Finance |
Global Banking Finance, Wealth Management |
Switzerland is one of the leading banking centers of the world and the major banks of the world are situated there. You can also get an opportunity to learn from the experts from top international organizations and financial institutions. |
University of Salford, Swiss school of business and Management |
International Relations |
Bachelors Masters |
International Relations is a thriving course in the universities of Switzerland which fosters understanding of the various strategic issues of globalization and provide their students with unique perspective on social sciences. |
Robert Kennedy College, EU business School, University of Geneva |
The state government of Switzerland offers international students of all disciplines various governmental/non-governmental scholarships in public-funded recognized universities through the Federal Commission for Scholarships for Foreign Students (FCS). The following is an overview of scholarships offered in Switzerland.
Name of the Scholarship |
Eligibility |
Amount in CHF (per year) |
Swiss government excellence Scholarships for Foreign Students |
Post graduate researchers or Ph.D./Doctorate student of any subject |
18,756 CHF |
International students pursuing masters at ETH Zurich |
12,000 CHF |
|
Pursue masters grant at the university of Lausanne |
19,200 CHF |
|
Geneva Academy of International Humanitarian Law and Human rights Scholarships |
International students who pursue International Humanitarian Law and Human rights and masters of advanced studies in Transitional justice, Human rights and rule of law |
18,000 CHF |
Nestle MBA scholarships for women from developing countries |
Female students from developing countries pursuing MBA degree |
25,000 CHF |
UNIL Master’s grants in Switzerland for foreign students |
International students who pursue master’s degree at university of Lausanne |
19,200 CHF |
EPFL Excellence Fellowships for Master's Students |
Students enrolled in the Post graduated programs in EPFL |
16,000 CHF |
Students enrolled in MSc. Degree at University of Geneva |
10,000-15,000 CHF |
The application process for Swiss universities is fairly very straightforward and simple. Here are all the necessary steps international students need to follow to apply to Universities in Switzerland.
Step 1: Research thoroughly and choose the desired university and program in Switzerland.
Step 2: Check the eligibility criteria given for the university and the course.
Step 3: Completely fill in all the personal and professional details required for the Swiss university Application.
Step 4: Prepare and submit Documents required for the Application as required
Step 5: Apply for the Switzerland student visa
To study in Switzerland, international students need a Switzerland student visa. No matter the type of visa, all international students in Switzerland need to apply for a residence permit within 14 days of arrival. The Switzerland student visa has various benefits that improve the overall academic experience in Switzerland. Below are the two types of Switzerland student visas required to study in Switzerland.
Schengen Type C short term visa |
National Type D long term visa |
This is a short term visa for students who plan to stay in Switzerland for a short duration course. |
This is a long term visa for people who stay in Switzerland for a long Duration with a possibility of extension. |
Duration of 3 months (90 days) |
Duration of more than 3 months (90 days) |
Can be submitted online |
Has to be submitted through a local Swiss embassy or a consulate. |
For students who applied for summer schools,seminar,language programs |
For students who applied for full time program like undergraduate course or PHD |
Processing takes 2-4 weeks |
Processing takes 8-12 weeks or even longer |
Recommended to apply at least 3 months before |
Recommended to apply at least 3-6 months before |
The processing time for a Swiss student visa application varies depending on the type of visa the student has applied for. The short-term visa for Switzerland takes 10-15 days, whereas the long-stay visa application takes about 8-10 weeks. It is always suggested that students apply for visas in advance as a priority (10 weeks before departure) as soon as they receive an acceptance from the desired institution In Switzerland. Even if a Switzerland student visa gets denied due to some conditions, they still have time to re-appeal or take action, given that they have applied well in advance.
Students applying for the Switzerland student visa must pay the non-refundable application fee, which is 88 CHF. However, if students need a visa outside working hours, it charges around 47 CHF as an additional surcharge. The payment can be made online or with a credit card. However, some additional financial costs go beyond the application fee that applicants must consider:
Additional Financial Costs |
Fee (CHF) |
Visa application fee |
88 |
Documentation and Translation |
50-151 |
Residence Permit |
162 |
Health Insurance |
101-505 |
Notarization |
10-50 |
Students applying for a Switzerland student visa must fulfill a certain set of eligibility requirements for admission to Swiss universities. These are some documents that prove a student’s validity and their intentions to study in Switzerland for Indian students. Here is a list of eligibility requirements for study in Switzerland for Indian students:
A valid passport or an identification card (3 months beyond stay)
Three completely filled and signed visa applications for long-stay visa form
Four passport-size photographs clicked recently
A letter of acceptance issued from the desired accredited Swiss university recognized by authorities
Bank statements proving adequate financial means to support your stay in Switzerland.
Proof of the Payment of the university tuition fees, either copy or original
CV / Resume highlighting your academic background
A written statement stating you intend to leave Switzerland upon completion of your studies.
Proof of scholarships or loans, if applicable
Financial funds of an 18,048 CHF minimum annually
Students under the age of 18 need consent forms and other additional documents
Valid health insurance coverage for Switzerland.
A police clearance from the home country proving the clean criminal record of the applicant
Certificate proving Language proficiency in one or more Swiss languages (German, French, Italian or Roman)
Address of the place of residence as proof of accommodation in Switzerland
Cover Letter stating the motivation for coming to Switzerland to study.
No objection certificate issued by the School or the previous institute
Transcripts, certificates, and diplomas from previous educational institutions translated either into German, French, Italian, or Roman
Switzerland has various options for students seeking education in different fields. Research and weighing options are crucial to understanding what suits you the best. Education today is more about investment than expenditure. Studying in Switzerland can be an experience of a lifetime, but it still comes with a lot of figuring out the additional expenses. Studying in Switzerland costs 2,000 CHF-5000 CHF and depends upon the college or the university you choose.
Particulars |
Cost per month(CHF) |
Accommodation (Rent) |
400-1000 CHF |
Utilities (Electricity,Water,Gas) |
98 CHF |
Internet |
39 CHF |
Mobile Phone |
33 CHF |
Groceries |
260 CHF |
Food |
400-500 CHF |
Public Transportation |
100CHF |
Health Insurance |
400 CHF |
Entertainment |
98 CHF |
Accommodation: Accommodation is quite costly in Switzerland. Smaller towns like Bern and Basel are comparatively cheaper than the big, bustling urban cities like Zurich, Lausanne, and Geneva. Some universities also offer housing accommodation, which makes student living a little more affordable by an average of 1800 CHF. The prices of this university accommodation also depend upon size, amenities, and location. Here is a breakdown of accommodation in Switzerland:
Type of accommodation |
Average Monthly rent (CHF) |
On-campus Accommodations/University Dormitory |
600-1000 CHF |
1 Bedroom Apartment (in the city center) |
1800 CHF |
1 Bedroom Apartment (outside the city center) |
1450 CHF |
3 Bedroom Apartment (in the city center) |
3176 CHF |
3 Bedroom Apartment (outside the city center) |
2500 CHF |
Food: A typical meal in Switzerland ranges from CHF 15-20, and a luxury meal. On average, you will require 347 CHF monthly for food and groceries. Eating out in expensive restaurants can be costly. Making the most of weekly sales, buying groceries in bulk, and opting for seasonal produce can keep you within your budget. Here is a breakdown of food expenses in Switzerland:
Food / Grocery Options |
Average Cost (CHF) |
Groceries |
200-500 CHF |
Eating out |
2-40 CHF (per meal) |
Transportation: Commutation is also slightly expensive in Switzerland and contributes to one of the significant expenses. Opting for a personal vehicle or biking throughout the city can majorly reduce costs. Students can also get their monthly transit pass, which allows them to use public transportation in the town. Here is a breakdown of transportation costs in Switzerland:
Mode of Transportation |
Average Cost (CHF) |
Local Transport (1 Way Ticket) |
3.50 CHF |
Local Transport Monthly Pass |
80 CHF |
Taxi |
4-69 CHF |
Tuition fee: Some of the most prestigious universities are in Switzerland, with an average tuition fee ranging from 1000 to 4000 CHF per semester. The tuition fee for public universities is cheaper than that of private universities. The cost of the course also depends upon the type of institution, program, and location you choose.
Type of degree |
Average tuition fee per semester |
Undergraduate |
700-6,500 CHF |
Post Graduate |
700-6,000 CHF |
Full time MBA programs |
30,000-85,000 CHF (yearly) |
Switzerland’s labor market has always been well-regulated, which also ensures fair working conditions. International students can work only 15 hours a week and full-time jobs during the semester breaks. For part-time employment, a work permit is required from the employer. The minimum wage as of 2024 is 24 CHF. There are multiple part-time employment options in Switzerland, and some of them are:
Part Time Jobs |
Average salary (per hour) |
Research assistant |
28 CHF |
Sales Advisor |
23 CHF |
Store Assistant |
25 CHF |
Sales Assistant |
24 CHF |
Travel Assistant/Tourist guide |
20 CHF |
According to Eurostat, the employability rate in Switzerland is 79.30%, and the technology sector employs over 3 lakh people. Like its natural beauty, Switzerland has a strong and thriving economy with plenty of job opportunities in tourism, retail, media, agriculture, bank and insurance, etc. Almost one-third of the international students are engaged in the banking and finance sector right after graduation. The hospitality sector, which has always remained relevant and evergreen in Switzerland, is also booming due to the presence of natural landscapes and has more potential to generate employment in the upcoming years. Here are some of the leading sectors employing in Switzerland:
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Highest paying Occupation |
Top Recruiters |
Average Salary (Per year CHF) |
Banking and Finance |
HSBC Deutshe Bank Citi Goldsman Sachs |
80,000-130,000 CHF |
Computer Science |
Meta IBM Swisscom Novartis |
76,000-146,000 CHF |
Engineering and Technology |
Capgemini EPAM system UBS CERN |
90,000-125,000 CHF |
Healthcare Sciences |
Takeda Pharmaceuticals Novo Nordisk Biogen Acino |
40,000-200,000 CHF |
Hotel and Hospitality |
McDonald’s Suisse Swiss Scorell Hotels Intercontinental Davos |
60,000-150,000 CHF |
Sales and Marketing |
Vanksen Avesta Solutions ThirdBrain |
81,000-90,000 CHF |
Human Resource Management |
Adecco Swisslinx Micheal Page |
90,000-110,000 CHF |
STEM |
Moxee Mason Harding Walker Cole International |
80,000-110,000 CHF |
Cantons and their average minimum wages
Name of the Canton |
Average minimum wages (Per hr CHF) |
Neuchatel |
21 CHF |
Jura |
20 CHF |
Ticino |
25 CHF |
Basel Stadt |
24 CHF |
Geneva |
21 CHF |
Y-Axis can assist by giving more vital support to aspirants who wish to study in Switzerland. The support process includes,
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