Studying for a PhD in Switzerland
Studying for a PhD in Switzerland is a goal for many. To apply, you need a strong CV and supervisor approval. Tuition fees vary by university and field, but scholarships and part-time work can help reduce costs. This article covers key facts for successful admission to Swiss PhD programs. MIE Institute consultants offer expert advice on studying in Switzerland.
Note: This info is compiled by Malekpour Institute through Swiss sources and local lawyers and does not imply institute services. Ask your questions in the comments for quick answers.
Conditions for Studying for a PhD in Switzerland
Studying for a PhD in Switzerland has specific conditions that may vary depending on the university and the field of study. Here are some general aspects to consider:
- Acceptance from a reputable university
- High grades
- Master’s degree
- Supervisor
- Health insurance
- Financial resources
- Language proficiency
- No criminal record
Steps for Admission to a PhD Program in Switzerland
Immigration to Switzerland and studying in this country is a very smart choice. To get admission for a PhD in Switzerland, a strong resume is essential. Key factors include publishing ISI articles, providing language certificates (English, Italian, German, or French), a high GPA, academic transcripts, previous diplomas, and awards.
Consulting an immigration lawyer is recommended to avoid application mistakes. The process starts with submitting all documents to the university and professors, followed by an interview with the supervisor for final acceptance.
Required Documents for Admission to a PhD Program in Switzerland
In this section, we will examine the required documents for obtaining admission to a PhD program. For this purpose, the applicant should visit the website of the desired university and obtain the list of documents required for their proposal and field of study. Below, we will review the necessary documents for studying for a PhD in Switzerland:
- Providing a Master’s Degree Certificate
Providing a master’s degree certificate that is relevant to the PhD program is also mandatory in some fields, along with previous educational documents and transcripts.
- CV Resume
Identity information, international publications, research and work experience, and educational history
- Providing a Proposal Related to the Field of Study
In the submitted proposal, all objectives, scope of research, methodology, and expected results must be clearly stated, and the selected supervisor should also be relevant to the field of study and the proposal.
- Providing a Language Certificate
The language certificate that should be submitted depends on the chosen field of the applicant. If the chosen field is taught in English, then providing an English language certificate is mandatory. Otherwise, proficiency in one of the Italian, French, or German languages is required.
Age Conditions for Studying in Switzerland
Age gaps significantly affect university admission and visa chances in Europe, including Switzerland. While there are no strict age limits for PhD studies, applying earlier with fewer education gaps and at a younger age improves scholarship and visa opportunities. The ideal age to apply for a PhD in Switzerland is between 28 and 30, preferably soon after completing a master’s degree.
Language Certificate Required for Admission to a PhD Program in Switzerland
A language certificate is essential for PhD admission in Switzerland. Study languages vary by region: German in the north/center, French in the west, and Italian in the south. Most universities teach in the local language, but some programs are in English. For English programs, an IELTS score of 7 is required; otherwise, students must provide certification in German, French, or Italian based on their chosen field.
Tuition Fees for a PhD in Switzerland
All students in Switzerland pay tuition fees, but government support can reduce costs. PhD tuition typically ranges from €182 to €1,995 per year, with some fields up to €6,145. Some universities charge per semester, so check carefully and multiply the semester fee by six for the full three-year program cost.
Salary for a PhD in Switzerland
Some Swiss universities offer PhD students paid research assistant or temporary employee positions, waiving tuition fees. These roles include benefits like paid vacation, sick leave, and teaching assistance. PhD students should check if their university provides such opportunities and the required documents. The average PhD student salary in Switzerland is around CHF 52,546 per year.
PhD Scholarships in Switzerland
One key advantage of pursuing a PhD in Switzerland is access to scholarships from the Swiss government and universities. These scholarships require a strong CV and high language proficiency. The Swiss Federal Commission (FCS) funds international PhD students based on academic merit, covering living and education expenses. Below are major scholarships available for PhD studies in Switzerland:
- Scholarships from Swiss Universities:
Swiss universities, in addition to government scholarships, offer scholarships to their students. These scholarships may cover tuition, living expenses, or both. The amount of these scholarships varies significantly by university.
- MILTON Scholarship from the University of Geneva:
The conditions for this scholarship include holding a master’s degree in biochemistry or related fields and having proficiency and skills in both French and English. It is specifically for PhD students in the biochemistry field and is a full scholarship.
- Flavor Research Scholarship:
This scholarship amounts to €3,000 and is awarded based on merit.
- Friedrich Naumann Foundation Scholarship:
Outstanding PhD students with remarkable backgrounds will receive this scholarship of €1,200. This scholarship covers all fields except medicine, law, and dentistry.
- PhD Scholarship in Biology and Biomedical Engineering:
The budget for this scholarship is based on the standards of the Swiss National Science Foundation for PhD students. This scholarship focuses on biology topics including epigenetics, cancer mechanisms, and neurobiology.
- Art Scholarships:
This scholarship is tailored for students interested in the arts.
Research Projects for PhD Studies in Switzerland
Research projects for doctoral studies in Switzerland span a wide range of fields, including medicine, environment, engineering, social sciences, and humanities. Swiss universities and research institutions provide numerous opportunities for PhD students to engage in prominent research. Below are some research fields and possible projects for doctoral studies in Switzerland:
- Medical Research
Projects related to cancer biology, immunology, neuroscience, genetics, and regenerative medicine at renowned institutions such as the University of Zurich and the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH Zurich)
- Public Health and Epidemiology
At the Universities of Basel and Geneva, research projects focusing on public health policy, infectious diseases, global health, and epidemiological studies
- Environmental Sciences and Sustainability
At the Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research (WSL) and the University of Lausanne, in areas such as climate change, environmental protection, renewable energy, and sustainable development
- Robotics and Artificial Intelligence
At the Swiss Artificial Intelligence Lab (IDSIA) and the Robotics and Perception group at the University of Zurich, projects on robotics, machine learning, computer vision, and human-robot interaction
- Social Sciences and Humanities
At the University of Bern and the University of St. Gallen, research topics in sociology, psychology, history, linguistics, and philosophy
- Material Sciences and Nanotechnology
At EPFL and the University of Geneva, in fields like material sciences, nanotechnology, biotechnology engineering, and data sciences
These are just a few examples of the vast research opportunities for doctoral studies in Switzerland. PhD candidates should familiarize themselves with specific departments of universities, research centers, and faculty profiles to identify research projects that align with their interests and professional goals. Additionally, collaborating with professors and researchers in Switzerland can create pathways to discover PhD study opportunities and engage in research.
Correspondence with Supervisor or Advisor for Applying to a PhD in Switzerland
A key requirement for a PhD in Switzerland is securing a supervisor. Applicants must contact professors aligned with their research, send their CV, and pass an interview demonstrating language proficiency and clear study goals. Once approved by the supervisor and meeting conditions, students gain admission. The supervisor then guides the student throughout their PhD journey until graduation.
Top Swiss Universities for PhD Programs
It can be stated that Switzerland is home to some of the best universities in the world, ranking among the top 200 globally, nurturing many students every year. These universities accept students at the bachelor, master, and PhD levels. Below, we will present the best Swiss universities for pursuing a PhD, along with their global and national rankings for your reference.
| University Name | Global Rank | Country Rank |
|---|---|---|
| ETH Zurich – Swiss Federal Institute of Technology | 7 | 1 |
| EPFL – École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne | 22 | 2 |
| University of Zurich | 100 | 3 |
| University of Geneva | 155 | 4 |
| University of Bern | 161 | 5 |
| University of Basel | 131 | 6 |
| University of Lausanne | 224 | 7 |
Fields of Study in Switzerland at the PhD Level
Based on the explanations provided in previous sections, Switzerland has various cantons with different languages and universities offering numerous fields of study at the PhD level. We will outline some of the PhD fields of study available in Switzerland for you.
| Degree Program | Faculty/School |
|---|---|
| PhD in International Relations | Geneva School of Diplomacy and International Relations |
| Doctor of Public Health (DPH) | Alfred Nobel Business School |
| PhD in Communication Studies | European College for Liberal Studies |
| PhD in Philosophy of Management | United International Business Schools |
| SSBM DBA Programs | Swiss School of Business and Management |
| PhD in Applied Leadership | Monarch Business School Switzerland |
| SFI PhD Program in Finance | Swiss Finance Institute |
| PhD Program in Digital Studies | Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, University of Lausanne |
| DBA in Business Management | Victoria University Management School |
| PhD in International Management | Royal Academy of Economics and Technology OUS Switzerland |
| DBA (Doctorate of Business Administration) | Alfred Nobel Business School |
| Master’s in Law (LLM) | Alfred Nobel Business School |
| PhD in Global Studies | European College for Liberal Studies |
| Online PhD in Philosophy of Management (PhD) | United International Business Schools |
Advantages of Studying for a PhD in Switzerland
Studying for a PhD in Switzerland offers many benefits, including scholarships that cover tuition and living costs, the ability to work and earn while studying, and residency opportunities for students and their families. These advantages make Switzerland an excellent choice for doctoral studies.
Postdoc Conditions in Switzerland
If you wish to continue your education at the postdoctoral level, Switzerland can be a suitable option for you. The top universities in Switzerland, which are among the best in the world, provide opportunities for candidates in this field. Similar to the PhD level, this stage also has its specific conditions, and scholarship opportunities are available. Some of the necessary conditions include:
- Providing a strong CV (international and research papers, providing previous educational documents with high GPAs, etc.)
- Identity documents
- Letter of motivation
- Providing a language certificate
To start post-doc admission in Switzerland, first create an account and submit all required documents on the university’s website. Communicate with professors to secure admission. Having strong scientific publications and reputable articles boosts your chances and helps secure a good academic job. Post-doc programs usually last 1 to 2 years but can vary based on research scope—the larger the project, the longer the duration.
Family Visa in Switzerland during Doctorate Studies
PhD students in Switzerland can bring their family with them using the family visa, which covers spouses and children under 21. Families can join simultaneously or later and receive residency, allowing them to study in Swiss schools and universities.
Work Conditions after Completing a PhD in Switzerland
PhD graduates in Switzerland have a six-month post-study period to find a job and switch from a student visa to a work permit. With an unemployment rate below 4%, Switzerland offers favorable job market conditions. Working and paying taxes for several years can lead to permanent residency.
Educational Migration to Switzerland
Switzerland has a high foreign population and strict immigration laws. The country enforces quotas for work permits and family reunification, aiming to balance immigration’s economic benefits with social stability. Integration programs help migrants adapt through language and cultural education. Switzerland also ensures access to healthcare, education, and social services for immigrants while preserving its cultural identity.
Frequently Asked Questions About PhD in Switzerland
- What documents are required to obtain admission for a PhD in Switzerland?
- Submission of previous educational documents along with transcripts
- Providing a language certificate
- Providing a strong CV
- What language certificate is required for a PhD in Switzerland?
If the chosen university offers the selected field in English, an IELTS score of 7 is needed; otherwise, depending on the canton and university, proficiency in one of the languages: German, Italian, or French is required.
- Name the top universities for PhD studies in Switzerland?
- ETH Zurich – Swiss Federal Institute of Technology
- Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne
- University of Zurich
- University of Geneva
- University of Bern
- University of Basel
- University of Lausanne
- Is it possible to continue PhD studies in Switzerland for free?
If you qualify for various scholarships that the Swiss government and universities have allocated based on necessary conditions and qualifications, studying for free will be possible.
Conclusion:
Pursuing a PhD in Switzerland requires supervisor approval and a strong academic background. Top Swiss universities offer funded doctoral programs across various fields, often with salaries. A PhD can also be a pathway to residency for you and your family. While this guide provides essential insights, consult MIE’s expert advisors for personalized support on PhD studies and immigration to Switzerland.
