Studying in Switzerland
Studying in Switzerland is increasingly popular and in demand among many international students today. Switzerland is one of the top educational destinations in the world, known for its high-quality educational system, and its renowned universities, such as the University of Zurich, the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich (ETH Zurich), and the University of Lausanne, rank highly in global rankings.
Applicants looking to immigrate to Switzerland through education need to meet certain conditions:
- Proof of education: High school diploma (for bachelor’s) or bachelor’s degree (for master’s), officially translated into English, German, French, or Italian.
- CV: Detailing academic history, skills, and relevant experience.
- Motivation letter: Explaining why you want to study in Switzerland.
- Language proficiency: IELTS (6–6.5), TOEFL (80–90), or equivalent German/French tests like DELF/DALF.
- Financial proof: Show at least 21,000 CHF for yearly living expenses.
- Health insurance: Valid for Switzerland.
- Visa application form: Properly completed and signed.
Switzerland offers various scholarships for international students, including the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships, which cover tuition and living expenses. You can reach out to the experts of Malekpour Institute for free consultation on any migration-related questions you may have. You can also raise your questions in the comments section and receive responses promptly.
Advantages of Studying in Switzerland
Switzerland is a developed country in Europe with many reputable universities. Many international applicants seek to apply to Switzerland every year. With acceptance from a Swiss university, you can access the best educational institutions in Europe and benefit from quality living and job opportunities in this country.
The advantages of studying in Switzerland include:
- Very high security
- Reputable universities
- Different scholarships
- Work permit during studies
- Excellent welfare conditions
- Possibility of obtaining residency after studies
Conditions for Studying in Switzerland
Studying in Switzerland is one of the best options for international students due to its reputable universities, high-quality education, and focus on research. Switzerland has a multilingual educational system (German, French, Italian, and English) that allows for education in various languages.
Studying in Switzerland requires certain conditions, which will be addressed below:
- Having a language certificate for admission, it is possible to study in German, French, Italian and English.
- No criminal record
- Having a previous academic degree
- Having sufficient financial means to cover living and educational expenses
Studying in Switzerland at Various Levels
Studying in Switzerland and obtaining residency requires meeting specific conditions, including securing a Swiss student visa through the Swiss Immigration Office.
The education system follows the Bologna Process and ranges from optional preschool (Kindergarten) to mandatory primary school (ages 7–15), optional high school (Gymnasium or vocational Berufslehre), and higher education at universities (Universität) or Universities of Applied Sciences (Fachhochschulen).
Studying in schools in Switzerland is free, and the public universities in Switzerland include 9 state universities and 2 federal universities specializing in technical fields. Moreover, there are many regional vocational and technical universities in Switzerland.
Among the advantages of studying in Switzerland, the following points can be highlighted.
- The presence of quality universities
- High-level welfare and social services
- Very stable economic situation
- Membership in the Schengen Agreement and the possibility of easy visa-free travel in this area
- Possibility of part-time work while studying
Studying in Swiss Schools
Swiss schools are world-renowned gateways to top universities and prestigious careers. International students can study in Swiss boarding schools offering excellent education and welfare facilities, including expert teachers, modern labs, libraries, and sports halls.
Class sizes are small, with 2 to 15 students per teacher, ensuring personalized attention. Tuition fees range from €50,000 to €120,000 per year. Students learn 3 to 4 languages and receive academic, mental, and physical development support.
Admission is for ages 9 to 18, making Swiss boarding schools a top choice for quality education and global opportunities.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Class Size | 2 to 15 students |
| Tuition Fees | €50,000 to €120,000 per year |
| Languages Offered | 3 to 4 languages |
| Age of Admission | 9 to 18 years |
| Boarding Facilities | Meals, curriculum, entertainment, medical care |
Depending on the school you choose for your education, you can benefit from amenities such as the following.
| Meals | Extracurricular activities such as basketball, football, golf, skiing, gymnastics, swimming and yoga |
| Dormitory with single, double rooms, etc. | Teaching 2 or 3 languages |
| Sports, artistic and cultural activities | Small classes |
| Monitoring of students’ homework | Modern classrooms |
| Daily activities | Equipped laboratories |
Studying in Swiss Colleges
For many international students, studying in Swiss boarding schools is a common pathway to universities. Swiss colleges focus on professional training, language courses, and preparing students for university-level education.
Colleges offer easier acceptance and flexible yet rigorous programs, allowing faster progression to master’s degrees. Benefits include focused academic work, small classes, a democratic atmosphere, modern curricula, specialized internships, and lower tuition fees—typically 1.5 to 2 times less than universities. Below are some top Swiss colleges.
- Collège de Léman
- St. Georges School Montreux
- Champittet College
- St. Charles College and Lyceum
- Lyceum Alpinum Zuoz
- Beau Soleil College
- Aigle College Switzerland
- Institut auf dem Rosenberg
- Lemania College Lausanne
- Malvern College Switzerland
Studying in Switzerland at the Bachelor’s degree
Studying bachelor’s degree in Switzerland requires having a valid diploma. Postgraduate studies in Switzerland follow the Bologna Process, aligning with the unified European education system. A bachelor’s degree typically takes three years and is officially recognized by the Swiss Ministry of Education. Students can work part-time up to 10 hours per week.
| Level | Bachelor’s Degree |
|---|---|
| Duration | 3 years |
| Work Permit | 10 hours per week |
| Language of Instruction | German, Italian, French |
Bachelor’s programs are offered in German, Italian, and French across various fields. Popular study areas include engineering, pharmacy, natural sciences, humanities, business, mathematics, and computer science.
Studying in Switzerland at Master’s degree
Studying for a master’s degree in Switzerland requires a valid bachelor’s degree in the same field and an IELTS score of 6.5. Some universities accept an IELTS score of 6 with an additional fee. Swiss postgraduate programs follow the Bologna Process (European unified education system).
Master’s programs last 1.5 to 2 years and are mostly taught in English. Graduates receive a master’s degree recognized by the Swiss Ministry of Education. Students can work up to 20 hours per week during their studies.
| Level | Master’s Degree |
|---|---|
| Duration | 1.5 to 2 years |
| Work Permit | 20 hours per week |
| IELTS Score | 6.5 |
Common fields of study for master’s degree in Switzerland include international affairs, economics, engineering, computer sciences, business, communications, and international business.
Studying PhD in Switzerland
Studying PhD in Switzerland requires having a valid master’s degree and passing in the same field and level. PhD programs in Switzerland are typically research-based and often funded, with low or no tuition fees.
Admission requires a strong academic and research background, as well as approval from a supervisor. These programs follow the Bologna Process and last 3 to 4 years.
| Level | PhD Degree |
|---|---|
| Duration | 3 to 4 years |
| Work Permit | 20 hours per week |
| IELTS Score | 6.5 and above |
To qualify, applicants must have a relevant master’s degree. Students can work up to 20 hours per week during their PhD studies. Application reviews usually begin on February 1 and end on February 15. Admission is highly competitive, especially in fields like computer science, electrical and mechanical engineering. Even a degree from a top university does not guarantee acceptance.
Internship Programs in Switzerland
One of the best educational programs in Switzerland is the internship program. We have named these courses work-study because you both study and work and receive a salary. These programs come with a job guarantee. This means that you study for 6 months and work for 6 months.
With the salary earned during the internship, you will almost recover the tuition fees paid. You will receive about 2,000 Swiss Francs monthly during the internship.
| Course Type | Internship Program |
|---|---|
| Conditions | 6 months study, 6 months work |
| Income | Approximately 2,000 CHF/month |
| Fields of Study | Management, Tourism Management, Hospitality, MBA |
Tuition Fees in Switzerland
Studying in Switzerland is offered through public, private, and scholarship-based universities, with tuition fees varying by institution, level, and field. International schools are private, costing between 50,000 to 120,000 Euros per year.
Bachelor’s programs at public international universities cost 800 to 1,300 Euros annually. Master’s degrees typically cost around 1,600 Euros per year. PhD studies are mostly scholarship-based, often with paid research opportunities.
| Expense Type | Amount (Euros) |
|---|---|
| Private Schools | 50,000 to 120,000 |
| Bachelor’s at Public International Universities | 800 to 1,300 |
| Master’s Degree | 1,600 per year |
| Private Universities in Switzerland | 1,500 to 16,000 |
| Living Costs for One Person in Switzerland | 650 to 2,500 |
| Housing Rent in Switzerland | 450 to 1,000 |
| Student Insurance | 250 to 330 |
Swiss Scholarships
Swiss scholarships fall into two main types: elite scholarships for international students and research scholarships for PhD candidates, offered by 10 non-technical and several technical universities. These scholarships cover full tuition and provide a monthly living allowance.
They are highly competitive and require a strong academic and research background. Applicants must secure a supervisor as part of the admission process. Benefits include 1,920 CHF monthly, 300 CHF for housing, and a 1.5-year transport card. Programs typically last three years and are for students born after December 31, 1983.
The names of universities that provide scholarship services to international universities are as follows:
| Non-Technical Universities | Technical Universities |
|---|---|
| Basel | EPFL (École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne) |
| Bern | ETHZ (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich) |
| Fribourg | IHEID (Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies) |
| Geneva | |
| Lausanne | |
| Lucerne | |
| Neuchâtel | |
| St. Gallen | |
| Zurich | |
| Italian Switzerland (Ticino) |
The deadline for applying for this scholarship is from August 2 to November 15 each year.
Possibility of Free Study in Switzerland
One of the main concerns for international students is the cost of studying in Switzerland. Free education is not available at the bachelor’s and master’s levels—even in public universities, students must pay tuition. However, tuition fees are generally lower than in countries like the UK.
At the PhD level, it is possible to study for free in Switzerland, especially if students secure research positions or assistantships. To reduce costs, students can apply for scholarships or work part-time during their studies. Strong academic records improve the chances of receiving financial aid.
Most Popular Fields of Study in Switzerland
The most popular fields of study in Switzerland include engineering, business management, computer sciences, medicine, and tourism, which have gained immense popularity among international students due to high-quality education and suitable job opportunities.
Additionally, fields in natural sciences and international relations hold significant importance due to Switzerland’s unique position. Popular study fields in Switzerland include law, political science, economics, and engineering (mechanical and electrical).
Introduction to Top Universities in Switzerland
Studying in Swiss technical and non-technical universities follows the European education system with high academic standards. Swiss universities are divided into traditional universities and universities of applied sciences.
Applied universities focus on work-study programs, combining 1-2 days of classes with 3 days of professional work weekly, usually lasting six years. Admission can be through Berufslehre (apprenticeship).
In the following sections, we will introduce the universities in this country:
| Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL) | University of Basel |
| Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich (ETHZ) | University of Bern |
| Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies (IHEID) | University of Fribourg |
| Bern University of Applied Sciences | University of Geneva |
| University of Applied Sciences Western Switzerland | University of Lausanne |
| University of Applied Sciences Eastern Switzerland | University of Lucerne |
| Universities of Teacher Education | University of Neuchâtel |
| University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland | University of St. Gallen |
| Università della Svizzera italiana | University of Zurich |
Studying in Switzerland Without a Language Certificate
If you plan to study in Switzerland without a language certificate, most universities still require proof of German, French, or English proficiency. You can study in German- or French-taught programs by providing certificates in those languages.
Some English-speaking universities accept applicants with an IELTS score of 5, but they must complete bridging language courses before starting. Studying without a full language certificate is possible but requires conditional acceptance and additional language preparation.
Required Documents for Studying in Switzerland
After receiving acceptance from Swiss universities, you must apply for a student visa. The very positive aspect of the Swiss student visa is that if you have been accepted, you have over a 90% chance of getting the visa. To study in Switzerland and obtain a Swiss student visa, having and providing the necessary documents is a requirement. Below is a list of documents required to obtain a Swiss student visa or Type D visa:
| Visa application form | 2 letters of recommendation |
| Passport photo | Translation of your latest academic degree |
| Passport valid for at least 90 days | Medical health certificate |
| Motivation letter | Visa application fee payment |
| Research proposal | Receipt of university tuition payment |
| Confirmation of having a supervisor | Receipt of financial means in the form of a bank deposit for the duration of your studies |
Health insurance is mandatory for all students who plan to stay in Switzerland for more than three months. However, preliminary medical care is accessible for EU students using an EU health insurance card. Switzerland is considered a very safe country to live in, and violent crime is rare. Although gun-related crimes are low, Switzerland has one of the highest per capita rates of gun ownership in the world.
Conditions for Obtaining a Job Search Visa After Study and Accompanying Visa
There is a possibility of obtaining a job search visa for 6 months for international graduates from Swiss universities.
Bringing companions through the Swiss student visa is only possible with a permanent residency permit in Switzerland, known as C, which can be obtained after 10 years of living in the country. Therefore, it is only possible to live alongside a student through a short-term B visa without the possibility of work, valid for a maximum of 1 year.
Accommodation Conditions in Swiss Student Dormitories
Many Swiss universities offer dormitories for international students, which may be located either on-campus or off-campus. The type of dormitory and its cost depends on the city where the university is located, with typically costs ranging from 500 to 800 Swiss Francs (approximately about 539 to 863 dollars) per semester.
Additionally, the average cost of living for students in Switzerland is estimated to be around 1,600 Swiss Francs (approximately 1,726 dollars) per month.
Student Health Insurance While Studying in Switzerland
Although the Swiss government has a universal healthcare system, free healthcare services are not provided to international students. All bachelor, master, and PhD students are required to have private health insurance to study in Switzerland. Private health insurance in this country includes coverage for specialized treatments, dentistry, and other personal healthcare services.
Most health insurance companies in Switzerland require international students to pay costs in advance, and then students must submit a request form along with a payment receipt or invoice to the insurance company.
Permanent Residency and Swiss Citizenship through Study
Studying does not lead to permanent residency in Switzerland. Applicants cannot obtain permanent residency in Switzerland solely through studying. After graduation, they must leave the country unless they switch to another type of residency.
To gain Swiss permanent residency, graduates must find a job related to their field, obtain a work permit, and work in Switzerland for at least 5 years while paying taxes. This path can eventually lead to permanent residency and Swiss citizenship.
After 10 years, if they have a complete understanding of the culture and language of this country and have not committed any crimes, they can apply for a Swiss passport.
Frequently Asked Questions About Studying in Switzerland
- Is studying in Switzerland free?
No. To study at Swiss universities, you must pay tuition unless you receive a scholarship.
- Is it possible to study in Switzerland without a language certificate?
To avoid reducing the chance of receiving a visa, it is recommended to present a language certificate.
- Can you get scholarships from Swiss universities?
Scholarships are usually granted at the doctoral level, and you must present a solid background including a high language score, published articles in international scientific journals, high GPA, etc.
- Can you work in Switzerland after completing your studies?
After graduation, you are given the opportunity to seek work in Switzerland. If you are employed in a suitable position, you can change your residency type to a work permit.
- Is it possible to study in Switzerland in English?
Yes, studying in Switzerland in English is possible in many fields and reputable universities, especially at master’s and doctoral levels. This opportunity is very suitable for international students who are proficient in English.
- What are the conditions for studying architecture in Switzerland?
The conditions for studying architecture in Switzerland include having a relevant diploma, providing a portfolio of designs, and proving proficiency in the required languages (German, French, or English). Additionally, admission to reputable universities requires passing assessment stages and specialized interviews.
Conclusion:
Studying in Switzerland and the Swiss student visa process were fully reviewed in this article. If you need more details about study requirements, student visa, or gaining Swiss residency through education, contact Malekpour Institute for a free expert consultation. You can also leave your questions in the comments or watch our videos on studying and immigrating to Switzerland for fast answers.
