Switzerland

Country snapshot

• Capital: Bern

• Languages: German, French, Italian, Romansh (many programmes in English)

• Dial code: +41

• Currency: Swiss Franc (CHF)

• Main intakes: September (Autumn) and February (Spring), programme-dependent

Why study in Switzerland?

Expect high academic standards, modern facilities, and practical learning through internships and research. Cities are safe and efficient, international networks are strong, and the country’s location makes European travel easy.

Key benefits

• Globally respected degrees and research output

• Strong sectors: engineering/CS, life sciences, finance, hospitality, design

• Industry projects, labs, and internship opportunities

• Safe, clean cities with excellent transport

• Diverse, multilingual environment

Eligibility (general)

• Undergraduate: Secondary school qualification recognised as equivalent for university entry; specific subject requirements may apply

• Postgraduate: Relevant bachelor’s degree with required GPA/credits

• Language: English tests for English-taught tracks; German/French/Italian for local-language programmes (test or certificate may be required)

• Programme-specific: Portfolios (arts/design/architecture), admissions tests/interviews (select schools), work experience for some MBAs

Required documents (typical)

• Valid passport

• Academic transcripts & certificates (certified translations if needed)

• Proof of language proficiency

• CV/Resume

• Statement of Purpose / motivation letter

• 1–3 Letters of Recommendation

• Portfolio (where applicable)

• Proof of funds for tuition and living costs

• Application forms and passport-size photos

Visa & residence (non-EU/EFTA overview)

• Receive an admission/acceptance letter

• Apply for a national student visa (Type D); submit financial proof, accommodation details, insurance, and supporting documents

• After arrival, register with the local authorities for your residence permit

• Work during studies: Commonly permitted part-time (often up to 15 hrs/week during term, full-time in vacations), with specific conditions—check your canton/university rules

Costs (guide numbers)

(Figures vary by university, canton, and lifestyle.)

• Tuition — Public universities: typically CHF 1,000 – 4,000 per year (some programmes higher)

• Private schools / specialised institutes: often CHF 10,000 – 35,000+ per year

• Living expenses: around CHF 1,600 – 2,800 per month (housing, food, transport, insurance; Zurich/Geneva higher)

• Health insurance: mandatory; budget CHF 250 – 450 per month depending on plan/discounts

• Books & supplies: ~CHF 300 – 800 per year

Top universities (examples)

• ETH Zurich (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology)

• EPFL (École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne)

• University of Zurich

• University of Geneva

• University of Basel

• University of Bern

• University of Lausanne

• University of St. Gallen (HSG)

• Università della Svizzera italiana (USI)

Scholarships & funding (examples)

• University entrance/merit scholarships and fee reductions

• Excellence scholarships and research grants (master’s/PhD)

• Governmental/canton or external, country-specific awards

• Faculty/department bursaries; research/teaching assistantships (postgrad)

Application steps

1. Shortlist programmes (language, prerequisites, deadlines)

2. Prepare documents (transcripts, translations, SOP, references, CV, language scores, portfolio if needed)

3. Apply via university portals before deadlines; track admissions

4. Accept offer and pay any required deposits; request enrolment/visa letters

5. Apply for the Type D student visa; arrange health insurance and accommodation

6. Travel and register with the local authorities; collect residence permit

7. Enrol, attend orientation, and activate student services/transport passes