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    Study in Switzerland

    Everything you need to know about studying in Switzerland as an international student.

    Find programs in Switzerland

    Why study in Switzerland?

    Choosing to study for a degree in Switzerland allows you to study in one of Europe’s wealthiest, most sought after countries. With several universities listed inside the world’s top 100, you’ll receive a great education and quality of life whilst in Switzerland.

    Switzerland is split into cantons, much like states. Each canton has one or more of German, Italian, French and Romansh as its official languages. This gives students the additional opportunity of learning another language whilst studying in English.

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    What are the best programs in Switzerland?

    Switzerland is a popular destination for international students looking for high quality education.

    Switzerland is a multilingual country, so the overarching language of instruction will depend on the institution you choose to study at. However, English is increasingly being offered as a language of instruction.

    As with much of Europe, at undergraduate level you will study for a bachelor’s degree that takes three to four years of full time study. After completing your undergraduate or bachelor’s qualification, students can decide whether they want to continue their education with a master’s degree.

    Swiss universities may specialize in providing programs in certain subjects, such as business schools, medical universities and engineering universities.

    Whether you’re looking to study for a BA, BSc, MBA or doctorate degree, Studee can help you find the perfect place to study in Switzerland.

    Find a program in Switzerland

    Program level

    Popular subjects to study in Switzerland

    How Studee can help you

    1. University & program search

      Find the right program for you and your career aspirations

    2. Application guidance

      We'll get you to the right place to start your application

    3. Visa & travel advice

      Get help after application, all the way to your first day at university

    Our team of advisors is ready to support you at every step of your study abroad journey.
    Our services are 100% free for students like you because we're funded by universities.

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    What is the cost of studying in Switzerland?

    Tuition fees in Switzerland can vary dramatically depending on what level and subject you are studying. A year’s tuition can cost anywhere between €2,000 - €6,500.

    Living costs in Switzerland are high and accommodation costs are no different.

    Student reviews for Switzerland

    • Ibtisam Alkhawfi
      Saudi Arabia
      Overall experience 4 stars
      Academic
      2 stars
      University social
      1 stars
      Accommodation
      4 stars
      University facilities
      4 stars
      IHTTI School of Hotel & Design Management Civil Engineering
      What's it like to study in Switzerland?
      USA. It is a small city, noting much to do except studying.
    • Brandon Freire
      Australia
      Overall experience 4 stars
      Academic
      4 stars
      University social
      4 stars
      Accommodation
      3 stars
      University facilities
      5 stars
      IHTTI School of Hotel & Design Management Kinesiology
      What's it like to study in Switzerland?
      America can be challenging at some times just with how they handle different situations. But the life experience I am getting by being here is extremely valuable and I am thankful to be here everyday.
    • Zichen Song
      China
      Overall experience 3 stars
      Academic
      4 stars
      University social
      4 stars
      Accommodation
      4 stars
      University facilities
      5 stars
      IHTTI School of Hotel & Design Management Mechanical Engineering
      What's it like to study in Switzerland?
      Advantages: good style of study, good teaching quality, excellent learning equipment. The diploma recognition rate is high. Because I want to get a bachelor degree, I will be familiar with the United States. There is lots of beautiful scenery.
      Disadvantages: Tuition is high, and international relations with China are not very good. It's not very convenient to return to China, and the ticket is expensive.
    • Leonardus Joan Alviano
      Indonesia
      Overall experience 4 stars
      Academic
      5 stars
      University social
      5 stars
      Accommodation
      5 stars
      University facilities
      4 stars
      Business and Hotel Management School Business Administration
      What's it like to study in Switzerland?
      People from Lucerne are friendly. There are so many places that students should visit during their studies. Festivals during summer and winter will entertain students every season.
    • Siu Fung Cheung
      Hong Kong
      Overall experience 4 stars
      Academic
      3 stars
      University social
      5 stars
      Accommodation
      4 stars
      University facilities
      4 stars
      Business and Hotel Management School Hospitality Management
      What's it like to study in Switzerland?
      The people in Switzerland are all very nice and kind. It is a very safe country as well. You can enjoy the very beautiful natural environment here. Every place here is like a painting, you won’t believe your eyes. Moreover, Switzerland is in the middle of Europe and connecting with France, Germany and Italy, so it is convenient to travel other European countries. The only thing to complain about is the expense.

    Key facts

    • Swiss franc ₣ Currency
    • 250,000 Student population
    • French, German, Italian and Romansh Languages
    • 12 Universities

    Where can you study in Switzerland?

    With more than 60% of the country made up of the imposing Alps, Switzerland is a country dominated by scenery and landscape. Skiing and winter sports in the mountains is clearly a big draw for many international students, as its energetic and compact cities such as Geneva, Lausanne and Bern.

    It’s important to remember that each region of Switzerland has its own feel, customs and festivals – and even costume. Travelling around Switzerland can often feel like you’re visiting several different countries all at once.

    Universities in Switzerland

    What are the requirements to study in Switzerland?

    Qualifications

    International bachelor’s students applying to study in Switzerland must have completed upper secondary education to a level determined by the university. This can also be affected by the type of program you are wanting to join. In general, for master’s programs you must have completed a bachelor’s degree in a relevant or required subject.

    English language tests

    Switzerland requires students studying in English to hold a qualification in English language proficiency such as TOEFL or IELTS.

    Switzerland student visa

    Although not a member of the EU, Switzerland does allow EU citizens to attend university in the country. Students from outside the EU will need to apply for a D visa.

    Any students staying in the country for longer than three months must register with the Residents’ Registration Office at their relevant authority within 14 days of arriving, and will also need to show:

    • A valid passport
    • Proof of a place at a registered university
    • Evidence of funds to support themselves
    • Proof of address
    • Health insurance

    Switzerland student visa requirements

    How to study in Switzerland

    1. Choose a university and program in Switzerland
    2. Create an account on the University’s website
    3. Submit or upload supporting documents such as translated and notarized transcripts, test scores, a copy of your passport
    4. Pay any application fees
    5. Submit your application
    6. Have any necessary interviews for the Swiss universities over the phone or on skype
    7. Receive an offer from the university
    8. Accept your offer and pay any required fees or deposits to secure your place
    9. Start the process for your Swiss student visa
    Speak to a personal advisor (free service)

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