STUDY IN SWITZERLAND
Why Study in Switzerland?
Known for its groundbreaking research-centric universities, Switzerland is one of the most sought-after study destinations in Europe. As an international student in Switzerland, you can witness amazing landscapes. The scenic beauty of the Swiss Alps and the Jura mountain can make your study abroad journey reminisce for decades. When it comes to universities in Switzerland, the country is renowned for providing a wide range of courses, and the Swiss PhD & MBAs are popular amongst international students.
Did you know? Over 20% of Switzerland’s workforce are international citizens; most are former international students in Switzerland who decided to take up a job in Switzerland after graduation. More than 12 fortune 500 companies are headquartered in Switzerland, the highest number for any country worldwide. As a European finance and business hub, international citizens not just dream about studying in Switzerland but also wish to pursue a career in Switzerland after their studies.
Education System to Study in Switzerland
The Swiss education system is globally recognised for its top-notch research outputs, academic standards, and student-friendly teaching methods. The higher education framework for international students is classified into 3 major programs: bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate.
All 26 cantons’ (states in Switzerland) education system is monitored and administered by the SERI (The State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation). SERI is the Swiss government’s official agency for international and national matters concerning research, education & innovation policy
Since Switzerland adapts the Bologna process (European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System), international students in Switzerland can seamlessly transfer the scores they receive in Switzerland to their respective home countries’ point systems.
How much does it cost to study in Switzerland for international students?
Unlike other European countries, the tuition fees for international students in Switzerland are the same as that of domestic students. Swiss public universities receive adequate funding from the government; hence the tuition fees are affordable in all public universities in Switzerland.
Private universities in Switzerland charge higher tuition fees of up to 40,000 EUR/year. A few universities in Switzerland provide discounts to international students on making the entire payment at the beginning of the program. For some courses, the tuition fees are calculated depending upon the total number of credits or courses.
| Study & Living Cost | Tuition Fee |
|---|---|
| Bachelor's |
Public Universities 400-3,700 EUR/year
Private Universities 43,000 EUR/year |
| Master's |
Public Universities 400-5,000 EUR/year Private Universities 75,000 EUR/year |
| Living Cost | between 1,500 and 2,500 EUR/month |
| Accommodation Cost | between 600 and 700 EUR/month |
Student Visa to Study in Switzerland
International students wanting to study in Switzerland must hold a valid Swiss student visa. As soon as receiving the confirmation letter from a Swiss university, students can apply for a visa from their home country. The Switzerland student visa cost is CHF 88. There are two types of visas to study in Switzerland. Students may apply for a Schengen C visa for short-term courses that last less than 90 days. For other courses in Switzerland such as bachelor’s, master’s and doctorate, students need to apply for a Schengen D visa. The Switzerland student visa processing time is around 8 to 12 weeks and international students can work part time for up to 15 hours per week with a Swiss student visa.
Important Documents required for a long-term Swiss Student Visa:
⦁ Passport of the student
⦁ Proof of finance to study and live in Switzerland.
⦁ Health cover proof
⦁ Enrolment letter from a Swiss institution
⦁ Proof of education certificates
Health Insurance to Study in Switzerland
Though the Swiss government has a universal healthcare system, it doesn’t offer free healthcare to international students in Switzerland. All students pursuing a bachelor’s, master’s or a PhD program have to apply for private Swiss health insurance to study in Switzerland. The rule applies to even the visitors of students whose duration extends for over 90 days.
Switzerland’s private health insurance covers specialist treatments, dental treatments, other personal healthcare services, osteopathy, and benefits during stays like private rooms and other amenities.
Most Swiss health insurance providers expect international students in Swizterland to pay fees upfront and claim the reimbursements later. Reimbursements usually take up to a few days to come through. International students in Switzerland shall submit the claim form with necessary receipts or invoices as a standard process.
Best Places to Study in Switzerland
Zurich
Lausanne
Geneva
Bern
Basel