Complete guide to studying in Switzerland
Everything you need to know about becoming an international student in Switzerland
Five top reasons to study in Switzerland
- High academic standards – Switzerland is home to some of Europe’s most prestigious universities, such as ETH Zurich and EPFL, and is part of the Bologna Process, ensuring your degree is internationally recognised across Europe.
- Multilingual environment – With four national languages (German, French, Italian and Romansh) and many courses taught in English, international students can experience a uniquely multilingual and multicultural study setting.
- Global outlook – Around 80,000 international students are enrolled in Swiss universities, giving campuses a diverse and international character.
- Quality of life – Switzerland offers safe, clean cities, efficient public transport and stunning landscapes ranging from lakes to the Alps, making it an ideal place to combine studies with a high standard of living.
- Specialist opportunities – Alongside its strong research universities, Switzerland is world-renowned for private hospitality and business schools such as EHL and IMD, giving students access to globally respected career pathways.
A quick introduction to Switzerland
Located in the heart of Europe, Switzerland is a landlocked country that shares borders with five nations: France, Germany, Italy, Austria and Liechtenstein. Its central location makes it an excellent base for exploring much of Europe.
Although Switzerland is not a member of the European Union (EU), it is part of the Bologna Process and uses the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS). This ensures that degrees earned in Switzerland are widely recognised and easily transferable across Europe.
Switzerland is a highly attractive study destination, with around 80,000 international students enrolled in Swiss higher education institutions in recent years. This represents a significant portion of the country’s total student population, giving Swiss campuses a strong international character.
International students in Switzerland come from all over the world, including neighbouring European countries, as well as further afield from Asia, North America and Africa.
Switzerland’s appeal lies in its reputation for academic excellence, research-driven universities, multilingual environment (with German, French, Italian and English widely used), and its high standard of living.
For international students seeking both quality education and a truly global outlook, Switzerland is an exceptional choice.
Switzerland’s higher education system
Switzerland’s higher education system follows the three-cycle degree structure of the European Higher Education Area, meaning students can study for bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees that are internationally recognised through the Bologna Process and the ECTS credit system.
Most universities in Switzerland are publicly funded and supported by either the cantonal governments or the federal government.
There are also a small number of private institutions, many of which specialise in business and hospitality management.
Swiss universities generally fall into two categories:
Universities of applied sciences (UAS)
Known as Fachhochschulen in German or hautes écoles spécialisées in French, these institutions place an emphasis on professional and practical training.
They combine academic theory with hands-on experience, preparing students to move directly into their chosen careers.
UAS degrees often incorporate internships or industry placements as part of the programme, and many courses are designed in collaboration with employers. This makes them especially attractive for international students looking to gain both academic knowledge and practical skills.
There are several universities of applied sciences across Switzerland, including Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW), University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland (HES-SO), and Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts.
Research universities
Research universities in Switzerland, often referred to as universités or universitäten, are more academically oriented and place a stronger emphasis on scientific research and theoretical study.
They offer bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral programmes across a wide range of disciplines.
Switzerland is home to some of the most prestigious research institutions in Europe, including ETH Zurich (founded in 1855) and the University of Geneva (founded in 1559).
These universities attract students and faculty from all over the world, reflecting Switzerland’s global outlook and strong tradition of academic excellence.
Private institutions and hospitality schools
In addition to the public system, Switzerland has a long tradition of private higher education, particularly in hospitality and business management.
The country is considered the birthplace of modern hospitality education and its schools are regarded as some of the best in the world.
Institutions such as École hôtelière de Lausanne (EHL), Glion Institute of Higher Education and Les Roches Global Hospitality Education are internationally renowned, attracting students from more than 100 countries.
These schools combine academic study with practical training in hotel and service management, often offering global internship opportunities as part of their programmes.
Private universities in Switzerland also include business schools such as IMD in Lausanne and EU Business School, which focus on international business, leadership and management education.
University rankings
If you are at the stage of choosing a university in Switzerland, it can be helpful to look at international ranking tables as part of your research.
These rankings provide a useful way to compare universities based on criteria that are important to international students, such as teaching quality, research performance, global outlook and levels of student support.
Swiss universities consistently perform very well in global rankings, reflecting the country’s reputation for academic excellence and innovation.
Prestigious institutions such as ETH Zurich and EPFL regularly appear near the top of international tables, while other Swiss universities also rank highly for their research, international diversity and strong links with industry.
The table below highlights some of the top performing Swiss universities in major global ranking systems:
| University | Times Higher Education World University Ranking | Best Global Universities | QS World University Ranking |
| ETH Zurich | 11 | 35 | 7 |
| École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne | 32 | =86 | =22 |
| University of Zurich | =59 | 100 | |
| University of Bern | =104 | 114 | =184 |
| University of Basel | =126 | =180 | 158 |
| University of Lausanne | =134 | =153 | =212 |
| University of Geneva | 171 | 120 | =155 |
| Università della Svizzera italiana | 301-350 | =550 | =473 |
| University of St Gallen | 351-400 | =1018 | |
| University of Fribourg | 401-500 | =664 | 642 |
| University of Neuchâtel | 501-600 | =1195 | |
| ZHAW Zurich University of Applied Sciences | 1001-1200 | =1309 | 801-850 |
| HES-SO University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Western Switzerland | 1201-1500 |
Climate
Switzerland’s climate is as varied as its landscapes. With the peaks of the Alpines, lower rolling foothills and lowland plains, you will quickly notice that the weather can change dramatically depending on where in the country you are studying.
In general, Switzerland has a temperate climate, with warm summers and cold winters.
However, the mountains mean you can easily travel from mild conditions in a city like Geneva to snowy slopes in the Alps within a couple of hours.
This variety makes Switzerland a year-round destination for outdoor activities, from hiking and cycling in the warmer months to skiing and snowboarding in winter.
Winters are usually cold, especially if you are based in the mountain regions or northern parts of the country, with temperatures often dipping below freezing. Snowfall is common in these areas, giving you the classic Alpine experience.
By contrast, Swiss cities such as Zurich, Bern and Lausanne will typically have a mix of cold days, occasional snow and grey skies, while southern areas like Ticino enjoy a milder, almost Mediterranean feel.
Summers are generally warm without becoming uncomfortably hot. Average daytime temperatures in most cities range from 20-26 degrees Celsius (68-79 degrees Fahrenheit), with occasional heatwaves bringing higher peaks. Thunderstorms can be fairly common after hot summer afternoons, especially around the mountains.
If you enjoy experiencing four distinct seasons, Switzerland is a great place to live.
Spring brings fresh greenery and flowers, summer is perfect for outdoor exploration, autumn colours the forests and vineyards, and winter offers snowy scenery and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the Alps.
Lifestyle and welfare
Healthcare
Switzerland is well known for having one of the best healthcare systems in the world, and as an international student you can expect high-quality medical services.
However, unlike some countries in Europe, Swiss healthcare is not free – health insurance is compulsory for all residents, including international students.
If you are a non-EU citizen
Within three months of arriving in Switzerland, you must take out a health insurance policy with a recognized Swiss provider. Costs vary depending on your age, location and level of cover, but you should budget between CHF 200 and CHF 400 per month (around €205 – €410).
While this is not cheap compared to other study destinations, it ensures you have access to doctors, hospitals and emergency care throughout your stay.
If you are an EU/EEA citizen
Your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) may allow you to use public healthcare services temporarily, but most universities still require that you take out Swiss health insurance.
Some regions allow exemptions if you can prove you already have equivalent coverage from your home country. Always check the requirements of your host university and canton.
Food
Food plays an important cultural role in Switzerland, reflecting the country’s German, French and Italian influences.
Some customs you might notice include:
- Breakfast is often light, with bread, cheese or muesli, along with coffee or hot chocolate.
- Lunchtime is a substantial meal, usually eaten between 12:00 and 1:30 PM, and many shops close during this period.
- Fondue and raclette are traditional Alpine dishes worth trying in winter, while rösti (a potato dish) is popular year-round.
- If you drink alcohol, you will find a good selection of local wines and beers, especially from regions such as Valais and Vaud.
Dining out can be expensive compared to other European countries, so many students cook at home, take advantage of university cafeterias, or shop at discount supermarkets.
Leisure
Switzerland offers an outstanding quality of life and plenty of ways to spend your free time.
- The outdoors plays a big role in daily life. Hiking, skiing, cycling and swimming in lakes are all common student activities.
- Swiss cities such as Zurich, Basel and Geneva are cultural hubs, with museums, galleries and concert venues, many of which offer discounted or free entry to students.
- Festivals are a highlight of the year, from local Alpine traditions to international film and music events.
- If shopping interests you, Switzerland has a mix of luxury boutiques, local markets and department stores, though prices are generally higher than elsewhere in Europe.
Transport
Public transport in Switzerland is extremely efficient, safe and reliable.
Trains, trams, buses and boats are all part of the national system, making it easy to travel both locally and across the country.
Students can benefit from discounted passes, such as the Swiss Half Fare Card, which reduces the cost of most journeys by 50%. Cycling is also popular in many university towns, though the hilly terrain means it is less practical in some areas (unless you have strong legs!).
Safety
Switzerland consistently ranks as one of the safest countries in the world. Violent crime is rare, and you will feel secure moving around both cities and rural areas.
The Global Peace Index places Switzerland among the top 10 most peaceful nations globally.
The main risks to be aware of are petty theft in crowded areas or transport hubs, and natural hazards such as avalanches if you spend time in the mountains.
With sensible precautions, most students find Switzerland an exceptionally safe place to live and study.
Languages
Switzerland is a multilingual country with four official languages: German, French, Italian and Romansh.
Which language you encounter most will depend entirely on the part of the country where you are studying.
- German is spoken by around two-thirds of the population and is the main language in cities such as Zurich, Basel and Bern.
- French is spoken in the west of the country, including in Geneva and Lausanne.
- Italian is the main language in the southern canton of Ticino, close to the border with Italy.
- Romansh is spoken by a small minority in parts of the canton of Graubünden.
When it comes to university courses, the language of tuition usually matches the dominant local language of the region. For example, universities in Zurich and Bern typically teach in German, while those in Geneva and Lausanne teach in French.
It is increasingly common to find programmes taught in English, especially at the master’s level, and international students will also find a growing selection of bachelor’s courses available in English.
Even if your course is taught in English, it is strongly recommended to learn at least some of the local language. Being able to manage everyday tasks such as shopping, asking for directions, or chatting with fellow students will make settling into Swiss life much easier.
You do not need to be fluent straight away, but taking the time to learn basic phrases will help you feel more at home and give you greater confidence in your new surroundings.
University cities
Switzerland may be small in size, but it offers a wonderful mix of vibrant university cities, each with its own unique character, culture and scenery.
From cosmopolitan hubs to lakeside towns and Alpine settings, international students have plenty of inspiring places to choose from.
Here is a selection of some of the cities that international students really enjoy studying in:
Zurich
The largest city in Switzerland, Zurich is a bustling financial and cultural hub. Despite its global reputation as a business centre, it is also a lively student city with a thriving nightlife, numerous cafés, and a picturesque old town.
The main universities here are ETH Zurich, one of the world’s top-ranked institutions, and the University of Zurich.
Both have large student populations, making the city very international. Living costs are among the highest in Switzerland, but the quality of life is equally high, with easy access to Lake Zurich and the nearby Alps.
Geneva
Located on the shores of Lake Geneva and close to the French border, Geneva is famous for its international outlook.
Home to the United Nations and numerous global organisations, the city attracts people from all over the world, and international students often find it a welcoming environment.
The University of Geneva is the city’s main institution, offering a broad range of programmes.
Geneva’s location makes it ideal for weekend trips to France or the mountains and its cosmopolitan atmosphere means you will meet people from many different cultural backgrounds.
Lausanne
Lausanne sits in the French-speaking region of Vaud and combines a relaxed lakeside setting with a strong student community.
It is home to EPFL (École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne), one of Europe’s leading science and technology universities, as well as the University of Lausanne.
The city itself is smaller than Zurich or Geneva, which gives it a more student-focused feel. With vineyards, mountains and Lake Geneva right on its doorstep, Lausanne is perfect for those who enjoy outdoor activities alongside their studies.
Bern
The Swiss capital has a charming old town that is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Bern has a laid-back atmosphere, with plenty of green spaces, riverside swimming spots and cultural venues.
The University of Bern is a well-regarded institution that attracts both Swiss and international students. Bern’s central location also makes it convenient for exploring other parts of the country.
Basel
Situated on the borders with Germany and France, Basel is a multicultural city with a strong focus on the arts and sciences. It is home to Switzerland’s oldest university, the University of Basel, founded in 1460.
The city is famous for its vibrant cultural scene, including Art Basel, one of the world’s leading contemporary art fairs. With the Rhine river flowing through the city and excellent connections to neighbouring countries, Basel is an attractive base for international students.
Lugano
Located in the Italian-speaking canton of Ticino, Lugano offers a very different flavour of Switzerland. With a Mediterranean climate, palm-lined lakeshores and Italian-influenced cuisine, it feels more like northern Italy than central Europe.
The Università della Svizzera italiana (USI) is based here and although the student population is smaller than in Zurich or Geneva, the city’s relaxed lifestyle, scenic surroundings and cultural events make it a real hidden gem for international students.
Student visas
International students who want to study in Switzerland will usually need to obtain a valid student visa before arriving in the country.
If your degree programme lasts for more than three months, you will need to apply for a National Visa (Type D). This visa is specifically intended for long-term stays, such as university study.
If you are moving to Switzerland from an EU/EEA nation, you do not need a student visa to begin your studies. However, you are still required to register with the local authorities once you arrive.
For non-EU/EEA students, the visa application process generally involves:
- Receiving an official acceptance letter from a Swiss university.
- Providing proof of sufficient financial means to support yourself during your studies.
- Showing evidence of accommodation arrangements in Switzerland.
- Taking out compulsory health insurance.
Once you arrive in Switzerland, you must also apply for a residence permit in the canton (region of Switzerland) where you will be studying. This permit must be obtained within 14 days of arrival and allows you to legally stay in the country for the duration of your studies.
Costs of studying
Course fees
Switzerland is known for its world-class universities, but also for being one of the more expensive study destinations in Europe.
Tuition fees at public universities are generally lower than you might expect for such a high-cost country. International students can expect to pay between CHF 500 – CHF 4,000 per year (around €515 – €4,120), depending on the course and university.
EU/EEA and non-EU/EEA students usually pay the same tuition fees, although in some universities international students may face a small surcharge.
As an example, the University of Geneva charges around CHF 1,000 (€1,030) per year in tuition fees, while ETH Zurich charges CHF 1,460 (€1,500) per year for most programmes. This makes Switzerland surprisingly affordable in terms of tuition compared to countries such as the United States or the United Kingdom.
Some universities also offer fee reductions or waivers depending on financial need, academic excellence or country of origin, so it is worth checking what options are available at the institution you are applying to.
Living costs
The main expense for international students in Switzerland is not tuition, but the cost of living.
Switzerland has one of the highest standards of living in the world, and everyday costs reflect this.
Accommodation is the largest part of most students’ budgets.
In Zurich or Geneva, expect to pay between CHF 700 – CHF 1,200 (€720 – €1,240) per month for a room in a shared apartment.
In smaller cities such as Bern, Lausanne or Fribourg, rents are somewhat lower, typically between CHF 500 – CHF 900 (€515 – €925) per month.
University dormitories are usually cheaper, but spaces are limited and in high demand.
Beyond rent, you should budget at least CHF 1,500 – CHF 2,500 (€1,550 – €2,575) per month to cover food, transport, study materials, health insurance and leisure activities. Students living in larger cities or with a more active lifestyle may need more.
Scholarships
While living costs in Switzerland are high, there are a number of scholarships available to help international students.
- The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships support international students at both master’s and doctoral level.
- Many universities, such as ETH Zurich, the University of Lausanne, and the University of Geneva, offer their own merit-based or need-based scholarships.
- In addition, some cantons and private foundations provide funding for specific fields of study or for students from particular regions.
It is worth researching scholarship opportunities early, as application deadlines often fall several months before the start of the academic year.
How to apply to university
Applying to a university in Switzerland as an international student is usually done directly through the university’s own admissions office or website.
Each institution sets its own deadlines, requirements and application procedures, so it is important to check the details carefully with your chosen university.
There is no centralised application system for the whole of Switzerland. Instead, you will need to prepare your documents and submit them directly to the institution where you wish to study.
Common requirements include certified copies of previous qualifications, transcripts, proof of language proficiency (German, French, Italian or English depending on the course), and a copy of your passport.
If you are a non-EU/EEA citizen, you may also be required to have your qualifications formally recognised by the university, and in some cases you will need to sit an entrance examination. In addition, you will need to apply for a student visa once you have received your letter of acceptance. Your local Swiss embassy or consulate will guide you through this part of the process.
If you are an EU/EEA citizen, the process is usually more straightforward, but you will still need to apply directly to your chosen university and provide proof of your academic qualifications.
Many universities recommend applying at least six months before the start of your programme, to allow enough time for visa processing and residence permit applications if required.
Job prospects for international graduates
Your career opportunities in Switzerland after graduation will depend on your field of study, but in general there is strong demand for highly skilled workers, particularly in sectors such as finance, pharmaceuticals, engineering, IT and hospitality.
International students who complete their degree at a Swiss university may remain in the country for a limited period to seek employment.
After graduation, you can apply for a six-month residence permit to look for work related to your field of study.
If you are successful in finding a job during this time, your employer must usually demonstrate that no suitable Swiss or EU/EEA candidate is available for the role.
This requirement can make the process competitive, but graduates with advanced qualifications and specialist skills often have good prospects.
Once you have secured employment, you can convert your permit into a work visa and continue to build your career in Switzerland. Long-term residence and settlement options are available after several years of continuous employment, depending on your nationality and status.
Frequently asked questions
Is it free to study in Switzerland?
No. Swiss universities charge tuition fees, though they are relatively modest compared to the overall cost of living. International students at public universities typically pay between CHF 500 and CHF 4,000 (€515 – €4,120) per year, depending on the institution and programme.
Prestigious universities such as ETH Zurich and the University of Geneva fall within this range. Scholarships are available at both national and university level.
Am I allowed to work while I study?
Yes, but with restrictions. International students from outside the EU/EEA may only start working after the first six months of study and then for up to 15 hours per week during term time.
During university holidays, full-time work is permitted. EU/EEA students have fewer restrictions and can usually work part-time throughout their studies.
Can I stay in Switzerland after graduation?
Yes. After completing your degree, you may apply for a six-month residence permit to search for a job related to your field of study.
If you find suitable employment, you can then apply to switch to a work permit. Long-term residence options are available after several years of continuous employment.
What language are courses taught in?
The language of instruction depends on the region: German, French or Italian are the main teaching languages.
However, many universities now offer programmes fully or partly taught in English, especially at the master’s and doctoral levels. Even if your course is in English, learning some of the local language will greatly help with daily life.
Do I need health insurance as a student in Switzerland?
Yes. Health insurance is compulsory for all residents, including international students.
You must take out a Swiss health insurance policy within three months of arrival. Costs are typically CHF 200 – CHF 400 (€205 – €410) per month, depending on the plan. This provides access to doctors, hospitals and emergency care across Switzerland.