Studying in Switzerland for international students provides access to prestigious public universities such as ETH Zurich, the University of Geneva, and EPFL, with tuition fees ranging from CHF 2,000 to CHF 8,000 per year. Popular fields of study include Engineering, Business, Hospitality, and Life Sciences. To study in Switzerland, international students can meet the English language requirement with an IELTS score of 6.0 or a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate.
Additionally, students are permitted to work up to 15 hours per week. A bank statement showing CHF 21,000 is necessary for the visa application. When it comes to generous scholarships, it includes university-specific grants and research fellowships, making studying in Switzerland financially feasible. However, the living expenses typically range from CHF 1,200 to CHF 1,800 per month. Graduates are eligible for a 12-month post-study job search visa.
Quick Facts to Study in Switzerland 2025–26
Quick overview of study in Switzerland 2025–26: tuition, living costs, visa, work rights, eligibility, top universities, courses, and scholarships.
| Languages | English, German, French, Italian |
| Top Cities | Zurich, Geneva, Lausanne, Bern, Basel |
| Degree Duration | Bachelor: 3 years, Master: 15 months, PhD: 3–5 years |
| Eligibility | 60% academic performance, transcripts, recommendation letters |
| Top Universities |
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| Tuition Fees | For Online Courses CHF 2,000 per year
For Fee for on-campus CHF 8,000 per year Note: Master’s fee covers the entire course duration. |
| Living Costs | CHF 1,200 – CHF 1,800/month |
| Work Rights | 15 hours/week during term, full-time during holidays |
| Post-Study Visa | 12-month job search permit |
| Visa Approval Rate | 85% |
| Block Account | Proof of ~CHF 21,000 (bank statement or sponsor) |
| English Requirement | IELTS 6.0 / TOEFL / MOI accepted |
| Top Scholarships | Swiss Government Excellence, university-specific |
| Top Universities | ETH Zurich, EPFL, University of Geneva, UNIL |
| Admission Intake to Study in Switzerland | Spring: February to June
Autumn: September to January |
| Application Timeline | 4–8 months before intake |
Top Universities in Switzerland for International Students
Switzerland boasts several public institutions that offer high-quality, English-taught programs. Many of these top universities in Switzerland for international students are research-oriented and rank among the best globally.
| University | Popular Programs |
| ETH Zurich | Engineering, Science, Architecture |
| EPFL | AI, Robotics, Physics |
| University of Geneva | Law, International Relations, Humanities |
| University of Lausanne | Life Sciences, Business, Law |
| University of Basel | Medicine, Psychology, History |
| University of Zurich | Economics, Biology, Philosophy |
Scholarships in Switzerland for International Students
Switzerland offers a variety of scholarships for international students, funded by the government, universities, and external organizations. These scholarships can cover tuition fees, living expenses, and research funding.
| Scholarship | Details |
| Swiss Government Excellence Awards | Full tuition + monthly stipend for Master’s/PhD, merit-based |
| ETH Zurich Excellence Fellowship | Tuition waiver + living allowance for excellent academic backgrounds |
| UNIL Master’s Grants | CHF 1,600/month for the duration of the program for non-Swiss applicants with strong academics |
| EPFL Excellence Fellowships | CHF 8,000/semester + accommodation assistance for Master’s students, merit-based |
| University of Geneva Excellence | Tuition waiver for top Master’s students based on academic excellence |
Switzerland Tuition Fees and Living Costs
Public universities in Switzerland offer lower tuition fees compared to many private institutions. However, living expenses can be higher due to the country’s high standard of living.
| Expense | Cost (CHF) |
| Average Tuition Fee | Online: CHF 2,000/year
On-campus: CHF 8,000/year Master’s fee covers the entire course duration. |
| Student Accommodation | 6,000 – 9,000 |
| Food, Travel, Utilities | 6,000 – 9,600 |
| Health Insurance | 1,200 – 1,800 |
Part-time work (15 hours per week) can help students manage their living costs, and most universities provide student discounts for transportation and dining.
Post-study Work Opportunities to Study in Switzerland
Switzerland offers promising post-study work opportunities for international graduates across various sectors. With a stable economy, high living standards, and demand for skilled professionals, students can transition smoothly from education to employment. Graduates benefit from competitive salaries opportunities and a supportive work environment, making Switzerland an attractive career destination after studies.
| Field | Approximate Annual Salary in CHF |
| Business Management | 52,000 CHF |
| Education and Training | 39,000 CHF |
| Healthcare | 45,500 CHF |
| IT & Computer Science | 55,250 CHF |
| Statistics and Data Science | 58,500 CHF |
Step-by-Step Admission Process to Study in Switzerland
Here’s a clear step-by-step admission guide to help you apply smoothly to top Swiss universities and secure your student visa on time.
Choose a Program and University
Select your desired field of study and research universities that offer your program in English. Public universities are highly recommended for their affordability and academic quality.
Check the Entry Requirements:
Requirements to study in Switzerland for international students include:
- 60% marks in academics or CGPA of 2.5
- IELTS 6.0 / TOEFL / Medium of Instruction (MOI)
- Motivation Letter & Recommendation Letters
- Valid Passport, CV/Resume
- Some competitive programs (like those at ETH or EPFL) may require interviews or GRE scores.
Apply & Required Documents
Submit your applications directly through the university or with the help of trusted education consultants who can guide you through every step. They can assist in selecting the right program, ensuring your documents are complete, and handling visa processing. Your documents should include:
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Passport copy
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- English test or MOI
- Recommendation letters
- CV/Resume
Get Admission Letter & Pay Tuition
Once you receive your offer, secure your place by paying the semester fee. Most Swiss universities require fees only after confirmation.
Switzerland Student Visa Requirements
To study in Switzerland, you’ll need to apply for a long-stay National D visa. The required documents include:
- Admission Letter from a Swiss university
- Proof of Tuition Payment
- Accommodation Proof
- Financial Proof (CHF 21,000 in bank or sponsor’s statement)
- Health Insurance
- Visa Form + Passport Photos
The visa processing time is approximately 6 to 12 weeks, so it is advisable to apply 3 months before the intake.
FAQs
What is the duration of a Bachelor’s degree in Switzerland?
Bachelor’s programs typically last for 3 years.
How long does it take to complete a Master’s degree in Switzerland?
Most Master’s programs are completed in 15 months.
What is the annual fee for online study programs?
The fee for online programs is 2,000 Swiss Francs per year.
What is the annual fee for on-campus study programs in Switzerland?
On-campus programs cost 8,000 Swiss Francs per year.
Is the Master’s fee charged annually or for the full course?
The Master’s fee is charged for the entire duration of the program, not annually.
Do online programs offer the same recognition as on-campus programs?
Yes, as long as they are accredited, both formats hold equal academic value.
Can I switch from online to on-campus studies later?
Some universities may allow a switch, but it depends on program policies and visa eligibility.
Can dependents accompany international students to Switzerland?
Yes, students can sponsor dependents, but additional financial proof and health insurance are required.
What are the studies in Switzerland for international students requirements?
Minimum 60% marks, IELTS 6.0 or MOI, transcripts, motivation letter, and recommendation letters.
Can I travel across Europe with my Swiss visa?
Yes. Switzerland is part of the Schengen Area, allowing travel to 25+ countries.
