How to study in Switzerland as an international student?

While Switzerland is famous for tourism, it also offers outstanding opportunities for international students. This beautiful country goes beyond scenic mountains, modern cities and world-class chocolate. It’s home to prestigious universities that welcome students from all over the world. So, if you’re planning to spend a few months studying in Switzerland, this complete guide for international students will be extremely helpful.

If you’re thinking about studying in Switzerland, this guide will give you a clear overview of the key steps and requirements. We’ll walk you through how to choose a study programme, apply for a scholarship, and get your student visa. You’ll also learn how to plan your move, estimate your budget, and explore online course options amongst other things. In short, everything you need to know is right here. So get comfy, take notes, and start planning your study adventure in Switzerland.

How does the education system in Switzerland work?

Before we explain how to study in Switzerland as an international student, it’s important to understand the basics of its education system. Switzerland has a decentralised model, meaning each region manages its own educational policies and institutions independently. Despite the regional differences, however, the country follows consistent levels: Primary, lower secondary, upper secondary, and higher education—each with high academic standards.

Primary and Secondary Education: Levels I and II

Compulsory education in Switzerland includes both primary school and lower secondary (Level I) and begins at age four and lasts until around age 15. This stage is compulsory and free for all students. Afterwards comes upper secondary education (Level II), (from 15 to 19 years), which lasts between two and four years, which is the average time in which students complete their education.

One of the most innovative features at this stage is the dual system, which combines academic learning with hands-on work experience. This model helps students transition smoothly into work life. This is a great opportunity for international students who, after completing their studies, want to stay and work in Switzerland.

Upper Secondary II also includes general education schools: These prepare students for tertiary education, which is the next educational stage. We have grammar schools: They get students ready for university and other higher education institutions. Then, there are specialised middle schools: These pave the way for advanced vocational training.

Tertiary Level

After completing Secondary II, young people can join the workforce or continue studying at a tertiary-level institution. This includes higher vocational training, universities and specialised higher education schools. In other words, this level helps students earn a professional qualification and deepen their expertise in a chosen field. Universities, universities of applied sciences and federal polytechnic schools offer a wide range of degrees and study programmes for such purposes.

Languages of instruction

In terms of language, Switzerland has four official languages: (German, French, Italian and Romansh). Therefore, academic programmes vary depending on the region. However, many universities offer courses in English, especially at a master›’s or doctoral level.

What requirements must foreign students meet to study in Switzerland?

Studying in Switzerland can be a rewarding experience. But to enrol at a university, you’ll need to meet certain requirements. Remember: Universities in Switzerland are autonomous. So, admission conditions may differ from one institution to another. In any case, in order to get specific details (like whether your certificates or diplomas are recognised) it’s best to contact the university directly.

Required documents to study in Switzerland

In general, any foreign student wishing to study in Switzerland must submit the following documents to the chosen university:

As you can see, the list of required documents is quite extensive. So, it’s a good idea to start gathering everything at least six months in advance. The process of validating diplomas, applying for a visa and receiving admission confirmation can take several weeks—or even months. Having all your paperwork ready will speed up the admission process and help you avoid unexpected issues.

How to study in Switzerland as a foreign student? Steps to follow

Now that you know the main requirements, let’s walk through the key steps. In general, first, you should evaluate the universities and degree programmes that interest you. Alongside this, choose the city where you’d like to live during your studies.

Once you’ve got a clearer idea of the courses and universities you’re interested in, check the available funding options to see if you meet the requirements to apply for a scholarship. Next, apply to your chosen study programme and wait for your acceptance letter. Once you’re accepted, you can move to the next step: Applying for a Swiss student visa. When your visa is approved, you can start planning your move.

Here’s a more detailed breakdown of the step-by-step process for studying in Switzerland:

1. Evaluate universities and courses in Switzerland

The first step is choosing the right university and degree programme. It’s worth noting that Swiss universities are among the best in the world. This means you’ll receive a high-quality education and earn a degree that holds strong value in the international job market.

Depending on your goals, you can choose between full university degrees or short-term courses. Of course, this can feel a bit confusing—especially if you’re not yet sure what to study or which Swiss canton to pick. Don’t worry, that’s completely normal when planning to study abroad. Here are some tips to help you make the right decision:

• Research each university’s academic reputation: While most Swiss universities are highly respected, some stand out even more. To do this, you can check international rankings, such as the QS World University Rankings, to see which ones offer the highest quality.
• Check the language of instruction: As mentioned earlier, some universities teach in English, while others require fluency in French, German or Italian. Choosing a programme in a language you’re comfortable with is crucial—so don’t overlook this point.
• Consider the area of specialisation: Each Swiss university excels in specific academic fields. For example, ETH Zurich (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology) leads in technology and engineering. Meanwhile, the University of Geneva stands out in social sciences and law. It’s worth noting that both rank among the top institutions in the country.
• Compare the costs: One of the main challenges of studying in Switzerland is the high cost of living. However, some public universities offer more affordable tuition for international students. For instance, tuition at public universities ranges from 1,000 CHF to 3,000 CHF per year (around $1,135 to $3,400). In contrast, tuition at private universities can reach up to 10,000 CHF per year (about $11,355). You can also explore funding options—we’ll cover this in more detail shortly.
• Location: Consider the city where the university is based. Look into quality of life, accommodation costs, transport options and the overall student environment.

Differences between university studies and short courses

Not sure whether to choose a full university degree or a short-term course? This comparison table might help clear things up. Ultimately, your choice depends on how much time you’re willing to invest and the budget you have available.

University Studies vs. Short Courses

2. Explore funding options for studying in Switzerland

Studying in Switzerland can be expensive, as it’s one of the countries with the highest cost of living. Fortunately, there are several scholarship options available for international students. These are offered by the Swiss government, universities and private institutions.

To dive deeper into the topic, check out this article, The 5 Best Scholarships to Study in Switzerland.

• Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships: Designed for postgraduate studies and research. These cover tuition fees and provide a monthly stipend to help with living expenses.
• ETH Excellence Scholarships: Offered by ETH Zurich, this scholarship fully covers tuition and includes a monthly financial allowance. It’s designed for master’s students.
• EPFL Excellence Fellowships: Offered by the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), this scholarship is available for both bachelor’s and master’s programmes and includes several benefits.

3. Apply to a Study Programme

Once you’ve chosen a university or course, it’s time to submit your application. To do this, you’ll need to gather and present all the documents we listed earlier. Keep in mind that each institution operates independently and may request additional or different paperwork. That’s why it’s best to contact the university directly to confirm the exact requirements for your chosen programme.

Also, don’t forget about application deadlines These vary by university, but generally fall between December and April for programmes starting in September.

4. Apply for a student visa to study in Switzerland

Visa applications are often one of the biggest concerns for students planning to study abroad. In many cases, getting a visa is essential to pursue your education in another country. We could talk about Visas for a long time, so here, we’ll just cover the basics about Swiss student visas—but it’s always best to contact the Swiss Consulate in your country for the most accurate information and clear up any doubts.

The type of visa depends on your country of origin and the length of your study programme. If you’re not a citizen of the European Union, you’ll need to apply for one of the following:

• Visa C: A short-term visa for attending a summer school, seminar or language course lasting up to three months.
  Visa D: A long-term visa for students looking to study or work in Switzerland. It’s valid for one year and can be extended.

Remember that the visa process can take 8 to 12 weeks and requires various documents, including proof of health insurance. So, we recommend starting the application early.

If you’re from an EU country, you don’t need a visa to study in Switzerland. However, you must register with the local authorities in the area where you’ll live and apply for a residence permit. This must be done within 14 days of arrival and includes showing documents that confirm your student status.

5. Moving to Switzerland: Your first face-to-face with the country

Moving abroad is always a major life change. Even if you’re staying in Switzerland for just a few months, you’ll need to adapt to local customs, possibly learn a new language, and adjust to different schedules and lifestyles.

Your first step is choosing a city (usually aligned with your university or course). Zurich, for example, is home to one of the world’s top engineering and technology universities. It also offers outstanding infrastructure and strong job prospects, though the cost of living is high. Basel is another great choice. It’s not only one of the most beautiful cities in Switzerland, but also home to the country’s oldest university, known for excellence in science, biotechnology and the arts.

To secure housing in your chosen city, check out platforms like: Homegate.ch ImmoScout24 Comparis.ch Many universities also offer student residences, which are often more affordable.

Once you’ve settled into your new home, there are a few key things you must do:

• Register with the Immigration Office: This is mandatory and must be done within 14 days of your arrival.
• Open a Bank Account: This will help you manage rent and daily expenses. It’s often required if you’ve received a scholarship. For this, look into the best Swiss banks for international students.
• Check Your Tax Obligations: Switzerland has strict tax rules. Make sure you’re aware of any taxes foreigners must pay based on your situation.

6. Connectivity in Switzerland

Another key thing to plan when moving to Switzerland is how you’ll stay connected online. As a student, you’ll need to download study materials, access virtual campuses and stay in touch with family and friends back home. So, having internet access is absolutely essential.

To avoid relying on public WiFi networks, we recommend choosing an Holafly Connect plan. This service is specially designed for international students, digital nomads and travellers. It’s a simple, affordable solution to stay connected without hassle. Holafly Connect offers global coverage—so if you decide to explore Germany, France or any neighbouring country, you won’t need to switch plans or hunt for a different eSIM. It works in over 170 countries.

How does it work? Just follow these easy steps: Choose a plan—10 GB, 25 GB or unlimited data. Complete your payment. Scan the QR code to activate your eSIM. With the two larger plans, your mobile phone can act as a hotspot, allowing you to share data with other devices. Best of all, there are no hidden fees on your bill and no cancellation penalties.

Important: If you are a frequent traveler and want to stay connected without worrying about expensive roaming or looking for a new SIM at every destination, Holafly’s subscription plans are for you. With a single eSIM, enjoy internet in more than 170 countries for a fixed price and no surprises on your bill. Travel without limits and connect easily and securely! 🚀🌍

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How to study in Switzerland as a foreign student? Recognition of degrees and courses

One common question about studying in Switzerland as a foreigner is whether you need to validate or recognise the degrees or certificates you earned in your home country. In most cases, the answer is yes—especially in the following situations:

• When applying for undergraduate or postgraduate studies at a Swiss university.
• If you’re studying a regulated profession, such as medicine or engineering.
• To validate prior courses and gain access to advanced academic programmes.

To have your qualification recognised in Switzerland, you’ll need to follow a specific process. While the steps may vary depending on your level of study, the general process includes:

1. Contact the university where you plan to study and ask whether your degree or diploma requires recognition.
2. Submit your application to the relevant authority. Include a copy of your original degree, an official translation into German, French or Italian (depending on the canton), and any additional required academic certificates.
3. Pay the processing fee, which ranges from 150 CHF to 800 CHF ($171 – $912), depending on the type of recognition you’re applying for.
4. Wait for the outcome. The evaluation process usually takes between two and six months.

There are three main authorities responsible for recognising foreign qualifications in Switzerland: Swiss ENIC (European Network of Information Centres): Handles university and professional qualifications. CRUS (Rectors’ Conference of the Swiss Universities): Validates foreign diplomas for university admission. SEFRI (State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation): Manages recognition for regulated professions.

How much does it cost to study in Switzerland as a foreigner?

As we mentioned earlier, Switzerland has a high cost of living. To explore this in more detail, check out our full guide on the topic from Holafly. But for now, here’s a general breakdown of student expenses you can expect. It’s worth noting that the education quality and lifestyle in Switzerland make the investment worthwhile. Here is a list of expenses:

University tuition fees

• Public universities: $1,135–$1,400 per year
• Universities of applied sciences: $2,200–$5,700 per year
• Private universities: $11,355–$45,400 per year
• Short courses: $570–$5,700 per year

Student accommodation in Switzerland

Housing costs vary depending on the city and the type of accommodation you choose. Naturally, popular cities with strong university environments tend to be more expensive. For example, destinations like Zurich, Geneva, Basel, Bern, or Lausanne are more expensive, precisely because they offer the best student environment. Cities like St. Gallen, Fribourg, Lucerne, and Biel are more affordable and you can save a lot on rent.

Here’s a general idea of monthly accommodation costs in Switzerland. Remember, more affordable prices can be found in smaller or less touristy cities:

• Student residences: $570–$1,135 per month
• Shared apartments $900–$1,700 per month
• Private apartments: $1,400–$2,800 per month

3. Transport in Switzerland

Switzerland has one of the most efficient public transport systems in the world—though it’s not the cheapest. Below are the approximate transport costs you might face as a student:

• Public transport: A single ticket in Zurich costs about $3.07 per trip.
• Taxi: The most expensive option, with an average fare of $5.48 per kilometre.
• Bicycle rental: Platforms like ListnRide offer rentals from $21.00 per day in cities across the country. Bikes are a popular choice among students.
• Uber: Slightly cheaper than taxis, with fares starting at $2.00 per kilometre.

4. Food and daily expenses

Food is one area where you can save money as a student—especially if you plan your meals and shop in bulk with classmates. However, how much you spend will depend on your lifestyle and eating habits. Eating out: A meal at a budget-friendly restaurant costs around $20.00, whereas a University canteen meal will typically cost about half that amount. Now, for monthly groceries from the supermarket, expect to spend approximately $400.00 per month.

5. Additional costs

Aside from rent and food, you’ll also have extra monthly expenses, including: Health insurance (around USD 350.00 per month) and personal expenses and entertainment. Let’s not forget that Switzerland is packed with tourist attractions, and you’ll likely want to explore some during your stay. While some museums and national parks are free, many activities come with a fee. To save a little, always check for student discounts.

How to study in Switzerland as a foreign student? Online study options and distance learning programmes

Moving to Switzerland might not be possible for everyone. But don’t be disheartened. There are several online study alternatives you can consider. In recent years, many Swiss universities have developed distance education programmes, especially for postgraduate and continuing education. So, you can look for institutions that offer online courses or full programmes and see if they align with your goals.

Here are a few Swiss institutions offering virtual learning:

• ETH Zurich: Offers a solid selection of online courses in technology and engineering.
  University of Geneva: Provides programmes in international relations and law.
  Swiss Distance University (FernUni Schweiz): Specialises in distance education and is one of your best options.
  IMD Business School: Offers online courses in leadership and management.

Studying online in Switzerland is a great way for international students to access high-quality education at a lower cost. However, online options are more limited than on-campus programmes, so always check if your chosen course is available in virtual format.

How to study in Switzerland as a foreign student? Frequently asked questions

Can I study and work in Switzerland?

If you’re from an EU country, you don’t need a visa to study in Switzerland. However, your student residence permit only allows you to work up to 15 hours per week. If you get a full-time job, you’ll need to apply for a work permit.

What are the best cities in Switzerland for students?

Switzerland is full of beautiful cities. But, in terms of university atmosphere, the top picks are: Zurich, Lausanne, Basel, Bern, and St. Gallen. These cities are home to some of the country’s best universities and offer vibrant, often cosmopolitan environments where you’ll meet students from all over the world.

Where can I find scholarships to study in Switzerland?

To stay up to date with scholarship opportunities, visit the official websites of Swiss universities and government agencies. Every year they publish announcements here. You can also consult the Swiss embassy or consulate in your country—they can guide you through the application and legal processes.

Do I need to speak German or French to study in Switzerland?

Not necessarily. English is widely accepted. In fact,, many universities offer courses in English, especially at a master’s or doctoral level. However, if you plan to work or live in Switzerland long-term, learning the local language will help you integrate and expand your job prospects.

Is it hard to get accepted into a Swiss university?

It depends on the university and programme you wish to study. Top schools like ETH Zurich and EPFL have more competitive admissions processes, and they are highly sought-after institutions. To improve your chances, make sure you meet all academic requirements and submit a well-structured application.

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