Top Universities in Switzerland for International Students: Courses & Rankings

Did you know that more and more students are choosing Switzerland as their prime destination? It’s true! According to government forecasts, student numbers are expected to keep rising by about 1.5% each year. 

That means by 2031, there could be around 320,000 students in total – that’s a 15% increase from 2021! 

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Know this too — The Swiss Embassy in India has been busier than ever processing visa applications! And guess what? In 2023, from January to June alone, it processed a whopping 129,446 applications, which highlights the growing interest and demand among Indian students and professionals to pursue educational and career opportunities in Switzerland. 

So, let’s walk you through the blog post of top universities in Switzerland, discussing their academic excellence, diverse course offerings, and the unique experiences they offer to students from around the globe. 

Studying in Switzerland can be a dream come true for many. Bring it alive along with Leap Scholar as your trusted advisor! We provide tailored guidance at every step. From university selection to visa support, we’ve got you covered!

Key Highlights

Also Read: Cost of Living in Switzerland 2024

List of 5 Top Universities in Switzerland You Can Apply 

Over the past decade, enrollment at Swiss higher education institutions (UIT, UAS, or UTE) has increased by 18%. As of the 2023/24 academic year, approximately 276,500 students are enrolled in these institutions.

Take a quick overview of five top universities in Switzerland, along with their average tuition fees for UG and PG courses. This information can help you compare and plan your education budget effectively.

Note: The tuition fees above are rough estimates and may differ depending on the programme and faculty. 

1. University of Zurich (UZH)

University of Zurich (UZH) stands as a beacon of academic excellence, particularly noted for its prowess in science and technology. 

Home to a distinguished list of alumni, including Albert Einstein, UZH is an ideal destination for students and researchers aiming to make significant contributions in their fields. The university’s commitment to innovation and quality education is reflected in its consistent global rankings and the diverse study opportunities it offers.

Key Highlights:

Average Tuition Fees: Generally ranges from INR 7L to INR 9L per semester for most programmes

Student Life: Vibrant campus life with various clubs, societies, and a supportive environment for international students

Unique Features: The Central Informatics Department offers extensive IT and media training

Popularity Reasons: High global rankings, cutting-edge research facilities, and a rich history

Indian Student Population: Steadily growing, with strong support networks and community groups

Each of the study programmes provides in-depth knowledge to transform the students into tomorrow’s global leaders and change-makers. 

Note: 

• The main language of instruction for all Bachelor’s degree programmes is German
• The main language of instruction for most Master’s study programmes is either German or English
• For some programmes in language and literature, it can also be French, Italian, or Spanish

2. University of Basel

The University of Basel is a Switzerland public university with a rich history. Since 1460, it’s the oldest Swiss university and one of the oldest surviving universities in the world. 

Known for its top-notch education and research, the University of Basel is considered one of the best places to study in the country. If you’re looking for a place with a long-standing tradition of academic excellence, this could be the perfect fit for you!

Key Highlights:

Average Tuition Fees: INR 6L to INR 8L

Number of Students Enrolled: Around 13,000 students from over a hundred nations, including 3,000 PhD students

Special Attributes: Pays particular attention to aspects of sustainability, equal opportunity and knowledge transfer

Besides, the University of Basel provides Certificate of Advanced Studies, Short Course, and Focus Short Courses across different verticals. 

3. ETH Zurich 

ETH Zurich is a public research university in Zürich, Switzerland. Its mission is to educate engineers and scientists, with a strong focus on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). 

If you’re passionate about these fields, ETH Zurich is a great place to pursue your studies! Here’s a table summarising the key academic and financial details for ETH Zurich:

Most doctoral students at ETH Zurich are employed as scientific assistants. This means you’ll not only be an employee but also a student, with obligations to continue your education both inside and outside your speciality. 

Also Read: Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme (ESOP) at ETH Zurich

4. University of Bern

The University of Bern is a Switzerland public university founded in 1834. With eight faculties and around 150 institutes, there’s plenty to choose from to match your interests and career goals. Whether you’re looking into sciences, arts, or any other field, the University of Bern has something for you!

Average Tuition Fees: INR 6L to INR 7L

University Acceptance Rate: 19% which indicates that securing admission to this university is a very competitive affair

Accepted Exams: IELTS, TOEFL

Course Offerings: Bachelor’s, Master’s and Doctoral Degree Programmes across a wide range of fields including, but not limited to:

• Archaeology 
• Art History 
• Business Administration
• Computer Science
• Medicine
• Law
• Veterinary Medicine

Note: Students aiming to get into this university must have an exceptional academic background

5. EPFL (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne)

École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), located in Lausanne, is a prestigious Switzerland public university known for its excellence in research, education, and innovation. 

Key Highlights:

Average Tuition Fees: INR 6L

Accepted Exams: IELTS, TOEFL

German language proficiency: Level C1

Reasons for Popularity: 

• Domains of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM)
• Consistently ranked among the world’s best institutions
• Over 120 different nationalities represented among its student body, faculty, and staff
• A rich 160-year history

Course Offerings:

• EPFL offers Bachelor’s degrees in 13 disciplines and 29 Master’s programmes, which can be highly specialised or interdisciplinary
• It also provides double diplomas and joint degrees with international partners
• EPFL’s Doctoral School supervises 22 doctoral programmes, ensuring comprehensive coverage of all research fields

University Rankings in Switzerland at a Glance

Wondering how the best universities in Switzerland stack up in global rankings like QS and Times Higher Education (THE)? These rankings are great tools to help students and scholars gauge which institutions stand out for their academic prestige and the opportunities they provide. 

Each university is assigned equal importance to teaching quality, research excellence, and research impact measured through citations. Let’s have a look at it!

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Student Success Stories

Now that you know the tuition fees and world rankings across these top universities in Switzerland, it’s time to familiarise yourself with campus life in these institutions. 

Meet some of the students studying in top universities in Switzerland, who are presenting their study programmes and their everyday lives and experiences on campus.

1. A student opted for EPFL’s environmental engineering course due to its hands-on approach and promising prospects. Despite pursuing arts, she excelled through diligence. She thinks it’s really a good background for the future if anyone wants to get involved.
2. Isabel Jankowski, a student at the University of British Columbia, was fortunate to work on an EPFL intern project she was passionate about. Her technical lab skills flourished during the three-month period, owing to helpful guidance and excellent facilities. As an intern, Isabel worked alongside researchers and independently on exciting projects and felt an extremely friendly and positive environment. 
3. Tamara Melle, a BME student at the University of Bern, sought something challenging and new, leading her to the interdisciplinary BME Master’s programme. In spite of mandatory lectures, the flexibility to choose from various majors within the programme appealed to her. The programme’s allowance for 40% part-time work significantly eased the balance between work and study.
4. Eren Akbiyik who worked as a software developer at IBM is now pursuing a Master’s degree in data science at ETH Zurich. He is also a co-founder of his startup, Show Zone. While managing work, studies, and a startup, he learned the importance of time management and setting boundaries, cherishing moments for personal well-being. The university made him experience the value of balancing ambition with self-care.

Top universities in Switzerland for Masters

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Notable Swiss Universities For Travel and Tourism Management

As we know the top universities in Switzerland for Masters, if you’re considering studying travel and tourism, Switzerland offers some excellent options. 

Here’s a table listing the top universities in Switzerland for international students offering travel and tourism management courses, including their locations.

Common Eligibility Criteria for Studying in Switzerland

The eligibility criteria for studying in Switzerland can vary depending on the level of study and the specific university. It’s important to check these specific requirements for the programme and university you are interested in. 

1. Academic Qualifications

Bachelor’s level of study: 

• Completion of secondary education equivalent to the Swiss Matura (high school diploma)
• Accepts international qualifications like A-levels, IB, or equivalent

Master’s level of study: 

• A Bachelor’s degree or equivalent from a recognised university

PhD level of study: 

• A Master’s degree or equivalent in a relevant field

2. Language Proficiency

Following are the common language certification requirements for various programmes taught in Swiss universities:

• German – TestDaF, DSH
• French – DELF, DALF
• Italian – CELI, CILS
• English – TOEFL, IELTS

3. Visa and Residence Permit

Non-EU/EFTA citizens will generally need a student visa and a residence permit to study in Switzerland. Here’s a bit more detail to help you prepare for your study visa application and ensure a smooth process.

Student Visa Types:

• Type C (Short-term visa): For courses or programmes lasting up to 90 days
• Type D (Long-term visa): For courses or programmes longer than 90 days

Fees:

• Type C & D Visa: Approximately INR 7,000

Processing Time:

• Type C Visa: Typically takes about 10-15 days
• Type D Visa: Usually takes 8-12 weeks, so it’s important to apply well in advance

4. Financial Proof

When applying for a student visa to study in Switzerland, you must demonstrate sufficient financial means to cover your living expenses. This is a crucial requirement under Swiss visa regulations.

• You need to show proof of funds amounting to approximately INR 17L to cover living expenses
• Provide bank statements showing the required balance for the past three to six months
• If you are being sponsored, a letter from your sponsor confirming their financial support, along with their bank statements, is necessary
• Include documentation of any scholarships or grants awarded to you, as these can also count towards your financial proof
• Documents such as proof of paid accommodation or prepaid tuition fees can also support your application

5. Health Insurance

When studying in Switzerland, you must have health insurance coverage that is valid in the country to receive necessary medical care during your stay. That means you need to enrol in a Swiss health insurance plan within three months of arriving in Switzerland.  

And, you must have basic health insurance, which covers most medical costs. You can choose your insurance provider, but they all offer the same coverage. Public insurance pays for 80–90% of your medical bills, except for the first INR 24,000 each year and hospital stay fees.

6. Specific Programme Requirements

Some study programmes may have additional requirements including the following.

Entrance Exams:

• Certain programmes, especially in fields like medicine, engineering, and architecture, may require you to pass entrance exams
• Examples include the ETH Zurich entrance exam for engineering courses and the Swiss Aptitude Test for medical programmes

Portfolios:

• Programmes in creative fields such as art, design, and architecture often require a portfolio showcasing your previous work
• Ensure your portfolio highlights your skills, creativity, and relevant projects

Interviews:

• Some programmes may require an interview as part of the admission process
• Be prepared to discuss your academic background, motivation for choosing the programme, and career goals

Specific Work Experience:

• Professional programmes, particularly at the master’s level, may require relevant work experience
• For example, MBA programmes often look for candidates with a few years of professional experience in business or management roles

Language Proficiency Tests:

When enrolling in a programme taught in a language different from your native one, demonstrating language proficiency is crucial. Here are some of the common tests and their typical minimum requirements for studying in Switzerland:

English-taught programs:

• TOEFL: Most universities require a minimum score of 80 on the Internet-based test (iBT)
• IELTS: A minimum score of 6.0 is usually required, with some institutions possibly demanding at least 6.5

French-taught programs:

• DELF/DALF: For most programs, a B2 level is required, though more competitive programs might require C1

Note: Always check with the specific university for exact requirements as they can vary depending on the program and level of study

Also Read: Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships Available for 2024-25

Intakes in Switzerland 

In Switzerland, the academic calendar for universities typically includes two main intake periods: spring and fall. These are strategically timed to accommodate the influx of international students to kickstart their academics.

After selecting a course and university, applicants must choose the appropriate intake for application. Here are the estimated application deadlines for each intake:

Both the intakes can be advantageous for students giving them ample time to prepare for relocation and visa processing. However, the fall intake coincides with the start of the academic year in many parts of the world, making it the more traditional and popular option for beginning university studies.

5 Reasons Why Should You Study at Top Universities in Switzerland

For international students seeking a world-class education, Switzerland can be a go-to choice for its top universities and unparalleled quality of life. Starting your academic journey in Switzerland can be an attainable goal aside from your dream because it offers a myriad of advantages.

1. Academic Excellence with Funding Opportunities

Switzerland’s commitment to education is reflected in its generous scholarship and grant programmes. So the best part? Deserving international students can manage the costs associated with higher education.

The following table represents details regarding the unique scholarships that Swiss universities offer.

Ready to make your dream of studying in Switzerland a reality? You can find the financial support you need to make it happen. Explore your options today and take the first step towards your future.

2. Diverse Courses and Career Opportunities

Top universities in Switzerland pride themselves on offering a broad spectrum of educational and career opportunities across various disciplines. Whether you aspire to study engineering, law, medicine, arts, or any other field, every one of you can find your perfect academic fit to explore and excel in.

But wait. Are you curious about how many Swiss chocolates you could buy with your paycheck in Switzerland? The average pay for part-time jobs is so generous that you won’t have to stress about covering your bills. 

Many student part-time opportunities are paid hourly, but it’s also useful to know the average monthly salary for Indian students across different industries in Switzerland. Let’s look at the details and see what you could be earning!

3. Empowering Student Employment Policies

Working while studying? That means a livelihood for many foreign students. 

The Swiss government is well aware of how practical experience and favourable employment policies can be of great help to international students. 

With permission to work up to 15 hours per week during the semester and full-time during breaks, students can gain valuable work experience while supplementing their finances.

Plus, competitive compensation ranging from INR 2000 to INR 3000 per hour ensures that students are adequately rewarded for their efforts.

Also Read: Average Salary and Part-Time Job Earnings in Switzerland for Indian Students

4. Vibrant and Inclusive Learning Environment

Switzerland’s multicultural society fosters an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere for international students. Engage with peers from diverse backgrounds, participate in stimulating discussions, and broaden your perspectives in a collaborative learning environment that encourages intellectual growth and cultural exchange.

5. Cultural Exploration

Joining top universities in Switzerland equips you with a prestigious degree, as well as offers a well-rounded experience that enriches your personal growth and cultural understanding. Ideally located in the centre of Europe, it serves as a springboard to neighbouring countries like France, Germany, Italy, and Austria. 

Within short travel distances, you can engage with, learn from, or experience the following:

• Multiple languages, including German, French, Italian, and Romansh, to enhance your linguistic skills
• Swiss art and literature by visiting world-class art galleries, numerous museums, and literary events
• Traditional Swiss festivals such as Carnival, Geneva International Film Festival, and Montreux Jazz Festival
• Vibrant cultural heritage through music, dance, and local customs
• Outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and mountain biking in the Alps
• Swiss cuisine, including famous dishes like fondue, raclette, and a variety of chocolates

So ready to take the first step towards your dream education abroad? Ace your IELTS exam with LeapScholar! Book your free masterclass today and gain access to Live Classes, 100+ Mock Tests, and expert guidance to help you succeed. 

Wind Up

Studying at top universities in Switzerland offers a transformative journey of personal and professional growth for students. They are highly sought after because they offer: 

• Exceptional education and vast opportunities
• Theoretical knowledge and practical skills
• Pioneering research 
• Cutting-edge innovation 

Whether you aspire to study engineering, medicine, business, or the arts, Swiss universities cater to your diverse academic interests.

And the best part? The unmatched and supportive student policies in the country pave the way for your bright and promising future.

As you prepare to take this exciting step, consider how LeapScholar can enhance your journey. Our services can streamline your application process and help you make the most out of studying in Switzerland.

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