How much have ETH Zurich and EPFL raised semester fees for new international students like me?
ETH Zurich and EPFL have tripled tuition fees for new international students, from CHF 730 to CHF 2,190 per semester. Other public universities in Switzerland remain comparatively affordable, with master's programmes typically around CHF 850 to 5,000 per semester, though costs vary by university and city.
ETH Zurich and EPFL have tripled tuition for new international students, from CHF 730 to CHF 2,190 (approx INR 2.52 L) per semester. The old figure works out to roughly INR 84,060. Most other public universities remain far cheaper, so the increase applies to just these two.
Tuition per semester before and after the change
| Institution | Earlier fee | New fee for international students |
|---|---|---|
| ETH Zurich and EPFL | CHF 730 (approx INR 84,060) | CHF 2,190 (approx INR 2.52 L) |
How other Swiss tuition compares
| Programme level | Typical tuition per semester at public universities |
|---|---|
| Bachelor's | CHF 700 to 5,000 (approx INR 80,605 to 5.76 L) |
| Master's | CHF 850 to 5,000 (approx INR 97,878 to 5.76 L) |
My Advice
Even after the increase, Swiss public tuition is still affordable by European standards. Keep in mind that living costs in cities like Zurich and Geneva can matter more than tuition, so budget for both. Confirm the current fee on the university's official page for your intake.
This information is available on: ethz.ch, usi.ch
Got a budget of 40 to 50 lakhs? See what Switzerland costs.
Full tuition and living breakdown, plus universities that fit your number.
More Cost & living questions
- What is the lowest undergraduate tuition fee I can expect to pay at a Canadian university for the 2026 academic year?
- How much would I pay in first-year tuition for the International MBA program at York University, Toronto?
- If I get an education loan, can I proceed with the application after the loan amount is clear?
- Is it better to spend 12 lakhs in India or go abroad for higher studies in Germany for a Master's?
- Does the agency provide end-to-end services including visa, loan guidance, and accommodation?
- Do I need to show living expenses in my bank account for visa purposes, and can I withdraw it after reaching Ireland?
- How do I get an education loan for an MBA abroad as an Indian student?
- Which is more suitable for my son's master's education: Dubai or the USA, considering cost, location, program variety, post-study work options, and pathways to permanent residency?
More Switzerland questions
- What European countries are renowned for their Master's in Materials Science programs, offering strong academic and research opportunities, and why should I consider them?
- How are applicants chosen for the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship?
- Is Switzerland safe and affordable for Indian students, especially those living alone abroad?
- Are certificate programs in AI available in Canada and Switzerland?
- Which countries would be suitable for my study abroad plans, considering I have done some research and am interested in Ireland and Switzerland?
- How long will my Switzerland Type D student visa take to process from India?
- Which other countries besides Ireland offer excellent research-focused master's programs, and what are some benefits and considerations for each?
- What are the options for master's programs in countries like South Korea, Japan, Italy, France, Switzerland, and the UK?