Switzerland is a hub for excellent education and science. It has outstanding universities with numerous programs, many world-class public research institutions, and a thriving private sector thet encourages research and development and conducts its cutting-edge research. Whereas undergraduate programs are usually taught in the main national languages (German, French, Italian), Master’s degree and Ph.D. programs are increasingly conducted in English. The quality of life in Switzerland is among the best in the world. Excellent infrastructure, safety, and political and economic stability are all good reasons why Switzerland is a great place to study and conduct research. ETH Zurich (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology) and Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) are both placed among the world’s top 15 institutes for higher education.
In Switzerland, there are 12 doctoral/research universities, 8 universities of applied sciences (UAS) and 20 universities of teacher education (UTE). Most universities are state-funded, except one of the UAS is private/state-recognized and 14 UTEs are independent. Many degrees – all humanities and some science degrees, for example – are only available at academic universities; others, like health sciences, can only be studied at universities of applied science. Swiss higher educational policy values quality over quantity and you may find some universities specialize in certain subjects, and smaller universities may only offer a small selection of disciplines. The universities of applied sciences usually offer Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees(and sometimes Doctoral degrees) related to scientific and professional education and carry out applied research. Swiss degree courses follow the Bologna ECTS (European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System), which allows student mobility because credits can be accumulated elsewhere and transferred. The system includes:
Switzerland is regarded around the world as a fairy-tale country – an almost ideal, steady, and laid-back place, where everyone can enjoy a rich and carefree life. In the country of the most accurate watches and most reliable banks, nobody seems to ever be in a hurry. Indeed, one can think that this country is meant solely for a life of absolute comfort and heavenly leisure. With four official languages, it’s a true European melting pot and consistently ranks among the world’s leaders on measures of quality of life. Many university professors, as well as the majority of students take part in all kinds of research activities, provided by a wide range of international Ph.D. programs available in Switzerland. As an international student, you will witness this country in all its pristine glory alongside learning what it takes to abide by absolute precision and efficiency. Be ready to be mesmerized by the breathtaking views of crystal-clear lakes and peaceful Alpine mountains, even as you gorge on legendary Swiss cheese and over 180 varieties of incredible Swiss chocolates!
There is no centralized application procedure for international students, so to apply to study in Switzerland you’ll need to directly contact your chosen university. The international and admissions offices of the Universities will provide assist in the process. Ensure to check the language requirements for your chosen courses since Switzerland is a country with four official languages – German, French, Italian, and Romansh. The English proficiency test is particularly necessary at the graduate level.
You will need to apply for a multiple entry long-stay visa (Visa D) from your local Swiss embassy. At least three months is required for your visa to process, so make sure you apply well in advance. Within 14 days of your arrival, you must apply for a Residence Permit.
To be admitted to a university in Switzerland, candidates must possess either a state-recognized Swiss maturity certificate or another foreign certificate recognized as equivalent by the university. Applicants should contact their selected university well in advance as universities are the final authority with regard to language requirements. You may be asked to take a language test/certificate before being admitted into a program.
Private institutions in Switzerland have their own prerequisites. Please contact the universities you are interested in for further details.
The student residence permit allows students to work during their studies as long as their respective universities provide a statement confirming that the student’s employment will not prolong the length of their studies.
For foreign students, the number of weekly work hours is limited to 15, but this is fairly flexible depending on the canton (in Geneva, for example, you can work up to 30 hours per week). It is easier to find employment in the large urban centers like Geneva and Zurich. Each university has a job placement office that provides information on student employment. Wages vary between SFR 20 and SFR 35 according to the job and skills.
To study in Switzerland, you require a national “D” visa. This visa permits you to enter Switzerland once. After entry you will receive a residence permit for Switzerland, which also allows you to travel within the Schengen area for up to three months in every half-year. Your visa application must be accompanied by all of the documents in the list below:
A signed letter confirming that you will leave Switzerland at the end of the course.
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