Study in Switzerland for International Students: A Guide with 5 Tips

Switzerland is one of the most vital education centers in Europe, with students coming to study from all around the world. High quality of education, international environment, and picturesque landscapes make this country an increasingly popular place to study. So here are some of the top tips that we really hope will be of great use to foreigners preparing to start studies in Switzerland.

1 Where to study in Switzerland – choosing a university, a program.

Switzerland offers many prestigious universities running study programs in different languages. However, not all universities in Switzerland are open to foreign students. Each university has its own admission requirements and restrictions.

The most well-known universities, such as the University of Zurich, the University of Geneva, the Federal Polytechnic of Zurich (ETH Zurich) and the Federal Polytechnic of Lausanne (EPFL), have well-developed programs for foreign students. However, smaller universities may have more restrictive admission criteria.

Here’s a list of the top universities, divided by majors taught in English, French, German and Italian.

English language programs in Switzerland:

• ETH Zurich: Engineering, Computer Science, Natural Sciences, Management
• EPFL: Engineering, Computer Science, Natural Sciences, Management
• University of Zurich: Medicine, Biotechnology, Economics, Law

French language programs in Switzerland:

• Université de Genève (University of Geneva): Law, Economics, Political Sciences, Social Sciences
• Université de Lausanne: Natural Sciences, Medicine, Economics, Law
• Université de Neuchâtel: Social Sciences, Economics, Law, Natural Sciences

German< language programs in Switzerland:

• ETH Zürich: Engineering, Computer Science, Natural Sciences, Management
• Universität Zürich: Medicine, Biotechnology, Economics, Law
• Universität Basel: Humanities, Natural Sciences, Medicine, Chemistry
• Universität Bern: Law, Economics, Social Sciences, Natural Sciences
• Universität St. Gallen (HSG): Economics, Business, Law, Social Sciences

Italian language programs in Switzerland:

• Università della Svizzera italiana (USI): Architecture, Economics, Computer Science, Communication, Public Health

2 International studies in Switzerland – application process and requirements

The application process varies from university and program. Below we listed the most important information.

Language requirements for foreign students in Switzerland:

Is it possible to study in Switzerland in English? Yes, it is possible to study in Switzerland in English, as well as French, German and Italian.

Most universities require students to have certificates proving their knowledge of the language in which classes are taught.

Popular certificates include IELTS, TOEFL (English language) and DELF/DALF (French language). CELI / CILS (Italian language), DSH / TestDaF (German language).

Some universities offer programs that do not require IELTS, accepting other evidence of English language proficiency. Therefore, we recommend that you read the specific requirements for your university yourself.

3 Study in Switzerland and a student visa – formalities.

Each university in Switzerland has individual application requirements, which also affects the process of applying for a student visa. The following are the most important issues.

3.1 Student visa in Switzerland: what documents are required?

The following documents are required for a student visa application:

• Copy of the passport, which must be valid for at least three months after the planned date of departure out
• 2 passport photos
• Letter of admission: An official letter from a university in Switzerland confirming your admission.
• Proof of payment of tuition fees: Confirmation that tuition fees have been paid
• Financial Proof: Documents confirming that you have sufficient funds to cover the costs of living and studying in Switzerland (bank statements, sponsorship letters, etc.).
• Health Insurance: Proof that you have health insurance that will be valid for the entire period of your stay in Switzerland. Check the best offer for mandatory health insurance for students form StudyProtect  from 57 CHF / month ((approximately $64)
• Study plan: A description of the planned program of study, including the purpose of study, course schedule and expected results.
• Educational documents: Copies of certificates from previous schools, diplomas and other educational documents.
• Resume and cover letter: An up-to-date resume and cover letter explaining why you want to study in Switzerland and what your future career plans are.

3.2 Student visa in Switzerland – what is the application procedure?

• Submission of application: An application for a student visa should be submitted to the Swiss embassy or consulate in your country of residence. The processing time of the application may vary, so it is recommended to submit it at least 3-4 months before the planned departure date.
• Visa Fee: A visa application fee is required, the amount of which may vary from country to country.
• Interview: You may have to attend an interview at the embassy or consulate.
• Visa decision: Once you have submitted your application and provided all required documents, your student visa will be issued or denied. In case of a positive decision, the visa will be pasted into your passport.

3.3 Student visa – formalities upon arrival in Switzerland:

• Registration: Upon arrival in Switzerland, you must register with the local foreigners’ office (Einwohnerkontrolle or Contrôle des habitants) within 14 days of arrival.
• Residence permit: With your student visa, you will receive a residence permit that will be valid for the entire period of your studies. This permit must be renewed every year.

4 Study in Switzerland – cost of study and living:

School fees at Swiss universities vary and can range from a few to several thousand Swiss francs per year, depending on the university and study program. Although studies are not completely free, costs can be relatively low compared to other European countries.

Is it possible to study in Switzerland with a scholarship? Yes, students can apply for various scholarships offered by universities, governments and international organisations. In addition, it is possible to take up a part-time job, which helps to cover some of the costs.

Cost of living in Switzerland: It is estimated that the monthly cost of living in Switzerland (including housing, food, transportation and other expenses) is CHF 1,500 to 2,500.

Insurance for Foreigners Studying in Switzerland: It is essential to have adequate health insurance. Check the best offer for mandatory health insurance for students form StudyProtect  from 57 CHF / month ((approximately $64) making it the best value compared to other options on the market. Subscribe now HERE.

5. Accommodation in Switzerland: student accommodation rentals

Having a place to stay is usually one of the very first challenges that students meet when going abroad for study. Just as in many other countries, in Switzerland, several accommodation types are available. Here’s what you may find while seeking student accommodation in Switzerland:

5.1 Student Dormitories in Switzerland

Dorms are also popular with many students due to their affordability and proximity to campuses. The facilities are usually managed either by the university or other student bodies. Most, in fact, get fully booked in advance, and it is therefore advisable to make an application as early as possible—right after your enrollment confirmation. Dormitories also come with various services designed to suit different tastes: private single rooms and shared apartments, with extra communal facilities that include self-catering kitchens, laundry facilities, study areas, and so on.

5.2 Flats in Switzerland to Rent

In case you wish to live privately and independently, renting an apartment alone might be the right step to make, although this usually tends to be more expensive. The rent varies greatly depending on the city or area of the exact location. Find the perfect spot through local online portals, Facebook groups, or with the help of a real estate agency. One should study the contract conditions of a rental agreement about notice, security deposit, and other additional possible costs of utilities.

5.3 Wohngemeinschaft (WG) – Shared Housing in Switzerland

Students mostly go in for shared housing, or WG, as it allows them to share their costs of living and at the same time provides a social atmosphere. This normally translates to a private bedroom with a shared kitchen, bathroom, and other living areas. It’s not only budget-friendly but a great tool for getting to know new people and making the integration process much smoother, especially for international students. You can find such accommodations through online portals targeting students or even social media groups.
These options describe the main types of student accommodations that can be available in Switzerland and which have benefits to suit your personal preferences and budget.