Study in Switzerland for Indian Students | Admissify

Last Updated on September 30, 2024

Switzerland, home to over 7,000 lakes and some of the most stunning alpine landscapes in Europe is also a top-ranked hub for education. Over the years, Switzerland’s education system has consistently secured a place among the world’s top 10 or top 20, making it highly attractive to international students. According to the Swiss Federal Statistical Office, the country’s education system and world-class academic institutions have drawn more than 76,267 international students as of 2024. With its stunning natural beauty, Switzerland offers a unique blend of highly ranked universities, an optimal student-to-faculty ratio, state-of-the-art research facilities, and affordable tuition fees.

In addition to its academic excellence, Switzerland’s location in the Schengen zone and its long-standing neutrality, maintained since 1505, have fostered economic stability and growth, further enhancing its appeal as a study-abroad destination. Known for its cheese, chocolate, and breathtaking landscapes, Switzerland is much more than a tourist haven—it is a center for higher learning that offers students an education, access to lucrative job opportunities, and a high quality of life. 

This article will explore the best universities, popular courses, and career prospects for those willing to study in Switzerland. 

Study in Switzerland 2024: Highlights

The key highlights of studying in Switzerland include:

Universities in Switzerland	17
Average Cost of Studying in Switzerland	INR 45000- INR 3,60,000/ Semester
Average Cost of Living in Switzerland	INR 9000- INR 1,66,500 (approx.)/Month
Popular Courses in Switzerland	MIM in International Business MS in Computer Science MIM in Sales & Marketing  BBA MS in Chemistry
Part-time Work Allowance	Maximum 15 hours/week for students belonging to non-EU and non-EFTA countries. There are no hourly restrictions on students belonging to EU and EFTA countries.
Post-study Work Visa Duration in Switzerland	6 months
Switzerland Study Visa Application Cost	No Fee

Why Study in Switzerland?

Switzerland allows you to study surrounded by the beauty of the Swiss Alps. Apart from the scenic backdrop, some other reasons for you to study in Switzerland are:

• The education system in Switzerland is very flexible and offers many options for international students to get a quality education. Students worldwide can choose to study for undergraduate, postgraduate, or PhD degrees at some of the best universities in Switzerland.

• Switzerland is home to top universities like ETH Zurich and EPFL, which are often ranked among the top 20 in the world. For instance, ETH Zurich is ranked seventh in the QS World University Rankings 2025. These universities focus on blending theory with practical learning, helping students prepare well for their future jobs.

• International students can study in languages such as German, French, and English. One significant aspect of learning in Switzerland is that many universities do not require Indian students to submit English language test scores like IELTS. Students with basic English speaking and writing skills can apply for programs without taking the IELTS exam. This means that students can study in Switzerland without IELTS.

• Two cities from Switzerland have made it to the Top 20 Best Student Cities list according to QS Rankings 2025. Additionally, Switzerland is home to 15 companies listed on the Fortune 500, providing international students with excellent career opportunities.

• Switzerland invests about 3.4% of its GDP in research and innovation, showing its commitment to advancing knowledge and technology. Students have access to modern research resources and can participate in creative projects.

• Around 25% of the population in Switzerland consists of international students who have settled there after completing their studies. This indicates that plenty of opportunities for permanent residency and jobs are available in the country.

• Switzerland also offers various funding options for international students. Scholarships like the Swiss Excellence Scholarships for Foreign Students and the ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarships provide significant financial support to deserving candidates.

• The country warmly welcomes international students. A vibrant lifestyle and multicultural environment allow students from different backgrounds to integrate easily into Swiss life.

The Bologna Education Scheme, based on the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS), is followed in Switzerland. This system allows international students to transfer their educational qualifications to their home institutions. 

 Bachelor’s Degree

•  Duration: Typically 3 years, but specializations like medical and information technology can take up to 5 years.
•  Structure: Students choose major and minor subjects and must complete 180 ECTS credits.

 Master’s Degree

•  Duration: Usually completed in 2 years.
•  Requirement: A master’s degree is necessary to pursue a PhD. To earn a master’s degree, students must complete 90–120 ECTS credits.

 Master of Advanced Studies (MAS)

• Duration: Generally lasts 1-2 years.
• Components: Involves independent study, coursework, and a master’s thesis. Students must complete 60–120 ECTS credits.

 Doctorate Degree

•  Duration: It takes about 3 to 5 years to complete.
• Credits Required: Students must finish a total of 240 ECTS credits.

The Swiss academic year runs from September to May and is divided into two semesters. Students can choose to take courses in Italian, German, or English.

Top Universities to Study In Switzerland

The top universities to study in Switzerland include:

University	QS World University Rankings (2025)
ETH Zurich – Swiss Federal Institute of Technology	#7
EPFL	#26
University of Zurich	#109
University of Basel	#131
University of Geneva	#155
University of Bern	#161
University of Lausanne	#224
USI – Università della Svizzera italiana	#405
Université de Fribourg	#539
Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW)	#781-790

Types of University to Study in Switzerland

Switzerland’s university system is based on three main areas: applied sciences and arts, fundamental research, and teacher education. Each type of university serves a distinct role within the Swiss education, research, and innovation landscape.

Types of Institution	Number of Universities	Key Pointers
Universities (UNIs)	12	Research institutions offering bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate degrees.
Universities of Teacher Education (UTEs)	20	Offer programs in teaching for pre-primary level primary level secondary level I secondary level II special needs education.
Universities of Applied Sciences and Arts (UASAs)	9	Offer practice-based Bachelor’s, Master’s degree programs. Focus on application-oriented programs.

Popular Courses to Study in Switzerland 

Now that you know all about the types of universities to study in Switzerland and the top universities to study in Switzerland, let us discuss the popular courses to study in Switzerland

The popular courses to study in Switzerland for international students are:

• Hotel & Hospitality Management 
• Business Management
• Banking & Finance
• International Law
• Applied Mathematics
• Artificial Intelligence
• Interdisciplinary Sciences
• Quantitative & Systems Biology

Popular Courses: Average Tuition Fee to Study in Switzerland

The tuition fees for various top courses to study in Switzerland are given below;

Program	Duration	Average Tuition Fees (CHF)	Average Tuition Fees (INR)
B.Sc (Business Administration)	3 years	10,000	8,50,000
MSc Mechanical Engineering	1.5 years	730 per semester	61,050
MBA (Global Banking & Finance)	3 semesters	13,250 per semester	11,25,000
MSc Artificial Intelligence	2.5 years	Total 42,000	35,70,000
BA Hons (International Hospitality Management)	3 years	9,250 per year	7,85,000

Admission Requirements to Study in Switzerland

• To pursue an undergraduate diploma or a bachelor’s degree in Switzerland, students must have completed their 10+2 education from a recognized board. 
• For postgraduate diplomas or master’s degrees, it is essential to hold a relevant full-time bachelor’s degree with good grades. 
• While an English language proficiency test is not mandatory for all universities in Switzerland, some institutions may require an IELTS score. 
• A Statement of Purpose (SOP) is necessary for the admission process. This unique statement outlines the student’s purpose and goals for pursuing their studies.
• Additionally, at least two Letters of Recommendation (LORs) are required for admission to Swiss universities. 
• GRE and GMAT scores are also important for many programs, especially for admission to top-ranked universities in Switzerland.
• Having two to three years of work experience can be beneficial for applicants. For specific courses like MS, MBA, and other postgraduate programs, prior work experience may be mandatory.

Study in Switzerland Cost for Indian Students

The tuition costs for studying in Switzerland are relatively affordable compared to other European countries. The fees vary depending on whether you attend a public or private university.

Public universities such as the University of Lausanne, ETH Zurich, the University of Basel, and the University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland offer lower tuition rates. 

On the other hand, private Swiss universities tend to be more expensive. To get a clearer understanding of tuition costs, it’s essential to consider the type of course and the level of study you are pursuing.

Here’s a table summarizing the tuition costs for bachelor’s and master’s degree programs in Switzerland:

Degree Program	Tuition Cost (CHF)	Tuition Cost (INR)
Bachelor’s Degree	700 – 3,500	INR 59,500 – INR 2,97,500
Master’s Degree	850 – 2,000	INR 72,250 – INR 1,70,000

Cost of Living in Switzerland

The cost of living in Switzerland for Indian students varies based on the city and location. On average, an Indian student needs about 2,250 CHF monthly to cover expenses such as accommodation, transportation, food, and utilities.

Cities like Bern, Geneva, and Zurich are expensive. In these cities, the average monthly living cost can exceed 2,055 CHF. 

Study in Switzerland, cost of living:

Factor	Average Monthly Expenditure (CHF)	Average Monthly Expenditure (INR)
University Accommodation	CHF 400 –CHF 750	INR 34,000 – INR 63,750
Private Accommodation	CHF 1,500 – CHF 2,500	INR 1,27,500 – INR 2,12,500
Shared Flats & Rentals	CHF 650 –CHF  1,205	INR 55,250 –INR  1,02,425
Food	CHF 500	INR 42,500
Healthcare	CHF 400	INR 34,000
Travel	CHF 100	INR 8,500

Study in Switzerland Student Visa Process

Step by Step process to apply for a Swiss visa to study in Switzerland

To study in Switzerland, you must apply for a Swiss visa soon after receiving admission confirmation from the university. The step-by-step process to apply for a Swiss visa to study in Switzerland is given below:

• Reach out to the Swiss consulate soon after receiving a letter of acceptance from your desired Swiss University.
• Fill out the Visa application form and make an appointment at the Swiss Visa Application Center.
• After receiving a letter of acceptance from the desirable Swiss University, you should contact the Swiss Consulate.
• Fill out a Visa Application Form and fix an appointment at the Swiss Visa Application Center.
• You need to carry the completed application form with the indispensable documents.
• Carefully check and submit the documents. Pay the Swiss student visa fees. 
• Collect the acknowledgment receipt and wait for the approval. 

If a student applies for a short visa of less than three months, it takes 10–15 days. However, for a National D visa, the time process for a student visa can go up to 10 weeks. 

Study in Switzerland Documents Required for a Swiss Students Visa

The documents required to apply for aSwissVisa to  study in Switzerland are given below:

• Valid national passport
• 4 x passport-size pictures
• 3 x Visa application form
• Cover Letter 
• Proof of funds to stay in Switzerland.
• Medical travel insurance copy. 
• A detailed letter stating why you want to study in Switzerland, when you will arrive, and how long you will stay.
• No objection certificate from university.
• University enrollment proof

Scholarship to Study in Switzerland

Scholarships are a great help to international students considering studying abroad. Refer to the table below for information on scholarships available to study in Switzerland

Scholarship Name	Amount Awarded (CHF)	Amount Awarded (INR)
Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships	Up to 111,000	INR 94,35,000
ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarships	12,000 per semester	INR 10,20,000
University of Geneva Excellence Master Fellowships	10,000 – 15,000	INR 8,50,000 –  INR 12,75,000
University of Lausanne Master’s Grants	1,600 per month	INR 1,36,000
EPFL Excellence Fellowships	16,000 per academic year	INR 13,60,000

Scope after Study in Switzerland

Switzerland has a strong job market and strong connections with various developed nations. 

Job Title	Average Annual Salary (CHF)	Average Annual Salary (INR)
IT Manager	CHF 110,000 – CHF 200,000	₹93,50,000 – ₹1,70,00,000
Financial Analyst	CHF 90,000 – CHF 110,000	₹76,50,000 – ₹93,50,000
Software Engineer	CHF 80,000 – CHF 90,000	₹68,00,000 – ₹76,50,000
Doctor/Physician	CHF 60,000 – CHF 110,000	₹51,00,000 – ₹93,50,000
Human Resources Manager	CHF 90,000 – CHF 110,000	₹76,50,000 – ₹93,50,000
Data Scientist	CHF 99,000 – CHF 110,000	₹84,15,000 – ₹93,50,000
Project Manager	CHF 95,000 – CHF 110,000	₹80,75,000 – ₹93,50,000
Business Consultant	CHF 89,000 – CHF 110,000	₹75,65,000 – ₹93,50,000
Marketing Manager	CHF 88,000 – CHF 110,000	₹74,80,000 – ₹93,50,000
Research Scientist	CHF 85,000 – CHF 110,000	₹72,25,000 – ₹93,50,000

Check other Countries for Study abroad:

Conclusion

Studying in Switzerland offers a myriad of opportunities for Indian students. With its world-class universities like ETH Zurich and EPFL, students can receive a high-quality education in a beautiful setting. The average cost of living ranges from INR 9,000 to INR 1,66,500 per month, making it manageable for many. Graduates can expect competitive salaries, with IT Manager and Data Scientist roles earning between CHF 99,000 and CHF 200,000 annually, translating to approximately ₹84,15,000 to ₹1,70,00,000.

Switzerland not only provides excellent academic programs but also a vibrant multicultural environment. With various scholarships available, studying in Switzerland has become an accessible and rewarding experience. 

Contact us at Admissify and satiate all your study in Switzerland queries now!

FAQs

Is IELTS a requirement for a Swiss student visa to study in Switzerland?

Yes, an English language proficiency test is mandatory for a Swiss visa. You can either take the IELTS or TOEFL for this.

What are the costs of studying in Switzerland?  

Tuition fees range from INR 59,500 to INR 2,97,500 for bachelor’s degrees and INR 72,250 to INR 1,70,000 for master’s degrees.

Do I need IELTS to study in Switzerland?  

Many universities do not require IELTS scores; basic English skills are often enough.

 What is the average cost of living?  

Indian students typically need around INR 9,000 to INR 1,66,500 monthly for living expenses.

Aakriti Kumari is a passionate content writer who finds solace in the world of books. An avid reader from a young age, she has cultivated a deep love for the written word. When she’s not crafting compelling content, you can find her lost in the pages of a captivating novel. Aakriti shares her literary adventures and book recommendations on her Instagram account, @aakthereader, dedicated to her love of reading. With a keen eye for detail and a gift for storytelling, she brings words to life, inviting readers on a journey through her writing.