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Studying in Switzerland

Low tuition, high living costs, top of the world rankings

EuropeHigh budget3 universitiesEnglish-taught bachelor'sPost-graduation work rights

Schools like ETH Zurich and EPFL rank among the world's best technical universities, with surprisingly low tuition. The real cost is living expenses. Hospitality schools are also internationally renowned.

Who is it for?

  • •Those aiming for the very top in engineering and natural sciences
  • •Those who want hospitality and tourism management
  • •Those who can budget for high living costs

Watch out for

  • •Living costs are Europe's highest
  • •Very few English-taught bachelor's programs

Strong fields

Computer scienceMechanical & electrical engineeringFinanceHospitality managementLife sciences

Education system

Degree lengthBachelor's 3 years
Grading6 (best) – 1
Academic calendarSeptember intake

Application system

PlatformDirect application to the university
DocumentsDiploma and transcript, Language certificate, Entrance exam at some schools
DeadlinesDecember–April

Exam requirements

Academic examsETH/EPFL may require an entrance exam; strong maths is essential
EnglishIELTS 7.0; C1 for German/French-taught programs

Costs

Tuition1,500–4,000 CHF / year (public)
Living costs1,800–2,500 CHF / month
Annual total25,000–35,000 CHF per year

Scholarships

  • •Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships
  • •Limited school-based support

Visa & work rights

Student visaCanton-based student residence permit
Working while studying15 hours per week
After graduation6-month job-seeking permit

Is Switzerland right for you?

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