Top Universities to Study In Switzerland

  • Date Icon July 30, 2025
Top Universities to Study In Switzerland

When you opt to study in Switzerland, one of the first things to note is the abundance of globally ranked universities in Switzerland. Universities are research-led, have close links to industry, and have modern teaching infrastructure that allows them to rank extremely well globally.

If your question is “how to study in Switzerland from India?”, it will begin with choosing a university that is right for you academically, entirely independent of which country you are coming from. Switzerland has universities for whichever point you are studying at, such as from after 12th grade or postgraduate study.

Here is a full list of best universities in Switzerland that will accept international students or Indian students for many subjects:

Top Universities to Study In Switzerland

Top Universities in Switzerland

List of Top Universities to Study In Switzerland

UniversityPopular Courses / SubjectsTuition Fees
ETH ZurichMechanical Engg, Computer Science, ArchitectureCHF 730/semester
EPFLElectrical Engg, Data Science, Life SciencesCHF 1,266/year
University of ZurichEconomics, Medicine, LawCHF 1,290/semester
University of GenevaIR, Human Rights LawCHF 500/semester
University of BaselMolecular Biology, Philosophy, HistoryCHF 850/semester
University of Lausanne (UNIL)Business, Biology, LawCHF 580/semester
University of BernMedicine, Political Science, Environmental SciCHF 850/semester
USI – Università della Svizzera italianaInformatics, Architecture, CommunicationCHF 4,000/year (non-EU)
Graduate Institute GenevaInt’l Affairs, Dev. Studies, EconomicsCHF 5,000–8,000/year
EHL Hospitality Business SchoolHospitality Mgmt, Luxury Branding, BusinessCHF 40,000–45,000/year (incl. housing)

Best Universities to Study In Switzerland

1. ETH Zurich – Swiss Federal Institute of Technology

ETH Zurich is the highest-ranked university in Switzerland and is among the world leaders in science, engineering, and technology. It is ranked as one of the top ten universities in the world and offers an exceptional education delivered by a faculty who perform cutting-edge research internationally.

  • Popular Courses: Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, Architecture
  • Tuition Fees: Approximately CHF 730 per semester
  • Language: Primarily German as an undergraduate, but many Master’s programs are available in English.

If you’re asking yourself “how much does it cost to study in Switzerland,” then ETH is arguably one of the most affordable (for the ROI), tuition free options available.

2. EPFL – École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne

EPFL is ETH Zurich’s French-speaking equivalent and equally prestigious, particularly in the engineering and life sciences areas. It has students from everywhere, and they have good systems in place for international candidates.

  • Popular Courses: Electrical Engineering, Data Science, Life and Health Sciences
  • Tuition Fees: Approximately CHF 1,266 per year
  • Language: English (for graduate programs)

3. University of Zurich

As the largest university in the largest city in Switzerland, this is an excellent university for students looking to study economics, law and natural sciences and has a varied consortium of student from many different backgrounds. The University of Zurich is perfect for international students looking to Study in Switzerland in a range of areas of studies.

  • Course Categories: Economics, Medicine, Law
  • Tuition Fees: CHF 1,290/semester
  • Language: Berlin dialect German; only select programs are offered in English

4. University of Geneva

A top university for political science, international relations and law. Including its unique location with proximity to international organizations (e.g. UN), perfect if you plan on working globally.

  • Popular Courses: International Relations, Human Rights Law
  • Tuition Costs: CHF500/semester
  • Language: French and English

Ideal for students searching “study in Switzerland from India” who are looking at career opportunities in diplomacy and public policy.

5. University of Basel

Switzerland’s most historical institution of higher learning, it is providing studies in biodecimal sciences, humanities, and social sciences. Widely held as having impressive depth of academic programming as well as access to research partnerships. 

  • Some popular courses include Molecular Biology, Philosophy, and History. 
  • Tuition Fees: CHF 850/semester.
  • Language of Instruction: German and English.

6. University of Lausanne (UNIL)

The University of Lausanne is located on the beautiful shores of Lake Geneva, places a strong emphasis on research, and collaborates with universities across Europe. It is a prime option for students that wish to study in Switzerland as an international student; especially in life sciences, business, and law. 

  •  Most popular courses: Business Administration, Biology, Law
  •  Tuition Fees: Approx. CHF 580/semester
  •  Language of instruction: French for undergraduate students; some Master’s program in English.

 If you’re looking to study in Switzerland and experience a range of culture, UNIL gives a nice balance in your studies and social activities as an international student.

7. University of Bern

The University of Bern is a research university with a strong focus on a variety of medical and social sciences. Bern offers a number of programs that are tailored to students who may want to study in Switzerland from India. The international office at the University of Bern is well structured to assist each step of the admissions and visa processes.

  •  Popular Courses: Medicine, Political Science, Environmental Sciences
  • Tuition Fee: CHF 850/per semester
  •  Language: German; graduate programs in English available

 For those who ask, “is it expensive to study in Switzerland?”- Bern has a quality education for a relatively low price and options for inexpensive living.

8. Università della Svizzera italiana (USI) – University of Lugano

The Università della Svizzera italiana (USI) is Switzerland’s youngest university, located in the Italian-speaking region of Lugano, which has made a noticeable mark in it’s short existence with niche offerings available in communication, architecture and computer science. 

  • Popular Courses: Informatics, Architecture, Communication Studies 
  • Tuition Fees: CHF 4,000/year for non-EU students 
  • Language: English and Italian

An excellent option for Indian students interested in what it would cost to study in Switzerland where there are not many scholarships available, seek a more international curriculum and seek an innovative approach.

9. Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies, Geneva

This respected graduate-only school offers international relations, development studies, and diplomacy. If you are looking to study abroad in Switzerland for international students in the field of global governance, this is your institution. It is located directly in the heart of Geneva’s diplomatic community. 

  • Popular Subjects: International Affairs, Development Studies, Economics
  • Fees: CHF 5,000–8,000/year
  • Language: English and French

 For students who want to gain knowledge about how to study in Switzerland from India with a focus on global policy, this institution offers world-renowned mentorship, connections and access to global organizations, and career-ready programs.

10. EHL Hospitality Business School (École hôtelière de Lausanne)

EHL never fails to appear on every shortlist of the globe’s leading hospitality management schools, making it an excellent pick for career-focused students interested in business, service innovation, and hotel management.

  • Popular Courses: Hospitality Management, Luxury Brand Strategy, Business Administration.
  • Tuition Costs: Approx. CHF 40,000–45,000/year (includes accommodation and materials).
  • Language: English.

Increased study in Switzerland for Indian students is higher at EHL than the further subsidised public universities; but totally worth it, due to the great career potential in global hospitality and tourism.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking to study at an inexpensive university, a specific course, or attend a prestigious brand name, these Swiss Universities will provide all three. Ranging from research-informed universities to niche business schools, Switzerland has every Indian and international student covered.