September 17, 2025 
If you’re looking to study abroad in 2025, Switzerland is one of the most desirable countries for students. Its education system is world class, has some research-based universities and is rated highly on the international scene with high living standards and academic quality. For Indian students, studying in Switzerland offers a unique balance of affordable public universities, various English courses and opportunities available worldwide.
This blog gives information about why Switzerland is a suitable destination for higher education in 2025 with a particular focus on Indian students. The discussion will include a running list of the best universities, the most popular courses, admissions, fees, funding representation, visa and work opportunities.
Top Universities in Switzerland for International Students
By studying in Switzerland as an international student, you are choosing one of the world’s most respected institutions. Many of these universities consistently rank among the top 200 in the world for research, innovation, and teaching.
- ETH Zurich (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich)
- 2025 World Rank 7
- Engineering, computer science, and natural science established ability.
- Includes Nobel prize winners and global industry leaders.
- EPFL (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne)
- World Rank 26
- Engineering, robotics, and new technologies.
- University of Zurich (UZH)
- Switzerland’s largest university.
- Economics, law, medicine, and human sciences established strong ability.
- University of Geneva
- Specialty known in international law, diplomacy, and life science.
- Popular university for students also aiming for global organization careers.
- University of St. Gallen (HSG)
- Well recognized for business administration, management, and finance.
- Its MBA program is regarded among the top programs in Europe.
For Indian students, these universities offer Indian students a chance at world-class universities or studies at a lower tuition cost than in the UK or USA.
Popular Courses to Study in Switzerland
One of the biggest draws of studying in Switzerland from India is the range of available courses of study across various fields. Courses are presented as a sequence connecting practice and theory. This creates an environment of learning where graduates emerge job-ready.
- Engineering and Technology: Mechanical, civil, computer, and electrical engineering programs offered by ETH Zurich and EPFL.
- Hospitality and Tourism Management: Switzerland leads the world in teaching about hospitality; institutes such as Glion and Les Roches have set the standards for hospitality teaching.
- Business – Finance: As a global financial hub and center for businesses, including the highly-ranked St. Gallen and IMD Business School universities, a high-quality business education is easily accessible.
- Computer Science and Data Science: Also, because of the demand for tech workers, more programs are offered in AI, data science, and cybersecurity.
- Life Sciences and Medicine: Universities located in Zurich and Geneva specialize in medical, pharmaceutical and biotechnology practice based programs.
These courses demonstrate many options available as a host country for students who seek to build international careers.
Admission Requirements: How to Study in Switzerland
Students frequently inquire about studying in Switzerland and the processes involved in acceptance. The requirements will vary according to the level of study and university.
Bachelor’s Programs (After 12th)
Swiss universities usually accept an equivalent to the Swiss Matura for entry into Bachelor studies.
Indian students may need to complete one to two years of studies in program-relevant subjects at the bachelor level in India or have completed a foundation course.
Programs will require solid academic records in either science or commerce, based on the path chosen.
Master’s Programs
- Having a recognized bachelor’s degree in a relevant field is essential.
- High academic performance (first-class or equivalent) will increase likelihood of being offered admission.
- Program instruction is largely in English; perhaps requiring an IELTS (6.5–7.0) or TOEFL iBT (90–100) level of English proficiency.
Additional Requirements to Study in Switzerland for International Students
- A current passport.
- Statement of Purpose (SOP) and recommendation letters.
- Current CV for graduate programs.
- Financial documents (required for visas).
If you are an Indian, the university will often offer admission counseling and step-by-step application support.
Cost of Studying in Switzerland for Indian Students
Students and parents frequently ask: Is studying in Switzerland costly? Living costs are high but food tuition costs at public universities are modest.
Tuition Fees
- Public Universities:
- Bachelor’s: CHF 1,000 – 4,000 per year (₹90,000 – ₹3,60,000).
- Master’s: CHF 1,500 – 5,000 per year (₹1,35,000 – ₹4,50,000).
- Private Universities:
- CHF 20,000 – 90,000 for certain master’s programs, specifically business and hospitality programs.
In a nutshell, the cost of studying in Switzerland cost for Indian students is remarkably lower than in the USA and UK.
Cost of Living
Living costs are between CHF 1,800 – 2,500 a month (₹1.6 – 2.25 lakh). The average student budget breakdown is as follows:
- Housing: CHF 800 – 1,200.
- Food: CHF 400 – 500.
- Health insurance: CHF 250 – 350.
- Transport/Utilities: CHF 150 – 200.
- Other: CHF 200 – 250.
Overall, what does it cost to study in Switzerland? The overall cost of tuition and living expenses is an average of CHF 25,000 – 30,000 a year (₹22 – 27 lakh) for public university students.
Student Visa Requirements for Indian Students
Indian students looking to study in Switzerland must apply for a National D visa for programs lasting over 90 days. Required are the following:
Key Switzerland Student Visa Requirements:
- Letter of acceptance from a Swiss university.
- Proof of tuition fee payment.
- Bank balance demonstrating a minimum of CHF 21,000 (about ₹18.9 lakh).
- A valid passport and recent photo(s).
- Proof of health insurance.
- A SOP and CV.
The application process takes 8-12 weeks, so apply as soon as possible. Once students arrive in Switzerland, they must register with their local Residents’ Registration Office within 14 days of the course commencement date.
Scholarships for Indian Students
Scholarships ease the financial cost of studying in Switzerland.
- The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships – provides tuition and stipend, health insurance, and a travel allowance.
- ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship (ESOP) – provides full tuition and living expenses for master’s level students.
- EPFL Excellence Fellowships – provide financial support of CHF 10,000 per semester.
- University of Lausanne Master’s Grants – CHF 1,600 monthly.
Scholarships are competitive so plan ahead and apply for scholarships early.
Work Opportunities During and After Studies
Part-time jobs allow for cost management for people wondering, is it expensive to study in Switzerland?
- International students are allowed to work up to 15 hours/week during the semester and full-time during breaks.
- Jobs usually pay between CHF 22–28/hour.
- Students can only work during their studies after the first six months of their program.
After graduation, students are allowed to apply for a 6-month visa to search for a job. Afterwards, the employer will typically sponsor a work permit on behalf of the graduate.
Why Study in Switzerland? Key Benefits
- Universities that are Ranked Globally– ETH Zurich, EPFL and St. Gallen rank among leaders in the world.
- Public Tuition that is affordable– Public universities make education affordable even if living costs are generally high.
- Safe and Inclusive– Switzerland is rated among the safest countries in the world.
- Exposure to International Cultures– Thousands of students from all over the world call Switzerland home.
- Strategic Location– Switzerland is close to Germany, Italy, France and Austria.
- Strong Links to Industry– Internships with companies such as UBS, Novartis and Nestle are highly sought after.
For Indian students, this unique combination of affordability, quality and opportunity make Switzerland a highly ranked choice in 2025.
Your Checklist for Studying in Switzerland
- Explore universities and programs early.
- Confirm what international students need to qualify to study in Switzerland.
- Estimate expenditure and plan finances.
- Apply for scholarships.
- Prepare documents for the visa process.
- Learn basics of German/French/Italian for day to day use.
Conclusion
When you decide to study in Switzerland in 2025, you are deciding to invest in a future of academic excellence, global exposure and rewarding job opportunities. From world-ranking universities and value for money tuition, to multicultural experience and strong ties with industry, Switzerland offers every aspect a successful international student would want. For Indian students, it will offer a quality education, a priceless experience of life in one of the safest countries in the world, and reasonable expenditure.
FAQs
- Can I study in Switzerland after 12th?
Yes, nevertheless, Indian students may require completing one to two years of undergraduate studies in India, or a foundation course, before they can apply for eligibility. - How much does it cost to study in Switzerland for Indian students?At public universities, tuition generally ranges from ₹90,000 – ₹4,50,000 for each year. Including cost of living, the overall budget is about ₹22–27 lakh yearly.
- Is IELTS required for admission to Swiss universities?
Yes, the majority of programs expect IELTS (6.5–7.0) or TOEFL iBT (90–100) as evidence of English proficiency. - Is it expensive to study in Switzerland?
Although the cost of living is high, tuition fees at public institutions are much more affordable. Scholarships and working part-time can help ensure overall costs remain manageable. - How to study in Switzerland from India?
Start with a shortlist of universities, apply online with supporting documents, receive admission, submit proof of funds, and apply to a Switzerland student visa.
