Study In Switzerland
Step Into World-Class Education – Study in Switzerland and Shape a Global Future!
- Affordable, high-quality education
- Globally ranked universities
- Expert guidance
Want To Study In Switzerland?
Why Study in Switzerland?
Deciding to study in Switzerland could be the best choice you ever make! Switzerland is not only a beautiful country famous for the Alps and chocolates – it is also known for educational excellence and innovation and is already a great place to live and study.
Switzerland offers some of the best universities in the world in bachelor’s programs, especially in engineering, finance, hospitality, life sciences, and much more. And to answer the question on everyone’s mind – “Can I study in Switzerland after 12th?” – yes! A ton of bachelor’s degrees for Indian and International students will be open to you in Switzerland if you want to get your education started early.
So, how to study in Switzerland from India? It all starts with knowing your options! Whether you are applying for a bachelor’s after Class 12, while you are in your graduation or for a master’s program, admission processes to Swiss schools are flexible and competitive to embrace international talent.
Here’s why more Indian students are choosing Switzerland:
- Academic Reputation: Institutions such as ETH Zurich and EPFL always rank in the top 10 around the world.
- Culturally Diverse Exchange: with students from over 180 nationalities, the country guarantees a genuinely international campus life.
- Innovation Environment: Switzerland is ranked among the best countries for innovation and R&D – a unique destination for ambitious thinkers.
- Work Opportunities: Post-study stay-back options along with a stable job market help you seamlessly move from studies to employment.
- Safe and Clean Country: The country is ranked among the safest and cleanest globally which is particularly suitable for student life.
Is it expensive to study in Switzerland?
A lot of students will ask, “what does it cost to study in Switzerland?” or “is it expensive to study in Switzerland?” Compared to study abroad destinations like the United States or United Kingdom, tuition in Switzerland is actually very reasonable! The average study cost in Switzerland for Indian students is between CHF 1,000– CHF 4,000 a year for tuition in public institutions. Living costs are typically between CHF 1,200–CHF 2,000 a month, depending on location and lifestyle.
Requirements to Study in Switzerland for International Students
Before starting your application process, it is important to highlight the eligibility criteria to study in Switzerland for international students. Here is a summary of the criteria:
- Good academic credentials (12th class for bachelor’s, UG degree for master’s)
- English language competence (IELTS/TOEFL)
- Passport and personal identification paperwork
- SOP (Statement of Purpose), LOR (Letters of Recommendation), and CV
- You’ll need to be acquainted with German, French, or Italian language depending on the institution and program.
Whether you want to study in Switzerland from India or anywhere in the world, the above-mentioned criteria can lead the way to a smoother application file.
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Popular Courses to Study in Switzerland
Switzerland is known not only for its alpine beauty, delicious chocolates and banking, it is also becoming a popular place for international education. If you are an Indian student looking to study in Switzerland or an aspiring student from other countries – firstly, you will need to choose a course that you want to study. Swiss universities have a global reputation for providing specialized courses that offer extensive theoretical and practical learning, particularly in areas such as hospitality, business, engineering and international law.
So how to study smartly in Switzerland? Start by selecting a course that has some global demand, something you are interested in studying and would bring you a good return on your investment when you have finished your course. Here is a look at some of the popular courses to study in Switzerland for international students, and Indian aspiring students.
| Course | Top Institutions | Ideal For | Requirements / Eligibility | Cost (CHF) | Language |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hospitality and Hotel Management | EHL, Glion Institute | Luxury hospitality, hotel ops, tourism careers | Direct after 12th, student visa required | 30,000–45,000/year (incl. accommodation/materials) | English |
| Business Administration & Management | St. Gallen, ETH Zurich, IMD | Finance, leadership, entrepreneurship | Good academics, IELTS/TOEFL, GMAT for MBA | 1,200–30,000/year | English |
| Engineering and Technology | ETH Zurich, EPFL | Mechanical, civil, software, electrical | Bachelor’s/Master’s entry, English/German proficiency | 800–1,600/semester | English / German |
| International Relations & Political Science | Graduate Institute Geneva | Diplomacy, NGOs, policy careers | Bachelor’s degree, SOP, English/French | 5,000–8,000/year | English / French |
| Life Sciences & Biotechnology | Basel, ETH Zurich, Lausanne | Pharma, biology, genetics, environmental science | 12th-grade Biology, English/German proficiency | 1,000–1,500/semester | English / German |
| Finance & Banking | Zurich, Geneva | Investment banking, fintech, auditing | English-language courses available; visa needed | 1,200–2,000/semester | English |
Best Universities 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:
| University | Popular Courses / Subjects | Tuition Fees | Language of Instruction | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ETH Zurich | Mechanical Engg, Computer Science, Architecture | CHF 730/semester | German (UG), English (Master’s) | Top 10 globally, affordable tuition, best for STEM |
| EPFL | Electrical Engg, Data Science, Life Sciences | CHF 1,266/year | English (PG) | Prestigious, French region, strong in tech/science |
| University of Zurich | Economics, Medicine, Law | CHF 1,290/semester | German, some English | Largest Swiss university, great for law & econ |
| University of Geneva | IR, Human Rights Law | CHF 500/semester | French, English | Ideal for diplomacy, near UN & NGOs |
| University of Basel | Molecular Biology, Philosophy, History | CHF 850/semester | German, English | Oldest in Switzerland, strong research output |
| University of Lausanne (UNIL) | Business, Biology, Law | CHF 580/semester | French (UG), some English (Master’s) | Beautiful lakeside campus, research-heavy |
| University of Bern | Medicine, Political Science, Environmental Sci | CHF 850/semester | German, English (PG) | Affordable, strong student support |
| USI – Università della Svizzera italiana | Informatics, Architecture, Communication | CHF 4,000/year (non-EU) | English, Italian | Innovative, young, in Italian-speaking region |
| Graduate Institute Geneva | Int’l Affairs, Dev. Studies, Economics | CHF 5,000–8,000/year | English, French | Graduate-only, elite institute for diplomacy |
| EHL Hospitality Business School | Hospitality Mgmt, Luxury Branding, Business | CHF 40,000–45,000/year (incl. housing) | English | #1 globally in hospitality, strong industry ties |
Important Note
Many Swiss universities offer affordable student meal plans and discounted travel passes, which can significantly reduce monthly expenses. Planning ahead, applying early for housing, and using student discounts on essentials can help make studying in Switzerland more budget-friendly without compromising on quality of life.
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Scholarships for Indian Students in Switzerland
Similar to many Indian students, the cost is one of the most typical concerns before making the decision to study in Switzerland. While Switzerland is synonymous with quality of life and education, it is also synonymous with high cost of living. Which is why scholarships for studying in Switzerland are so valuable when it comes to making education in Switzerland a reality for those curious:
- How much does it cost to study in Switzerland?
- Is it expensive to study in Switzerland?
- Can I afford to study in Switzerland after 12th?
The positive aspect? There are a few funding options for those intending to study in Switzerland from India or international students from other nations. In addition to tuition savings, scholarships will benefit other living costs, such as accommodation, travel and other expenses.
Let’s take a closer look at the most significant available scholarships for Indian students in Switzerland, including how to apply, and what eligibility criteria are to be satisfied.
| Scholarship Name | Who Can Apply? | Benefits | Key Criteria / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships | Doctoral, post-doc, master’s, and research students (incl. Indians) | • Tuition coverage • Monthly stipend • Health insurance • Airfare coverage | • Admission to public university • Strong academics • Research proposal (PhD/Postdoc) • Highly competitive |
| ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme | International master’s students | • Full tuition waiver • CHF 12,000/semester for living expenses | • Excellent academic background • Ideal for STEM students |
| EPFL Excellence Fellowships | International students for master’s programs | • CHF 10,000/semester • Accommodation & academic support | • Merit-based • Covers academics and housing |
| University of Geneva Excellence Master Fellowships | International master’s students (Faculty of Science) | • Merit-based financial support | • Bachelor’s in relevant field • Academic excellence + SOP |
| Graduate Institute Geneva Scholarships | Students in social sciences (IR, law, economics) | • Full scholarships • Partial waivers • Research assistant roles | • Attractive for humanities/social sciences • Includes work opportunities |
| University-specific Scholarships | Applicants to Zurich, Lausanne, USI, etc. | • Need-based waivers • Performance-based grants | • Varies by institution • Great for post-12th entry • Check official university websites |
Maximize Your Chances of Getting Scholarships to Study in Switzerland
Start Your Research Early
If you’re planning to study in Switzerland—whether after 12th or for higher studies—it’s a good idea to start researching scholarship opportunities as early as possible. Early planning gives you enough time to find suitable options and prepare strong applications.
Maintain a Strong Academic Profile
Most scholarships in Switzerland are awarded based on academic merit. Keep your grades consistently high and engage in extracurricular activities that demonstrate your leadership, creativity, or social responsibility.
Write a Compelling Personal Statement
Your personal statement should clearly explain why you want to study in Switzerland. Share your academic interests, career aspirations, and the qualities that make you a deserving candidate for the scholarship.
Obtain Strong Recommendation Letters
Ask for recommendation letters from teachers, professors, or mentors who can highlight your academic achievements, character, and potential. A strong endorsement can greatly strengthen your scholarship application.
Get Expert Guidance
Consider working with study abroad consultants who specialize in Switzerland. Their advice on preparing documents, reviewing applications, and getting ready for interviews can help maximize your chances of success.
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Living Cost in Switzerland
Living expenses form a significant part of the study in Switzerland cost for Indian students. Switzerland, especially cities like Zurich and Geneva, consistently rank among the most expensive cities in the world.
However, students can manage their expenses well with planning, scholarships, and part-time work.
Monthly Cost Breakdown:
| Expense Category | Estimated Monthly Cost (CHF) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | 400 – 800 |
| Food & Groceries | 300 – 450 |
| Public Transportation | 70 – 100 |
| Health Insurance | 100 – 250 |
| Miscellaneous | 100 – 200 |
| Total (Average) | 1,000 – 1,800 |
For instance, students who live in shared housing or university dorms can save significant amounts of money. Cities like Lausanne, Bern, and Lucerne cost less than Zurich or Geneva.
So if you want the answer to your question of how much it cost to study in Switzerland, in terms of combined tuition and monthly costs, they are roughly:
- Public Universities: CHF 18,000 – CHF 25,000 per year (all-inclusive)
- Private Universities: CHF 30,000 – CHF 45,000 per year
Begin Your Journey With Career Width Today
If you’re serious about your decision to study in Switzerland as an Indian student, Career Width is ready to fast-track your admission process. With detailed guidance, admission strategies, and one-on-one support, we make sure you’re not alone in this important journey.
Whether it’s deciding why study in Switzerland, understanding how much money is required to study in Switzerland, or exploring scholarships and managing applications, we’re here to support you at every step.
Reach out to our expert counselors and begin your journey to Switzerland today. Your international future starts with a single decision — let Career Width help you make it the right one.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Study in Switzerland
The fees for studying in Switzerland for Indian students depend on the course and the university. School fees vary between CHF 1’000 to 4’000 per semester and living costs are about CHF 1’500 to 2’500 per month. On average Switzerland is relatively costly compared to all the other European countries, but there are scholarships that allow reducing expenses.
To apply to study in Switzerland for international students you usually need a completed secondary education certificate (proof of 12th for undergrad), proof of language proficiency (English, German, French or Italian, depending on the university), and in some cases relevant entrance exams or preparatory courses. Fulfilling these requirements for studying in Switzerland for international students is necessary for acceptance.
Yes, you can study in Switzerland after 12th. Most of Swiss universities and colleges accept Indian students after them completing their 12th class. It all comes down to matching the specific eligibility guidelines and admission criteria set by the college of your choice.
To study in Switzerland from India, begin by determining the most suitable universities and courses that align with your preferences and budget. Gather Important documents (transcripts, language test scores motivation letters etc). You can apply directly to universities or through approved agents like Career Width. After acceptance, you can apply for a student visa and make arrangements for travel and lodging.
Switzerland is considered an expensive place to study, but it varies according to the university and lifestyle. Tuition is affordable in state schools and more expensive in private colleges. Life in cities like Zurich and Geneva can be expensive, but with a little bit of budgeting and use of scholarships, what it costs to study in Switzerland can be successfully managed.
Switzerland is well known worldwide for the high quality of academics, leading-edge research and diverse campuses. But there are requirements to study in Switzerland for international students. It is vital that you understand these requirements whether you are studying for a bachelor’s, master’s or PhD. Understanding the eligibility requirements of studying in Switzerland is the first step to assist you in understanding how to study in Switzerland properly and successfully.
General Eligibility to Study in Switzerland for International Students
Switzerland offers a rigorous education system and admission to top universities can be cut-throat, but universities are open to foreign students if you meet academic and language proficiency levels.
Let’s see what it takes to study in Switzerland as an international student from India:
1. Eligibility for Bachelor’s Programs
If you are asking, “Can I study in Switzerland after 12th?” the answer is yes, but you will need to satisfy some specific language and academic requirements.
- Academic Requirements:
- 12 years of schooling (Indian HSC or equivalent).
- Good marks in relevant subjects (for example, good grades would be especially important for disciplines like engineering or life sciences).
- For German/French/Italian language programs, you must have at least B2 level in the relevant language.
- Language Proficiency:
- English-taught programmes: IELTS (6.0 – 6.5) or TOEFL (minimum 80 – 90)
- German / French / Italian-taught programs: a “minimum” B2 – level knowledge of the respective language
- Other Documents:
- Valid passport
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Letters of Recommendation
- Academic transcripts
If you are only just out of high school and looking at how to study in Switzerland from India, please check if the university will recognize your Indian school board certificate.
2. Eligibility for Master’s Programs
For those interested in postgraduate education and who are worried about how expensive it can be to study in Switzerland—usually master’s degrees have better ROI because they lead to better job opportunities.
- Academic Requirements:
- A recognized bachelor’s degree (preferably in related field, or same field)
- Minimum GPA requirement (usually 2.5–3.0 on a 4-point scale)
- Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: 6.5–7.0 or TOEFL: 90–100
- Some universities also accept Duolingo for English
- For French/German programs: B2/C1 certification
- Other Criteria:
- Updated CV/Resume
- GRE/GMAT scores (only for select programs like MBA or Economics)
- Work experience (if applying for executive programs)
Regardless if you’re going to study in Switzerland from India or from any other country, postgraduate studies require both academic depth and professional engagement.
3. Eligibility for PhD Programs
If you’re considering a long-term career in academia or research, PhD programs in Switzerland are known world-wide.
- Requirements:
- Master’s degree in a relevant field
- Strong research proposal
- Supervisor acceptance (for most programs)
- Academic transcripts and publications (if any)
- Language scores depending on the language of instruction
Most students studying for a PhD often ask, “Is it expensive to study in Switzerland?” It’s amusing because most PhD students are hired as research assistants and receive monthly stipends which reduces the cost burden significantly.
Additional Eligibility Notes for Indian Students
Study in Switzerland for Indian students is no problem as long as academic requirements and visa education documentation is in order.
Study in Switzerland cost for Indian students will be different depending on the course and university, but knowing the eligibility sooner rather than later makes the process easier to plan your finances.
Indian students are required to apply for a Switzerland student visa with proof of acceptance, financial means, academic students, and valid health insurance coverage.
Numerous universities have been partnered with Indian university/college institutions making the application and eligibility process simple.
Important Tip
If you remain uncertain about how to study in Switzerland, or if your existing qualifications are eligible, contact the university admissions offices directly. Universities typically provide course specific requirements and are responsive to international students.
Understanding requirements to study in Switzerland for international students is not just about meeting requirements, it’s about showing that you are ready for a world-class education system.