Explore Switzerland
Study in Switzerland.
Imagine lakeside cities, mountain views and research of global reach. Explore Switzerland through the programmes and places that suit you.
At a glance
Studying in Switzerland, at a glance.
Main intakes
September (autumn semester), with some February starts
Bachelor’s degree
Usually 3 years
Master’s degree
1.5 to 2 years
Teaching language
German, French or Italian, with many English-taught master’s
Tuition (indicative)
Relatively low at public universities
ETH Zurich and EPFL charge most international students CHF 2,190 a semester from autumn 2025; other universities set their own fees.
Living costs (indicative)
Often CHF 1,600 to 2,500 a month
A typical estimate. Switzerland is one of the most expensive countries; Zurich and Geneva cost most.
General guidance, reviewed in November 2026 against official and published sources. Fees, living-cost figures and requirements change and differ by institution and course, so always confirm with the institution and official sources such as swissuniversities before making decisions.
Why Switzerland
What draws students to Switzerland.
Research excellence
Internationally recognised research universities.
Multilingual
Study in German, French, Italian or English.
Quality of life
Safe cities, efficient transport and the Alps nearby.
Study opportunities
Subject areas with a wide choice of programmes.
English-taught programmes are mainly at master’s level. Start with what you want to learn, then check each course’s modules, teaching approach and entry requirements.
- Engineering and technology
- Natural sciences
- Finance and banking
- Hospitality management
- International relations
- Life sciences
Where to study
Examples of well-known institutions in Switzerland.
In no particular order. These are examples to start your research, not rankings or recommendations, and many other excellent institutions exist.
ETH Zurich
- City
- Zurich
- Type
- Federal institute of technology
EPFL
- City
- Lausanne
- Type
- Federal institute of technology
University of Zurich
- City
- Zurich
- Type
- Public research university
University of Geneva
- City
- Geneva
- Type
- Public research university
University of Basel
- City
- Basel
- Type
- Public research university
University of Bern
- City
- Bern
- Type
- Public research university
Check programmes, entry requirements and fees on each institution’s official website.
Admission requirements
What applications usually ask for.
Requirements are set by each institution and course. Use this as a starting checklist, then follow the official course page.
Most applications
- Academic transcripts and certificates from your previous study.
- Evidence of your proficiency in the language of instruction.
- A personal statement or statement of purpose, written in your own words.
- One or two academic or professional references.
- A CV, particularly for postgraduate applications.
- A valid passport.
Specific to Switzerland
- School-leaving certificates are assessed strictly; some applicants need an entrance exam.
- Evidence of the language of instruction.
- Apply directly to each university.
Scholarships
Scholarships worth researching.
Public information only. Eligibility, deadlines and amounts are set by each provider; WINAR does not provide or arrange funding.
Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships
For postgraduate researchers from eligible countries.
University master’s scholarships
Several universities offer competitive master’s scholarships.
Student life
Everyday life in Switzerland.
High costs
Plan your budget carefully, especially for housing and health insurance.
Languages by region
German, French and Italian are spoken in different regions.
Mountains and lakes
Outdoor life is close to every university city.
Visas and immigration
Visa and immigration rules are set by the government of Switzerland and change regularly. WINAR does not provide immigration advice or services. Read the official guidance published by State Secretariat for Migration, and speak to a suitably qualified and regulated adviser if you need advice on your own circumstances.
Questions, answered plainly
Questions about studying in Switzerland.
What would your Switzerland chapter need?
Discuss your study goals, the information still to verify and possible next steps with WINAR. Support scope and destination coverage are subject to confirmation.