Universities in Switzerland

Why Switzerland

One of the world's most stable and highly developed countries, Switzerland treats education and science as national priorities — and has one of the highest numbers of Nobel laureates per capita.

Public universities

Switzerland has twelve public universities, including the two federal institutes of technology, ETH Zurich and EPFL. Entry requirements depend on the university, the programme and previous education; some applicants need an extra exam or one to two years of university study at home. The University of Fribourg runs a preparatory course for international applicants.

The language of instruction depends on the region. Tuition is comparatively low — typically from around CHF 500 to a few thousand francs per semester, and several universities charge international students more. Accommodation is extra.

Hospitality and business

Switzerland's private institutions include some of the world's leading hospitality and tourism schools, such as Les Roches and Glion, where teaching is in English. Programmes include paid internships of four to six months, which help offset costs. Graduates receive a Swiss diploma or a degree validated by a partner university, usually in the UK or US, and work in hotels, restaurants, airlines, resorts and sports clubs.

Banking and finance

A long history in banking and a stable reputation make Switzerland a natural place to study finance.

Degree levels

• Bachelor's: three years
• Master's: one and a half to two years
• Doctorate: three to five years, normally after a master's. At public universities doctoral students are usually employed by the university, teaching and doing research for a salary — for example at EPFL

Timing

Start preparing at least a year ahead. Each programme has its own document list and deadlines, and the student visa takes time — all enrolment documents must be ready in original form before the visa process begins.