Switzerland

Switzerland is a high-education country with many universities ranked among the best in the world. Here is detailed information about the universities, the admission process, tuition fees, and work opportunities during and after your studies. Top Universities in Switzerland Switzerland has several universities that are renowned internationally:

a. ETH Zurich

• Ranking: This is one of the best technical universities in the world. In the QS World Rankings, the university consistently ranks in the top 10 in the field of engineering and technology.
• Programs: A wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs are available, primarily in the fields of engineering and technology.
• Language of instruction: Most undergraduate programs are in German, but graduate programs are available in English.

b. Swiss Federal University (EPFL)

• Ranking: This university is also among the world leaders, especially in the fields of science and technology.
• Programs: Offers a similar range of programs as ETH Zurich, with a focus on engineering, mathematics, and natural sciences.
• Language of instruction: Programs are offered in English at the Master's and PhD levels.

c. University of Geneva

• Ranking: The University of Geneva is often ranked in the top 100 universities in the world.
• Programs: Social sciences, arts, law, economics.
• Language of instruction: Most programs are in French, but there are programs in English at the Master's and PhD levels.

d. University of Zurich

• Ranking: This university is ranked in the top 100 universities in the world in many disciplines, especially in medicine, natural sciences, and social sciences.
• Language of instruction: The main language is German, but there are programs in English, especially at the Master's level.

Applying to Universities in Switzerland

There are a few basic steps to applying to universities in Switzerland:

a. Requirements for international students:

• Academic qualifications: For bachelor’s programs, a high school diploma equivalent to a Swiss matriculation diploma is usually required. For master’s programs, a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field is required.
• Language requirements:

• For programs taught in German, level B2 or C1 (e.g. TestDaF or Goethe-Zertifikat).
• For programs taught in English, level B2 or C1 (e.g. IELTS or TOEFL).

• Tests and exams: Some universities require entrance exams depending on the program.

b. Application process:

• Applications must be submitted through the university’s online system or through platforms for international students, such as Swiss Universities.
• Include transcripts, recommendations, motivation letters, language test results, and other documents depending on the program.

Tuition fees

Education in Switzerland is not free, but the cost may vary depending on the university.

• Public universities: Tuition fees are usually between CHF 1,000 and CHF 4,000 per year for EU/EFTA students. For students from other countries, the cost may be higher, but overall it remains affordable compared to other Western countries.
• Private universities: Private institutions such as the University of Lausanne (HEC Lausanne) or the University of Geneva may have higher tuition fees, ranging from CHF 10,000 to CHF 20,000 per year.

Additional costs may include insurance, accommodation, food, transportation, and course materials, which can add to the overall cost of living in Switzerland.

Working while studying

International students can work in Switzerland while studying, but there are restrictions:

• During studies: Full-time students can work up to 15 hours per week during semesters and up to 100% during holidays (winter and summer). However, the work must be combined with their studies and students must comply with visa regulations.
• Work in their field: Many students look for work in their field (e.g. internships) to gain practical experience, which can be useful for future employment.

Work after graduation

After completing their studies in Switzerland, international students can stay in the country to work.

• Visa requirements: After completing their studies, international students can apply for a work permit for up to 6 months to find a job in Switzerland.
• Employment: If the student finds a job, they can apply for a work permit. Students who have graduated in Switzerland have an advantage when looking for a job.
• Types of permits:

• L-permit: A temporary work permit for students who have found a job after completing their studies.
• B-permit: A residence and work permit that can be obtained after finding a permanent job.

Switzerland is an active recruiter of highly qualified specialists, and graduates from local universities often find work in fields such as engineering, finance, IT and biotechnology.

Switzerland offers students a high-quality education with access to world leaders in various fields of science and technology. The admission process is not too difficult, but requires good preparation, and the cost of tuition is quite reasonable for European students. Students have the opportunity to work during their studies and can stay in the country after graduation to find work and continue their career.