Switzerland is an attractive destination for international students, with many top-ranked institutions offering programs in English. For those considering to study in the country, it’s essential to explore the best universities in Switzerland for international Students.
Here’s a comprehensive list of the best universities in Switzerland, their tuition fees, and the support services available for international students:
List of 20 Best Universities in Switzerland for International Students.
ETH Zurich (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich)
ETH Zurich is one of the best universities in Switzerland for international students. It is known for its focus on engineering, technology, and natural sciences.
Tuition fees for international students typically range from CHF 1,000 to CHF 3,000 per year for undergraduate and graduate programs. Furthermore, admission to ETH Zurich requires strong academic performance and proficiency in either English or German, depending on the course.
Due to its strong ties to industry leaders, the university offers exceptional job opportunities and fosters a vibrant, diverse community for international students.
EPFL (École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne)
EPFL (École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne), offers a dynamic academic environment for degrees in engineering, computer science, and life sciences.
Tuition fees for international students for undergraduate fees are around CHF 730 per semester and slightly higher for graduate fees at CHF 780. The language of instruction is both French and English.
EPFL provides support services, including career counselling, mentorship programs, and access to a wide range of internships with industry leaders. Therefore, this makes it one of the best universities in Switzerland for international students.
University of Zurich
The University of Zurich is renowned for its research and academic standards and has over 200 degree programs in humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences.
Tuition fees for international students range from CHF 1,440 to CHF 2,440 yearly, depending on the program. Additionally, admission requires a recognised secondary school certificate for undergraduates, or a bachelor’s degree for graduate programs, with proof of language proficiency in German or English.
UZH offers support services to students including language courses, academic advising, career counselling and job opportunities for international students. This makes it one of the best universities in Switzerland for international students
University of Geneva
The University of Geneva is one of the best universities in Switzerland for international students, offering courses in humanities and sciences. International students pay around CHF 1,000 for undergraduate and CHF 1,500 for graduate programs.
Admission requires strong academic credentials and language proficiency in either French or English, depending on the program.
Geneva is a global hub for international organizations. International students can take advantage of career prospects in fields such as law, diplomacy, and NGOs.
University of Bern
The University of Bern offers medical sciences, humanities, and social sciences programs. It welcomes international students, who can pay between CHF 1,000 and CHF 2,000 yearly for tuition.
Admission requirements include a recognised academic qualification and proficiency in either German or English, depending on the course. The university also connects students with local job opportunities through internships and research positions, benefiting from its close ties with regional businesses and institutions.
These features make it one of the best universities in Switzerland for international students, offering a broad spectrum of academic disciplines, affordable tuition fees, and a strong support network for students.
University of Lausanne
The University of Lausanne is one of the Best Universities in Switzerland for International Students, providing an enriching environment for academic growth. With an emphasis on social sciences, economics, and life sciences, the university attracts a wide range of international students.
The affordable tuition fees, ranging from CHF 1,000 to CHF 1,500 per year, make it an accessible option. Additionally, the university’s support services include language courses and career counselling, ensuring a smooth transition for international students.
The University’s strong connections to local and international employers further enhance the student experience.
Check out: List of Best Universities in Europe With Cheap Tuition Fees
University of St. Gallen
The University of St. Gallen (HSG) is known for business, economics, and law programs. It is a top choice for students aiming for careers in international business, finance, and management.
If you are looking for the best universities in Switzerland for international students, HSG offers tuition fees ranging from CHF 2,000 to CHF 3,000 yearly, depending on the program. Admission requirements include a recognised secondary school diploma or equivalent bachelor’s degree and proof of proficiency in English or German, aligning with the program’s language of instruction.
HSG supports students through its Career Services Center, which facilitates internships and job placements in Switzerland and abroad.
University of Lucerne
The University of Lucerne emphasizes small class sizes and close interaction between students and faculty with a focus on humanities, social sciences, law, and theology.
As one of the best universities in Switzerland for international students, tuition fees are affordable for international students, approximately CHF 1,000 annually. Admissions require academic qualifications and proof of language proficiency in German or English.
The student support department offers career counseling, academic guidance, and an international mobility program.
University of Fribourg
The University of Fribourg’s language of instruction is French and German, offering programs in arts, business, law, and sciences. Tuition for international students ranges from CHF 1,000 to CHF 1,500 yearly.
The University of Fribourg is considered one of the best universities in Switzerland for international students. However, applicants must provide academic qualifications, and language proficiency in French or German and meet specific program requirements, such as entrance exams for certain fields in medicine or sciences.
The university supports its students through academic advising, housing assistance, and career counseling.
Zurich University of the Arts (ZHdK)
Zurich University of the Arts (ZHdK) is Switzerland’s largest arts school. Its programs are art, design, film, music, dance, and theatre. Tuition fees for international students are approximately CHF 1,220 per semester.
Admission requires a portfolio or relevant experience for art-based programs. Language requirements depend on the program and may include German or English proficiency.
The university is one of the best universities in Switzerland for international students in creative fields.
University of Neuchâtel
The University of Neuchâtel offers social sciences, law, and humanities courses and has strong research contributions in biology, chemistry, and physics.
International students’ tuition ranges from CHF 1,000 to 1,500 yearly, and admission requires recognized academic qualifications and language proficiency in French or English, depending on the program.
As one of the best universities in Switzerland for international students, the university provides a supportive environment for those looking to pursue advanced studies.
University of Lugano
The University of Lugano offers a range of programs in business, economics, computer science, and communication. International students at the University are expected to pay annual tuition fees of CHF 1,000 to CHF 2,000.
Furthermore, admission requirements include academic qualifications and language proficiency in Italian, French, or English.
As one of the best universities in Switzerland for international students, the University of Lugano provides support services such as language courses, career counselling, and access to internships.
Geneva Business School
Geneva Business School offers undergraduate and graduate programs in business administration, finance, and marketing. The school has learning environments in Geneva, Barcelona, and Madrid.
Tuition fees for international students range from CHF 10,650 to CHF 19,950 per year, depending on the program. Admission requirements include academic transcripts and English proficiency tests.
Geneva Business School offers career services, including internships and industry partnerships in finance and international business, therefore making it one of the best universities in Switzerland for international students looking to advance their careers in these fields.
Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts
Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts offers programs across disciplines such as engineering, business, information technology, and arts. Programs are taught primarily in German, with some master’s courses available in English.
Tuition fees for international students are approximately CHF 1,500 per year, with additional administrative costs. Admission typically requires a recognised diploma or degree and language proficiency in either German or English, depending on the program requirements.
As one of the best universities in Switzerland for international students, Lucerne University provides opportunities. This ranges from career services, internships, and connections with Swiss businesses, particularly in the engineering and business sectors.
University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland (HES-SO)
The University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland (HES-SO) is the largest applied sciences network in Switzerland, with 28 schools across seven cantons. It offers diverse programs in engineering, business, healthcare, social work, and arts.
International students at HES-SO pay tuition fees ranging from CHF 1,000 to CHF 2,000 annually, depending on the program. Admission requires relevant academic qualifications and proficiency in French or English, reflecting the language of instruction in specific programs.
HES-SO provides support for students including career counselling, internships, and student exchange programs, and also partners with local industries and institutions to enhance job opportunities.
Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW)
Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW) offers diverse programs in engineering, business, social sciences, and health. As one of the best universities in Switzerland for international students, it provides high-quality education and a supportive environment for those seeking academic experience.
International students pay annual tuition fees between CHF 1,500 and CHF 2,000. To gain admission, they must also provide a secondary school diploma or bachelor’s degree and demonstrate proficiency in German or English, depending on the program.
International students get job opportunities, especially in finance, engineering, and healthcare because the university provides career services support.
Swiss School of Management (SSM)
The Swiss School of Management (SSM) offers business-focused programs in international business, management, and marketing at undergraduate and graduate levels. Tuition fees for international students range from CHF 12,000 to CHF 15,000.
Admissions require a secondary school diploma or bachelor’s degree and proficiency in English. SSM’s location in Zurich provides opportunities for internships and networking within the city’s thriving business sector.
Students also benefit from career services, job fairs, and industry connections. SSM is recognized as one of the best universities in Switzerland for international students, making it an attractive choice for those pursuing a career in business in Switzerland.
Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies (IHEID)
The Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies (IHEID) is an institution known for international relations and development studies. It is considered one of the best universities in Switzerland for international students, offering a world-class education and a diverse learning environment.
International students at IHEID pay annual tuition fees ranging from CHF 10,000 to CHF 20,000, depending on the program. Admission requires a bachelor’s degree and proficiency in either English or French.
The institute’s strong ties with global organisations such as the United Nations and the World Health Organization provide unique networking opportunities for students
How Much Does It Cost to Study in Switzerland?
The cost of studying in Switzerland varies by university and program type. For international students, tuition at public universities ranges between CHF 1,000 and CHF 3,000 per year. However, private institutions and specialized programs like business schools charge higher fees.
In addition to tuition, international students should also account for living expenses, including accommodation, food, transportation, and health insurance. The cost of living in Switzerland can vary depending on the city, with Zurich and Geneva being among the more expensive cities.
However, students can manage these costs with careful budgeting and by taking advantage of student discounts, public transport passes, and on-campus accommodations.
Scholarships and financial aid options are available for international students at many universities, and some institutions offer work-study programs to help students support themselves during their studies.
Switzerland offers a rich educational environment, with its universities providing world-class programs across disciplines. From engineering and technology to social sciences and arts, students can find a program that suits their interests.