SWITZERLAND

Switzerland

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WHY STUDY IN SWITZERLAND?

Switzerland, nestled in the heart of Europe, is renowned for its stunning landscapes, precision engineering, and rich cultural heritage. Famous for its pristine lakes, majestic mountains, and picturesque towns, Switzerland offers a unique blend of natural beauty and urban sophistication.

Facts about Switzerland:
1. Academic Distinction: Switzerland takes pride in its top-tier education system, marked by globally acclaimed universities that consistently achieve high rankings.

2. Linguistic Diversity: Embracing a multitude of cultures, Switzerland fosters a rich multicultural ambiance with its four official languages—German, French, Italian, and Romansh.

3. Centre for Advancement: Renowned for innovation and research, Switzerland serves as a focal point for cutting-edge developments, hosting multinational corporations and prestigious research establishments.

4. Superior Living Conditions: Switzerland consistently earns accolades for its outstanding quality of life, safety measures, and healthcare standards.

Scope of Choosing Switzerland as a study destination

1. Academic Excellence: Swiss universities offer a wide range of courses and degrees taught by leading experts in various fields.

2. Multicultural Experience: International students benefit from exposure to diverse cultures, enhancing their global perspective.

3. Networking Opportunities: Switzerland’s position as a global business hub provides ample networking opportunities, crucial for future career prospects.

4. Language Opportunities: Learning in a multilingual environment opens doors to acquiring new languages, a valuable skill in today’s interconnected world.

5. Quality of Life: With its high quality of life, safe environment, and stunning surroundings, Switzerland offers a conducive atmosphere for focused study.

Switzerland’s appeal to international students lies not only in its academic offerings but also in the holistic experience it provides. The country’s commitment to excellence in education, coupled with its cultural richness and opportunities for personal and professional growth, makes it an attractive destination for students seeking a well-rounded education.

POPULAR COURSES

Switzerland is recognized for providing a broad spectrum of top-tier academic programs spanning various disciplines. Among the sought-after courses pursued by international students in Switzerland are:

1. Business and Management – Switzerland is home to some of the world’s top business schools, including the International Institute for Management Development (IMD) and the University of St. Gallen.

2. Engineering and Technology – Swiss universities are renowned for their excellence in engineering and technology programs, with institutions like ETH Zurich and EPFL Lausanne offering top-notch courses.

3. Hospitality and Tourism – Switzerland is known for its hospitality industry, with many world-famous hotels and resorts located in the country. Swiss hotel management schools like Ecole hôtelière de Lausanne and Glion Institute of Higher Education are highly regarded worldwide.

4. Life Sciences and Medicine – Switzerland has a strong tradition in the life sciences and medical fields, with institutions like the University of Basel and the University of Zurich offering excellent programs.

5. Humanities and Social Sciences – Swiss universities also excel in fields like philosophy, literature, and social sciences, with institutions like the University of Geneva and the University of Bern offering a wide range of courses and research opportunities.

In essence, Switzerland offers a varied array of academic programs, making it an ideal destination for students seeking high-quality education across diverse fields.

UNIVERSITIES

To Notch
  • ETH Zurich (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology)
  • University of Zurich
  • EPFL (École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne)
  • University of Geneva
  • University of Basel
  • University of Lausanne
  • University of Bern
  • University of St. Gallen
  • University of Fribourg
  • University of Lugano (USI - Università della Svizzera italiana)
Lesser Known
  • Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts
  • Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW)
  • University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland (FHNW)
  • SUPSI (University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland)
  • Kalaidos University of Applied Sciences
  • Swiss School of Business and Management
  • César Ritz Colleges Switzerland
  • SIB Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics
  • Franklin University Switzerland
  • Webster University Geneva
Switzerland is home to some of the world’s top universities, renowned for their academic excellence, cutting-edge research, and multicultural campus environments. Some of the top universities in Switzerland include ETH Zurich, University of Zurich, University of Geneva, University of Basel, and EPFL Lausanne. These universities offer a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as science, technology, engineering, business, humanities, and social sciences. With their excellent academic reputation, state-of-the-art facilities, and beautiful surroundings, Switzerland universities are a great choice for students seeking a high-quality education and a unique international experience.

INTAKES

The admission cycles for Swiss universities differ based on the institution and the chosen program.

Typically, most universities in Switzerland follow two primary intake periods: one commencing in the fall and another in the spring. Fall intakes usually kick off around September or October, while spring intakes commonly start in February or March.

Nevertheless, certain Swiss universities might offer additional intake windows tailored for specific courses or programs. It’s advisable to directly consult your preferred university to ascertain their specific intake schedules and application cut-off dates.

Moreover, several Swiss universities adopt a rolling admissions policy, where they continuously accept and evaluate applications until all available positions are filled, notably for postgraduate programs. To avoid missing crucial deadlines, it’s prudent to plan in advance and thoroughly research the intake periods and application timelines of the universities and programs you’re keen on pursuing.

IntakesApplication Duration
Spring (Feb/March)August – Nov
August – NovSEP – NOV
SummerAPR – MAY

COURSES, TUITION FEE, DURATION & ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Course Tuition Fee (EUR/YEAR) Duration Entry Requirements
 Undergraduate / Bachelors1,000 – 15,0001,000 – 15,000 3-4 years ( 3 year program where major or specialization is required and 4 year program in most other program)Secondary education or equivalent with good grades Academic requirements as per courses and program Language Proficiency Test German/France/English (IELTS/TOEFL) Standardized Test/entrance exam Personal Statement and LOR Portfolio (some courses) Interviews (some university)
UG Diploma5,000 – 20,0001-2 yearsHigh school diploma or equivalent with good grades, proof of Language proficiency
Polytechnic Diploma5,000 – 10,0002- 3 yearsHigh school diploma or equivalent with good grades, proof of Language proficiency
International Baccalaureate (IB)1,000 – 8,0002 years (Final two years of school)IB Diploma or equivalent with good grades, proof of Language proficiency
Graduate / Masters / Post Graduate2,500 – 25,0001-2 years ( Few 1 Year Program & Mostly 2 Year Program)Bachelor’s degree or equivalent with good grades, Academic requirements based on course/subjects Language Proficiency Test German/France/English (IELTS/TOEFL) Entrance Exam Personal Statement/Essays and LOR Work Experience or Portfolio (some universities)
PG / Masters/ Graduate Diploma2,500 – 30,0001 – 2 yearBachelor’s degree or equivalent with good grades, Academic requirements based on course and subjects Language Proficiency Test German/France/English (IELTS/TOEFL) Entrance Exam Personal Statement/Essays and LOR Work Experience or Portfolio (some universities)
PhDOften Free3 – 5 yearsMaster’s degree with good grades, research proposal, academic reference, proof of Language proficiency

SCHOLARSHIPS

Switzerland offers a number of scholarships and financial aid opportunities for international students to help cover the cost of tuition and living expenses. Here are some of the scholarships available to international students in Switzerland:

1. Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships – These scholarships are offered by the Swiss government to international students pursuing research or postgraduate studies in Switzerland. The scholarship covers tuition fees, monthly stipend, and health insurance.

2. ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship – This scholarship is offered by ETH Zurich to international students pursuing a Master’s degree program. The scholarship covers full tuition fees and a monthly stipend.

3. University of Geneva Excellence Master’s Fellowships – These fellowships are offered by the University of Geneva to international students pursuing a Master’s degree program. The fellowship covers tuition fees and a monthly stipend.

4. EPFL Excellence Fellowships – These fellowships are offered by EPFL Lausanne to international students pursuing a Master’s degree program. The fellowship covers tuition fees and a monthly stipend.

5. IMD MBA Scholarships – These scholarships are offered by IMD Business School to international students pursuing an MBA program. The scholarship covers tuition fees and a living allowance.

In addition to these scholarships, many universities in Switzerland offer their own scholarships and financial aid programs for international students. It’s always a good idea to check with the university you’re interested in for their specific scholarship and financial aid opportunities.

POST STUDY VISA

Switzerland offers a post-study work visa for international students who have completed their degree program in Switzerland. Here are some key points to know about the post-study work visa in Switzerland:

1. Duration – The post-study work visa in Switzerland is valid for up to six months after graduation.

2. Eligibility – To be eligible for the post-study work visa in Switzerland, you must have completed your degree program in Switzerland and have a valid residence permit.

3. Job search – During the six-month post-study work visa period, you are allowed to search for employment in Switzerland. Once you have found a job, you can apply for a work permit.

4. Work permit – To work in Switzerland, you must have a valid work permit. Your employer will typically apply for a work permit on your behalf.

5. Extensions – If you are successful in finding employment in Switzerland, you can apply for a work permit extension. Work permits in Switzerland are typically valid for up to two years and can be renewed.

It’s crucial to bear in mind that the post-study work visa in Switzerland is exclusively available to students who have concluded their degree programs in the country. Additionally, factors such as nationality and the specific program completed can influence the availability and duration of the post-study work visa. For the most current and accurate information on post-study work visas in Switzerland, it is advisable to consult with the relevant authorities.

VISA PROCESS

The visa process for studying in Switzerland as an international student varies depending on your nationality and the duration of your stay. Here are the general visa requirements and steps for obtaining a student visa in Switzerland:

1. Determine your visa requirements – Depending on your nationality and the duration of your stay, you may need to apply for a student visa or a residence permit. It’s important to determine your visa requirements before beginning the application process.

2. Apply to a university – Before applying for a visa, you must first apply and be accepted to a university in Switzerland.

3. Gather required documents – You will need to gather a variety of documents to support your visa application, including a valid passport, proof of financial means, proof of health insurance, and a letter of acceptance from your university.

4. Apply for a visa – You can apply for a student visa or residence permit at the Swiss embassy or consulate in your home country. You may also be required to attend an in-person interview as part of the application process.

5. Wait for processing – Visa processing times can vary depending on your nationality and the time of year. It’s important to apply for your visa well in advance of your intended start date.

6. Travel to Switzerland – Once your visa has been approved, you can travel to Switzerland to begin your studies.

It is essential to acknowledge the intricacies of the Swiss visa application process, as individual circumstances may influence requirements. Regularly consulting with the Swiss embassy or consulate in your home country is advisable for the latest and most accurate information on visa prerequisites and application procedures.

TOP COMPANIES

Switzerland is home to several world-renowned companies across different industries. Here are some of the top companies in Switzerland:

1. Nestle – Nestle is a multinational food and beverage company, headquartered in Vevey, Switzerland. It is one of the largest food companies in the world, with brands such as Nescafe, KitKat, and Maggi.

2. Novartis – Novartis is a multinational pharmaceutical company based in Basel, Switzerland. It is one of the largest pharmaceutical companies in the world and produces a wide range of drugs and medications.

3. Roche – Roche is a global healthcare company based in Basel, Switzerland. It is one of the largest biotech companies in the world and focuses on developing innovative treatments and technologies for healthcare.

4. UBS – UBS is a global financial services company based in Zurich, Switzerland. It is one of the largest banks in the world, offering a wide range of financial services to individuals and institutions.

5. Credit Suisse – Credit Suisse is a global financial services company based in Zurich, Switzerland. It is one of the largest banks in the world and provides a wide range of financial services to individuals and institutions.

6. ABB – ABB is a multinational company that specializes in power and automation technologies. It is headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland and operates in over 100 countries.

7. Swatch Group – Swatch Group is a multinational watchmaker based in Biel, Switzerland. It is one of the largest watchmaking companies in the world and owns several well-known watch brands including Omega, Longines, and Swatch.

Overall, Switzerland is home to several top companies across different industries, reflecting the country’s strong economy and business environment.

AVERAGE SALARY

The average salary in Switzerland varies depending on the industry and job you are in. However, Switzerland is known for having a high standard of living and competitive salaries across different sectors. According to data from the Swiss Federal Statistical Office, the average monthly salary in Switzerland in 2020 was CHF 6,502 (approximately USD 7,200) for full-time employees.

Salaries can vary significantly based on the industry and job you are in. Some of the highest-paying industries in Switzerland include finance, pharmaceuticals, and technology, with average salaries ranging from CHF 100,000 to CHF 150,000 per year.

It’s worth noting that the cost of living in Switzerland is also high, particularly in cities like Zurich and Geneva. However, salaries in Switzerland are generally higher than in other countries to reflect the higher cost of living.

Overall, salaries in Switzerland are competitive and reflect the country’s high standard of living.

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