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Why study in Switzerland?
Studying in Switzerland is a unique student experience for every student, but also a sure career investment. Switzerland has incredible natural landscapes, good food, a long history and a rich culture. It’s an expensive country, even if you get selected for free study programs or get a full scholarship.
The cost of living for an undergraduate or graduate student in Switzerland is on average 1100-1700€/month and their currency is the Swiss Franc (CHF). Some cities, however, such as Zurich and Geneva are more expensive and a student can exceed €1700 for accommodation and living expenses in total.
Of course, you will have the possibility to support your living with some part-time work, as the salaries are very high and easily cover the costs. Switzerland is located in central Europe and borders Italy, Germany, France and Austria. This means that you will be able to travel and get to know new countries, but also to develop a European network of collaborations.
Bachelor’s in Switzerland
Bachelor’s programs in Switzerland last 3 years and are renowned for their high academic standards, emphasis on research and innovation in teaching. The programs are aimed at the modern labor market and its requirements, with the result that graduates can easily find employment after their studies.
Bachelor’s studies in Switzerland are ideal for young students due to the renowned Swiss organization of universities, the welcoming culture of the locals, safety and interculturality. Undergraduate students will not have difficulty adapting to a new environment, on the contrary, they will feel safe and receive support until they get used to their new everyday life.
Master’s in Switzerland
Master’s degrees in Switzerland are a real career investment worth making. The country’s technology sector and industry are booming and, combined with their internationally trusted banking system, create a strong economy in which you can either intern or seek permanent employment after your studies.
The geographical location of the country is also a big factor, as it is only a few hours away from Lyon, Milan, Stuttgart and Strasbourg. There are so many opportunities for travel, networking and life experiences that make Switzerland the ideal starting point for a successful career and personal development.
Requirements for studying in Switzerland
The requirements for studying in Switzerland include English language certificates, such as IELTS or TOEFL or CPE, etc., a copy of passport or identity card, a translated copy of the high school diploma for undergraduates and a copy of the diploma for postgraduates, as well as a student visa for a residence permit in the country ( does not apply to citizens of the European Union).
Individual documents such as transcript, curriculum vitae and personal statement may be requested for master’s degrees in Switzerland, as in all master’s applications worldwide.
The IELTS certification is one of the most popular for studying abroad, but also for work. The year of acquisition and the score are two equally important factors for your admission to universities abroad..
The TOEFL test is an English language certification that is accepted in almost all English-speaking universities and together with IELTS are the two most popular certificates for studying abroad.
A good level of English is a basic requirement for applications to study abroad. One of the most popular proofs of proficiency that is accepted is the CAE (Cambridge Advanced Exam) which you will need for admission to a university in that country.
The student visa is the most important document you must have if you want to study abroad. Some countries, however, do not require a student visa, such as European Union member countries if you are a European citizen.
The passport is a necessary document that you must have for studying abroad. Although in most countries of the European Union only your national identity card is sufficient - if you are a European citizen - we recommend having a passport for easier movements and less paperwork.
For master's studies abroad it is necessary to have a copy of your degree translated into English or the language required by each university. The required score varies from country to country, institution to institution or even school to school. Consult the specifications of the program of your interest to see the exact ratings.
For bachelor's studies abroad it is necessary to have a high school diploma translated into English or the language required by each university. The required degree score varies from country to country, institution to institution or even school to school. Consult the specifications of the program you are interested in to be sure.
Scholarships to study in Switzerland
Financially weaker students can claim scholarships to study in Switzerland through the universities themselves, but also seek government scholarships or some funding from related support organizations. There are many student aid programs and it’s a good idea to start your search early to increase your chances of receiving one in time.
You can also look for scholarships in your home country. Another way to get funding is to apply to study in Switzerland through Brive and claim one of our scholarships.
Brive Scholarships help you fund your dream by completing study abroad applications through our innovative platform. Apply with one click, claim one of the 3 scholarships and start your career with the most reliable ally!
Most universities internationally provide scholarships for studying abroad, covering either all or part of the tuition fees. You can claim your own scholarship, as long as you start your search early to get ahead.
Most countries that have invested significant funds in the development and evolution of their education system to make it attractive to international students offer government scholarships to help young talent thrive academically at their universities. Are you one of them?
Universities
FAQs
The best cities to study in Switzerland are Zurich, Lausanne, Geneva, Bern and Basel.
The average accommodation costs for students in Switzerland range from €250-300 per month for shared accommodation or hostel accommodation, with the total monthly expenses being around €800-1200. Living in a private apartment can be very expensive, which varies by city, region and type of home.
The languages in which bachelor's and master's degrees are offered in Switzerland are English, German and French. In some areas of the country, however, they speak Italian as an official language! The Swiss, however, know English at a native level, as it is thoroughly taught in school.