Universities in Switzerland 2024

Nowadays many people from all over the world choose Switzerland as a perfect place to get higher education: the country is renowned for its sustained economy, high standards of living, as well as the quality of education and other services. Universities of Switzerland annually graduate hundreds of highly sought-after specialists in various fields of activity. SMAPSE offers 30 top universities in Switzerland, schools and Swiss colleges where students from all over the world can receive advanced education that will open wide career prospects. 

Actually, it's really hard to enter TOP-30 Swiss universities for foreign students. The majority of universities in Switzerland accept applicants only if they have one of the following certificates:

• International Baccalaureate
• A-level
• Maturita
• FB
• Italian secondary school certificate

Moreover, some Swiss universities require compulsory completion of a pre-university preparation programme. However, university education in Switzerland is a huge practical experience. Swiss diplomas are quoted in most countries of the world.

Switzerland boasts 30 of the best universities in Europe, presenting a competitive edge over many of its European counterparts, including the UK. Universities in Switzerland offer programs that vary in fees based on the institution type and chosen major. Public universities, for example, offer programs that range from 600 to 700 CHF per semester. In contrast, private universities and colleges command higher tuition fees, starting at 8,000 CHF per semester and upwards.

Education in Switzerland is predominantly offered in the country's three official languages: German, Italian, and French. However, depending on the university's location, courses in English are also available, especially within the top-ranked institutions.

The list of best universities in Switzerland, particularly the top 30 showcased in the SMAPSE catalog, highlights the nation's prestigious and leading educational centers. Each Swiss canton offers unique specializations:

• For law: Consider universities located in Lausanne, Neuchâtel, and Fribourg.

• For economics: St. Gallen stands out.

• Aspiring linguists: The University of Geneva awaits.

• For engineering and architecture: Seek out polytechnic schools with university status.

Additionally, Swiss universities ranking for sectors like the restaurant business and tourism places them among the best globally. These institutions not only provide robust theoretical knowledge but also practical experiences, opening doors to some of the world's most reputable hotel chains and travel agencies.

SMAPSE aids students in selecting universities in Switzerland based on:

• Study program type

• Location

• Language of instruction

SMAPSE also provides personalized consultations to help pinpoint the right programs and universities in Switzerland for you. This service can be accessed through their website or via email. And if you have pressing queries? SMAPSE's team is available online, by phone, or on Skype, ensuring you make an informed decision from their list of the top 30 universities in Switzerland.

Tuition costs at these top universities typically range from 500 CHF to 1,000 CHF annually. However, private universities charge more, often starting from 10,000 CHF per academic year.

Kevin McDonnell

Specialist in International Students of the University of Sussex

Can I work while studying?

A student visa allows you to work, but not more than 20 hours a week, while the semester lasts: this can be volunteer work or an unpaid internship. Each university has a Career Development Service: it will help you find a part-time job and plan a future full-fledged career.

Gaining entry into one of Switzerland's premier universities requires more than just the standard document set. Specific academic and language certificates are also crucial.

Here's a basic checklist:

• Passport or ID card copy

• Bachelor's program applicants: School certificate and/or completion of recognized programs like the Foundation, International Baccalaureate, or A-levels.

• Master's program applicants: Bachelor's degree diploma and possibly a pre-Masters program completion.

• Language proficiency certificates: IELTS or TOEFL (less than 2 years old), TestDaf for German courses, and DELF for French courses.

• SSAT exam results (for specific US universities)

• Recommendation letters (from English and Math teachers or university deans for Master's programs)

• A well-crafted motivation letter

• Skype interview or an in-person university visit

Remember, supplementing your application with additional certificates or accolades can significantly boost your chances with the selection committee.

Switzerland has more than 30 universities, both public and private, including general universities, universities of applied sciences and universities of teacher education.

Yes, many Swiss universities offer programs in English, especially at the graduate level.

Swiss universities offer bachelor's, master's and doctoral degree programs in a wide range of disciplines.

Swiss universities ranking consistently is high in world university rankings, renowned for the quality of their education and research.

Admission requirements vary by university and program, but usually include a high school diploma or equivalent, language proficiency, and sometimes an entrance exam or interview.

Tuition fees vary depending on the university and the program. Public universities usually have lower tuition fees than private universities. Tuition fees for international students may be higher.

Yes, but mostly for master's programs. Many Swiss universities offer scholarships based on academic merit or financial need. Some of them also offer work-study programs.

Yes, some Swiss universities offer online or distance learning, especially for certain postgraduate courses.

Swiss universities are renowned for their research capabilities, especially in areas such as biological sciences, physics and sustainability.

Life on a Swiss university campus is vibrant and diverse, with numerous student clubs, sports and cultural activities. There is also a support service for students with academic and welfare issues.

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