Studying in Switzerland
Switzerland has about 7,4 million inhabitants living in 26 cantons. Its capital is Bern. The choice of tertiary-level education is large and varied. The institutions of higher education can be separated into two types having the same status but with different educational goals: the traditional universities and the universities of applied sciences.
Both types of institutions make up a dense network of education outlets in Switzerland, offering Swiss and non-Swiss students alike high quality higher education opportunities.
In 2006, around 115,000 people were studying at universities in Switzerland, around 49% of which were women and around 21% were from abroad; around 47,000 people were studying at the seven public universities of applied sciences.
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References
Application procedure
Contact the university of your choise within the specified time. The pre-application procedure for some universities can be done online. For the application you will need at least:
- the original or a certified copy of the secondary school leaving certificate
- photo
- immigration formalities
When you have received confirmation of acceptance by a Swiss university, please contact the Swiss embassy in your country for information on entry formalities for Switzerland. You will have to show proof that you have adequate financial means to support yourself during your studies.
Residence permit
You will have to apply to the police department dealing with aliens after your arrival in Switzerland to obtain a residence permit. You will have to present the following documents:
- a valid passport, if necessary with a visa
- confirmation that you have been accepted by a Swiss university
- a guarantee of sufficient financial means to support yourself during your studies (e.g. bank statement)
- a statement concerning your address in Switzerland
The residence permit will only be issued if your financial means are guaranteed. In addition, you will have to renew the residence permit annually. Foreign students are allowed to work up to 15 hours a week as long as the duration of the studies is not prolonged.
Living costs and tuition fees
Living costs can vay between CHF 18 000 and 28 000 per year (depending on the location of the university and personal demands).
Tuition fees depend on the institution you want to study and vary between CHF 1 000 and 8 000. You can find more specific details here.
