Lana Oconnell
Switzerland is a popular destination for international students, with over 78,000 enrolled in Swiss universities in 2024, according to the Swiss Federal Statistical Office. The country's world-class universities, diverse range of programs, and employment opportunities make it an attractive option for students worldwide. Switzerland's higher education system is built on three pillars: Universities, Universities of Applied Sciences, and Universities of Teacher Education. The majority of international students are enrolled in Universities, with Management and Administration being the most popular field of study. The country's breathtaking scenery, rich culture, and safe environment also contribute to its appeal for international students.
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What You'll Learn
Switzerland's higher education system
- Universities (UNIs): These are the traditional higher education institutions in Switzerland. The University of Basel, founded in 1460, is the oldest university in the country. The University of Zurich, with 25,000 students, is the largest institution of higher education in Switzerland. Other notable universities include ETH Zurich, the University of Geneva, and the University of St. Gallen.
- Universities of Applied Sciences (UASAs): These institutions combine university education with professional-oriented programs. An example is the Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts (HSLU), which offers practice-oriented programs in various fields, including business, engineering, and design.
- Universities of Teacher Education (UTEs): These institutions provide practice-oriented training for those pursuing careers in education.
Switzerland's universities are known for their research focus, small class sizes, and emphasis on entrepreneurship and international management. The country's higher education institutions offer a diverse range of programs, with many degrees taught in English, especially at the Master's and Doctorate levels. International students can also take advantage of scholarships offered by the Swiss government and universities to support their studies.
As of 2024, there are over 78,000 international students enrolled in Swiss universities, according to the Swiss Federal Statistical Office (FSO). The majority of these students are enrolled in Universities, with Universities of Applied Sciences and Teacher Education making up the remaining share. The top fields of study for international students include Management and Administration, Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs), Medicine, and Psychology.
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International student enrolment statistics
Switzerland is a popular destination for international students due to its world-class universities, diverse range of programmes, and employment opportunities after graduation. The country's higher education system is built on three pillars: Universities (UNIs), Universities of Applied Sciences (UASAs), and Universities of Teacher Education (UTEs).
According to the Swiss Federal Statistical Office (FSO), there are currently over 78,000 international students enrolled in Swiss higher education institutions for the academic year 2023-2024, setting a new record. This number represents a slight increase of 2.4% from the previous year, with 74,440 students, and a significant increase of 19.3% from 2018/2019. The number of international students in Switzerland has been steadily increasing over the years, with an impressive 42.3% growth over the last decade (2012/2013 to 2022/2023).
The majority of international students in Switzerland are enrolled in Universities, accounting for 74.1% of all international student enrolments. Universities of Applied Sciences and Teacher Education make up the remaining 25.8%. Specifically, there are 56,513 international students enrolled in Universities, 12,852 in bachelor's programmes, and 6,113 in master's programmes.
The top fields of study for international students in Switzerland include Management and Administration (7,446 students), Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) (4,274 students), Medicine (3,982 students), Psychology (3,458 students), and Law (3,218 students). Other popular fields include Biology, Physics, Architecture and Town Planning, Mechanics and Metal Trades, and Electronics and Automation.
Switzerland's universities, such as ETH Zurich, EPFL, the University of Zurich, the University of Geneva, and the University of St. Gallen, are consistently ranked among the top institutions globally. The country's higher education system is known for its practical approach to teaching, small class sizes, and emphasis on research and innovation. Additionally, Switzerland offers a safe and culturally rich environment, with mesmerizing scenery and a high quality of life, further enhancing its appeal to international students.
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Popular fields of study
Switzerland is home to some of the best universities in the world, attracting international students from all over the globe. The country's longstanding history of higher education excellence, dating back to 1460, when the oldest university in the country, the University of Basel, was founded, is a testament to its academic prowess.
The Swiss higher education system is built on three main pillars: Universities (UNIs), Universities of Applied Sciences (UASAs), and Universities of Teacher Education (UTEs). Most international students are enrolled in Universities, with a significant difference in enrollment numbers compared to the other two types of institutions.
Now, let's delve into the popular fields of study for international students in Switzerland:
Management and Administration
The most popular field of study among international students in Switzerland is Management and Administration, with 7,466 students enrolled in this discipline. Switzerland's strong presence in the world of banking, finance, and management consulting makes it an attractive destination for students seeking careers in these fields.
Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs)
Coming in second is the field of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs), with 4,274 international students. Switzerland's research-focused universities and its strong ties with science provide a compelling reason for students to pursue ICTs in the country.
Medicine
Medicine is another popular choice among international students in Switzerland, with 3,982 students enrolled in this field. The country boasts renowned universities offering a wide range of medical programs, such as the University of Lausanne, which provides a research-based curriculum in medicine.
Psychology
Psychology is a sought-after field of study in Switzerland, with 3,458 international students pursuing degrees in this discipline. Swiss universities offer a variety of degree programs, including Master's and Doctorate levels, making it an attractive option for Psychology enthusiasts.
Law
Law is another popular choice among international students in Switzerland, with 3,218 students enrolled. Swiss universities, such as the University of Lausanne, offer a range of legal programs, providing students with a solid foundation for their legal careers.
Other notable fields of study for international students in Switzerland include Biology, Physics, Architecture and Town Planning, Mechanics and Metal Trades, Electronics and Automation, and Sociology and Cultural Studies.
Switzerland's scholarship opportunities, financial aid, and the possibility of part-time work during studies further enhance its appeal for international students. The country's breathtaking natural scenery, cultural richness, and central location in Europe also contribute to its growing popularity as a study-abroad destination.
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Scholarships and financial aid
Switzerland is an increasingly popular study destination for international students, with over 78,000 international students enrolled in Swiss universities in the 2023-2024 academic year, according to the Swiss Federal Statistical Office (FSO). Switzerland's higher education system is built on three types of institutions: Universities (UNIs), Universities of Applied Sciences (UASAs), and Universities of Teacher Education (UTEs).
When it comes to scholarships and financial aid for international students in Switzerland, there are a few options available:
Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships
The Swiss Government offers Excellence Scholarships to foreign graduates, postgraduates, and artists holding a recognised university degree. These scholarships are available for PhD students or artists and provide support for tuition fees and living costs. The Federal Commission for Scholarships for Foreign Students (FCS) provides detailed information about the offers and requirements of these scholarships.
Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF)
The SNSF is Switzerland's foremost research funding organisation, mandated by the federal government. It supports science in all academic disciplines and finances over 3,200 projects involving 14,800 researchers each year.
University Scholarships and Grants
Many universities in Switzerland offer their own scholarships, grants, and funding opportunities for international students. These can be offered at the faculty, department, institute, or student body level. It is important to check with the specific university you are interested in to find out about their scholarship opportunities and how to apply.
Swiss Programme for Erasmus+ (SEMP)
SEMP is the Swiss Programme for Erasmus+, providing higher education exchange opportunities. As a SEMP incoming student, you will receive a mobility grant from the Swiss government, ranging from CHF 380 to CHF 440 per month depending on your country of origin. The grant is paid out directly by the Swiss host institution, and your application for SEMP automatically serves as an application for the grant.
Part-time Work
International students in Switzerland are allowed to work part-time during their studies, up to 15 hours per week, and full-time during semester breaks. Student employment can help supplement the cost of living and tuition fees, which can be high in Switzerland, especially in cities like Zurich and Geneva.
It is always recommended to explore the websites of individual universities in Switzerland, as well as the official Swiss government websites, to find the most up-to-date and accurate information about scholarships and financial aid opportunities.
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Employment opportunities
Switzerland's job market is diverse, with a growing tech sector and a strong service sector, which employs over 76% of the workforce. The country is also known for its thriving industries in finance, pharmaceuticals, and hospitality. As such, international students can find part-time work in Switzerland, with many well-established companies offering flexible hours and competitive wages. Students can work up to 15 hours per week during term time and full-time during semester breaks. However, it is important to note that the cost of living in cities like Zurich and Geneva is high, and competition for jobs can be fierce.
Switzerland is home to numerous multinational corporations, NGOs, and startups, including 15 Fortune 500 companies, the highest concentration per capita in the world. This provides international students with valuable networking opportunities and the chance to build connections that could lead to full-time employment. For example, students can find internships in finance, tech startups, and international companies through platforms like LinkedIn. Other job portals, such as jobs.ch and indeed.ch, offer a wide range of part-time positions and internships across various industries.
To be eligible for part-time work in Switzerland, international students must hold a valid student visa and a residence permit. They must have lived and studied in the country for at least six months before applying for part-time jobs. While speaking one of Switzerland's national languages (German, French, Italian, or Romansh) can be advantageous, English is widely spoken in many sectors, especially in larger cities and international companies. However, knowing basic phrases in the local language can improve your chances in customer service roles and help you integrate into Swiss society.
Switzerland's strong visa policies also provide international graduates with options to extend their stay if they secure full-time employment. This makes the transition from student to professional smoother. Additionally, UK higher education qualifications are directly comparable to Swiss qualifications, making it easier for UK graduates to find employment opportunities in Switzerland. However, it is always good to check with employers before applying.
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Frequently asked questions
As of 2024, there are 76,257 international students enrolled in higher education institutions in Switzerland, according to the Swiss Federal Statistical Office. This number has been increasing steadily since records began in 1990.
As of 2024, there are 56,513 international students enrolled at Swiss universities, constituting 74.1% of all international student enrollment in the country.
International students in Switzerland spend on average between €3,000 and €5,000 per month, with living costs adding up to around €23,000-36,000 per year.
