Why Study in Switzerland?
Settled in the heart of continental Europe, Switzerland is a picturesque country with a long-lived history in higher education excellence. It basically dates all the way back to 1460 when the oldest university in the country, the University of Basel, was established. Neighbors with countries like Germany, Italy, Austria, and Liechtenstein, it is an alpine paradise, one of the safest countries to live and a dream tourist destination.
However, that’s not it as Switzerland is a tremendous nation well-known for its excellent universities, research institutes, and top quality of life with multiple opportunities to discover natural beauty and certainly, savour some of the best chocolates and fondue worldwide. So, when you plan to study overseas, it should be among your top choices as Switzerland is among the most developed nations worldwide and has a supportive infrastructure for all streams like arts, science, and commerce.
Even though you may have to strive to earn a job in this country, you’ll be better paid than you might be in any other part of the world if you manage to grab one. You must know what all study abroad intakes. Studying in Switzerland offers you a golden opportunity to visit serene landscapes, experience multiculturalism at its finest, and live in some of the well-ranked cities for quality of life. Here, you can enjoy a creative technological environment and high educational standards, as Switzerland constantly ranks in the World Top 10 Study Abroad Destinations.
So, if you decide to study in Switzerland, then abroad counselors at Divine EAC can guide you to make an informed decision.
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Popular Student Friendly Cities in Switzerland
Popular Universities in the Switzerland
Education system in Switzerland
The Swiss education system is globally renowned for its high academic standards, esteemed research outputs, and student-centric teaching methodologies. Most importantly, tertiary education in Switzerland follows the Bologna process and is categorized into three primary program cycles with Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctorate degrees. In regards to administration, the Swiss education system is primarily scattered, and all 26 cantons are fundamentally administered by the State Secretariat for Education, Research, and Innovation (SERI). Internations to know the best courses to study abroad before deciding what to pick!
Furthermore, in Switzerland, you can also find public and private universities of Higher education institutions such as the renowned IHEID in Geneva, Universities of Applied Sciences, Higher Education Institutions of Arts and Music, and Universities of Teacher Education. The Swiss economy is exceptionally technologically advanced and depends on financial and hotel services, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and electronics. Understanding the education system of the country is one of the vital steps to go abroad for study.
Hence, an MBA in Switzerland is also an excellent path that will lead you to prosperous career opportunities in these fields, providing you with a direct entrance to a substantial business network. While looking for the institution you select to study in, you must also read about the cantonment your university belongs to, as the diversity of language and culture together with the research orientation strongly impact how the course is conducted. Do learn the whole process of applying for studying abroad from professionals at Divine EAC to continue your higher education.
Study Abroad Programs in Switzerland
Let’s check out the best courses to study abroad that aspiring students can pursue in Switzerland. Here are all courses available at Research, Masters, and Bachelors levels.
To pursue any of these top courses, ensure to get in touch with overseas consultants at Divine EAC for more relevant information.
Admission Process to Study in Switzerland
1. Select A Program
As a technologically modern society, Switzerland is listed among the top study destinations for disciplines such as computer science or IT and engineering. Apart from this, it provides superlative degrees in banking and business administration, finance, and accounting. Consider the reasons that led you to pick Switzerland and follow your inner passions and career aspirations to select the program wisely you want to apply for! Choosing the relevant study abroad programs should be your number one priority.
2. Check The Admission Criteria
Based on the objective, your nationality, and the academic level of your studies, there are certain admission requirements you must pay careful attention to when preparing for your applications for Swiss universities. Ensure to make a well-detailed plan and take online consulting from Divine EAC for additional information.
3. Prepare the Documents
Switzerland is a widely known multilingual country, so you might need to translate your documents in either Italian, French, or German, according to the location of your desired institution.All in all, the documents you will need to apply for Swiss universities include:
- A completely filled and signed application form.
- Language proficiency certificates in any following languages: English, Italian, French, or German.
- Motivation letter explaining the reasons you selected to study in Switzerland.
- A valid passport and passport-size photographs.
- Curriculum vitae.
- Proof of paying the application fee.
- High school diploma or academic transcripts and diplomas, if applicable.
- Remember that based on the Swiss canton your university is situated in, you might be needed to submit additional documents.
4. Compare Fee Structures & Evaluate Scholarship Options
Even though courses and universities are vital things to consider while finalizing what you wish to pursue, it’s also vital to discover if the course you have chosen fits the financial bracket you are planning to spend on this part of your education. Knowing the procedure to go abroad for studies from India and setting a budget can help you sketch out the financial plan like your parents’ help, scholarships, loans, and the odd jobs you might have to fill up while studying.
5. Submit your Application
After you have collected, filled, signed, and translated the required documents, it’s finally time to submit your application. Moreover, there is no centralized admission system for applying to Swiss universities. Once you’ve selected your program, visit the institution’s website to ensure you meet the academic requirements for admission and then apply to the institution through their application portal. Get Free Counseling to have full knowledge of studying in Switzerland.
Cost of Attendance in Switzerland for Indian Students
APPLICATION & COURSE FEES
The tuition costs for a public university usually range from CHF 1200 to CHF 2500, per semester, based on the course. However, the fees for private universities are relatively much higher and can easily reach an average of CHF 9500 or more, per semester. Thus, it’s suggested to be well-informed of every university’s course structures and prerequisites and apply only to the ones that basically match your profile, requirements, and budget for studying abroad.
ACCOMMODATION & FOOD
Undoubtedly, living in Switzerland is costly. Though most may argue that smaller towns like Bern and Basel are quite reasonable than big urban cities like Geneva, Zurich & Lausanne thus, overall living is somewhat expensive. Even so, you can account for an average of CHF 1800 for a decent living along with CHF 15 to 20 for some decent meals. Students can also pick groceries for affordable local markets and enjoy home-cooked recipes.
RECREATION & COMMUTE
Though the former two are inevitable sources of expenditure for students, this factor can be managed. Travel usually takes up to CHF 150 per month, based on personal preferences and distance between the university and where you stay. Moreover, standard ticket charges and visa fees for the journey to and back from Switzerland can be esteemed as per your home country.
VISA Process To Study Abroad in Switzerland
As an Indian student who’s dreaming of studying in the serene land of the Alps for a promising future, you must prepare and be aware of the entire visa process to avoid last-minute inconveniences. While it’s undoubtedly an attainable goal, the process may take a while to complete. Thus, before you initiate the study abroad application and visa process, ensure you have grasped all the vital information.
The first thing you need to know is the visa type applicable to you; National Visa D. Typically, the waiting period is three months. Thus, you must plan accordingly and ensure to apply for the National Visa D three months before the course states.
Process to apply for the National Visa D
To acquire a student visa, follow these steps in order:
The visa fee is 60 euros, and an extra 300 rupees is charged for postal fees. The entire process normally takes around 8 to 12 weeks. A professional overseas education consultant will definitely help you with the entire process.
List of Required Documents
- Photocopy of your passport. Your passport must be issued within 10 years, and the date of expiry should also come within a minimum validity time frame of three months from the time of your scheduled return.
- Passport photos which should not be older than six months.
- Proof of confirmation from the accepted university or College.
- Solvency along with an identity proof of your sponsor for at least two assessment years. Correct bank account details of the last three months of your sponsor. A copy of her/his passport. The sponsor must share a written approval that your expenses will be borne by him/her.
- Solvency along with an identity proof of your sponsor for at least two assessment years. Correct bank account details of the last three months of your sponsor. A copy of her/his passport. The sponsor must share a written approval that your expenses will be borne by him/her.
- All your academic degrees and education certificates.
- Proof of your employment certificates in case applicable.
- Certificates of proof regarding your skill in speaking the English language, for example, the IELTS or the TOEFL.
- Supporting documents to support your financial status.
How much does one need to pay for a student visa?
Generally, a student visa application costs INR 4,500. The Switzerland visa fee for Indian students who are visiting for research purposes is free. However, it’s only valid for cases not getting any other sort of financial assistance, for example, a fellowship.
Thus, with proper online consultancy for studying abroad from Divine EAC, you can comprehend the complete visa application process to avoid inconvenience.
Work Opportunities in Switzerland
The high standard lifestyle and picturesque natural beauty can attract anyone to Switzerland. However, that’s not enough to survive. Before you let the blinding attraction grab your attention, you must learn essential details about its work culture, company foundation, and the scope of your field. Consider the following things before making an informed decision:
Job Opportunities in Switzerland
Before giving you a work permit, the official will ensure that the job being given is something only you can do, and no other Swiss Native or European citizen could be hired for it. Next, they will check the remaining vacancies in their quota and issue the work permits only if it has a remaining quota. Generally, employers pick foreign employees in case of well-skilled labour with a strong industry foundation, stunning educational qualifications, or talent.
The City of Residence
Although at first glance, the admission process to the UK may seem tiresome and long. But, it is relatively easy. GRE and GMAT are not mandatory in several universities in the UK. But, you have to clear an English proficiency test, either IELTS or TOEFL. The UK highly prioritizes academic excellence and robust co-curricular activities’ history. Work experience is mandatory for students wanting to opt for an MBA. Some universities also conduct entrance tests.
Languages
You need to learn at least one of the following languages; German, French, and Italian, to fit in and communicate easily with peers, colleagues, and people in general. English is a base language for translation, tourism, and other fields, though the entire Switzerland runs on native languages. Equip yourself with at least some basic knowledge of these languages along with other preparations to work in Switzerland.
Working As a Student in Switzerland
Most foreign students a\im to work a maximum of 15 hours per week during their studies and up to 100 % during semester breaks. After knowing how to apply to study abroad, looking for a part-time job is a must. However, you must know that immigrants on student visas are not allowed to work during the first half a year of their stay. So, it’s easy to start by finding employment opportunities within your university or college. Moreover, All foreign students wishing to work in Switzerland must inform the competent authorities and/or apply for a work permit (according to their nationality), independently of whether the employee is paid or not (sanctions apply).
Finding Work Opportunities in Switzerland
With its top-notch quality of life, high wages, and low tax rates, no wonder that Switzerland is incredibly popular with job-seeking graduates. Several foreign workers, particularly highly-skilled ones, successfully find work in Switzerland.
1. Via Government Agencies:
Although the internet is diverse and far-reaching, there are various other ways to find work opportunities in Switzerland. You can begin by busting some local government embassies. Moreover, the Swiss Chamber of Commerce has centres in various countries worldwide, and connecting with them is an excellent starting point.
2. Via Recruitment centres:
No doubt, several private companies strive towards pushing Switzerland’s rich industrial spread to find efficient young professionals. Discovering such agencies and consulting them won’t just help you get a job but will also help you find a superb opportunity that simultaneously matches your aspirations and restrictions and boosts your overall growth.
Therefore, regardless of its restricting immigration policies, finding jobs in Switzerland is not that challenging if you decide to be patient and determined. It’s a lot easier than what the online world and the Swiss websites make you believe. Get free study abroad counseling and kick start your journey today!
Frequently asked Questions
No, all international students, including Indian students, are only allowed to apply for the autumn semester.
International students can work in Switzerland under some conditions. Usually, they are allowed to work 15 hours per week, without a work permit. However, conditions may differ according to the students’ nationality and the institutions the students are attending.
There is no minimum wage limit. Generally based on the voluntary collective bargaining agreements, unskilled employees earn around 2,200 to 4,200 francs per month, and skilled workers earn up to 2,800 to 5,300 francs per month.
Switzerland is popular to have one of the top living standards globally. It’s comparatively safe for students to work and live. Moreover, Switzerland is listed as the 10th most peaceful country globally as per the Global Peace Index 2020.
