Language courses in Switzerland for international students

With German being one of the official languages of Switzerland, engaging in German courses in the country offers an enriching experience. Top language courses in Switzerland for German allow students to immerse themselves, converse with native speakers, appreciate the nuances of the language, and even forge meaningful relationships.

These programs are especially valuable for those contemplating relocating to Switzerland. Special programs designed for migrants equip learners with the linguistic and cultural knowledge to navigate daily life, utilize city infrastructure, and communicate effortlessly with locals within just two weeks.

While Switzerland does not recognize English as an official language, its significance cannot be overlooked. English courses in Switzerland often mimic the British version, thanks to the expertise of teachers often sourced from England. These educators come with verified qualifications to instruct diverse and multicultural student groups.

Whether it's a year-round program, summer course, or vacation camp, English courses in Switzerland ensure top-tier education. So much so, that completing these courses can pave the way for admission into prestigious European universities.

Laura Galindo

Marketing Director

At what age do foreign students usually enter English schools?

Our programs are for ages 16+. Nonetheless, the average age of our student population is between the ages of 18-35. 

Switzerland's linguistic diversity doesn't end at English and German. French is another popular language, spoken predominantly in the western regions such as Jura, Neuchâtel, Waugh, and Geneva. Knowing French becomes indispensable if you plan to stay in Switzerland long-term.

Interestingly, while many native teachers offer quality education often at lesser fees, their accent and phonetics might carry regional influences, but without any significant dialectal variations.

Italian, though spoken by about 8% of the population (primarily in cantons like Ticino), holds its charm. Combining Italian with another foreign language accelerates linguistic proficiency, offering students a competitive edge.

The Importance of ESL in Swiss Schools

ESL (English as a Second Language) courses play a pivotal role in many Swiss educational institutions, including the renowned Collège Champittet. Catering to the diverse student base hailing from different countries, these courses bolster the confidence of those unfamiliar with English, ensuring a smooth educational journey.

• Holistic Curriculum: Institutions often integrate multiple languages into the curriculum. For instance, students might study both German and English concurrently. From annual courses targeting European university admissions to short-term intensive business language courses, there's something for everyone.

• Cultural Melting Pot: The schools host a blend of nationalities, fostering intercultural communication skills and enhancing global awareness. With seasoned teachers adept at handling multicultural classes, students receive personalized attention and guidance.

• Blend of Learning and Leisure: The language courses in Switzerland fees often include both academic and recreational activities. Depending on the program's intensity, students might enjoy trips to cultural landmarks, engage in sports, or partake in other leisure activities – all while solidifying their language skills.

• Affordability and Accessibility: With the recent drop in fees for many programs, quality education in Switzerland has become more accessible. All one needs is the right set of documents and a chosen school.

• Comfort and Well-being: Switzerland's mild climate, pristine air quality, and top-notch healthcare system ensure a conducive environment for learning. Furthermore, the nation's safety standards are among the best globally.

In essence, Switzerland's language courses promise a comprehensive experience, balancing linguistic prowess with cultural immersion. Whether you're drawn to the allure of German, English, French, or Italian, Switzerland's schools await with open arms.

Switzerland, with its unique blend of German, French, Italian, and Romansh influences, is a linguistic goldmine for international students. As a popular destination for language learners, the country offers a wide range of courses catering to various proficiency levels and linguistic interests. However, as with many other educational pursuits in the country, the quality of these programs often comes with a corresponding price tag.

For international students looking to immerse themselves in a Swiss language course, fees can range considerably based on several factors. The type of institution, the intensity of the course (part-time vs. full-time), and the duration all play a role in determining costs. On average, students might spend anywhere from CHF 300 to CHF 800 for weekly courses, while intensive month-long programs can cost between CHF 1,000 to CHF 4,000. Prestigious institutions or specialized courses, particularly those that cater to advanced learners or professionals, might command higher fees.

Beyond the course fees, international students should also factor in the associated costs of living in Switzerland, which is known for its high standard of living. Accommodation, food, transportation, and leisure activities can collectively range from CHF 1,500 to CHF 3,000 per month, depending on the region and individual lifestyle choices.

Despite the expenses, the benefits of undertaking a language course in Switzerland are manifold. The quality of instruction, coupled with the immersive experience of living in a multilingual country, offers unparalleled opportunities for linguistic advancement. For those committed to mastering a new language, Switzerland promises an enriching and holistic learning experience, even if it comes at a premium.

When choosing a school, it is worth considering your goals, location preferences, budget, and program features. Feedback from other participants and consultation with agencies can help you make an informed choice.

Yes, accommodation is often available when booking a language course in Switzerland. Options may include student residences, hotels or staying with host families to facilitate language immersion.

The average duration of a language course in Switzerland can vary. Typically, short intensive courses lasting from a few weeks to 2-3 months are a popular choice. However, longer programs of six months or a year are also available.

Among international students in Switzerland, German, French and English are popular for language study. But among these, French often stands out as the most popular, as Switzerland is bilingual and French is one of the official languages in certain regions of the country.

Yes, most language courses accept participants of all skill levels, including absolute beginners.

The cost depends on the length of the program, the intensity of the lessons and the type of accommodation. But it is worth considering that it is an investment in your own education and language skills.

Yes, some language schools offer combined programs that allow students to learn the language and pursue other activities that interest them, such as sports or the arts.

Yes, many language schools provide certificates or diplomas proving language proficiency according to international standards such as CEFR.

Language courses in Switzerland provide high quality education with an emphasis on language practice. Students can interact with native speakers, immersing themselves in an authentic cultural environment and increasing their language confidence.

Cost of living in Switzerland

Statistics of English courses in Switzerland