Best universities in Switzerland 2025

Swiss universities have many advantages that set them apart from other European higher education systems. One of the biggest advantages is the cost of education. which depends on the type of university and the chosen specialty: inexpensive programs in public institutions cost around 600-700 CHF per semester, private institutions are more expensive - the price per semester here is 8000 CHF and more.

Higher education in Switzerland is taught in one of three European languages -German, Italian, French - while there are also programs conducted entirely in English. The language of instruction is stipulated by the location, each canton sets its own rules.

Arnold I. Szepesi

Global Direct Sales Manager in EHL Hospitality Business School

Why do parents value education in Switzerland so much?

There are many reasons: safety, the opportunity to participate in activities and play sports all year round (water sports on local lakes, skiing, snowboarding, rock climbing, hiking and trekking, team games). Switzerland is a great place to learn several foreign languages thanks to the rich culture. Switzerland opens doors for the best universities in the world, and Swiss public universities are not only world-class, but are almost free.

SMAPSE experts have compiled a detailed list of the best institutions in Switzerland for you, it includes the most prestigious and advanced educational centers that offer a wide range of specialties. Keep in mind that Switzerland has its own internal industry rating. In other words, those wishing to study law should choose universities in Lausanne, Neuchâtel and Fribourg. Studies in economics are worth taking in St. Gallen, for example. Future linguists should have a look at the University of Geneva. Engineering and architecture are best taught in polytechnic schools that have a university status.

Our hand-picked catalog includes educational centers and universities in Switzerland offering programs in restaurant business and tourism. These institutions are considered the best not only in Europe, but also in the world. A distinctive feature of these educational institutions is the practical orientation of the courses: by entering one of the specialized universities in Switzerland, students receive not only fundamental theoretical knowledge in specialized disciplines, but also the opportunity to start a career in one of the world's most prestigious hotel chains, travel companies, etc.

In our catalog you can choose universities in Switzerland by:

• a type of educational program;
• location;
• the language of instruction.

On the left panel of the country page you can find thematic filters to help you with the search. In the presented sample, universities in Switzerland are sorted alphabetically.

Additionally, we offer an individual expert selection of suitable programs and universities in Switzerland, you can order it through a special form on the website.

Do you need an online consultation with a study abroad specialist? SMAPSE experts are always in touch via website life chat, phone and Skype. They will answer all your questions and help you choose.

The price of higher education at public Swiss universities ranges from 500 CHF to 1,000 CHF per year. Private universities are more expensive - as a rule, from 8000 CHF per academic year.

If you are willing to enter a Swiss university, be ready to prepare some documentation. You will also need certain language and academic knowledge.

Typical required documents are:

• ID card scan or passport scan,
• for entering a bachelor's program - a school certificate and completion of the Foundation program, or the IB, A-level, High School Certificate (recognized by Swiss authorities)
• for entering a master's program - a completed bachelor's degree + if necessary, passing the pre-Masters program
• IELTS/TOEFL certificate issued no earlier than 2 years before applying for a student visa, or TestDaf certificate for programs taught in German, Delf certificate for French taught programs
• Letters of recommendation from teachers, sometimes from the headmaster/dean
• Motivation letter
• Skype interview or personal visit to the educational institution.

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

Yes, many universities provide teaching  in English, in particular it is mostly common for the postgraduate level (master's and PhD).

Foreign students can attend bachelor's, master's, and doctoral (PhD) programs. Also a wide range of disciplines is provided for studying.

Swiss universities regularly occupy  high positions in world rankings, as their global recognition is related to the high quality of education and research results.

Admission requirements vary by university and program, but usually include having a high school diploma or equivalent, certain language proficiency, and sometimes entrance exams or interviews.

Tuition fees vary by university type and program. Public universities usually have very low tuition fees if compared with the private ones. Tuition fees for international students can be higher.

Yes, but mainly for master's level. 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 options, especially in certain postgraduate courses.

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

Life on the campus of Swiss universities is vibrant and diverse, with numerous student clubs, sports activities and cultural events. There is also a support service for students who might have academic or household issues.

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