Scholarships for International Students in Switzerland

Switzerland offers several scholarship opportunities for international students to support their studies. Below is a list of prominent scholarships available for those wishing to study in Switzerland:

1. Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships

• Eligibility: For postgraduate students, researchers, and artists from selected countries.
• Benefits: Full tuition fee coverage, living allowance, airfare, and health insurance for up to one year.
• How to Apply: Application is through the Swiss Embassy in your home country.
• More Info: Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships

2. ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme

• Eligibility: For outstanding students applying for Master's programs at ETH Zurich.
• Benefits: A stipend of CHF 12,000 per year, covering living costs, along with the possibility of an assistantship in research or teaching.
• How to Apply: Apply directly through the ETH Zurich online application system when applying for a Master's program.
• More Info: ETH Zurich Scholarships

3. University of Geneva Excellence Master Fellowships

• Eligibility: For students from all over the world applying to a Master’s program at the University of Geneva.
• Benefits: CHF 10,000 to CHF 15,000 per year to cover living expenses.
• How to Apply: Apply for a Master's program at the University of Geneva, and indicate your interest in the fellowship.
• More Info: University of Geneva Scholarships

4. Graduate Institute Geneva Scholarships

• Eligibility: For international students applying for Master’s or PhD programs at the Graduate Institute.
• Benefits: Partial scholarships, including tuition fee reduction and living allowance.
• How to Apply: Apply for your chosen program, and mention the need for financial assistance during the application process.
• More Info: Graduate Institute Geneva Scholarships

5. EPFL Excellence Fellowships

• Eligibility: For international students applying to a Master’s program at EPFL (École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne).
• Benefits: The fellowship includes CHF 10,000 per year to support living costs and full tuition fee coverage.
• How to Apply: Apply directly when applying to the Master's program at EPFL, with no separate scholarship application needed.
• More Info: EPFL Scholarships

Living Costs for International Students in Switzerland

Switzerland is known for its high standard of living, which also means that living costs can be relatively high compared to other European countries. However, it offers excellent quality of education and services. Below is an overview of the typical living expenses you can expect while studying in Switzerland:

1. Accommodation:

• University Dormitories: CHF 400 – CHF 1,000 per month. Some universities provide on-campus housing, but it may be limited, and prices vary by location.
• Private Apartments: CHF 1,200 – CHF 2,500 per month for a one-bedroom apartment in a city. Outside major cities, you may find lower prices.
• Shared Accommodation: CHF 500 – CHF 1,000 per month. Shared rooms or flatshares are often more affordable, particularly in major cities.

2. Food:

• Groceries: CHF 300 – CHF 600 per month. Basic groceries in Switzerland are quite expensive. Local markets and supermarkets are the most cost-effective option.
• Eating Out:
  • Inexpensive meal at a restaurant: CHF 15 – CHF 25.
  • Meal at mid-range restaurants: CHF 30 – CHF 60.
  • Fast food (e.g., McDonald's): CHF 10 – CHF 15.

3. Transportation:

• Public Transport: CHF 70 – CHF 120 per month for a student travel pass. Most cities have efficient public transport systems, including buses, trams, and trains. Many universities also offer discounted student passes.
• Bicycles: Renting a bicycle can cost around CHF 40 – CHF 100 per month, and it's a popular, eco-friendly way to get around in many Swiss cities.

4. Health Insurance:

• Health insurance is mandatory for all students in Switzerland. The cost typically ranges from CHF 80 – CHF 200 per month, depending on the type of coverage. Some international students may be able to use their existing insurance if it meets Swiss requirements.

5. Leisure and Entertainment:

• Gym Membership: CHF 60 – CHF 120 per month.
• Cinema Ticket: CHF 15 – CHF 20.
• Night Out (Club, Drinks, etc.): CHF 40 – CHF 100, depending on location and type of entertainment.

6. Study Materials and Miscellaneous:

• Books and Supplies: CHF 50 – CHF 100 per semester.
• Miscellaneous Expenses: CHF 100 – CHF 200 per month, which includes things like mobile phone bills, internet, laundry, etc.

7. Total Monthly Living Costs:

On average, international students can expect to spend between CHF 1,500 and CHF 2,500 per month depending on the city, lifestyle, and accommodation choices.

• In Major Cities (Zurich, Geneva, Basel): Expect higher costs, especially for accommodation.
• In Smaller Cities (Lausanne, Bern, Lucerne): Costs may be more manageable but still remain high compared to other countries in Europe.

8. Financial Planning:

Switzerland requires international students to demonstrate financial resources to cover living costs when applying for a student visa. You need to show that you have access to at least CHF 21,000 per year to cover living expenses, which is typically calculated at a rate of CHF 1,750 per month.

Student Visa for International Students in Switzerland

If you're planning to study in Switzerland, you’ll need a student visa if you're coming from outside the European Union (EU) or European Economic Area (EEA). Below is a summary of the requirements and application process:

1. Types of Student Visas:

• Short-Term Schengen Visa (Type C): For courses lasting less than 90 days, such as short language courses or workshops.
• National Student Visa (Type D): For students planning to study in Switzerland for more than 90 days (i.e., most degree programs).

2. Eligibility Requirements:

To be eligible for a student visa, you must meet these criteria:

• University Admission: You must be enrolled in a recognized Swiss university or higher education institution. This could be a public or private university, or an equivalent institution.
• Proof of Financial Means: You must demonstrate that you can financially support yourself during your stay. The minimum required amount is approximately CHF 21,000 per year to cover living expenses. You may need to show proof of funds such as bank statements or scholarship letters.
• Valid Health Insurance: You need to have valid health insurance that meets Swiss requirements, either through a Swiss insurer or one that is recognized in Switzerland.
• Accommodation Proof: You must provide proof of accommodation in Switzerland, whether it’s university housing, a rented apartment, or other suitable arrangements.
• Language Proficiency: Depending on your course, you might need to demonstrate proficiency in the language of instruction (English, French, German, or Italian), usually through language tests like IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent.

3. Application Process:

• Step 1: Apply and get accepted to a Swiss higher education institution.
• Step 2: Apply for a student visa at the Swiss embassy or consulate in your home country.
  • You’ll need to submit various documents, including:
    • A valid passport (valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned stay)
    • A letter of acceptance from the Swiss institution
    • Proof of financial resources (bank statements, scholarship letters, etc.)
    • Proof of health insurance
    • Proof of accommodation in Switzerland
    • Passport-sized photographs
    • Any required language proficiency certificates
• Step 3: Pay the application fee, which typically ranges from CHF 60 to CHF 100.
• Step 4: Wait for the decision on your visa application, which can take 6-8 weeks.
• Step 5: Once your visa is approved, you will receive the Swiss visa and can travel to Switzerland.
• Step 6: Upon arrival in Switzerland, you must register at the local cantonal migration office and obtain a residence permit for students.

4. Work Rights for International Students:

• During Studies: Students are allowed to work part-time while studying, up to 15 hours per week during term time, and full-time during breaks (usually in the summer).
• After Graduation: You may apply for a job-seeking visa for up to 6 months after completing your studies if you wish to stay and find a job. Alternatively, you can apply for a work permit if you secure employment related to your degree.

5. Visa Duration:

• Short-Term Visa (Type C): Valid for up to 90 days, for short courses or exchanges.
• National Student Visa (Type D): Usually issued for the duration of your study program (1-4 years). You can extend the visa if your program lasts longer than initially expected.