Study in Switzerland

When it comes to pursuing higher education, students head to foreign countries. Until a decade ago the United States and the United Kingdom were the two most sought after destinations when it came to higher studies but now several European counties have emerged on the canvas of the world which offer excellent higher education institutes where the standard of education is at par with the UK and the USA; Switzerland is one of such countries.

Educational Institutions in Switzerland

Switzerland is a land of scenic beauty and the land of the Alps. This European country is a popular tourist destination and is also known for its chocolates, watches and chalets. But now it is emerging as a nation of one of the best technological institutes and the best research facilities in the world. Some colleges like the Franklin College of Switzerland situated in Lugano is US accredited and offers various degree programs; the courses studied here can be transferred to colleges and universities in America. Undergraduate and graduate programs can be studied in the International University Geneva in the disciplines of Business Administration, International Relations and Media and Communication.  The curriculum is designed on European and American standard and this multi-cultural university is very popular among foreign students. The Universite de Lausanne, International Hotel, Tourism and Events Management School, the DCT University Center in Luzern (one of the best institutes in the world offering multiple courses in the fields of hospitality and culinary arts. This institute is affiliated with the Lynn University America. The University of Lugano, the Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies, International Institute of Business Management are some leading institutes in the country offering diplomas, under graduate, post graduate courses in a variety of disciplines.

The medium of instruction is English and French; some universities offer courses in German and Italian. The doctorate degrees (Ph.D) are offered mostly in English language. The number of foreign students in some universities exceeds 40%. As the major part of the education (around 80%) including higher education is publicly funded, it is considerably inexpensive to study in Switzerland. The universities also offer scholarships to foreign students. Typically the tuition fee in Swiss universities is between 1000 CHF to 2000 CHF depending upon the university.  Besides inexpensive education, the cost of living is also reasonable in Switzerland. According to a rough estimate, a foreign student requires around 20,400 CHF to 25,800 CHF for accommodation, food and other living expenses per year depending upon the city. A wide network of efficient public transport makes commutation easy. The universities also rent out accommodation to foreign students at low rates and as these residences are near the campus, you can save the transport charges.

Economic and Political Conditions of The Country

The economic and political conditions of the country are quite stable making Switzerland one of the safest countries to stay and study. The degree from a Swiss university has great value and you can easily get a high paying job. After you have selected the university, college or the institute you wish to study in and have decided upon the course, you can apply for a student’s visa. A student’s visa is granted in 6 to 8 weeks if you fulfill the university’s requirements. The length of the visa depends on the length of the course. The student needs to show documents which prove that he has adequate financial means to support his stay while studying. The foreign students cannot work for the first six months and then they can get a permit which allows them to work fifteen hours a week at the most. However you need a letter from your university declaring that your job will not lengthen the study period.

Last modified: 2011-09-20 00:12:55