Your dream of studying in
Switzerland is closer than you think!
in Switzerland and get end to end expert guidance from us.
Your dream of studying in Switzerland is closer than you think!
Turn your Study Abroad Dream to Degrees Abroad in Switzerland
Why Study in Switzerland?
The diverse languages and international environment in Switzerland enhance cross-cultural understanding. While focusing on your studies, you can also enjoy skiing, hiking, and other outdoor adventures in Switzerland. This will offer you a reprieve from whatever little pressure you face during your studies. The unique blend of Swiss education and tourism creates unforgettable memories, making Switzerland an enticing destination for academic growth seekers and travel junkies.
Key Facts to Study in Switzerland | |
Languages Spoken |
German, French, Italian, Romansh |
Cost of Study |
Varies by University |
Sources of Funding |
Scholarships, Grants, Part-time jobs |
Exams Required |
TOEFL, IELTS, SAT, GRE |
Degrees |
Bachelor's, Master's, Doctorate |
Intakes |
Fall, Spring |
Visa |
Student Visa |
Benefits of Studying in Switzerland for Singaporean Students
Switzerland is not just an educational hub but also a place to explore. For students hailing from Singapore, there is a myriad of factors that explain why it pays to make this Alpine nation your go-to study destination. Let us walk you through some of the reasons why studying in Switzerland pays:
- Global Recognition: Swiss universities are renowned worldwide, offering degrees that are internationally recognised. There are many Switzerland-based universities and foreign universities with branches in the country.
- Multicultural Environment: Switzerland has a culturally diverse population thanks to its central location in Europe. The multilingual environment of Switzerland makes it ripe for an international cohort seeking a culturally enriching educational experience.
- Research Opportunities: Swiss universities gain fame for their exceptional research, especially in areas like science, technology, and innovation. They achieve this quality through rigorous academic standards, cutting-edge facilities, and collaborations with foreign institutions.
- Language Proficiency: Studying in Switzerland allows you to develop multiple foreign languages. Switzerland is a central location in Europe, so many foreigners flock to the country, creating a linguistic diversity that enhances cross-cultural communication skills.
- Safety: Switzerland boasts one of the lowest crime rates in the world. It is one of the top ten entries in the 2023 Global Peace Index.
- Location: Being centrally located in Europe, Switzerland offers Singaporean students an exceptional opportunity to easily discover nearby countries. This closeness helps them enrich their cultures, gain travel experiences, and build networks all over Europe.
To learn more about why studying in Switzerland is a good proposition, contact an AECC counsellor today!
Want to study at a university in Switzerland? Get FREE Counselling
Popular Courses to Study in Switzerland for Singaporean Students
There is such a multitude of courses in Switzerland that it becomes challenging for international students to choose their best options. Anyhow, the following list of the best subjects to study in Switzerland will help you whittle your options down to a few.
- International Law
- International Business Management
- Hotel and Hospitality Management
- Environmental Sciences
- Engineering
- Fine Arts
These courses are tailor-made for global audiences and focus not just on academic excellence but also on holistic development. Switzerland has a comprehensive range of study levels for these courses, including the undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctorate levels.
Top Universities in Switzerland for Singaporean Students
Switzerland is home to many highly recognised and well-established universities. Here is a list of the finest Swiss institutions, as per the latest rankings from Times Higher Education and QS. However, you can also pick from many other top options, such as EU Business School, Hotel Institute Montreux, and Cesar Ritz Colleges, to name a few.
Name of the University |
University best known for |
QS Ranking 2024 |
The Ranking 2024 |
University of Zurich |
Sciences |
91 |
82 |
ETH Zurich |
Engineering |
7 |
11 |
University of Geneva |
International Relations |
128 |
201 to 250 |
University of Basel |
Pharmaceuticals |
124 |
101 |
University of Bern |
Medical Sciences |
126 |
94 |
EPFL |
Computer Science |
36 |
41 |
University of Lausanne |
Business Management |
220 |
135 |
University of St. Gallen |
Economics |
436 |
301 to 350 |
University of Fribourg |
Multilingualism |
563 |
501 to 600 |
University of Lugano |
Communication Sciences |
328 |
201 to 250 |
QS and Times Higher Education rankings consider factors like academic reputation, faculty expertise, research impact, and international outlook. Institutions with high ranks demonstrate a commitment to excellence in teaching, research, and global engagement. As widely recognised benchmarks, QS and Times Higher Education rankings help students make informed choices with valuable insights into an institution's reputation and performance.
Reach out to AECC for FREE assistance in choosing the best university to study in Switzerland!
Requirements for Studying in Switzerland for Singaporean Students
For a foreign national, studying in Switzerland involves meeting certain criteria. The following series of bullet points outline the key requirements to study in Switzerland for international students. Understanding these factors helps you ensure that you follow a meticulous and informative approach to the prospect of studying in Switzerland. Delve into each point to grasp the necessary steps and ensure a successful application process for your higher education aspirations in Switzerland.
Graduate Diploma
- A recognised bachelor's degree from Singapore or its equivalent
- Proof of language proficiency, either in German, French, Italian, or English, depending on the university's medium of instruction
- A statement of purpose explaining the reason for pursuing the course
Bachelor's Degree
- A recognised high school diploma equivalent to the Swiss Matura
- Proof of language proficiency as required by the university
- SAT scores (if required by the specific institution)
Master’s Degree
- A recognised Bachelor's degree
- Letters of recommendation from prior educational institutions
- Proof of language proficiency
- GRE or GMAT scores if required by the specific institution
Doctorate
- A recognised Master's degree
- Research proposal or thesis topic
- Letters of recommendation
- Interview with the prospective department
Exams Required to Study in Switzerland Universities for Singaporean Students
Embarking on a journey to study in Switzerland as an international student involves meeting certain examination requirements. The following section outlines the exams that play a pivotal role in the admission process. From language proficiency tests like the IELTS and TOEFL to standardised exams and subject-specific assessments, the section provides an overview of the evaluation criteria.
English Language Proficiency Tests (Undergraduate and Graduate)
- TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
- IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
- Cambridge C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency
Undergraduate Admission Requirements
- SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test) – Some universities might ask for SAT scores, especially if the course is taught in English
Graduate Admission Requirements
- GRE (Graduate Record Examination) – Particularly for technical and science disciplines
- GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) – Especially for business-related courses
Familiarising yourself with admission requirements to study in Switzerland ensures that you are prepared and equipped enough to deal with the complexities of Swiss university admissions. Explore each point for insights into the examinations that are integral to your pursuit of higher education in Switzerland.
Documents Required to Study in Switzerland for Singaporean Students
Gathering the necessary documents is a pivotal step to ensure a smooth university application process. The documentation-related study in Switzerland requirements may vary from one university to another, but some criteria apply to all. Here are some of the common prerequisites in Switzerland:
- Completed the application form for the chosen Swiss university.
- Passport-size photographs.
- Copy of passport or national ID.
- Transcripts and diplomas from previously attended institutions.
- Language proficiency certificates.
- CV or resume.
Be sure to have these documents in order so that you can streamline the admission process and make a strong case for your entry into the desired program.
Requirements for the Switzerland Study Visa from Singapore
Getting a visa to study in Switzerland entails meeting a set of requirements. This section outlines the key criteria for obtaining a student visa for Switzerland education. From proof of acceptance from a Swiss university and financial criteria to health insurance and a clean criminal record, these points provide a clear overview of the necessary things.
- Valid passport with at least two blank pages
- Completed visa application form
- Passport-size photographs according to the specified dimensions
- Proof of acceptance from a recognized Swiss educational institution
- Proof of sufficient funds to cover living expenses during the duration of stay
- Health insurance covering the entire period of study
- Police clearance certificate
- Proof of accommodation in Switzerland
- Receipt of visa application fee payment
- A letter stating the purpose of the visit
Familiarising yourself with these Switzerland study visa requirements ensures a smooth visa application process, allowing you to focus on the main aspects of your academic pursuits. Securing the Swiss student visa is the final step towards experiencing a unique blend of high-quality education and rich European culture.
Need further assistance in getting a Switzerland student visa from Singapore or something likewise? Contact AECC for FREE assistance in application to visa processing and more!
Intakes to Study in Switzerland for Singaporean Students
Plan your educational journey in Switzerland with ease using this informative table showcasing study intakes for Singaporean students. Gain insights into each available intake, whether it be in the fall, spring, or summer. This straightforward reference helps you make timely decisions and ensures a smooth transition into your desired academic program.
Intake |
Duration (deadline) |
Fall |
June 30 |
Spring |
November 15 |
Understanding university intakes in Switzerland is crucial for international students as it allows effective planning and timely application. Different intakes offer flexibility to align studies with personal schedules. Being aware of intake deadlines ensures ample time for document preparation, language proficiency tests, and visa applications. The specific deadlines vary between universities and courses.
Cost of Studying in Switzerland for Singaporean Students
A degree from a university in Switzerland comes at a cost. This begs the question of how much money is required to study in Switzerland. The specific cost varies by factors such as the university and level of study. However, here is a table showcasing the average tuition fees at universities in Switzerland.
Level of Education in Switzerland |
Costs for Singaporean students in SGD (Per year) |
Undergraduate (UG) |
SGD 25,000 |
Postgraduate (PG) |
SGD 30,000 |
Doctorate |
SGD 28,000 |
It is worth noting that the above information only includes tuition fees, which account for a portion of the total cost to study in Switzerland from Singapore.
Scholarships in Switzerland for Singaporean Students
Scholarships can play a pivotal role in reducing the financial burden of international education. In Switzerland, numerous scholarships allow international students to leverage the best opportunities without too much financial burden. Here is a table showing some of the popular scholarships in Switzerland for Singaporean students and other eligible foreign nationals:
Name of Scholarship |
Description |
Eligibility |
Amount in SGD |
Swiss Excellence Scholarships |
For exceptional international students across various disciplines. |
High academic merit, and leadership qualities. |
SGD 30,000 |
Swiss Government Art Scholarships |
Aimed at students in the fields of arts and music. |
International artists with significant accomplishments. |
SGD 28,000 |
Lausanne Sports Excellence Scholarship |
For athletes wanting to study and train in Switzerland. |
Sporting excellence; admittance to a Lausanne institution. |
SGD 24,000 |
Lugano Arts Scholarships |
For art students in Lugano institutions. |
Portfolio merit; academic achievements. |
SGD 22,000 |
SwissTech Engineering Grant |
For tech and engineering students. |
Innovation potential; academic record. |
SGD 29,000 |
It is important to note that currency conversions apply to the above figures. This means that the actual scholarship values are likely to differ from the aforementioned.
Living Expenses to Study in Switzerland for Singaporean Students
Understand the financial aspects of studying in Switzerland with this helpful table outlining living expenses for Singaporean students. The table offers an overview of expenses such as accommodation, food, transportation, and so forth.
Particulars |
Average Cost Per Month (SGD) |
Accommodation (Rent) |
SGD 1,800 |
Utilities (Electricity, Water, Gas) |
SGD 200 |
Internet |
SGD 50 |
Mobile Phone |
SGD 40 |
Groceries |
SGD 400 |
Food |
SGD 450 |
Public Transportation |
SGD 100 |
Health Insurance |
SGD 120 |
Entertainment (Movies, Events, etc.) |
SGD 150 |
The total cost to study in Switzerland from Singapore covers living expenses as well. It is usually expensive to live in Switzerland due to the high costs of accommodation, food, transportation, and other essentials. However, the quality of life is high in Switzerland, and there are scholarships and opportunities for post-study work in Switzerland that help mitigate the cost.
Post-study Work Opportunities in Switzerland for Singaporean Students
Field |
Approximate Annual Salary (SGD) |
Business Management |
SGD 80,000 |
Education and Training |
SGD 65,000 |
Healthcare |
SGD 85,000 |
IT & Computer Science |
SGD 90,000 |
Statistics and Data Science |
SGD 92,000 |
The salary information above is approximate and can vary depending on multiple factors. Always refer to an AECC counsellor for accurate and up-to-date information about the opportunities and pay for post-study work in Switzerland.
Frequently asked questions
Some of the reasons to study in Switzerland are top-ranked universities, a multilingual environment, and high quality of life for international students.