This chapter outlines the path to studying in Switzerland in six steps. Further information on each step can be found on this website.
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1. Clarify your career goals
A university degree is not the right path for every career goal. In Switzerland, many professions are learned through a vocational apprenticeship or a programme at a university of applied sciences.
Before making a decision, it is worth seeking advice from a Career Guidance and Information Centre (BIZ) or a specialist advisory service.
Further information:
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2. Find the right university and degree programme
In Switzerland, there are 10 universities, 2 Swiss Federal Institutes of Technology (ETH), 10 universities of applied sciences and 14 universities of teacher education. There are also other higher education institutions. Together, these institutions offer a wide range of fields of study and degree programmes.
It is worth first exploring the study options at universities in your local area. A long commute can result in additional costs and make everyday student life more difficult.
Open days, university websites, and discussions with admissions advisors and current students can help you choose the right degree programme.
If available, it is also worth contacting the support services for refugees at your chosen university at an early stage.
Attending a bridging programme or preparatory course can help you prepare for your degree programme, both linguistically and academically.
Further information:
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3. Gain admission
Each higher education institution in Switzerland decides independently on admission to its degree programmes. Requirements may also vary depending on the degree programme. Key criteria include previous qualifications and language proficiency. Some higher education institutions offer alternative admission routes alongside the standard admission process.
It is often advisable to clarify the admission requirements before making concrete plans for funding your studies.
Further information:
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4. Plan your funding
It is important to start thinking about how to finance your studies at an early stage. This involves drawing up a budget and exploring various funding options. It is also important to discuss with the relevant social worker at an early stage whether, and to what extent, social assistance will continue during your studies.
Applications to scholarship offices and funding foundations can usually only be submitted once you have been admitted.
Further information:
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5. Prepare for and complete your degree
Once you have been admitted, you should plan the start of your degree programme carefully. If you have already studied at another higher education institution, you should check at an early stage whether any credits you have earned can be recognised.
You should also find out about the support available at your university and make use of it if necessary. An academic advisory service, for example, can help you plan your studies and choose the appropriate modules.
Further information:
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6. Plan your career start
Even whilst you’re studying, it’s worth:
- gaining work experience;
- building a professional network;
- making use of university career centres;
- looking for internships or part-time student jobs.
These steps can make it easier to enter the Swiss labour market after graduation.
Further information: