Why study in Switzerland?
Switzerland prides itself on being the world’s leading country in terms of higher education quality.
The experience offered to students is unique and based on a singular pedagogical approach,
based on autonomy and independence, combined with high-tech equipment.
The country’s universities are renowned for covering a wide range of specialities.
As a result, many foreign students apply for a rigorous degree course in Switzerland, particularly in these four areas:
- engineering
- the hotel industry
- finance
- tourism
As an example, we can mention the hotel school in Lausanne. It has been ranked the best school in the world for its various courses. Two other Swiss institutions followed on the podium. Generally speaking, Swiss schools are among the international elite in many areas of education. It is not by chance that it is one of the most coveted destinations for students.
Where to stay in Switzerland during your studies?
- You’ve just enrolled at a Swiss university and still need to sort out your accommodation.
The country’s universities have a centralized accommodation service so that everyone can find a place to stay for the duration of their studies.
However, there are very few campuses in France, and most accommodation is managed by independent companies. This has a major impact on rental prices.
- For those on a budget, an alternative called “intergenerational housing” lets you live with an elderly person who needs help or company. It’s an exchange of courtesies and a direct immersion in the country’s culture. With this formula, rents are affordable.
- For students who have already secured a place at university, Switzerland offers a number of renowned campuses. For example, the Crea and EBS schools in Geneva, which cover more than 3,000m2. As well as offering top-quality residences and ultra-modern facilities, the area offers outstanding cultural and creative services, encouraging collective projects and multicultural exchanges.
How can I enroll in a Swiss university as a foreign student?
Admission requirements for a course of study in Switzerland vary according to study project, nationality and academic level.
If in doubt, you can always contact the Swiss embassy to find out about the selection criteria corresponding to your profile.
The country also offers a student helpdesk for any other questions you may have.
Depending on the institution you are targeting, it may be necessary to translate your personal documents into French, Italian or German.
The Swiss consulate can help you with this via a translation service. To put together a complete file for the grandes écoles, you will need to provide :
- A valid passport
- The official application form completed and signed
- High school diploma and transcripts
- language certificates in English, French, Italian and German
- your resume
- a letter of motivation describing your project and the reasons that led you to study in Switzerland
- Proof of payment of the application fee
Once the file is compiled, you will have to apply directly via the university’s registration portal, directly on their website.
Are there any specific criteria for studying in Switzerland?
If you wish to study in Switzerland, you will need to meet a number of specific criteria:
- Within 14 days of your arrival on the territory, European students must announce their presence to the municipal authority.
- provide the personal residence application.
- provide confirmation of enrollment in a graduate school.
- proof of a residential address in the place of stay.
- Proof of sufficient financial means to cover the cost of the studies.
- provide two compliant photos.
In addition to all these elements, non-European citizens must contact the Swiss embassy to obtain a visa and validate the entry conditions for the study stay.
I am a foreign student, do I need a visa to study in Switzerland?
For foreign European citizens
If you are a member of the European Union, you do not need a visa to study in Switzerland. The only necessary step is to register with the local authorities of the host city in order to obtain a residence permit. Finally, you will need to prove your reason for residence by providing a letter of explanation from your institution, as well as from the health insurance company that will cover you during your studies.
For non-European citizens
If you are not a member of the European Union, you need a student visa to stay in Switzerland for the duration of your studies. An appointment must be made with the embassy several months before the start of the course. You will then need to provide :
- a valid passport or identity card
- a completed and signed application form for a residence permit
- proof of sufficient funds to support yourself for the duration of your studies
- a letter of acceptance from the desired university
- proof of payment of university fees
- your resume
- a declaration of honour that you will leave Switzerland once your studies are finished
- the language test is not automatic for the Visa, but you may be asked to take it. When in doubt, carry it out.
The language test is not automatic for the Visa but it may be requested.
Generally speaking, French is the language of instruction at Swiss universities. However, a scale of requirements is in place to ensure that students have the ability to take the courses.
Thus, the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) requires the achievement of level B2 in the French language exam. Depending on your nationality and your study plan, the selection criteria may vary.
The exam is a general test that evaluates oral and written skills according to several tests. Applicants for humanities studies will be subject to further evaluation.
The student is informed of his or her invitation to the exam by e-mail, following the submission of his or her application. It will cost approximately 100 CHF to take the exam.
What language do I need to speak to study in Switzerland?
Switzerland has 4 main languages.
- Italian
- English
- German
- French
You may be asked to prove your language skills through language tests.
An intermediate level will be required depending on the type of establishment you wish to join.
The University of Zurich, for example, offers its courses in English and German, requiring high scores on the TOEFL and IELTS language reference exams for admission to the Master’s program.
It is possible, beforehand, to evaluate oneself with the Daf test (for German) or via language training platforms.
Which Omnes Education schools have a campus in Switzerland?
In the heart of the diplomatic capital, the Omnes éducation campus offers 3,000 m2 of modern facilities adapted to multicultural student life.
One of the most liveable cities in the world, the city’s museums, theaters and concert halls promote a rich cultural life.
Two schools are located on the campus:
CREA
The school trains tomorrow’s managers in a number of cutting-edge fields(management, digital marketing, etc.).
The teaching provided is based on a unique methodology combining theoretical learning and the sharing of experience between candidates and experts.
Several training courses are available, ranging from post-baccalaureate diplomas to Bac +5.
Does Omnes Education help foreign students with their procedures in Switzerland (banking, housing)?
Omnes education provides the Studapart platform for all students wishing to find a rental in Switzerland. Its intuitive operation simplifies the process. Everything is done online, with a response to applications in less than 72 hours.
The site offers a solution to guarantors’ problems, via its association with Allianz, for the entire duration of the rental. We offer payment facilities, assistance in creating a file, and insurance in the event of unpaid rent.
Visits are made on video and the search system allows you to find a home that meets your criteria, while remaining in constant contact with the owner. It is an ideal solution to respect your budget and find accommodation close to your school.