Study Abroad in Switzerland for Pakistani Students: How To Apply
Switzerland, renowned for its picturesque landscapes and high-quality education, offers exceptional opportunities for Pakistani students seeking international academic experiences. With its world-class universities and innovative research facilities, Switzerland provides a unique blend of traditional values and cutting-edge technology in education.
Highlights
Here are the key details related to studying in Switzerland
1200+
Pakistani Students in Switzerland
85%
Visa Approval Rate
12
Public Institutions
Fall (September)
Most Preferred Intake
6.5
Minimum IELTS Score
90
Minimum TOEFL (iBT) Score
PKR 70L+
Approximate Annual Study Cost
PKR 5L+
Approximate Monthly Cost of Living
Why Choose Switzerland?
Academic Excellence
Swiss universities consistently rank among the world's best, offering high-quality education and research opportunities.
Multilingual Environment
Immerse yourself in a multilingual society, enhancing your language skills in German, French, Italian, or English.
Innovation Hub
Switzerland is a global leader in innovation, providing students with exposure to cutting-edge research and technology.
Wondering If Pakistan is right choice for you?
Variety of courses available in Switzerland
Bachelor's Degrees
3 years
Master's Degrees
1.5 - 2 years
PhD Programs
3.5 years
Certificate Programs
6 months - 1 year
Academic Calendar to study in Switzerland
Here’s what to expect if you want to study in Switzerland
Fall Semester (September - December)
- Main academic term with a wide range of courses
- Enjoy the beautiful Swiss autumn and prepare for winter
Winter Break (December - January)
- Time to explore Switzerland’s famous winter attractions or travel within Europe
Spring Semester (February - June)
- Continue your studies and enjoy the Swiss spring
- Prepare for final exams and projects
Summer Break (July - August)
- Long break for internships, travel, or summer courses
- Perfect time to explore Switzerland’s stunning landscapes
Student Visa Requirements for Switzerland
You can prepare for your Switzerland education journey with these essential visa requirements
- Acceptance into a recognized Swiss educational institution
- Proof of sufficient financial means to support your stay
- Adequate health insurance coverage
- Valid passport
Completed visa application form - Passport-sized photographs
- Acceptance letter from a Swiss university
- Proof of financial resources
- Health insurance certificate
- Language proficiency certificate
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Motivation letter
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Proof of accommodation in Switzerland
Admission Requirements in Switzerland
General Documents required to study in Switzerland
Ensure your passport is valid for at least three months beyond your planned stay in Switzerland.
Demonstrate your ability to cover tuition fees and living expenses during your studies.
Provide official transcripts from your previous educational institutions, translated if necessary.
Submit test scores (IELTS, TOEFL, or language-specific exams) as required by your chosen program.
Write a compelling essay outlining your academic goals and reasons for choosing to study in Switzerland.
Include strong recommendation letters from professors or employers to support your application.
Obtain appropriate health insurance coverage for your stay in Switzerland.
English Language Proficiency to Study in Switzerland
Switzerland universities typically accept the following English language tests:
IELTS
6.5 and above
Most Swiss universities accept IELTS scores, with minimum requirements typically ranging from 6.0 to 7.0.
TOEFL
90 and above
TOEFL is widely accepted, with minimum score requirements usually between 80 and 100.
Other Requirements For
- Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field from an accredited institution
- Minimum GPA of 3.0 or equivalent (varies by program)
- Some programs may require 1-2 years of work experience
- GRE or GMAT scores may be required for certain programs
- Completed secondary education (equivalent to Swiss Matura)
- Strong academic record
- Language proficiency in the program’s language of instruction
- Some programs may require entrance exams or interviews
Cost of Studying in Switzerland
Overview
Switzerland is known for its high quality of life, which is reflected in its education costs. However, public universities offer more affordable options compared to private institutions.
Average tuition fee range
Bachelors
PKR 5L+
Masters
PKR 6L+
MBA
PKR 25L+
PhD
PKR 4L+
Cost of Living in Switzerland
Monthly living expenses for students in the Switzerland (in PKR):
Accommodation
80K+ / month
Food
40K+ / month
Transportation
15K+ / month
Other Expenses
30K+ / month
Scholarship for Pakistani students in Switzerland
Here are the key details related to studying in Switzerland
If you are going to study at a Switzerland university, you should be aware that tuition fees can vary depending on factors such as the type of institution, program of study, and location.
Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships
3,500,000
ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship
4,000,000
University of Geneva Excellence Master Fellowships
3,000,000
EPFL Excellence Fellowships
3,500,000
University of Lausanne Master's Grants
2,500,000
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, international students can work up to 15 hours per week during semesters and full-time during holidays.
While living costs are high, tuition fees at public universities are relatively affordable compared to other countries.
Many programs, especially at the master’s level, are offered in English. However, knowing the local language can be beneficial.
The visa process typically takes 8-12 weeks, so it’s important to apply well in advance of your program start date.
Graduates can apply for a six-month job-seeking visa and may be eligible for a work permit if they find employment.
Yes, various scholarships are available, including the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships and university-specific grants.
Students must have health insurance, which can be obtained from Swiss providers or through international student insurance plans.
Swiss universities consistently rank among the world’s best, offering high-quality education and research opportunities.
Transfers are possible, but requirements vary by university and program. Contact the specific institution for details.
Switzerland offers excellent career opportunities, especially in fields like technology, finance, and pharmaceuticals.