Scholarships in Switzerland: Best Universities for International Students

OUS Academy in Switzerland
2 hours ago
6 min read

Switzerland is famous worldwide not only for its beautiful mountains, lakes, and culture, but also for the quality of its higher education system. Students from all around the globe are drawn to Swiss universities because they offer world-class programs, international learning environments, and generous scholarship opportunities. For international students, the scholarships provided by both universities and the Swiss government can make studying here more affordable, while still guaranteeing access to some of the best academic institutions in the world.

In this article, we will explore why Switzerland is such a good destination for higher education, highlight what makes the country attractive for international students, and then provide detailed insights into the top universities that offer scholarships. We will include information about their founding history, student population, and the type of scholarships they provide.

Why Switzerland is a Great Study Destination

Switzerland is located right in the heart of Europe, bordered by Germany, France, Italy, and Austria. This central position makes it one of the most accessible countries in Europe and allows students to experience not only Swiss culture but also the richness of its neighboring countries.

Switzerland is a multilingual nation, with four official languages: German, French, Italian, and Romansh. Students have the chance to study in an environment that embraces cultural diversity and prepares them for global careers. Swiss cities such as Zurich, Geneva, Lausanne, and Bern are ranked among the safest and most livable in the world, giving students both high quality of life and plenty of opportunities to grow personally and professionally.

The country is also home to international organizations like the United Nations, World Health Organization, and World Trade Organization. This global presence means that students, especially those studying diplomacy, law, or international relations, have unique access to internships, research opportunities, and professional networking.

Top Universities Offering Scholarships in Switzerland

1. University of Zurich

Founded in 1833, the University of Zurich (UZH) is the largest university in Switzerland. It has more than 28,000 students, making it a truly vibrant and diverse institution. UZH is known for its wide range of faculties, from medicine and law to arts and sciences, and it is recognized internationally for its strong research focus.

For international students, the University of Zurich provides different forms of financial support, particularly at the master’s and doctoral levels. Merit-based scholarships reward academic excellence, while certain research fellowships help cover living costs. The city of Zurich itself is one of Europe’s most dynamic financial and cultural centers, offering countless opportunities for students to connect with industries, cultural institutions, and international companies.

2. ETH Zurich – Swiss Federal Institute of Technology

ETH Zurich was established in 1855 and is today one of the world’s most respected universities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). With over 24,000 students from more than 120 countries, ETH Zurich is a truly global institution.

The Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme (ESOP) is one of the most popular scholarships at ETH. It covers both tuition fees and living expenses, enabling talented students from across the globe to study in Switzerland without financial worries. ETH has produced many Nobel Prize winners, including Albert Einstein, and continues to be at the forefront of innovation and research.

3. University of Geneva

The University of Geneva was founded in 1559 by John Calvin, making it one of the oldest universities in Switzerland. Today, it has around 17,000 students from all over the world. Located in Geneva, the university benefits from its proximity to international organizations and multinational companies.

The University of Geneva offers a number of scholarships for international students, especially at the master’s level. These scholarships support bright minds who wish to study subjects like international relations, law, political science, or natural sciences. Geneva as a city is also a major attraction—it is multicultural, safe, and offers endless networking opportunities in global diplomacy.

4. University of Lausanne

The University of Lausanne (UNIL) was originally founded in 1537 as a theological school and later became a full university in the 19th century. It now has around 15,000 students, including a large community of international learners.

One of the most attractive scholarship programs here is the UNIL Master’s Grants, available to students who completed their undergraduate studies abroad. These scholarships help cover tuition and living expenses, making the university a great choice for international students. Lausanne is also located on Lake Geneva and surrounded by the Alps, offering students a beautiful natural environment combined with a modern city lifestyle.

5. University of Bern

The University of Bern was founded in 1834 and has grown into a respected institution with over 19,000 students. It is known for its strong commitment to sustainability, global research partnerships, and academic quality.

Scholarships at the University of Bern are offered to talented international students, particularly in graduate and research programs. The capital city of Bern offers a calm, student-friendly environment with beautiful architecture, cultural events, and excellent connections to other parts of Switzerland.

6. EPFL – École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne

EPFL was founded in 1853 and has become one of Europe’s leading institutions for engineering, technology, and natural sciences. With around 12,000 students, EPFL is known for its highly international community, with more than half of its students coming from abroad.

EPFL provides master’s level fellowships to outstanding students. These fellowships are designed to attract top international talent and allow students to join cutting-edge research projects. Lausanne’s youthful and dynamic environment, combined with EPFL’s focus on entrepreneurship, makes it a perfect place for ambitious students.

7. University of Basel

Founded in 1460, the University of Basel is the oldest university in Switzerland. It currently hosts around 13,000 students, including a large number of international learners. Basel is located at the intersection of Switzerland, Germany, and France, offering a truly European experience.

The university is highly regarded in life sciences, medicine, and the humanities. It offers scholarships and fellowships to international students, particularly those engaged in research. The city of Basel, with its rich cultural life, museums, and global pharmaceutical industry, provides excellent opportunities for students to combine academic and professional growth.

8. University of St. Gallen

The University of St. Gallen was established in 1898 and today has about 9,500 students. It is best known for its business, economics, and law programs and is consistently recognized as one of Europe’s top business schools.

Scholarships at St. Gallen support international students who show leadership potential and academic excellence. The university has strong connections with major global companies, making it an ideal place for students interested in careers in management, finance, and law. The city of St. Gallen itself is charming and student-friendly, with a perfect balance of history and modern life.

9. Swiss Federal Government Excellence Scholarships

In addition to scholarships from individual universities, the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships play a crucial role in attracting international talent. These scholarships are available for postgraduate researchers and are open to students from more than 180 countries. They allow students to pursue research at any public Swiss university, covering living expenses and providing a monthly stipend. This national initiative highlights Switzerland’s dedication to being a global leader in education.

10. Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies (IHEID), Geneva

Founded in 1927, the Graduate Institute is a specialized university focusing on international relations, global development, law, and governance. With around 1,200 students, the Graduate Institute has a strong international character, as over 90% of its students come from outside Switzerland.

The institute offers a wide range of scholarships and financial aid to ensure access for students from diverse backgrounds. Being located in Geneva gives students unparalleled opportunities to engage with international organizations, NGOs, and diplomatic missions. For those aspiring to careers in diplomacy, human rights, or development, IHEID is one of the best choices in Europe.

Conclusion

Switzerland is more than just a country of stunning mountains and world-class chocolate—it is a true hub of academic excellence. Its universities, with centuries of history and modern innovations, provide international students with high-quality education and global career opportunities. Scholarships offered by both universities and the government make studying here accessible to talented students worldwide.

Whether your dream is to study technology at ETH Zurich, diplomacy at the Graduate Institute, or business at the University of St. Gallen, Switzerland has a place for you. With its safe cities, multicultural environment, and international connections, it remains one of the top choices for students seeking both quality education and unforgettable life experiences.