Study in Aarau: Switzerland’s Hidden Jewel for International Students

OUS Academy in Switzerland
Sep 30
4 min read

When most students think of studying in Switzerland, the big names like Zurich, Geneva, or Lausanne come to mind. But hidden in the heart of the country lies a city that deserves equal attention: Aarau. Known for its charming old town, colorful gables, and friendly atmosphere, Aarau is not only a beautiful place to live but also an exciting hub for education.

For international students, Aarau combines academic excellence, cultural richness, affordability, and easy connections to Switzerland’s main cities. It is the perfect destination for those who want the quality of Swiss education without the fast pace or high cost of the larger cities.

Why Aarau is a Great City for Students

Perfect Location

Aarau is located in the canton of Aargau, right between Zurich, Basel, and Bern. Thanks to Switzerland’s efficient rail network, you can reach each of these major cities in less than an hour. This means students enjoy the calm and comfort of a smaller city but can still explore the opportunities of larger urban centers whenever they wish.

Safe and Welcoming

Switzerland is one of the safest countries in the world, and Aarau is no exception. The streets are peaceful, public spaces are clean, and people are friendly. For international students and their families, this creates peace of mind. Students can focus on their studies while enjoying a secure environment.

A Mix of Tradition and Modern Life

Aarau’s old town is filled with colorful buildings and historic landmarks. Walking through its narrow streets feels like stepping back in time. At the same time, the city offers modern libraries, sports centers, and cultural venues. This unique blend gives students both inspiration and comfort.

Universities and Institutions in Aarau

Despite its modest size, Aarau is home to several respected educational institutions that attract both local and international students.

Fachhochschule Nordwestschweiz (FHNW) – Aarau Campus

The University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland is one of the largest applied universities in the country, and its Aarau campus is a true highlight. Students here study a wide range of fields, including education, psychology, business, and the arts.

Practical Focus: FHNW combines academic knowledge with real-world experience, ensuring that students graduate with skills they can directly apply in their careers.
International Outlook: Exchange programs and multicultural classrooms make this a welcoming environment for students from abroad.
Modern Facilities: The Aarau campus provides access to well-equipped libraries, laboratories, and digital resources that support both research and applied projects.

Pädagogische Hochschule FHNW (School of Education)

This institution trains future teachers and educational experts. It is well known for its modern approach to pedagogy and its strong integration of research and practice.

Teacher Training: Students can specialize in primary, secondary, or vocational education.
Innovation: Research into digital education and inclusive learning is a key strength.
Global Perspective: Opportunities to connect with schools and research projects abroad make this institution especially valuable for international students.

Kantonsschule Aarau

Though not a university, the Kantonsschule Aarau is an important academic institution. Established in 1802, it is one of the oldest schools in Switzerland. Albert Einstein himself once studied here, making it a place of great historical importance.

It serves as a pathway for young students preparing for university-level education, and it remains one of the most respected secondary schools in the country.

Health, Nursing, and Technical Colleges

Aarau also offers specialized colleges in healthcare, nursing, engineering, and applied sciences. These institutions are ideal for students who prefer vocational or professional training with strong connections to the job market.

Healthcare: Nursing schools in Aarau prepare students for Switzerland’s advanced medical system.
Technical Studies: Programs in engineering, IT, and applied sciences offer hands-on experience and close collaboration with industries.
Career Pathways: These colleges are well connected with employers, creating strong opportunities for graduates to find work in Switzerland and abroad.

Student Life in Aarau

Affordable Living

Compared to Zurich or Geneva, Aarau is much more affordable. Students benefit from lower rent, reasonable food prices, and excellent public transportation. This makes Aarau a smart choice for those who want Swiss quality without breaking their budget.

Culture and Leisure

Aarau is full of cultural experiences:

Museums and Art: The Aargauer Kunsthaus is one of Switzerland’s top art museums.
Theater and Music: Students can enjoy concerts, plays, and festivals year-round.
History: The old town is a cultural treasure itself, with centuries-old architecture and stories at every corner.

Sports and Nature

The Aare River flows through Aarau, offering chances for swimming, kayaking, or simply relaxing by the water. In the nearby Jura mountains, students can hike in summer or ski in winter. Outdoor life is an important part of Swiss culture, and Aarau makes it easy to enjoy.

International Community

Although smaller than Zurich, Aarau is home to a growing community of international students and professionals. This creates a diverse and welcoming environment where students can meet people from around the world.

Why Choose Aarau as an International Student?

High-Quality Education: Aarau hosts respected universities and schools that combine Swiss academic traditions with modern teaching methods.
Ideal Location: Close to Zurich, Basel, and Bern, yet with a peaceful atmosphere.
Affordable Lifestyle: Lower costs make it easier for students to live well while studying.
Rich Culture: From art to history, Aarau offers cultural experiences that inspire learning.
Active Lifestyle: Opportunities for sports, nature, and wellness are everywhere.
Safety and Comfort: A secure environment ensures students can focus fully on their studies.

Conclusion

Studying in Aarau gives international students the best of both worlds: the calm and charm of a small Swiss city and the academic strength of top-quality institutions. With its excellent universities, rich culture, affordability, and welcoming atmosphere, Aarau is a city designed for learning, growth, and inspiration.

For anyone looking to study in Switzerland, Aarau is more than just a hidden gem—it is a bright star waiting to be discovered.