Switzerland is one of the prime destinations for higher education for many international students. Swiss universities rank highly among universities all over the world. The Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich, for example, is consistently ranked as one of the best universities in several university ranking sites.
Top-tier education in Switzerland is only one of the reasons why it is the dream country for undergraduate studies for many. The best universities in Switzerland specialize in several fields including law, medicine, engineering, and business. Aside from these, universities in Switzerland are also known for their pioneering curriculum in sustainability and environmentalism.
In this article, we will be looking at the application processes and requirements for studying bachelor’s degree in Switzerland!
Bachelor’s Degree Admission Requirements
General entry requirements of most universities for the applicants who want to obtain an undergraduate study in Switzerland include a high school diploma and official education records of the applicant.
Aside from academic documents, official certification of language proficiency and a resume reflecting the applicant’s educational achievements, experiences, and internships may also be required.
Language Proficiency Tests Needed for Undergraduate Studies
The language requirement will vary depending on the primary mode of instruction of the university. There are some courses offered in English, however, the majority of the degree programs are taught in either German or French.
The University of Zurich is an example of a Swiss university that uses German as the primary medium of instruction. International applicants must have at least a minimum level of C1 in German as accredited by the Common European Framework of References for Languages (CEFR).
German language placement tests that are widely accepted include the DSH, the OSD, and the TestDaF. French proficiency certifications that are commonly accepted by universities in Switzerland include the DELF or DALF exams.
Language requirements for the upcoming enrollees who want to study for a bachelor’s degree in Switzerland will depend on the field of specialization of the program or university. The Sustainability Management School, for example, requires a minimum of 6.0 on IELTS or 80 in TOEFL.
Bachelor’s Degree Application Process
Application requirements and procedures differ per institution. It is best to research different universities and courses to know the exact requirements international students need to fulfill. Below are some of the general steps in applying for an undergraduate degree in Switzerland.
Step 1. Prepare the Necessary Documents
Standard required documents for aspiring applicants will include the applicant’s high school records and diploma. With this said, documents may vary depending on the educational institution and the applicant’s educational achievement. For instance, the University of Zurich requires applicants who do not meet the standard qualification to take an entrance examination.
A motivation letter and CV or a resume are also commonly required. Documents that demonstrate the skills, previous work, and talents of the applicant can be requested as well. For art and music applicants, anticipate that you will be asked to submit a creative portfolio.
As previously mentioned, most universities in Switzerland offer courses exclusively taught in German or French. Students are required to submit an accepted language proficiency exams that certify the applicant’s level of proficiency.
Step 2. Apply for Admissions
Applying for admission can be done through the university’s official admission portal. Applicants who want to enroll in a program at the university in Switzerland may submit their required information and documents through this platform.
Private institutions in Switzerland commonly have a different set of application procedures. It is best to contact them directly to get familiar with the necessary steps.
Step 3. Secure a Type D or Type C Student Visa
A student visa is one of the major requirements if you want to enroll for a bachelor’s degree in Switzerland. The most important requirement for processing a student visa for Switzerland is the official letter of acceptance from a university.
Approval of visas can last for up to six months. It is advised that international students must immediately begin processing their applications once they have been accepted.
The Type D visa is for long-term stays in the Schengen Area. Students interested in enrolling full-time for a bachelor’s degree in Switzerland are required to get this type of student visa.
Below are the requirements for processing a student visa for Switzerland.
- Application Form for Type D Visa
- Passport-size photographs (4 copies)
- Valid Passport
- Official Letter of Acceptance from a recognized Swiss University
- Proof of financial capacity to fund tuition fees and living expenses
- Resume
- Motivation letter
- Commitment to leave Switzerland after completing studies
International students below the age of 18 will be required to submit additional documents. Required documents for minors include their official birth certificate, a visa application form signed by both parents and a copy of any valid identification of both parents.
To conclude, applying for an undergraduate study generally has the same requirements and process as with most Swiss universities, with only a few exceptions depending on the study program. Preparation and being aware of the admission steps are the key to making any application easier for any international student.
We hope this article was helpful. To find out more information on studying abroad, please check out the Switzerland Page and go through some of the Available Programs in Europe for International Students!
