Each year, Switzerland welcomes students from different parts of the world. Known for its quality of life, natural landscapes, cultural diversity and chocolates, Switzerland is also home to some of the best universities in the world, known for their academic excellence, innovation, and global recognition.
The top universities in Switzerland attract students from across the globe with a blend of quality education, research-driven programmes, and stunning campuses in scenic cities. Affordable tuition fees and scholarship opportunities also make it a preferred destination for higher education in Europe.
List of Best Universities in Switzerland
Known for its multilingual environment and high standard of living, Switzerland provides a safe, inclusive, and intellectually stimulating atmosphere for international students. Here are some of the best universities in Switzerland:
Name of University
World University Rank 2025
World University Rank 2024
City
1. ETH Zurich (The Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich)
#7
#7
Zurich
2. École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne
#26
#26
Lausanne
3. University of Zurich
#109
#109
Zurich
4. University of Bern
#161
#161
Bern
5. University of Geneva
#155
#155
Geneva
6. University of Basel
#131
#131
Basel
Overview of Top Universities in Switzerland
1. ETC Zurich (The Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich)
Founding Year: 1855
World Ranking: 7
Most Famous Courses: Pharmaceutical sciences, architecture, civil engineering, environmental engineering, and mathematics
ETH Zurich has been one of the highest-ranking universities in the world for more than a century and a half and is famous for producing famous scientists like Albert Einstein, the father of modern physics. Students can pursue intense academic programs but are also provided with fun events like concerts and traditional balls. The school has an open-minded approach to education and has 16 departments dealing with various subjects like architecture, biology, chemistry, and physics. While German is the language used for teaching most Bachelor’s degrees, some courses are available in English.
2. École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne
Founding Year: 1853
World Ranking: 26
Most Famous Courses: Engineering and technology, architecture, physics, astronomy, and mathematics
École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (or EPFL) provides students with an innovation-oriented environment. It has state-of-the-art facilities and believes in “learning by doing”. The university’s degree programs have a lot of hands-on work and place a lot of emphasis on lab sessions, workshops, and direct research. Creativity and entrepreneurship are also encouraged here. The language of teaching depends on the course. For international students, many Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees are taught in English or a combination of English and French.
3. University of Zurich
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The University of Zurich, also known as UZH, is ranked as one of the best universities in Switzerland. It has seven excellent facilities, collaborations with research institutions worldwide, and top-notch infrastructure. Its seven faculties cover many subjects in theology, law, business, economics, informatics, medicine, arts, and social sciences. Many Bachelor’s and Master’s programs are taught in English, making the University of Zurich an ideal destination for international students.
4. University of Bern
Founding Year: 1834
World Ranking: 161
Most Famous Courses: Computer science, law, business, science, theology, economics, and medicine.
The University of Bern is a leading public research university that is well known for its high-quality research and educational facilities. It is renowned for its cutting-edge research in various subjects, like climate sciences, medicine, space, and sustainable development. While many Bachelor’s degrees at the University of Bern are taught in German, many courses (especially Master’s and PhD programs) are taught in English as well.
5. University of Geneva
Founding Year: 1559
World Ranking: 155
Most Famous Courses: Political science, law and human rights, economics, finance.
The University of Geneva is one of the oldest and best universities in Switzerland. It is renowned for its excellent academics and leading bioinformatics, astrophysics, and molecular biology research. The university has over 500 programs, including 136 Master’s and Bachelor’s degrees, in fields like medicine, exact sciences, social sciences, law, and humanities. Several degrees are taught in English, making it an ideal choice for international students.
6. University of Basel
Founding Year: 1460
World Ranking: 131
Most Famous Courses: Epidemiology, international health, medicine, nursing sciences, business management, anthropology, computer science, and data science.
The University of Basel is the oldest in Switzerland and among the oldest surviving institutions in the world. It has a study-friendly environment, and its degrees and courses are focused on an interdisciplinary approach. The university’s research focuses on culture and life sciences. The languages of instruction are German and English, and international students are advised to have language skills in both.
Get an Education Loan from Tata Capital
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Conclusion
Switzerland is globally recognised for its outstanding education system and world-class universities. The country offers a wide range of academic programmes across disciplines—ranging from engineering, life sciences, and business to the arts, humanities, and cutting-edge fields like sustainability, climate change, and data science.
What sets the top universities in Switzerland apart is their emphasis on academic excellence, practical research opportunities, and multicultural learning environments.
If you aspire to study in Switzerland but are concerned about finances, Tata Capital’s education loans can provide the right financial support.
With competitive interest rates, flexible repayment tenures, and funding that covers tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs, Tata Capital ensures you never have to compromise on quality education. Turn your dream of studying in the best universities in Switzerland into a reality with Tata Capital.
Switzerland is very good for international students. It offers over 3000 degree programs with 700 in English. International are also allowed to work for 15 hours per week during the semester and full time during semester breaks to sustain themselves.
Do I need IELTS to study in Switzerland?
Yes, there is a minimum IELTS score of 6.0 required to study in Switzerland, but it may vary across programs. Some universities also accept a score of 5.5.
Is studying in Switzerland difficult?
Swiss universities have some of the best programs in the world and require excellent performance from students to grant admission.
Is an Indian degree valid in Switzerland?
Not every degree from India is valid in Switzerland. Generally, WES-accredited institution degrees are accepted.
Is it hard to get admission in Switzerland?
Getting admission in Switzerland can be competitive, especially at top universities like ETH Zurich and EPFL, but a strong academic record and meeting eligibility criteria improve your chances significantly.
29 April 2025
6 mins read
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