Cost of Studying in Switzerland for Indian Students in 2025

Switzerland continues to attract a rising number of international students. In the latest academic cycle, over 78,000 international students were enrolled in Swiss higher-education institutions, which is the highest ever recorded. Recent OECD data also shows that about 20% of all tertiary students in Switzerland are international, one of the strongest ratios in Europe. 

Globally ranked universities, a multilingual environment, and strong research output, showcase the country's increasing popularity among those who seek to go abroad to study in Switzerland for high-quality education and global career opportunities.

Expense Category	Annual Cost Range (CHF)	INR Equivalent
Tuition Fees (Public Universities)	CHF 1,500 – 6,000	₹ 1.66 L – ₹ 6.62 L
Tuition Fees (Private Universities)	CHF 20,000 – 45,000	₹ 22.08 L – ₹ 49.68 L
Living Expenses (Accommodation, Food, Misc.)	CHF 15,600 – 26,400	₹ 17.22 L – ₹ 29.15 L
Health Insurance	CHF 3,000 – 4,200	₹ 3.31 L – ₹ 4.64 L
Transportation (Student Pass)	CHF 600 – 900	₹ 66,240 – ₹ 99,360
Total Annual Cost (Public Universities)	CHF 20,000 – 35,000	₹ 22.08 L – ₹ 38.64 L
Total Annual Cost (Private Universities)	CHF 38,000 – 75,000	₹ 41.95 L – ₹ 82.80 L

Understanding the costs involved is crucial for international students planning to study in Switzerland. This blog provides a detailed overview of tuition fees, living expenses, application costs, and more, to help you plan your budget effectively. 

Average Monthly Cost of Studying in Switzerland for International Students 

International students in Switzerland should plan for relatively high monthly living expenses, driven mainly by accommodation, food, transport, and health insurance. Budgeting carefully is essential, as costs vary significantly between cities like Zurich, Geneva, Lausanne, and Bern.

Expense Category	Monthly Cost (CHF)	Monthly Cost (INR)
Accommodation	800 – 1,500	₹70,000 – ₹1.3 lakh
Food & Groceries	350 – 600	₹30,000 – ₹52,000
Health Insurance	250 – 400	₹22,000 – ₹35,000
Transportation	70 – 100	₹6,000 – ₹9,000
Utilities & Internet	120 – 200	₹10,500 – ₹17,500
Study Materials	50 – 100	₹4,000 – ₹9,000
Personal Expenses	200 – 400	₹17,500 – ₹35,000
Total Estimated Monthly Cost	1,840 – 3,300	₹1.6 – ₹2.9 lakhs

Is Switzerland more expensive compared to other European study destinations? 

Although tuition fees in Switzerland are relatively reasonable, the living costs in some Swiss cities are higher than in most other European countries. Comparing Switzerland with other popular study destinations can help students understand how their overall budget might differ. This comparison is crucial for international students to decide where to study in Europe. 

Here is a detailed comparison of tuition fees, living costs and the total annual cost between Switzerland, Germany, France and other popular European countries: 

Country	Tuition Fees (per year)	Living Expenses (per month)	Approximate Annual Cost
Switzerland	400 – 3,700 CHF (INR 44,160 - 4.08 L)	2,200 – 3,400 CHF (INR 2.43 L –3.75 L)	25,000 – 43,000 CHF (INR 27.60 L – 47.47 L)
Germany	150 – 1,500 EUR (INR 13,509 - 1.35 L)	800 – 1,200 EUR (INR 72,048 – 1.08 L)	10,000 – 15,000 EUR (INR 9.01 L – 13.51 L)
France	170 – 800 EUR (INR 15,310 – 72,048)	800 – 1,200 EUR (INR 72,048 – 1.08 L)	10,000 – 15,400 EUR (INR 9.01 L – 13.87 L)
Spain	150 – 3,500 EUR (INR 15,492 3.62 L)	700 – 1,300 EUR (INR 72,300 – 1.34 L)	9,600 – 19,100 EUR (INR 9.92 L – 19.73 L)
Sweden	Upto 1,500 SEK (INR 11,910)	900 – 1,200 (INR 7,146 – INR 9,528)	10,800 – 16,900 (INR 85,752 - 1.34 L)

Note: Tuition fees are approximate and may vary based on the program and specialization. 

Also Read: Cost of Living in Europe in 2025 

How much should Indian students budget monthly in Switzerland? 

The cost of living in Switzerland is an important part of planning for any student’s budget. Indian students need to plan for rent, food, transport, insurance, and other personal expenses. Knowing the approximate monthly costs helps students create a realistic financial plan to live comfortably without overspending while studying. 

Here is a cost breakdown of a monthly budget that Indian students can follow to manage their monthly expenses: 

Expense Category	Monthly Cost (CHF/INR)
Accommodation	1,350 – 1,630 (INR 1.49 L – INR 1.80 L)
Food	300 – 600 (INR 33,137 – INR 66,274)
Transportation	70 – 100 (INR 7,732 – INR 11,045)
Health Insurance	300 – 700 (INR 33,137 – INR 77,320)
Miscellaneous	200 – 400 (INR 22,091 – INR 44,183)
Total	2,220 – 3,430 (INR 2.45 L – INR 3.79 L)

Tuition Fees in Switzerland 

Switzerland is one of the most affordable countries in Europe because the public universities keep tuition fees relatively low, even for international students. The average annual tuition fees are about CHF 1,500 to CHF 4,000 at public universities, while private institutions can charge significantly more, often CHF 10,000 to CHF 30,000. These tuition costs also vary depending on whether a student is pursuing undergraduate, postgraduate, or MBA programs. 

Cost of studying at public universities in Switzerland

The public universities in Switzerland are known for their quality education at a relatively low tuition cost. The tuition fees typically range from CHF 900 to CHF 3,700 per year (INR 99,412.20 – INR 4.09 L), depending on the program and university. They cover a broad range of programs, from humanities to engineering, and offer opportunities for research and international exposure. 

Here are the average tuition fees of the top universities in Switzerland, along with their QS World University Rankings: 

University	QS World University Rank 2026	Tuition Fee (CHF/INR)
ETH Zurich	7	730 CHF (INR 80,634)
EPFL (École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne)	22	730 CHF (INR 80,634)
University of Zurich	100	720 CHF (INR 79,529)
University of Basel	158	850 CHF (INR 93,889)
University of Lausanne	212	580 CHF (INR 64,065)
University of Geneva	155	500 - 1000 CHF (INR 55,229 – INR 1.10 L)
University of Bern	184	950 CHF (INR 1.05 L)

 Note: Tuition fees are approximate and may vary based on the program and specialization. It's advisable to check with the respective university for the most accurate and up-to-date information. 

Cost of studying in private universities in Switzerland  

Most private universities in Switzerland offer various specialized programs, often with smaller class sizes and more personalized attention. These institutions charge significantly higher tuition fees than public universities. Let us look at the average tuition fees in some of the top private universities in Switzerland: 

University	Program Type	Tuition (CHF/INR)
Franklin University Switzerland	Undergraduate & Graduate	CHF 30,000 – 40,000 (INR 33.14 L – INR 44.18 L)
Webster University Geneva	Undergraduate & Graduate	CHF 35,000 (INR 38.66 L)
Geneva Business School	Undergraduate & Graduate	CHF 25,400 (INR 28.06 L)
International University in Geneva	Undergraduate & Graduate	CHF 20,000 – 30,000 (INR 22.09 L – INR 33.14 L)
Kalaidos University of Applied Sciences	Undergraduate & Graduate	CHF 11,000 – 19,400 (INR 12.15 L – INR 21.43 L)
Montreux Business University (MBU)	Undergraduate & Graduate	CHF 10,000 – 20,000 (INR 11.05 L – INR 22.09 L)

Note: Tuition fees are approximate and may vary based on the program and specialization. It's advisable to check with the respective university for the most accurate and up-to-date information. 

What Is the Cost of Living in Switzerland for Students? 

Living in Switzerland can be expensive compared to many other study-abroad destinations, but the high quality of life and excellent infrastructure balance the costs. Students generally spend on accommodation, food, transport, health insurance, and personal expenses, making careful financial planning essential before moving to the country. 

How much does student accommodation cost in Switzerland? 

Accommodation is one of the biggest components of living expenses for international students. Costs vary depending on whether you choose a student dorm, shared apartment, or private rental. Understanding these costs helps students budget effectively and choose the most suitable housing option for their study abroad plans. 

Type of Accommodation	Monthly Cost (CHF/INR)
Student Dormitories	CHF 500 – 1,200 (INR 55,229 – INR 1.33 L)
Shared Apartments	CHF 800 – 1,500 (INR 88,366 – INR 1.66 L)
Private Apartments	CHF 1,200 – 2,500 (INR 1.33 L – INR 2.76 L)
Homestays / Host Families	CHF 800 – 1,500 (INR 88,366– INR 1.66 L)

What are the average monthly food and grocery expenses in Switzerland? 

Food expenses are another significant part of a student’s budget. Students can save by cooking at home and shopping smartly. The average cost depends on lifestyle, city, and whether meals are prepared at home or eaten out. 

Food & Groceries	Monthly Cost (CHF/INR)
Home-cooked Meals	CHF 200 – 300 (INR 22,091 – INR 33,137)
Eating Out	CHF 100 – 200 (INR 11,045 – INR 22,091)
Grocery Shopping	CHF 150 – 300 (INR 16,568 – INR 33,137)
Snacks & Drinks	CHF 50 – 100 (INR 5,522 – INR 11,045)

How much does transportation cost for students in Switzerland? 

Switzerland has a highly efficient public transport system, and students can use discounted travel passes. Transportation costs vary depending on the city, type of pass, and travel frequency. Planning these costs in advance can help students manage the overall monthly budget. 

Transportation Type	Monthly Cost (CHF/INR)
Public Transport (Bus/Tram)	CHF 50 – 80 (INR 5,522 – INR 8,836)
Trains (City to City)	CHF 20 – 100 (INR 2,209 – INR 11,045)
Biking / Walking	Free – minimal
Car / Ride Sharing	CHF 200 – 400 (INR 22,091 – INR 44,183)

What is the cost of utilities, internet, and mobile plans in Switzerland? 

The average cost of that international students can expect to pay can be between CHF 150–250/month for essential utilities like electricity, water, and heating. Internet services typically range from CHF 50–90/month, depending on speed and provider. The cost of mobile plans is around CHF 10-65/month, while more plans can go up to CHF 50–70/month. 

Utility Type	Monthly Cost (CHF/INR)
Electricity	CHF 100–150 (INR 11,045 – INR 16,568)
Water	CHF 30–50 (INR 3,313– INR 5,522)
Heating	CHF 50–100 (INR 5,522 – INR 11,045)

 Let us look at cost of some of the mobile and internet plans in Switzerland: 

Provider	Mobile Plan Type	Estimated Monthly Cost (CHF/INR)
Swisscom	Fiber	CHF 65 (INR 7,179)
Sunrise	Cable/Fiber	CHF 50 (INR 5,511)
UPC	Cable	CHF 59 (INR 6,517)

Provider	Internet Plan Type	Monthly Cost (CHF/INR)
GoMo	Prepaid	CHF 20 (INR 2,209)
Salt	Postpaid	CHF 35 (INR 3,866)
Swisscom	Postpaid	CHF 70 INR 7,732)

How much do entertainment and leisure activities cost in Switzerland? 

Switzerland offers a rich array of entertainment options, but they come at a price. On average, students can expect to spend around CHF 300–500/month on activities like dining out, cinema, sports, and cultural events.  

Movie tickets typically range from CHF 16–25, while concert tickets can vary widely, averaging around CHF 90. Gym memberships are also common, with monthly fees ranging from CHF 50–100. 

Activity	Approximate Monthly Cost (CHF)
Gym Membership	CHF 50–100 (INR 5,522 – INR 11,045)
Sports Club Fees	CHF 30–80 (INR 3,313 – INR 8,836)
Yoga/Pilates Classes	CHF 20–30 per session (INR 2,209 – INR 3,313)
Tennis Court Rental	CHF 409 (INR 4,418)
Swimming Pool Access	CHF 10–15 (INR 1,104 – INR 1,656)
Movie Ticket	CHF 16–25 (INR 1,767 – INR 2,761)
Concert Ticket	CHF 90 (INR 9,941.22)
Museum Entry	CHF 10–20 (INR 1,104 – INR 2,209)
Hiking Club Fees	CHF 50–100 (INR 5,522 – INR 11,045)

 While leisure activities can add up quickly, students can strike a balance by mixing free or low-cost options like hiking and museum discounts with occasional paid experiences, ensuring they enjoy Switzerland’s vibrant culture without straining their budget. 

What additional medical expenses should students plan for? 

Even with basic health insurance, international students may face some additional medical costs. Some expenses like dental care, optical care, and extra medicines are often only partially covered or excluded by the universities.   

The following is an average cost breakdown of some additional medical that international students can plan for in their budget:  

Expense Type	Average Cost (CHF/INR)
Dental Care	CHF 120–300 per check-up (INR 13,254 – INR 33,137)
Optical Care	CHF 200–600 per pair of glasses (INR 22,091 – INR 66,274)
Emergency Transport	CHF 700–2,100 per ambulance ride (INR 77,320 – INR 2.32 L)
Alternative Medicine	Varies
Prescription Medications	Varies
Mental Health Services	CHF 100–200 per session (INR 11,045 – INR 22,091)

Setting aside funds for these additional medical needs helps students avoid financial stress and ensures they can access essential treatments and support services beyond what standard insurance covers. 

What Is the Cost of Studying Popular Courses in Switzerland? 

Switzerland offers a variety of programs that attract international students from all over the world, including MBA, engineering, medicine, computer science, and hospitality. The tuition fees vary depending on the program type, university, and whether it’s public or private.  

Understanding the approximate costs helps students plan their budgets effectively before applying. Here is an overview of the average annual tuition fees for the some of the most popular study programs in Switzerland. 

Cost of Studying Engineering in Switzerland

Studying engineering in Switzerland offers access to world-class institutions like ETH Zurich and EPFL. Tuition fees for public universities range from CHF 500 to CHF 3,129 per semester, depending on the institution and student residency status.  

Living expenses, including accommodation, food, and transportation, can amount to CHF 2,500 to CHF 3,500 per month, varying by city. Engineering programs typically span 3 to 4 years, leading to a Bachelor's degree, with Master's programs extending an additional 1 to 2 years. 

Category	Approximate Cost (CHF/INR)
Tuition Fees (per semester)	CHF 500 – 3,129 (INR 55,229.00 – INR 3.46 L)
Living Expenses (per month)	CHF 2,500 – 3,500 (INR 2.76 L – INR 3.87 L)
Total for Bachelor's Program (3–4 years)	CHF 45,000 – 75,000 (INR 49.71 L – INR 82.84 L)
Total for Master's Program (1–2 years)	15,000 – 30,000 (INR 16.57 L – INR 33.14 L)

Note: These figures are approximate and can vary based on individual circumstances and lifestyle. 

Cost of Studying Medicine in Switzerland

Medical education in Switzerland is renowned for its high standards. Tuition fees for medical programs are generally around CHF 4,000 per semester. The duration of medical studies is typically 6 years, culminating in a Master's degree. Living expenses are substantial, averaging CHF 2,000 to CHF 3,000 per month, influenced by the city and personal lifestyle choices. 

Category	Estimated Cost (CHF)
Tuition Fees (per semester)	CHF 4,000 (INR 4.42 L)
Living Expenses (per month)	CHF 2,000 – 3,000 (INR 2.21 L – INR 3.31 L)
Total for Medical Program (6 years)	CHF 120,000 – 180,000 (INR 1.33 Cr – INR 1.99 Cr)

Note: Additional costs may include entrance exams and specific program-related fees. 

Cost of Studying Business and Management in Switzerland

Business and management programs in Switzerland are offered by prestigious institutions such as the University of St.Gallen and the University of Zurich. Tuition fees for Bachelor's and Master's programs range from CHF 700 to CHF 3,329 per semester, depending on the university and student residency status. Living expenses typically range from CHF 2,500 to CHF 3,500 per month, influenced by the city and personal lifestyle. 

Category	Estimated Cost (CHF/INR)
Tuition Fees (per semester)	700 – 3,329 (INR 77,320.60 – INR 3.68 L)
Living Expenses (per month)	2,500 – 3,500 (INR 2.76 L – INR 3.87 L)
Total for Bachelor's Program (3 years)	60,000 – 90,000 (INR 66.27 L – INR 99.41 L)
Total for Master's Program (1–2 years)	30,000 – 60,000 (INR 33.14 L – INR 66.27 L)

Note: These figures are approximate and can vary based on personal expenses and lifestyle. 

Cost of Studying Hospitality and Tourism in Switzerland

Switzerland is a global hub for hospitality and tourism education, with institutions like EHL and BHMS offering specialized programs. Tuition fees for Bachelor's programs range from CHF 17,800 to CHF 30,850 per year, depending on the institution and program level. Living expenses are considerable, ranging CHF 2,500 to CHF 3,500 per month, influenced by the city and personal lifestyle. 

Category	Approximate Cost (CHF/INR)
Tuition Fees (per year)	CHF 17,800 – 30,850 (INR 19.66 L – INR 34.08 L)
Living Expenses (per month)	CHF 2,500 – 3,500 (INR 2.76 L – INR 3.87 L)
Total for Bachelor's Program (3 years)	CHF 60,000 – 100,000 (INR 66.27 L – INR 1.10 Cr)
Total for Master's Program (1–2 years)	CHF 30,000 – 60,000 (INR 33.14 L – INR 66.27 L)

Note: These figures are approximate and can vary based on individual circumstances and lifestyle. 

Cost of Studying Arts and Humanities in Switzerland

Arts and humanities programs in Switzerland are offered by universities such as the University of Geneva and the University of Bern. Tuition fees for Bachelor's and Master's programs range from CHF 900 to CHF 1,700 per year, depending on the institution and student residency status. Living expenses typically range from CHF 2,000 to CHF 3,000 per month, influenced by the city and personal lifestyle. 

Category	Estimated Cost (CHF/INR)
Tuition Fees (per year)	CHF 900 – 1,700 (INR 99,412.20 – INR 1.88 L)
Living Expenses (per month)	CHF 2,000 – 3,000 (INR 2.21 L – INR 3.31 L)
Total for Bachelor's Program (3 years)	CHF 30,000 – 50,000 (INR 33.14 L – INR 55.23 L)
Total for Master's Program (1–2 years)	CHF 15,000 – 30,000 (INR 16.57 L – INR 33.14 L)

Scholarships to Help Reduce the Cost of Studying in Switzerland

Switzerland is one of the most expensive study destinations in Europe, but scholarships can significantly reduce the financial burden for international students. These scholarships are offered by universities, the Swiss government, and external organizations. They can cover tuition fees, living expenses, or both, depending on eligibility and merit.  

Scholarships are often highly competitive, so early research and careful planning are essential. Being aware of all available funding opportunities helps students make informed decisions and manage their budgets effectively. Many scholarships are tailored specifically to international students, including those from India. 

What Are the Top Scholarships Offered by Swiss Universities? 

Swiss universities offer merit-based scholarships to attract high-performing international students. These awards often cover tuition fees and may include a living stipend. Each university has its own eligibility criteria, deadlines, and benefits, making it important for students to carefully evaluate which scholarships they qualify for. 

University / Scholarship Name	Coverage
ETH Zurich – ESOP	Full tuition + living stipend
University of Geneva – Excellence Masters Fellowships	Full tuition + monthly stipend
University of Lausanne – Master’s Grants	CHF 1,600/month stipend
University of St. Gallen – Merit-Based Scholarships	Partial tuition coverage
University of Basel – Scholarships for International Students	Partial tuition + stipend

Scholarships provided by Swiss Government for International Students

The Swiss government promotes international academic exchange through the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships. These scholarships provide full or partial funding for tuition and living expenses, targeting students, researchers, and artists from abroad. Application deadlines and eligibility requirements vary, and early preparation increases chances of success. 

Scholarship Name	Coverage
Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships	Full tuition + monthly allowance
Duration	1–3 years (depending on program)
Application Window	August – December

External Scholarships Available for Indian Students in Switzerland

Indian students can access external scholarships offered by universities and organizations, supporting tuition fees or living costs. These awards target academic merit, research potential, or leadership qualities. Understanding eligibility, deadlines, and coverage ensures students maximize funding opportunities. 

Scholarship Name	Coverage
ETH Zurich – ESOP	Full tuition + living stipend
University of Geneva Excellence Fellowship	Full tuition + monthly stipend
University of Lausanne Master’s Grants	CHF 1,600/month (INR 1.77 L) stipend

 Also Read: Top Scholarships in Switzerland for International Students in 2025 

Cost of Studying in Switzerland Compared with Other Countries 

Switzerland offers excellent education but is considered one of the more expensive countries in Europe. While Switzerland has higher living costs, some of its scholarships and part-time opportunities can help lessen the financial burdens of international students.  

 Switzerland compared with Germany, France, and Italy

Here’s a cost comparison of Switzerland versus Germany, France, and Italy for international students: 

Country	Approximate Tuition Fees	Living Costs (Monthly)
Switzerland	CHF 500 – 3,129 per semester (INR 55,229 – INR 3.46 L)	CHF 2,500 – 3,500 (INR 2.76 L – INR 3.87 L)
Germany	€170 – €650 per year (INR 17,543 – INR 67,076)	€700 – 1,000 (INR 72,236 – INR 1.03 L)
France	€170 – €650 per year (INR 17,543 – INR 67,076)	€800 – 1,200 (INR 82,556 – INR 1.24 L)
Italy	€950 – €4,000 per year (INR 98,035 – INR 4.13 L)	€800 – 1,200 (INR 82,556.00 – INR 1.24 L)

Switzerland compared with UK, USA, and Canada 

Here’s a breakdown of average costs in Switzerland in comparison with UK, USA, and Canada: 

Country	Annual Tuition Fees	Living Costs (Monthly)	Total Average Annual Cost
Switzerland	CHF 1,500 – 10,000 (INR 1.40 L – INR 9.31 L)	CHF 1,500 – 2,500 (INR 1.40 L – INR 2.33 L)	CHF 19,500 – 40,000 (INR 18.16 L – INR 37.25 L)
UK	£12,000 – 30,000 (INR 12.59 L – INR 31.47 L)	£1,000 – 1,500 (INR 1.05 L – INR 1.57 L)	£24,000 – 48,000 (INR 25.18 L – INR 50.36 L)
USA	$20,000 – 50,000 (INR 16.64 L – INR 41.59 L)	$1,200 – 2,000 (INR 99,816 – INR 1.66 L)	$34,400 – 74,000 (INR 28.61 L – INR 61.55 L)
Canada	CAD 15,000 – 35,000 (INR 9.11 L – INR 21.25 L)	CAD 1,000 – 1,800 (INR 60,700 – INR 1.09 L)	CAD 27,000 – 56,600 (INR 16.39 L – INR 34.36 L)

Is Switzerland worth the higher cost for international students? 

Switzerland is known for its high-quality education, modern infrastructure, and strong global reputation, but it comes at a higher cost compared to many other European countries. For international students, the investment can be significant, but the return in terms of academic excellence, career opportunities, and international exposure is substantial.  

Students can benefit from world-renowned universities, strong research programs, and extensive industry connections. Careful financial planning, combined with scholarships and part-time work, can make studying in Switzerland a worthwhile investment. 

Here are some of the top reasons that make studying in Switzerland worth for international student: 

• Top Universities: ETH Zurich, EPFL, University of Zurich, and others consistently rank among the top global institutions. 
• Quality Education & Research: Programs focus on innovation, research opportunities, and practical applications. 
• International Exposure: Students interact with peers and faculty from around the world, enhancing global networks. 
• Strong Job Market: Swiss degrees are highly respected globally, improving career prospects. 
• Lifestyle & Safety: Switzerland offers a high standard of living, excellent healthcare, and safe cities. 

Conclusion 

Studying in Switzerland in 2025 gives international students can experience their studies in top ranking universities and a high standard of living. With a clear understanding of tuition fees, accommodation, daily expenses, and available scholarships, you can plan your finances more effectively and avoid last-minute surprises. 

By preparing early, budgeting smartly, and exploring funding opportunities, you can confidently pursue study in Switzerland without unnecessary stress.  

Still wondering if studying in Switzerland fits your budget? Book your free 1:1 counselling session with our experts and get personalized advice now.