MBBS in Switzerland: Top Universities, Application, Requirements, and More

Did you know? Switzerland has one of the highest life expectancies in the world, averaging 83.6 years, thanks to its high standard of healthcare and medical research?

According to the QS World University Rankings 2025, Switzerland is home to 7 universities ranked in the global top 200, with institutions like ETH Zurich and University of Zurich leading in medical research and education. The Swiss healthcare system itself ranks among the top 5 globally for efficiency and quality.

For Indian students, pursuing an MBBS in Switzerland offers more than a prestigious degree. It provides global exposure, practical clinical training, and access to a highly esteemed medical workforce. 

This guide will help you understand why studying in Switzerland is a top choice for MBBS and provide a step-by-step pathway to achieve your dream of becoming a global medical professional.

Why Choose Switzerland for Your MBBS Degree

Switzerland invests heavily in its healthcare and education system. In fact, it spends over 11.8% of its GDP on healthcare, ranking among the top 10 countries globally.

For Indian students, an MBBS from Switzerland offers more than a degree; it’s a passport to global career opportunities. With Switzerland’s medical workforce comprising 41% international doctors, you’ll be part of a truly multicultural professional environment.

Here’s an overview of what studying MBBS in Switzerland for Indian students​ includes:

Aspect	Details
Degree Name	Equivalent to MBBS (Master of Medicine/Master of Surgery under Bologna Process)
Program Duration	6 years (3 years Bachelor + 3 years Master + Clinical Training)
Recognition	WHO NMC (India)  European Medical Associations
Medium of Instruction	Primarily German/French, select programs offer English modules
Eligibility	10+2 with PCB Language Proficiency Proof of Funds
Healthcare Investment	11.8% of GDP (OECD, 2024)
International Medical Professionals	41% of doctors in Switzerland are foreign-trained

By choosing Switzerland for study abroad, you are aligning your medical career with a country known for precision, innovation, and global healthcare leadership.

Next, let’s take a closer look at the top-ranked universities in Switzerland that offer world-class MBBS programs for international students.

Also Read: 

Top 5 Universities to Study MBBS in Switzerland

In the QS World University Rankings 2025, 2 Swiss universities rank within the top 150 globally, offering you access to advanced medical courses and research opportunities. Moreover, Switzerland’s universities maintain strong ties with global healthcare organizations, giving you valuable exposure and practical experience.

Here’s a quick comparison of top universities for MBBS in Switzerland for Indian Students​: 

University	QS World University Ranking 2025	Average Tuition Fees (per year)
ETH Zurich (Medical Department)	7	CHF 1,298/INR 1.2L
University of Zurich	91	CHF 1,200 – 2,500/INR 1.1L – 2.3L
University of Geneva	121	CHF 1,000 – 1,800/INR 90K – 1.69L
University of Bern	126	CHF 1,800 – 2,500/INR 1.6L – 2.3L
University of Basel	136	CHF 1,500 – 2,200/INR 1.4L – 2L

Note: The tuition fees have been converted based on the current exchange rate of 1 CHF = 93.50 INR. Please note that currency rates fluctuate, and the actual amount may vary at the time of payment.

A degree from these prestigious universities will give your medical career a strong international foundation and credibility.

Before you apply, it’s important to understand the eligibility criteria for MBBS in Switzerland for Indian Students:

Eligibility Criteria for MBBS in Switzerland

Before you start your MBBS journey in top universities in Switzerland, you need to meet specific eligibility criteria. These requirements ensure you have the academic foundation, language proficiency levels for English, and financial capability to succeed in a rigorous medical program.

Switzerland maintains high academic standards, and meeting these criteria is essential for admission and visa approval for international students. Let's break down what you need.

Over 80% of international medical students in Switzerland meet or exceed the 75% PCB benchmark (Swiss Education Report, 2024). Swiss medical universities prioritize academic excellence, and academic criteria include GPA and English language test scores like IELTS.

Here’s what you should prepare before applying for MBBS in Switzerland for Indian Students:

Category	Details
Educational Qualification	10+2 (Higher Secondary) with Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and English
Minimum Aggregate Marks	75% or equivalent GPA in PCB subjects (80% of international students meet this)
Entrance Exams	Some universities may conduct entrance tests or require MCAT scores
Foundation Year (Optional)	For students needing to bridge academic gaps or language proficiency
English Language Proficiency Test	IELTS: 6.5 TOEFL iBT: 90+
Proof of Funds	Minimum CHF 21,000(1,900,000 INR) per year to cover living expenses
Statement of Purpose (SOP)	Clearly stating your motivation and goals for studying medicine
Letters of Recommendation (LORs)	2-3 academic or professional references
CV/Resume	Highlighting academic achievements, internships, and extracurriculars
Student Visa	Valid Swiss student visa approval before course commencement

Note: Switzerland's visa acceptance rate for Indian students is around 84%, provided all eligibility and documentation are in order (Swiss Migration Office, 2024).

Meeting these criteria is the first step toward securing your admission to a Swiss medical university.

Now that you know the requirements, let’s walk through the step-by-step application process for pursuing an MBBS in Switzerland for Indian Students. 

Application Process for MBBS in Switzerland

Applying for an MBBS in Switzerland involves several essential steps. You need to ensure that every document, such as letters of recommendation and your statement of purpose, is in place and all deadlines are met to improve your chances of admission.

Here's a step-by-step breakdown to help you through the process:

Step 1: Choose and Apply to a Swiss Medical University

• Visit the official site of institutions like the University of Zurich or the University of Geneva.
• Fill out the online application form accurately via their admissions portal.
• Pay the application fee (typically CHF 100–150 (INR 9,000 – 14,000) via credit card or bank transfer.

Step 2: Upload Required Academic and Financial Documents

• Submit your 10+2 academic transcripts with at least 75–80% in PCB (Physics, Chemistry, Biology).
• Include certified English or French translations if your documents are in Hindi or other regional languages.
• Provide proof of funds (CHF 21,000–30,000- INR 1,900,000 – 2,800,000/year) via bank statements or Form A (issued by a Swiss bank).
• Upload a scanned passport copy (valid for at least 6 months) and 2 recent photographs (35x45mm)

Step 3: Submit Supporting Documents

• Write a Statement of Purpose (SOP) explaining your interest in Swiss medical education and long-term goals.
• Add 2 academic Letters of Recommendation from your school teachers or principal.
• Attach a well-structured CV with details on academics, research projects, or internships (if any).

Step 4: Attend an Admission Interview (If Applicable)

• Universities like ETH Zurich or Lausanne may require an online video interview.
• Prepare to answer questions on your academic background, career interest in medicine, and why Switzerland over other countries.

Step 5: Track Application Status and Await Offer Letter

• Log in to the university portal regularly to check updates.
• Respond to any document resubmission or additional requirements within the timeline mentioned.

Step 6: Apply for the Switzerland Student Visa (D Visa)

After receiving your official offer letter, apply for the visa through Swiss Embassy in New Delhi or Consulates in Mumbai/Bengaluru.

Submit:

• Admission letter
• Proof of accommodation
• Proof of sufficient funds
• Health insurance (minimum coverage: CHF 30,000- 2,800,000 INR)

Book a Switzerland student visa interview. Approval may take 8–12 weeks, so apply early.

Pro Tip: The entire application and visa process may take 3-6 months, so start early to meet university deadlines.

A well-prepared application increases your chances of admission and brings you closer to starting your medical journey in Switzerland. 

Next, you’ll explore the details of the MBBS program and the specialized fields you can choose during your medical studies in Switzerland.

Also Read: Top 4 Countries to Study MBBS Abroad

MBBS in Switzerland for Indian Students: Course Details & Specialization

After securing admission, pursuing your MBBS in Switzerland will provide a well-rounded experience that combines academic excellence, hands-on clinical training, and valuable research opportunities. 

The program follows the Bologna Process, ensuring international recognition and enabling smooth progression into postgraduate studies or a global medical career.

Course Structure at a Glance:

Switzerland’s medical programs span six years, divided into a 3-year Bachelor's and a 3-year Master’s phase. According to the Swiss Medical Association, over 45% of MBBS graduates pursue specialization in fields like General Medicine, Surgery, and Pediatrics.

Teaching methods combine traditional lectures with case-based learning, laboratory work, clinical rotations, and research projects. Clinical training begins early, often starting from the third year, giving you hands-on experience in university hospitals.

Here are some of the popular MBBS specializations you can pursue:

Specialization	Overview
General Medicine	Treatment and management of common health conditions and patient care.  Forms the foundation for further specialization.
Orthopedics	Deals with musculoskeletal system disorders, injuries, and surgeries.  Involves advanced surgical techniques and rehabilitation methods.
Obstetrics & Gynaecology	Female reproductive health Prenatal care Childbirth procedures.  Offers extensive hands-on clinical experience.
Dermatology	Diagnosing and treating skin Hair Nail disorders Cosmetic dermatological procedures.
Pediatrics	Medical care of infants Children Adolescents Preventive healthcare  Chronic disease management.
Psychiatry	Diagnosing, preventing, and treating mental health disorders.  Combines clinical practice with research-based approaches.
Cardiology	Specializes in diseases of the heart and circulatory system,  Diagnostic procedures, treatments, and surgical interventions.

Your choice of specialization not only defines your future career path but also opens doors to global opportunities in healthcare. Next, take a detailed look at the overall cost of pursuing an MBBS in Switzerland to help you budget and prepare effectively. 

Cost of Studying MBBS in Switzerland

According to the Swiss Federal Statistical Office, international students spend an average of CHF 2,000 (INR 1.9L) monthly on the cost of living in Switzerland.

Switzerland maintains high living standards, and the cost of living reflects that. On average, international students need CHF 21,000–28,000 ( INR 19L - 26L) per year to cover both tuition and living expenses. Proper financial planning will ensure you focus on your studies without unnecessary stress.

Here’s an estimated annual cost breakdown for the cost of studying in Switzerland for MBBS: 

Expense Category	Average Annual Cost (CHF)	Average Annual Cost (INR)
Tuition Fees	CHF 1,000 – 2,500	92K – 2L
Living Expenses (Accommodation, Food, Transport)	CHF 18,000 – 21,000	16L – 19L
Health Insurance	CHF 2,000 – 3,000	1.8L – 2.7L
Miscellaneous (Books, Supplies, Personal Expenses)	CHF 2,000	1.8L
Total Estimated Annual Cost	CHF 23,000 – 28,000	21L – 25L

Key Points to Consider:

• Public universities have low tuition but high living expenses.
• Some universities offer subsidized student housing to reduce costs.
• Health insurance is mandatory for all international students.
• Additional costs may include visa fees, language courses, and travel expenses.

With a proper understanding of the expenses, you can now plan your finances effectively and explore scholarships or financial aid options.

Fortunately, there are several funding options that can help you manage these expenses, let's take a look at the top scholarships and financial aids.

Financial Aid and Scholarships for MBBS in Switzerland

Pursuing an MBBS in Switzerland for Indian Students involves considerable expenses, but Indian students can access targeted scholarships in Switzerland to offset these costs. 

Programs funded by the Swiss government, prestigious universities, and private foundations specifically aim to attract and support talented international medical students, helping cover tuition fees and living expenses while encouraging academic excellence.

Below are the top scholarships for MBBS in Switzerland.

Scholarship Name	Offered By	Coverage Details
Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships	Swiss Government	Award: Tuition fees, monthly stipend (CHF 1,920/INR 19.6K), travel allowance, research opportunities Eligibility: Master's or PhD holders, nominated by a Swiss academic host
ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme (ESOP)	ETH Zurich	Award: Full tuition waiver, living stipend (CHF 12,000/INR 12.2L per semester), mentorship, and career development Eligibility: Outstanding master's students with excellent academic records
EPFL Excellence Fellowships	École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne	Award: Tuition fee waiver, monthly stipend (CHF 12,000/INR 12.2L per semester), research opportunities Eligibility: High-achieving master's students in engineering or related fields

Note: These scholarships are highly competitive and often require a nomination from a Swiss academic institution.

Tips for Securing Scholarships:

• Begin your scholarship search and application process well in advance to meet deadlines.
• Ensure your application includes a compelling Statement of Purpose (SOP), Letters of Recommendation (LORs), and a well-crafted CV.
• Look into various scholarship opportunities and understand their specific requirements and eligibility criteria.
• Consider consulting with education counselors or reaching out to the scholarship providers for advice and clarification.

With your finances managed with scholarship options, it's time to look ahead at the exciting job opportunities you can pursue after earning your MBBS in Switzerland.

Potential Job Opportunities after MBBS in Switzerland

Completing your MBBS in Switzerland opens doors to various job opportunities in the medical field. The Swiss healthcare system is known for its efficiency and quality, providing a conducive environment for medical professionals to thrive.

In recent years, there are approximately 41,100 doctors in Switzerland, equating to about 35,488 full-time equivalents.

Here are a few Clinical Career Opportunities you should keep in mind: 

Job Role	Average Annual Salary (CHF)	Average Annual Salary (INR)
General Practitioner (GP)	120,000 – 140,000	1.1 Cr – 1.3 Cr
Specialist Doctor	150,000 – 200,000	1.4 Cr – 1.8 Cr
Surgeon	180,000 – 250,000	1.6 Cr – 2.3 Cr
Anesthesiologist	160,000 – 220,000	1.5 Cr– 2Cr
Emergency Medicine Physician	130,000 – 180,000	1.2 Cr – 1.6 Cr

Note: Salaries can vary based on experience, specialization, and location within Switzerland. Amounts are converted to INR based on current exchange rates and may vary with market fluctuations.

Meanwhile, Non-Clinical Career Opportunities are listed below

Job Role	Average Annual Salary (CHF)	Average Annual Salary (INR)
Medical Researcher	100,000 – 140,000	90L – 1.3 Cr
Medical Educator	110,000 – 150,000	1 Cr – 1.4 Cr
Healthcare Administrator	120,000 – 160,000	1.1 Cr – 1.5 Cr
Pharmaceutical Consultant	130,000 – 170,000	1.2 Cr – 1.6 Cr
Public Health Specialist	100,000 – 130,000	90L – 1.2 Cr

Next, let’s explore top recruiters for MBBS in Switzerland.

Top Employers & Job Roles for MBBS Graduates in Switzerland

Switzerland’s renowned healthcare institutions and research centers offer excellent career options in the medical field. From clinical practice to specialized research roles, these top employers provide pathways for professional growth and global exposure. 

Here’s a look at some of the leading recruiters and the potential job roles they offer.

Employer	About	Potential Job Roles
Geneva University Hospitals (HUG)	One of Europe’s largest medical institutions, affiliated with the University of Geneva, offering diverse clinical and research opportunities.	Medical Officer Clinical Research Associate Resident Doctor Specialist Trainee
University Hospital Zurich (USZ)	Leading medical center known for advanced medical training, offering jobs in various specialties and research.	Junior Doctor Medical Research Fellow Surgical Assistant Department Resident
Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV)	Renowned for patient care and medical research, providing roles in clinical and non-clinical domains.	General Practitioner Research Assistant Clinical Intern Medical Administrator
Basel University Hospital	Expert in clinical care and research, especially in fields like oncology and pediatrics.	Medical Resident Oncology Assistant Pediatric Researcher Clinical Fellow
Bern University Hospital (Inselspital)	One of Switzerland's largest hospitals, offering careers in medicine, research, and healthcare management.	Resident Doctor Medical Researcher Healthcare Project Manager Specialty Registrar
Swiss Red Cross	International humanitarian organization offering roles in community health and emergency medical services.	Public Health Officer Emergency Medical Consultant Community Health Practitioner
Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute (Swiss TPH)	Leading institution for global health and epidemiology, providing research and field-based roles.	Medical Epidemiologist Global Health Researcher Clinical Trial Assistant

Before exploring universities and career prospects, it’s important to understand what makes Switzerland a preferred destination for medical education among international students.

Also Read: Top 5 Interesting Career Options in Medical in 2024

Why Choose Switzerland for an MBBS?

Choosing Switzerland for your MBBS isn’t just about earning a degree; it’s about gaining a world-class education, global recognition, and career-defining experiences. For students from India, it also offers the option of permanent residency.

Here’s why Switzerland stands out as a top destination for medical studies:

1. World-Class Education System

• Universities like University of Zurich and University of Geneva consistently feature in the QS World Rankings 2025 Top 150.
• Medical programs align with the Bologna Process, ensuring your degree is compatible with EU and global academic standards.

2. Globally Recognized Degrees

• Swiss MBBS degrees (officially Master of Medicine/Surgery) are recognized by WHO, NMC (India), and ECFMG (USA).
• Graduates can sit for licensing exams like USMLE, PLAB, or FMGE with ease.

3. Advanced Research Exposure

• Home to institutions like ETH Zurich and Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, Switzerland leads in oncology, biotech, and personalized medicine.
• Students often work on funded research projects alongside faculty and PhD scholars.

4. Multilingual, Global Learning Environment

• While the medium is often German or French, many universities offer foundation language courses or bilingual instruction.
• Campuses host students from 120+ nationalities, offering cultural and academic diversity.

5. High Demand for Medical Professionals

• Shortages in healthcare mean increased opportunities in family medicine, geriatrics, and surgery.
• Average starting salary for medical graduates: CHF 80,000–100,000/year (INR 7.5L – 9L).

6. Exceptional Safety and Quality of Life

• Ranked among the top 5 safest countries (Global Peace Index 2024).
• Cities like Zurich and Bern consistently rank high for cleanliness, public transport, and healthcare access.

7. Affordable Tuition at Public Universities

• Public institutions charge as little as CHF 1,200–2,500/year (INR 1L – 2.3L), a fraction of US/UK tuition fees.
• You pay less while accessing one of the world’s best medical education systems.

8. Post-Graduation Work Pathways

• With a valid degree and job offer, you can apply for a B residence permit to work in Switzerland.
• Options to apply for residency after a few years of employment.

9. Proximity to Global Healthcare and Pharma Giants

• Intern with companies like Roche, Novartis, and Lonza, headquartered in Switzerland.
• Strong job pipeline in medical consulting, clinical trials, and biotech research.

10. A Balanced Life Beyond Studies

• From skiing in Zermatt to exploring lakes in Lucerne, the country offers year-round outdoor activities.
• Known for its clean air, punctual trains, and low crime rates, Switzerland supports both academic and personal well-being.

Also Read: How to Get PR in Switzerland: A Complete Guide

With your MBBS degree from Switzerland, upGrad can provide you with the guidance and resources you need to launch a successful medical career, including high-paying jobs in Switzerland.

How Can upGrad Help You in Landing High-Paying Jobs in Switzerland?

Earning an MBBS from Switzerland opens global career doors, and upGrad ensures you’re fully prepared to seize them. With expert career guidance, networking opportunities, job placement support, and targeted skill development, upGrad helps you transition smoothly into high-paying roles in Switzerland’s healthcare sector.

• Global Career Guidance: Resume building, interview prep, and job search strategies tailored for Switzerland.
• Professional Networking: Connect with top Swiss hospitals, recruiters, and attend exclusive job fairs.
• Post-Graduation Support: Assistance with work visa processes, medical licensing, and Swiss job market insights.
• Job Placement Assistance: Access to roles in hospitals, healthcare organizations, and pharma companies.
• Skill Development: Upskill with certifications and clinical internships to stay competitive in the Swiss medical field.

Unsure where to begin your study abroad journey in Switzerland? Book a free one-on-one counseling session with upGrad experts today and get all the details on studying MBBS in Switzerland!