The decision to study abroad is probably one of the hardest decisions a student will ever make. That’s why they put a lot of thought and consideration into finding the best university in the best country. Every country hosts a number of international students and tries to create the best opportunities for them. Switzerland, too, tries its best to attract this category of students. But why study abroad in Switzerland? What makes it an appropriate study abroad location? Let’s find out.
The views kind of speak for themselves, no?
Is it safe to study abroad in Switzerland right now?
Switzerland has been one of the most affected European countries from the COVID-19 virus. Like many other countries, Switzerland took the necessary measures to contain the spread of the virus by closing borders and imposing many restrictions on the population.
The Swiss cantons with the highest number of infected people with the virus were Vaud, Geneva, Ticino, Zurich, and Valais. However, after reports showed an improved Coronavirus situation in Switzerland, the Swiss government decided to open its borders with all EU/EFTA states on June 15 (travel remains closed to citizens from all other countries as of publication).
People who enter the country are not required to quarantine if they do not show any symptoms of the illness. Travelers who come from countries with high rates of infections may be subject to certain precautionary measures.
12 reasons to study in Switzerland
There are many reasons why study abroad in Switzerland could be the right choice for you! Read on to learn more.
1. A world-class education system
Switzerland has a renowned education system—so choosing to study abroad in Switzerland just makes sense! This country is known for having high standards and teaching methods that are based on active learning. Not only is it a qualitative education system, but it’s also an affordable one. Many distinguished Swiss public universities have tuition fees that don’t exceed 1000 CHF, or 1100 USD. (See study abroad in Switzerland reviews at the bottom of this article!)
2. There are tons of international students
Every country hosts a number of international students. Switzerland does too! A large portion of the student population in Switzerland is foreign. The acclaimed education system, moderate prices, and multiple scholarship options attract international students to move and study in Switzerland to obtain their degrees.
3. High salaries and low unemployment rates
As one of the countries with the highest standards of living and a stable economy, it’s reasonable that workers in this country will receive some of the highest salaries in Europe. Swiss workers earn 6,502 CHF (7,140 USD) per month on average. Among the OECD countries, Switzerland ranks second for average annual wages with 62,300 CHF (68,400 USD).
As for the unemployment rate, it was only 4.87% in 2019. The majority of Swiss workers are fairly educated and specialized in their job fields. As a result, Switzerland offers jobs with higher wages. All that to say—studying abroad in Switzerland could open doors to incredible job opportunities in the country later on!
Might this be Home Sweet Home later on?
4. It’s safe
According to the Global Peace Index, Switzerland is the 10th safest country in the world. The low crime rates and strict gun laws are just some of the factors that have helped Switzerland maintain the reputation of a safe country. Your parents can’t argue with that, right?
5. High quality of life
While Switzerland is one of the most expensive countries to live in, its residents certainly get value for money. In a report conducted by Social Progress Imperative, Switzerland scored 88.87 from 100 in total in three main indexes—basic human needs (medical care, shelter, and sanitation), foundation of wellbeing (education, life expectancy, and access to technology), and opportunity (freedom of choice, tolerance, and personal rights). Good luck NOT enjoying your time studying abroad in Switzerland.
6. A healthy lifestyle
Among many aspects that Swiss people have a reputation in, having a healthy lifestyle is one of them. Even though they are regular alcohol drinkers, they try to keep a balance by consuming mostly light and sugar-free food. That’s why fast food joints aren’t that widespread across the country, as many prefer to spend a considerable amount of time preparing food and enjoying every bite they take. Yum!
7. The delicious food
Speaking of yum....Switzerland is synonymous with cheese and chocolate. But, unbeknownst to many, Switzerland is a place of delicious, mouthwatering food that you can find only there. Foods like Älplermagronen or the Alpine Macaroni, Rösti, Malakoff, Polenta, and many other traditional foods have made Switzerland a popular tourist destination. We suggest packing stretchy pants when you study in Switzerland.
If your eyes are bigger than your stomach, good luck in Switzerland.
8. Swiss multilingualism
Four languages are spoken in Switzerland: German, French, Italian, and Romansh. All of them maintain the equal status of official languages in the Swiss Confederation. However, Swiss people aren’t limited to these languages only; English, too, is widely spoken there.
So, even if you don’t speak any of the four official languages, you can still live and communicate with the locals in English—and soak up incredible opportunities for foreign language acquisition when studying abroad in Switzerland.
9. Diversity and culture
Switzerland is characterized by diversity, both geographically and culturally. With more than two million people living in this country, it’s impossible for the Swiss culture not to be impacted.
The neighboring countries and their impact also have a role in the diverse culture of the country. Among the Swiss official languages, you’ll hear many other languages spoken by foreigners, including English. You’ll never feel alone when you study abroad in Switzerland!
Plus, Swiss people are very passionate about art. That’s why there are 600 museums scattered around the country. You’ll have multiple museums to choose from and explore in almost every city in Switzerland.
10. A large expat population
Among 8.57 million people that live in Switzerland, 2.1 million are foreigners. This high number makes Switzerland one of the countries with the highest number of internationals living in its midst. More than 80% of them are from European countries like Germany, France, Italy, and Portugal, and live in the Lake Geneva area and Zurich.
11. The rest of Europe is just a few hours away!
Fancy a weekend away when you study in Switzerland? Switzerland not only gives you tons of attractions to visit within the country, but also allows you to move across the borders to visit the countries that surround it.
Switzerland borders five states and is well-connected with all of them. The Swiss transportation system is at your disposal to make your getaway more efficient and enjoyable. All you need to do is choose the destination!
12. The incredible mountain vistas (duh)
Fairytale views are a dime a dozen during study abroad in Switzerland.
With 83.6% of the surface area covered in mountains, Switzerland ranks third in the list of European countries with the highest percentage of mountains. The two main mountain ranges are the Alps and Jura. The Swiss Plateau separates these two mountain ranges.
Switzerland hosts only 20% of the Alps with approximately 100 peaks with an elevation close to or higher than 4000m. Whereas, the peaks in the mountain range of Jura don't exceed the altitude of 1800m.
With all those mountains surrounding the country, you'll have multiple attractions to visit and see for yourself if they're worthy of the praise they always get. (Don’t forget to pack those hiking boots!)
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4 study abroad in Switzerland reviews
Here are some of the reviews from students who have participated in study abroad programs offered by Swiss universities. Read on to find out what they said about their experiences in Switzerland.
1. BHMS: Swiss Hospitality Excellence Within Reach Program
“I studied for my Bachelor Degree at BHMS. During my first 2 years in school I had the opportunity to complete industry training assignments at a 5* hotel in Switzerland, and then the 2nd internship was in Dubai in a 5* hotel as well at the front office department. I really enjoy the combination of theory and practice and the fact that the school provides help for job placement after graduation to its students….” —Albulena, 9/10 [Read more BHMS reviews]
2. The Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies: Summer Program on International Affairs
“...A second location-specific advantage of Geneva is the place itself: a relaxed and cosmopolitan small city, without many of the pressures of larger urban centers. This enables someone coming to the Summer School to be able to think about the issues at hand rather than get swept up in and spend time dealing with, problems of transport and issues of personal security that are unfortunately present in some other cities.
The HEI Summer School, for me then, presented an opportunity to listen, learn, and engage in the debates that surround my work, in a place conducive to examining them. In short, both a stimulating and relaxing environment.” —Mike, 10/10 [Read more The Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies reviews]
3. SIT Study Abroad: Global Health and Development Policy Program
“Very good if you are interested in public health and motivated to do your own research project (ISP). Geneva is very central, easy to travel. Expensive city to live in and not much of a party atmosphere.” —Rachel, 7/10 [Read more SIT Study Abroad reviews]
4. Forum-Nexus Study Abroad: Psychology & Social Work Traveling Europe Program
“I had an awesome time studying abroad with Forum-Nexus. We saw a lot of really great cities. One of my main priorities when looking for a program was looking for one that offered Graduate-level credit, as I was not able to study abroad until I was in graduate school. I also wanted a program that was multi-country, and was long enough that I could see a variety of places, but short enough because I could not be away from home for an entire semester. The one month of this program was perfect for me!” —Michelle, 10/10 [Read more Forum-Nexus reviews]
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Are you ready for your study abroad in Switzerland adventure?
The reviews are in—study abroad in Switzerland rocks!
Studying in Switzerland is undoubtedly one of the wisest choices students can make for their educational future. Its distinguished education system, financial aid options, job opportunities, high salaries, and the astounding scenery are just some of the reasons you should choose this country to obtain your desired degree. Not only will you fulfill your educational dreams, but you’ll also have tons of fun along the way. Are you ready for your Swiss experience?
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