Switzerland brings to mind snow-capped mountains, efficient trains, luxury watches, and for international students, the term “world-class education” found in study abroad brochures.
And it’s true — the country offers quality education. Swiss universities are often ranked among the best in Europe. Some research institutions have more funding than entire universities in other countries. However, the idea of accessible scholarships for international students is often misleading.
Let’s get to the heart of the matter:
Are scholarships in Switzerland genuinely open doors, or just gilded gates?
The Dream: Scholarships in the Land of Chocolate and Precision
To be fair, Switzerland does provide scholarships for international students. Some notable ones are:
● Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships — For PhDs, postdocs, and researchers.
● ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarships — Highly competitive merit-based aid.
● University of Lausanne (UNIL) Master’s Grants — For select master’s programs.
● EPFL Excellence Fellowships — For master’s students with outstanding academic records.
On paper, this looks promising. A nation known for fairness offering scholarships to global talent — what’s not to like?
But the reality is that most students soon realize these scholarships aren’t as inclusive or numerous as they appear.
The Catch: Scholarships for the Elite of the Elite
Let’s be honest: Switzerland doesn’t offer mass scholarships like Germany or the Netherlands.
Swiss scholarships tend to be very selective. They emphasize excellence over potential. If you’re not already among the best in your field, you’re likely out of luck.
Even scholarships funded by the government, like the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships, are focused on research. If you’re a bachelor’s or master’s student trying to cover expenses, you may struggle to find support.
It’s not about generosity; it’s about strategy. These scholarships aim to invest in innovation, not provide economic aid. They help raise the profile and research output of Swiss institutions, rather than democratize access.
Switzerland Is Rich. You Probably Aren’t.
Here’s another reality check: Switzerland is one of the most expensive countries in the world. Think $10 coffees, $1,500 monthly rent for shared apartments, and train tickets that can outprice budget flights.
Even if you receive a partial scholarship, it often won’t cover living costs. Tuition fees are relatively affordable compared to the U.S. or the UK — but daily life isn’t.
💰 Typical Costs for International Students in Switzerland
🎓 Tuition Fees (per year):
● Public universities: CHF 1,000–4,000
● Top institutions like ETH Zurich or EPFL: around CHF 1,500–2,000
● Private universities: CHF 10,000–30,000 (depending on program)
🏠 Living Costs (per month):
● Accommodation (shared apartment or dorm): CHF 800–1,500
● Food: CHF 400–700
● Health insurance: CHF 250–400
● Transport: CHF 70–120
● Miscellaneous (internet, entertainment, supplies): CHF 150–250
➡️ Estimated total monthly budget: CHF 1,800–2,800
➡️ Annual cost of living: CHF 21,000–33,000 (USD 23,000–36,000)
Most scholarships do not cover:
● Housing
● Health insurance (mandatory and costly)
● Food (CHF 25–40 per day for decent meals)
● Transport
● Visa and residency paperwork
So, while you might score a “prestigious” CHF 1,600 monthly scholarship, that may barely cover basic living expenses in cities like Zurich or Geneva.
Work While You Study? Not So Fast
Many students think they can bridge the gap with part-time jobs. Technically, international students can work up to 15 hours per week during the semester.
However, you can’t start working legally until you’ve lived in the country for six months. That’s half a year of depleting your savings before you can even look for employment — and that’s assuming you speak French, German, or Italian well enough to get hired.
What Switzerland Doesn’t Tell You About Inclusion
Here’s the hard truth: Switzerland is not actively working to make higher education accessible to students from developing countries. Most scholarships are not based on financial need.
If you’re brilliant but lack funds, your chances are slim unless you also have a strong academic background and a solid research proposal.
It’s not about who needs help — it’s about who can elevate Switzerland’s academic reputation.
That’s not inherently negative — countries have the right to be selective. But let’s be clear: this is elite academic grooming, not educational philanthropy.
Who Does Get In?
Let’s examine the trends:
● Students from wealthy countries
● Those with funding from home governments or sponsors
● High achievers with significant experience, publications, or multiple degrees
● Candidates whose research aligns with Swiss interests (sustainability, biotech, AI, etc.)
The outcome? A scholarship system that appears open but is practically tailored to the already privileged.
So, Should You Even Bother?
Yes — but only if you understand the situation.
If you have a strong academic background, research potential, and a clear passion for your field, Switzerland offers a fantastic opportunity for growth.
However, if you’re counting on a full scholarship simply due to ambition, Switzerland may not be the best choice.
Here’s how to approach it:
● Focus on research-based opportunities, especially at the PhD level.
● Prepare financially. Expect to need at least CHF 1,800 per month to live.
● Apply early and prepare thoroughly. Swiss institutions are detailed but slow.
● Learn one of the national languages. It’s a big advantage.
● Don’t idealize the experience. Switzerland is beautiful, but it’s not designed for budget international students.
Final Thoughts: Gatekeeping or Excellence?
Switzerland functions like an efficient train system: elegant, precise, and not necessarily accommodating to everyone.
The scholarships do exist, but they are not intended as widespread lifelines. They are exclusive, competitive, and often disconnected from the financial realities faced by most students globally.
If you can navigate the system, it’s worth every franc. But if you can’t, don’t take it personally — the gates were never really open to everyone.
What do you think?
Is Switzerland too exclusive when it comes to scholarships, or is it simply sticking to its high standards?
Share your thoughts in the comments below
