How do you qualify for a Masters in Switzerland?

To qualify for a Masters in Switzerland, you must hold a recognised bachelor's degree in a relevant field. Most programmes require a minimum GPA, often around 2.5 on a 4.0 scale. Additionally, you need to provide proof of language proficiency, typically TOEFL or IELTS scores for English-taught programmes. Some universities may also require a motivation letter, letters of recommendation, and a CV. It's important to check specific entry requirements for each programme, as they can vary. For detailed information on application processes, visit top universities in Switzerland.

What are the top universities in Switzerland?

Switzerland is home to several world-renowned universities. The ETH Zurich - Swiss Federal Institute of Technology and the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne consistently rank among the top institutions globally. The University of Zurich is also highly regarded. These universities offer a range of affordable master's degrees, with tuition fees generally under €2,500 per year. For a comprehensive list and rankings, explore the top universities in Switzerland.

Why are master's degrees so affordable in Switzerland?

Master's degrees in Switzerland are affordable due to significant government funding and subsidies. The Swiss government heavily invests in education, ensuring that tuition fees remain low. Additionally, the strong economy and high standard of living contribute to the overall affordability of education. This makes Switzerland an attractive destination for international students seeking budget-friendly, high-quality education. With tuition fees generally under €2,500 per year, Switzerland offers some of the most economical master's programmes in Europe.

What are the language requirements for cheap master's degrees in Switzerland?

For cheap master's degrees in Switzerland, language requirements depend on the programme's language of instruction. English-taught programmes typically require TOEFL or IELTS scores, with minimum scores often around 90 for TOEFL and 6.5 for IELTS. German-taught programmes require proof of German proficiency, usually at the B2 level or higher. Some universities may accept alternative tests like the Cambridge English exams. It's crucial to check specific language requirements for each programme to ensure you meet the criteria.

Can I study part-time while studying in Switzerland?

Yes, international students in Switzerland can study part-time while pursuing their master's degree. The Swiss government allows students to work up to 15 hours per week during the academic term and full-time during semester breaks. This flexibility enables students to gain work experience and offset living costs. However, it's important to balance work and studies to ensure academic success. Many universities also offer part-time master's programmes, providing additional flexibility for working students.

Are there hidden costs beyond tuition for affordable programmes in Switzerland?

While tuition fees for master's programmes in Switzerland are low, there are additional costs to consider. Living expenses, including accommodation, food, and transportation, can vary significantly depending on the city. On average, students should budget between €1,000 to €1,500 per month for living costs. Other expenses may include health insurance, which is mandatory for all residents, and semester fees, which cover university services and amenities. It's important to plan for these costs to ensure a smooth study experience in Switzerland.

SwitzerlandAffordable

251 Affordable Master's degrees in Switzerland

Switzerland is renowned for its high-quality education and picturesque landscapes, making it an attractive destination for international students. If you're considering studying in Switzerland, you'll be pleased to know that there are affordable programmes available to suit various budgets. The lower-end tuition fee for affordable programmes in Switzerland is €1,082, making it accessible for many students. The typical tuition fee for these programmes is around €1,580, offering a reasonable option for those looking to study in this beautiful country. Even the higher-end tuition fee for affordable programmes, which is €2,056, remains competitive compared to other European destinations. Additionally, 1% of these affordable programmes are available online, providing flexibility for students who may prefer a remote learning experience. Switzerland truly offers a range of affordable options for international students seeking a world-class education.

Biology - Neurosciences University of Zurich

4,2(54)Zürich, Switzerland Top 5% in Worldwide

The graduates of the Biology - Neurosciences course from University of Zurich have skills in scientific research. Their knowledge allows them to understand complex biological systems. They recognize relevant problems in Biology and are able to plan and conduct experiments using a variety of techniques to address these problems.

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus

1½ year$1,722/yr

Banking and Finance ZHAW Zurich University of Applied Sciences

4,1(33)Zürich, Switzerland Top 20% in Worldwide

This Banking and Finance program from ZHAW Zurich University of Applied Sciences offers a full time option for those students who do not work part time and wish to enter the job market with a MSc degree as soon as one year after they finish the BSc.

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus

1½ year$1,722/yr

Nursing ZHAW Zurich University of Applied Sciences

4,1(33)Zürich, Switzerland Top 20% in Worldwide

With a Master of Science in Nursing from the ZHAW Zurich University of Applied Sciences, you will acquire the knowledge required for Advanced Practice as well as scientific competencies necessary for specific clinical practice, modern leadership, and practically oriented research.

M.Sc. Full-time +2 On-campus

2 years$1,722/yr

Physics University of Bern

4,5(6)Bern, Switzerland Top 2% in Worldwide

This Physics master's degree program at the University of Bern provides general training in applied, experimental and theoretical Physics or Astronomy, enabling students to undertake independent academic work.

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus

1½ year$2,272/yr

Biomedical Engineering Bern University of Applied Sciences

4,1(16)Bern, Switzerland

As a student in our MSc in Biomedical Engineering programme at Bern University of Applied Sciences, you will contribute to innovation in medtech and benefit from an excellent network.

M.Sc. Full-time +2 On-campus

2 years$2,272/yr

Computer Science University of Fribourg

4,4(5)Fribourg, Switzerland Top 7% in Worldwide

This study programme is part of the Swiss Joint Master in Computer Science jointly offered by the University of Fribourg, Bern and Neuchâtel, providing students with a unique multilingual and multicultural learning environment. Students work closely with one or more research groups of the three participating institutes.

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus

1½ year$2,080/yr

Translation and Specialised Multilingual Communication University of Geneva

3,9(23)Genève, Switzerland Top 2% in Worldwide

Master of Arts in Translation and Specialised Multilingual Communication programme of University of Geneva will help you find your place in the fascinating world of translation and confront the challenges related to technological developments.

M.A. Full-time On-campus

1½ year$1,196/yr

Economic History University of Zurich

4,2(54)Zürich, Switzerland Top 5% in Worldwide

Historians and economists use different models and terminologies to explain economic developments, and business and economic policy decisions. The Economic History course offered by The University of Zurich removes these barriers to understanding to build a productive relationship of cooperation between the two disciplines.

M.A. Full-time On-campus

1½ year$1,722/yr

Chemical and Molecular Sciences University of Zurich

4,2(54)Zürich, Switzerland Top 5% in Worldwide

The specialized program in Chemical and Molecular Sciences at University of Zurich requires a scientific Bachelor’s degree with a significant amount of education in Chemistry.

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus

1½ year$1,722/yr

Nursing University of Lausanne

3,9(11)Lausanne, Switzerland Top 3% in Worldwide

The Nursing program from University of Lausanne (UNIL) is intended to train you as specialist nursing clinical practitioners, to optimise patient and family-centred care, embed results in clinical practice and develop clinical leadership in nursing.

M.Sc. Full-time +2 On-campus

1½ year$1,387/yr

Economics and Management - Market-oriented Management University of Lucerne

Luzern, Switzerland

Do you have an interest in business management topics and want to help actively shape corporate decisions in the future? If so, this is the right master’s programme for you! Master Specialisation Economics and Management - Market-oriented Management is offered at University of Lucerne.

M.A. Full-time +2 On-campus

1½ year$2,666/yr

Economics and Management - Applied Data Science University of Lucerne

Luzern, Switzerland

The University of Lucerne offers a Master of Science in Economics and Management - Applied Data Science. This programme is designed to be completed in a flexible format, allowing students to engage in their studies while managing other commitments.

M.A. Full-time +2 On-campus

1½ year$2,666/yr

Circular Economy Management ZHAW Zurich University of Applied Sciences

4,1(33)Zürich, Switzerland Top 20% in Worldwide

The ZHAW Zurich University of Applied Sciences MSc in Circular Economy Management is a new degree program that supports our university's key commitment to sustainability, specifically to impart and develop knowledge and skills in that area and support individuals and organizations in their efforts to make a valuable contribution to society.

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus

1½ year$1,722/yr

Social Anthropology University of Bern

4,5(6)Bern, Switzerland Top 2% in Worldwide

The MASA program at the University of Bern addresses all the varied aspects of Social Anthropology. The program also focuses on innovative research in both traditional areas, such as kinship, social exchange, religious and ritual practices, ethnicity, material culture and the human-environment relationship, and new fields such as gender studies and the anthropology of climate change.

M.A. Full-time On-campus

2 years$2,272/yr

Psychology University of Basel

3,7(11)Basel, Switzerland Top 2% in Worldwide

The course in Psychology at the University of Basel focuses on examining and understanding the experience and behavior of people and their ongoing development in the interplay of biological, social and societal conditions and using this knowledge and the resulting skills constructively in research and application.

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus

2 years$2,033/yr

International and European Law University of Geneva

3,9(23)Genève, Switzerland Top 2% in Worldwide

The Master in International and European Law programme of University of Geneva follows the Bachelor programme to complete students' basic legal training.

LL.M. Full-time On-campus

1½ year$1,196/yr

Neuroscience University of Geneva

3,9(23)Genève, Switzerland Top 2% in Worldwide

The Master in Neuroscience programme of University of Geneva is a joint programme of the Faculty of Psychology and Education, the Faculty of Medicine and the Faculty of Science. It is managed by the Geneva University Neurocenter (GUN) and focuses on theory, while also introducing students to scientific research and writing.

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus

1½ year$1,196/yr

Chemistry University of Geneva

3,9(23)Genève, Switzerland Top 2% in Worldwide

The Master Chemistry programme of University of Geneva provides advanced training in the areas of analytical chemistry, materials chemistry, mineral chemistry, organic and bio-organic chemistry, and physical chemistry.

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus

2 years$1,196/yr

Business and Economics University of Bern

4,5(6)Bern, Switzerland Top 2% in Worldwide

The Business and Economics master's degree program at the University of Bern builds on previous knowledge relating to business and economics obtained in a Bachelor’s degree program.

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus

1½ year$2,272/yr

Sociolinguistics University of Bern

4,5(6)Bern, Switzerland Top 2% in Worldwide

The unique master's program in Sociolinguistics in the German-speaking region offered at the University of Bern is a two-year program devoted to various aspects of the relationship between language and society and their reciprocal influence.

M.A. Full-time On-campus

2 years$2,272/yr

Frequently Asked Questions

To qualify for a Masters in Switzerland, you must hold a recognised bachelor's degree in a relevant field. Most programmes require a minimum GPA, often around 2.5 on a 4.0 scale. Additionally, you need to provide proof of language proficiency, typically TOEFL or IELTS scores for English-taught programmes. Some universities may also require a motivation letter, letters of recommendation, and a CV. It's important to check specific entry requirements for each programme, as they can vary. For detailed information on application processes, visit top universities in Switzerland.
Switzerland is home to several world-renowned universities. The ETH Zurich - Swiss Federal Institute of Technology and the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne consistently rank among the top institutions globally. The University of Zurich is also highly regarded. These universities offer a range of affordable master's degrees, with tuition fees generally under €2,500 per year. For a comprehensive list and rankings, explore the top universities in Switzerland.
Master's degrees in Switzerland are affordable due to significant government funding and subsidies. The Swiss government heavily invests in education, ensuring that tuition fees remain low. Additionally, the strong economy and high standard of living contribute to the overall affordability of education. This makes Switzerland an attractive destination for international students seeking budget-friendly, high-quality education. With tuition fees generally under €2,500 per year, Switzerland offers some of the most economical master's programmes in Europe.
For cheap master's degrees in Switzerland, language requirements depend on the programme's language of instruction. English-taught programmes typically require TOEFL or IELTS scores, with minimum scores often around 90 for TOEFL and 6.5 for IELTS. German-taught programmes require proof of German proficiency, usually at the B2 level or higher. Some universities may accept alternative tests like the Cambridge English exams. It's crucial to check specific language requirements for each programme to ensure you meet the criteria.
Yes, international students in Switzerland can study part-time while pursuing their master's degree. The Swiss government allows students to work up to 15 hours per week during the academic term and full-time during semester breaks. This flexibility enables students to gain work experience and offset living costs. However, it's important to balance work and studies to ensure academic success. Many universities also offer part-time master's programmes, providing additional flexibility for working students.
While tuition fees for master's programmes in Switzerland are low, there are additional costs to consider. Living expenses, including accommodation, food, and transportation, can vary significantly depending on the city. On average, students should budget between €1,000 to €1,500 per month for living costs. Other expenses may include health insurance, which is mandatory for all residents, and semester fees, which cover university services and amenities. It's important to plan for these costs to ensure a smooth study experience in Switzerland.