Cost of education in Switzerland
The Swiss education system is renowned for its high standard and it is free. That said, the teaching language will reflect the primary language of the respective canton (either German, French, Italian or Romansh). Some bilingual and even trilingual schools do exist, but tuition at these institutions can be as much as 25,000 CHF per year.
Additionally, those expats who wish to send their children to international schools that uphold their home country curriculum and teaching language should anticipate astronomical fees. Price increases as students age, and can peak at over 35,000 CHF per year.
Scholarships - Governmental Scholarships
The Swiss Government offers scholarships to foreign students and artists on the basis of reciprocity or within the framework of a scholarship pool to several countries. Scholarships are granted to postgraduate candidates or researchers from both industrial and development countries.
Applying for a job in Switzerland
Once an expats has consulted various company websites, networked with fellow expats until they've lost the ability to smile, and perused an inordinate amount of online and newspaper-based job listings, it's necessary to “Swissify” their CV (résumé). It's recommended that expats apply for the job they'd like in the language in which the job was advertised. Thus, if the job listing is in German, prepare to employ a translator.
Keep in mind that the Swiss work culture is performance-based, and thus work experience and employer references are important parts to be included in an application. Additionally, personal data, educational background, language skills and computer skills should be present. The Swiss are detail-oriented people, and a CV should satisfy this trait.
Résumés should be roughly two pages long, should include a professional photo, and should be sent along with a cover letter, copies of university diplomas and work or language certificates.
Expats should also plan to submit a letter of recommendation ("Arbeitszeugnis") from their former employer.
Students wishing to study in Switzerland must obtain the proper permits from the authorities to stay in the country. Here's how the process works.
Student visas are issued much like permits for foreign workers, with students from European countries enjoying more relaxed procedures than those from third states.
EU/EFTA nationals
Within 14 days of arriving in Switzerland EU/EFTA nationals must register with local authorities in the town where they will live to apply for a residence permit.
Applicants must prove they have health insurance and enough funds to cover living costs. They must prove they have come to Switzerland to study full time and that they are properly enrolled at a university or a recognised college.
A residence permit will usually be issued for the duration of the programme but may need to be renewed each year until the completion of the studies, depending on the student's situation.
Students can hold jobs, but for no more than 15 hours a week. Otherwise they are considered employed and must apply for a work permit.
A spouse and dependent children may join the student in Switzerland. Family members may also work. However, the student must show that he or she has enough resources to support any family members, including adequate living space.
Third-state applicants
Students from non-EU/EFTA member states must apply for a visa at the Swiss embassy or consulate in their home country. Please visit the foreign ministry’s website to find Swiss missions around the world.
The application must include a certificate from the school or institution to be attended, proof of payment of school fees and means of support during studies, a written commitment that the student will leave Switzerland upon completion of the programme, as well as a curriculum vitae. Swiss authorities may also organise a language test to make sure the student is able to follow lessons.
The cantons are responsible for issuing the permits. For detailed information on the application procedure (where to apply, which form to fill in, how long it takes, etc.), please contact the relevant cantonal migration office.
