Table of Contents of this Study Abroad Blog
Imagine sipping hot chocolate at a cozy Swiss café after a morning of lectures at ETH Zurich. If you’ve wrapped up 13 years of schooling in India and dream of studying amid snow-capped Alps, this guide is your first-class ticket. Packed with step-by-step tips, insider hacks, and the latest 2025 updates, you’ll breeze through the Switzerland study visa process and start packing your bags and start packing your bags!
Why Study in Switzerland?
World-Class Universities: ETH Zurich & EPFL in QS Top 20.
Global Innovation: Finance, hospitality, biotech hubs.
Multilingual Campuses: German, French, Italian & English programs.
Safety & Lifestyle: Efficient public transport, high safety rankings.
Switzerland Study Visa Types
| Visa Type | Duration | Ideal For |
| Type C (Short Stay) | Up to 90 days | Summer courses, internships, exchange |
| Type D (Long Stay) | Over 90 days | Full-time Bachelors, Masters & PhD |
Indian degree aspirants should apply for Type D Switzerland study visa.
Eligibility & 13-Year Education Requirement
Swiss immigration mandates 13 years of schooling. Indian students must have:
Class X (10 years)
Classes XI–XII (2 years)
University Foundation Year or recognized diploma (1 year)
Many Swiss universities offer foundation programs to bridge the 12-to-13 year gap.
Documents Checklist
Type D Visa Application Form
Valid Passport (≥ 3 months beyond stay)
University Admission Letter
13-Year Education Proof (transcripts + diploma/foundation)
Blocked Account: CHF 21,000 (~₹ 2,289,000)
Statement of Purpose / Study Plan
Paid Tuition Fee Receipt
Accommodation Proof
Passport-Sized Photos
Language Certificate (IELTS/TOEFL/TestDaF/DELF)
Swiss Health Insurance
Cover Letter & Future Plans
All documents must be in English, German, or French with certified translations.
Study Visa Fees & INR Conversions
| Fee Component | CHF | INR (₹1 = 108.70) |
| Type D Student Visa | 88 | ₹ 9,570 |
| VFS Appointment Booking | 25 | ₹ 2,720 |
| Service Charges & Misc | — | ₹ 3,000 (approx) |
Total visa expense: ~₹ 15,290
Application Process & Timeline
Obtain Admission: Secure university acceptance.
Prepare Documents: Originals + translations.
Block Account: Deposit CHF 21,000.
Book Appointment: VFS Global offices in Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru.
Biometrics & Interview: Attend with full dossier.
Processing: 8–12 weeks average.
Residence Permit: Register within 14 days of arrival.
SEO Tip: Start your Switzerland study visa application at least 4 months before classes begin.
Cost of Living in Switzerland
| Expense | CHF | INR (×109) | |
| Rent | 600–800 | ₹ 65,400–87,200 | |
| Food | 300 | ₹ 32,700 | |
| Transport | 70 | ₹ 7,630 | |
| Health Insurance | 100 | ₹ 10,900 | |
| Miscellaneous | 200 | ₹ 21,800 | |
| Total | 1,270–1,470 | ₹ 1.38–1.60 Lakh |
Language & IELTS Requirements
| Language of Instruction | Test Options | Required Score |
| English | IELTS (6.0–7.0), TOEFL, PTE | ≥ 6.0 IELTS |
| German | TestDaF, Goethe Zertifikat | B2–C1 |
| French | DELF/DALF | B2–C1 |
Note: Some universities waive tests if prior education was in English.
Part-Time Work Rules
After 6 months of enrollment: work up to 15 hrs/week (typically earning CHF 20–25/hour, i.e. ₹ 2,180–2,725/hour).
During vacations: full-time allowed (up to 40–44 hrs/week, potential monthly earnings CHF 3,200–4,400, i.e. ₹ 3.49–4.80 Lakh/year).
Work permit needed from your canton.
Top Scholarships for Indian Students
Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships
ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship
EPFL Excellence Fellowships
University-specific grants (Geneva, Lausanne)
Stipends often ~CHF 1,900/month + tuition waiver.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on
Switzerland Study Visa
1. What are the processing times for a Switzerland study visa?
The average processing time is 8–12 weeks, but it’s best to apply 4 months before your program starts to avoid delays.
2. How much money do I need in a blocked account?
You must deposit CHF 21,000 (approx. ₹ 2,289,000) in a Swiss blocked account to cover one year of living expenses.
3. Can I work part-time while studying in Switzerland?
Yes—after 6 months of enrollment, you can work up to 15 hours/week (CHF 20–25/hr). During vacations, full-time work (up to 44 hrs/week) is permitted.
4. Do Indian students need a foundation year?
If you have a 12-year education, many Swiss universities offer a one-year foundation program to meet the 13-year requirement.
5. Are there scholarships for Indian students?
Absolutely—options include Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships, ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship, and EPFL Fellowships, covering tuition and a monthly stipend (~CHF 1,900).
6. How long can I stay in Switzerland after graduation?
Graduates can apply for a six-month job search permit to seek employment or start a career in Switzerland.
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In case you are in doubt about Can You Beat the High Cost of AP Exams?
Feel free to read this: Guide to Indian Government Scholarships for Studying Abroad After 12th Grade
Hope your study abroad dreams get fulfilled and you stay connected with family for Indian students
