Switzerland is home to some of the world’s most prestigious universities and hospitality schools, attracting thousands of international students each year.
So, here are the best Swiss universities for international students
Top Public Swiss Universities for International Students
- ETH Zurich – world-renowned for engineering, technology, and natural sciences.
- University of Zurich – strong in business, humanities, and social sciences.
- EPFL (École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne) – innovation and cutting-edge research hub.
- University of Geneva – popular for international relations and law.
- University of Basel – one of the oldest universities, with top programs in medicine and life sciences.
Leading Private Universities & Hospitality Schools
Switzerland is also famous for its private institutions, especially in hospitality, tourism, and business:
- Les Roches Global Hospitality Education – ranked among the world’s top hospitality schools.
- Glion Institute of Higher Education (Glion) – known for luxury hospitality, business, and event management.
- Hotel Institute Montreux (HIM) – combines hospitality training with business education.
- Swiss Education Group (SEG) schools – including César Ritz Colleges and Culinary Arts Academy.
These institutions provide internationally recognized degrees and career pathways in hospitality and business management.
Visa and Student Permit Information
For international students planning to study in Switzerland:
- Short programs (under 90 days) generally require only a Schengen visa.
- Long-term degree programs (over 90 days) require a National Student Visa (D visa).
- Once in Switzerland, students must apply for a residence permit (Permis B), which allows them to live and study legally during their program.
Why Choose Swiss Universities?
- High academic and professional standards
- A global hub for hospitality and business education
- Multicultural environment with students from over 100 countries
- Career opportunities in Europe and worldwide
GlobalLink Suisse assists international students in selecting the best Swiss university or hospitality school and supports them through the visa and residence permit process. Contact now and we’ll together create the perfect plan for you.


