15 Cheapest Universities in Switzerland for International Students

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In Switzerland, there are a lot of affordable universities that you can find. Enrolling in these schools will help you fulfill your dream of studying in Switzerland without paying a lot. These institutions also provide well-rounded academic programs and curriculums, allowing students to earn a degree with less burden on their pockets.

Now, if you’re planning to study in Switzerland, you’ll have a lot of school options, as they are home to 23 universities. But if you’re looking for cheap universities in Switzerland, make sure to read more!

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Cheap Bachelor's Colleges and Universities in Switzerland for International Students

Here is the list of affordable institutions in Switzerland ordered by their tuition fee for international bachelor's students.

University Annual Bachelor’s International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
University of Geneva 1,000 CHF 89%
University of Lausanne 1,160 CHF 87%
University of Basel 1,700 CHF 81%
University of Fribourg 1,740 CHF 81%
University of Bern 1,900 CHF 79%
University of Lucerne 2,050 CHF 77%
University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland 2,100 CHF 76%
University of Zurich 2,440 CHF 72%
Zurich University of Applied Sciences 2,440 CHF 72%
Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts 2,600 CHF 71%
University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland 3,200 CHF 64%
ETH Zürich 4,380 CHF 50%
École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) 4,380 CHF 50%
Bern University of Applied Sciences 5,100 CHF 42%
University of St. Gallen 6,258 CHF 29%

* Average Bachelor’s International Tuition is 8,709 CHF for universities in Switzerland.

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1. University of Geneva

University of Geneva (UNIGE) is one of the leading universities in Switzerland. The institution is, in fact, listed as one of the prominent universities across the globe. It offers more than 500 academic programs at all levels (bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral). Undoubtedly, UNIGE only provides high standards of teaching and research. The university puts great importance on its education, and the quality of teaching and training is highly regarded as one of the best in the world.

2. University of Lausanne

The University of Lausanne has been in the education industry for more than 480 years. It was initially established to educate pastors and clerics. Over the years, it has expanded to provide exemplary interdisciplinary programs in various fields such as business, biology, medicine, law, geosciences, and political sciences. In addition, the university has an international reputation as one of the most renowned universities all over Europe and, as well, as one of the top universities globally.

3. University of Basel

Established in 1460 and known as the oldest university in Switzerland, the University of Basel plays a significant role in the country’s northwestern region. Throughout the years, the school has greatly impacted the local community with its contributions to research and advancements. As one of the reputable higher education schools in the country, numerous international students and faculty are enticed to be part of the university. Moreover, the university has positioned itself as one of the ideal universities for prospective students across the globe.

4. University of Fribourg

The University of Fribourg provides an excellent environment for students to research, study, and work. It is determined to promote a sense of responsibility among its students and staff, which is why it maintains a highly productive learning approach. The university has been actively cooperating with various Swiss and foreign institutes to strengthen its external relationships.

5. University of Bern

One of Switzerland’s top-tier institutions, the University of Bern, offers a wide range of bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate programs. They are highly known for their comprehensive quality education and research. As they continue their legacy in providing education to everyone, they received many awards and achievements in the field.

6. University of Lucerne

University of Lucerne is a young institution in Switzerland that was only established in 2000. It offers a wide range of comprehensive study programs at all levels. The quality of education is among the best in the country, and each program is explicitly designed and structured to the students’ needs. Additionally, the university is fully committed to providing high standards of teaching and research. It has partnered with several renowned universities and companies to strengthen and improve its education system and develop more diverse multidisciplinary studies.

7. University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland

University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland (HES-SO) is one of Switzerland’s most prominent applied sciences universities. It provides interdisciplinary programs at the bachelor’s and master’s levels. 46 undergraduate and more than 25 master’s programs are offered at the university. HES-SO has joint agreements with other prestigious institutions in the country. At present, the university has at least 28 affiliated schools providing top-rated courses to its students.

8. University of Zurich

As the largest university in Switzerland, the University of Zurich offers the widest range of degree programs among all institutions in the country. It has a strong reputation for quality education, particularly in the fields of biology and medicine. The university also has an international reputation for being among the best in research. Today, it continues to develop valuable partnerships with research centers around the globe.

9. Zurich University of Applied Sciences

Known as the ZFH, the Zürcher Fachhochschule is an institution that is made up of four different colleges, which cover the following academic areas: applied sciences, arts, teacher education, and business administration. Due to the four different universities under its name, the ZFH covers a wide range of academic programs while hosting many of its students. In total, the undergraduate programs that you can choose from are nearly 40 in number, and for graduate programs, over 20 master’s programs are offered at ZFH to prospective applicants.

10. Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts

Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts is considered the largest educational institution in Central Switzerland. Throughout the years, it has built a great reputation when it comes to engineering, business, and social work courses, among others. As a place where research and education connect, the university continues to innovate its teaching approach and training facilities to welcome more students from different parts of the world.

11. University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland

Shortened for SUPSI, the University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland is one of many public institutions located in the small country of Switzerland. However, there is something special regarding this specific institution since SUPSI is one of only nine universities of applied sciences that are recognized by the Swiss Government. Supported financially by the backing of the government, this university offers a variety of courses in undergraduate and graduate coursework.

12. ETH Zürich

A world-class institution, ETH Zurich was established by the Swiss Government in 1855 with the goal of producing more scientists and engineers in the country. Today, they are highly recognized for their research contributions and academic courses. ETH Zurich specializes in technology, science, math, and engineering programs.

13. École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL)

École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), also known as the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne, has a long history that can be traced back to 1853. However, since its inception, the institution has undergone several redevelopments and rebranding. EPFL was reestablished in 1969 and has used its official name since then. Over the years, it has become one of the prominent institutions in Switzerland, occupying high positions in several prestigious higher education world rankings. A truly remarkable institute that produces world-class talents.

14. Bern University of Applied Sciences

Bern University of Applied Sciences offers an interdisciplinary approach where students can gain adequate learning in a wide range of subjects through research and discussions. It also has a deep international orientation and coordinates with numerous institutions and commercial enterprises globally. The university greatly values strategic education and continually aims to provide excellent teaching in the country.

15. University of St. Gallen

The University of St. Gallen upholds a practice-oriented approach when training its students’ skills and abilities. The university is already known for its economics, management, and social sciences courses, which is why it is one of the leading educational institutions in the country. The University of St. Gallen ensures that students will not only conduct basic research but will also be able to apply it to society through actual experience.

Cheap Master's Colleges and Universities in Switzerland for International Students

Here is the list of affordable institutions in Switzerland ordered by their tuition fee for international master's students.

University Annual Master's International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
University of Geneva 1,000 CHF 86%
University of Lausanne 1,160 CHF 84%
University of Zurich 1,640 CHF 77%
University of Basel 1,700 CHF 76%
University of Fribourg 1,740 CHF 75%
University of Bern 1,900 CHF 73%
University of Lucerne 2,050 CHF 71%
University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland 2,100 CHF 70%
Zurich University of Applied Sciences 2,440 CHF 65%
Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts 2,600 CHF 63%
University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland 3,200 CHF 55%
ETH Zürich 4,380 CHF 38%
École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) 4,380 CHF 38%
Bern University of Applied Sciences 5,100 CHF 27%
University of St. Gallen 6,658 CHF 5%

* Average Master's International Tuition is 6,959 CHF for universities in Switzerland.

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1. University of Geneva

University of Geneva (UNIGE) is one of the leading universities in Switzerland. The institution is, in fact, listed as one of the prominent universities across the globe. It offers more than 500 academic programs at all levels (bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral). Undoubtedly, UNIGE only provides high standards of teaching and research. The university puts great importance on its education, and the quality of teaching and training is highly regarded as one of the best in the world.

If you're looking to save the most on your graduate studies abroad, University of Geneva should be at the top of your list. International students here pay only 1,000 CHF annually for their master's degree.

2. University of Lausanne

One of the universities you should definitely check out for practical reasons is University of Lausanne. Here, you can finish your master's degree with minimal stress on your finances. After all, the tuition rate for graduate studies at University of Lausanne is 1,160 CHF.

The University of Lausanne has been in the education industry for more than 480 years. It was initially established to educate pastors and clerics. Over the years, it has expanded to provide exemplary interdisciplinary programs in various fields such as business, biology, medicine, law, geosciences, and political sciences. In addition, the university has an international reputation as one of the most renowned universities all over Europe and, as well, as one of the top universities globally.

3. University of Zurich

As the largest university in Switzerland, the University of Zurich offers the widest range of degree programs among all institutions in the country. It has a strong reputation for quality education, particularly in the fields of biology and medicine. The university also has an international reputation for being among the best in research. Today, it continues to develop valuable partnerships with research centers around the globe.

The tuition fee at University of Zurich for incoming international master’s students is 1,640 CHF. With its cheap rates, you can guarantee you’ll get a quality education without breaking the bank!

4. University of Basel

Another affordable university to consider in Switzerland is University of Basel.

Established in 1460 and known as the oldest university in Switzerland, the University of Basel plays a significant role in the country’s northwestern region. Throughout the years, the school has greatly impacted the local community with its contributions to research and advancements. As one of the reputable higher education schools in the country, numerous international students and faculty are enticed to be part of the university. Moreover, the university has positioned itself as one of the ideal universities for prospective students across the globe.

The tuition fee in University of Basel for master’s program for foreign students starts from 1,700 CHF.

5. University of Fribourg

Aside from its outstanding quality of education, University of Fribourg has some of the lowest tuition fee prices for foreign students who are planning to take a master's degree here. International master's students only pay as low as 1,740 CHF yearly.

The University of Fribourg provides an excellent environment for students to research, study, and work. It is determined to promote a sense of responsibility among its students and staff, which is why it maintains a highly productive learning approach. The university has been actively cooperating with various Swiss and foreign institutes to strengthen its external relationships.

6. University of Bern

One of Switzerland’s top-tier institutions, the University of Bern, offers a wide range of bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate programs. They are highly known for their comprehensive quality education and research. As they continue their legacy in providing education to everyone, they received many awards and achievements in the field.

7. University of Lucerne

University of Lucerne is a young institution in Switzerland that was only established in 2000. It offers a wide range of comprehensive study programs at all levels. The quality of education is among the best in the country, and each program is explicitly designed and structured to the students’ needs. Additionally, the university is fully committed to providing high standards of teaching and research. It has partnered with several renowned universities and companies to strengthen and improve its education system and develop more diverse multidisciplinary studies.

8. University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland

University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland (HES-SO) is one of Switzerland’s most prominent applied sciences universities. It provides interdisciplinary programs at the bachelor’s and master’s levels. 46 undergraduate and more than 25 master’s programs are offered at the university. HES-SO has joint agreements with other prestigious institutions in the country. At present, the university has at least 28 affiliated schools providing top-rated courses to its students.

9. Zurich University of Applied Sciences

Known as the ZFH, the Zürcher Fachhochschule is an institution that is made up of four different colleges, which cover the following academic areas: applied sciences, arts, teacher education, and business administration. Due to the four different universities under its name, the ZFH covers a wide range of academic programs while hosting many of its students. In total, the undergraduate programs that you can choose from are nearly 40 in number, and for graduate programs, over 20 master’s programs are offered at ZFH to prospective applicants.

10. Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts

Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts is considered the largest educational institution in Central Switzerland. Throughout the years, it has built a great reputation when it comes to engineering, business, and social work courses, among others. As a place where research and education connect, the university continues to innovate its teaching approach and training facilities to welcome more students from different parts of the world.

11. University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland

Shortened for SUPSI, the University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland is one of many public institutions located in the small country of Switzerland. However, there is something special regarding this specific institution since SUPSI is one of only nine universities of applied sciences that are recognized by the Swiss Government. Supported financially by the backing of the government, this university offers a variety of courses in undergraduate and graduate coursework.

12. ETH Zürich

A world-class institution, ETH Zurich was established by the Swiss Government in 1855 with the goal of producing more scientists and engineers in the country. Today, they are highly recognized for their research contributions and academic courses. ETH Zurich specializes in technology, science, math, and engineering programs.

13. École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL)

École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), also known as the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne, has a long history that can be traced back to 1853. However, since its inception, the institution has undergone several redevelopments and rebranding. EPFL was reestablished in 1969 and has used its official name since then. Over the years, it has become one of the prominent institutions in Switzerland, occupying high positions in several prestigious higher education world rankings. A truly remarkable institute that produces world-class talents.

14. Bern University of Applied Sciences

Bern University of Applied Sciences offers an interdisciplinary approach where students can gain adequate learning in a wide range of subjects through research and discussions. It also has a deep international orientation and coordinates with numerous institutions and commercial enterprises globally. The university greatly values strategic education and continually aims to provide excellent teaching in the country.

15. University of St. Gallen

The University of St. Gallen upholds a practice-oriented approach when training its students’ skills and abilities. The university is already known for its economics, management, and social sciences courses, which is why it is one of the leading educational institutions in the country. The University of St. Gallen ensures that students will not only conduct basic research but will also be able to apply it to society through actual experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I get admission to affordable universities in Switzerland?

Applying to cheap universities in Switzerland requires you to complete different requirements depending on your degree and chosen university. These usually include admission forms, language proficiency scores, and a visa. Check out our full guide to studying in Switzerland for a more comprehensive guide!

2. What can I study at Best affordable universities in Switzerland?

International students can study a variety of programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels in Switzerland. For example, one of the best affordable schools in Switzerland is the Bern University of Applied Sciences, which offers Architecture, Art Education, and Business Administration to students seeking a bachelor’s degree. At the master’s level, the Bern University of Applied Sciences offers Biomedical Engineering, Conservation-Restoration, and Contemporary Arts Practice.

It's important to take a look at all your options when selecting where to attend post-secondary school. With so many different types of schools, degrees, and universities in Switzerland, it can be tough to know where to start looking.

So, make sure to explore the best public universities in Switzerland as well if you're looking for affordable education!

We hope that this article on affordable institutions in Switzerland for international students was helpful!