Study In Switzerland
Table of content
How to Apply for a Switzerland Student VISA
- Get the university’s acceptance letter and pay the fees/deposit to confirm your seat.
- Book an appointment with the Swiss embassy or consulate at least 6 months before.
- Attend the interview scheduled by the embassy/consulate. Remember to take all necessary documents, such as the VISA application form and other enquired documents
- It will take 12 weeks to hear about your VISA decision.
- Once your VISA is accepted and you arrive in Switzerland within 14 days, file for a residence permit. This can be done at the cantonal immigration office. The permit will take time; thus, you’ll receive a preliminary document.
Important Documents to be Carried During the Student VISA Interview
Types of Student VISA to Study in Switzerland
C VISA (Schengen VISA)
This is a short-term VISA for students whose course completes within three months.
This VISA is for students who stay in Switzerland for a shorter duration.
The VISA is applicable for students who complete their academic within three months.
This VISA suits students who enter Switzerland to attend seminars, summer schools and language schools.
D VISA (National VISA)
This is a long-term VISA for students who opted for courses that require more than 90 days of academic learning.
The VISA is for students who applied to study in a full-time program.
The VISA is applicable for students who complete their academics within 90 days or longer.
This VISA can be obtained by applying in person with the local Swiss embassy or consulates in a student’s home country.
| Name of Scholarship | Description | Amount in CHF |
| Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship | Applicable to foreign scholars and artists to pursue research and art studies. | Yet to announce |
| University of Lausanne Scholarship | Pursue Masters grant at University of Lausanne | 1.600 CHF/per month |
| Franklin Honours Program Award | Pursue bachelors program at Franklin University | 2,776 CHF- 9,222 CHF |
| Responsible Leadership Scholarship program | Pursue Masters of Science/Arts at Franklin University | 6,2550 CHF (offer 25% of tuition fees) |
| Ann Gardiner Award in Sustainability | Pursue degree in environmental science, heritage and other environmental studies | 2,305 CHF- 4,611 CHF |
| Heyning-Roelli Foundation from University of Bern | Be a part of an exchange program at partner universities | Covers travel, and subsistence expenses |
Post Study Work VISA
- L Permit: Students can avail of a temporary residence permit to stay in Switzerland for up to a year. This is with reference to studies or job that last during this period.
- B Permit: Students can apply for this residence permit for up to a year, however, its period can be renewed further.
- C Permit: Students looking to retrieve Swiss citizenship can apply for a C Permit. This is required when applying for PR in Switzerland.
PR in Switzerland
Students who have stayed in Switzerland for 10 years are eligible to apply for PR here. A C Permit is required for the process to kickstart. Students with good records stand a higher chance of obtaining a PR. However, there are a few exceptions, such as students from the USA or Canada can apply for PR in Switzerland after 5 years.
It is suggested that students visit the local cantonal immigration process to conduct or learn about the PR process in Switzerland.
