As an addition to the number of tourists in Switzerland, there are more and more young people from all over the world coming to study there every year. We all know it's not easy to decide on such a big step and to continue your education abroad. However, if you've overcome this and if you’ve realized that there are more reasons to do it than to not, it would be good to put Swiss universities at the top of your list.
Here's why.
By many people Switzerland is considered to be the Holy Grail for students. Most of the students are of the opinion that the faculties in Switzerland are strict, but that those are highly esteemed institutions of a really good quality that connect rich tradition with modern age necessities. They are said to provide both knowledge and proficiency and to offer a right balance between theory and practice. Diplomas of Swiss universities are recognized worldwide, so that no certification is required if you are applying for a job in a foreign company.
Top Universities
If you have decided to study in Switzerland, you should know first that you can attend the classes in three official languages (German, French and Italian), and that many faculties also provide education in English. There are 12 universities in Switzerland, distributed in different language areas. In the German-speaking area there are 6, in the French area there are 4 and the one in Italian. In Freiburg there is a bilingual university where you can follow the classes both in German and French.
Universities in Basel, Bern, Zurich, Lucerne and St. Galen are located in the German speaking region of Switzerland, just like the Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich (ETH Zurich).
In the French-speaking region there are universities in Geneva, Lausanne and Neuchatel, as well as other Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne (EPFL). Universita della Svizzera Italiana is located in Lugano and the classes are taught in Italian.
World Famous Professors and a Lot of Practice
The Swiss faculties are also known for their international professors, for their large and well-equipped laboratories and for a lot of practice in every domain. There are also many tempting opportunities for further education (masters, doctorates), which is very stimulating.
According to Times Higher Education's World University Rankings 2016-2017, 3 Swiss universities are among the top 100 (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich (ETHZ), Swiss Federal Institute of Technology and Lausanne (EPFL), University of Basel).
You can also use a number of scholarships for students from abroad.
Interesting information is that Albert Einstein studied at ETHZ from 1896-1900.
Chocolate, Cheese and Landscapes
Switzerland has one of the highest living standards in the world. It is also at the top of the list of the countries with the best health care, low unemployment and numerous educational opportunities. Low taxes have made it very convenient to do business, so many well-known corporations go there. Numerous world organizations have their head offices in this land of marvelous landscapes. The International Olympic Committee, the Red Cross and the World Economic Forum are just a few of the global organizations located in Switzerland.
Besides the knowledge you will acquire, staying in Switzerland will provide you with many valuable experiences. Student days will be an unforgettable adventure. You will be able to enjoy the mountain lakes hidden in the deep green forests of the Alps. Many educational institutions are located near the Alps. Rural charm is combined with modern sophistication, and it allows you to enjoy historical castles and modern technology at the same time.
In Switzerland, you can treat yourself regularly with world-famous cheeses. And how about a chocolate factory tour with a free tasting?
A bonus advice for a conclusion: keep in mind that Switzerland does not belong to the EU, so make sure you get a visa. Health insurance is mandatory for all international students.