Basel Switzerland
Population:	174,000
Number of universities:	3
Study programmes:	Bachelors in Basel Masters in Basel PhDs in Basel

Basel

Ever imagined your study abroad city could double as an art gallery and a science hub? Let’s talk about your next destination.

Basel, where three countries meet, and culture, creativity, and cutting-edge research come together. It’s a city that balances history with innovation, and it’s compact enough to feel cosy, but global enough to keep things exciting.

If you're looking for a place that’s walkable, welcoming, and full of personality, Basel might just surprise you.

Study in Basel: Find Bachelors and Masters

Living in Basel as a Student

Basel is one of Switzerland’s most livable cities, offering a high standard of living with a vibrant student community. On average, international students spend between CHF 1,400 and CHF 1,800 per month, with rent typically ranging from CHF 600 to CHF 1,000 depending on the area and housing type.

The city offers something for every taste: riverside chill spots along the Rhine, buzzing student bars, art exhibitions, and plenty of green spaces to relax between classes. Plus, the city’s location makes it easy to hop over to Germany or France on a whim.

Study.eu Tip: Start your accommodation search early, student housing in Swiss cities is limited and competitive, especially before the semester begins.

Universities in Basel

Basel is a major centre for research and higher education, with universities that are known around the world. Here's where you can study:

University of Basel: Switzerland’s oldest university, founded in 1460, and one of its most prestigious. Known for its strong programmes in life sciences, humanities, law, and social sciences, and for world-class research in medicine and pharma.
FHNW (University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland): Offers a wide range of practical, career-focused programmes in fields like business, engineering, social work, art, and design, with modern campuses including in the Basel area.
Basel School of Business (BSB): A smaller, private institution offering business and management degrees in English, with a strong international focus.

Thinking of doing your Master? Don’t miss our full guide on Master’s programmes in Switzerland to explore your options, understand tuition fees, and learn how to apply.

Universities in Basel: Degrees fully taught in English

Job Opportunities

Basel is one of Europe’s top hubs for the pharmaceutical, biotech, and life sciences industries, home to global giants like Roche and Novartis. That means great internship and career opportunities for students in science, business, IT, and more.

Part-time jobs in cafés, shops, or event venues are also available, especially if you speak some German. Many students find positions in admin roles or tutoring, and universities often have job portals and career services to help you get started.

EU/EEA students can work freely in Switzerland, while non-EU students with a residence permit can work up to 15 hours a week during the semester, and full-time during semester breaks.

Getting There and Around

Getting to Basel is easy. The city has its own international airport (EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg) with affordable flights across Europe. Plus, it’s well-connected by train to Zurich, Bern, and international cities like Paris and Frankfurt.

Public transport in Basel is efficient and clean, with a great tram and bus network that gets you just about anywhere in the city. Many students also get around by bike, and if you live centrally, walking is always a good option too.

Whether you're heading to lectures, catching a museum exhibit, or crossing the border for a weekend trip, Basel makes it easy to move, explore, and feel at home.