Study in Zurich, Switzerland
Photo by Samira
Thinking about studying in Switzerland but want something a bit more dynamic than a quiet mountain town? Say hallo to Zurich.
This city on the banks of Lake Zurich mixes old charm with modern energy, making it a fantastic place to live and study. Known as Switzerland’s financial and innovation capital, Zurich also has a fun, youthful side with green parks, cafés, and a vibrant arts scene.
It’s clean, safe, and international, with highly-ranked universities, a top quality of life, and endless opportunities to explore.
Study in Zurich: Find Bachelors and Masters
Zurich may be one of the most expensive cities in Europe, but it also offers one of the highest standards of living. Students usually spend between CHF 1,300 and CHF 1,800 per month to cover housing, food, transport, health insurance, and leisure. Accommodation alone typically ranges from CHF 600 to CHF 1,000, depending on the type and location.
Despite its reputation as a business hub, Zurich has a thriving student scene thanks to its large international student population and numerous cultural events, open-air festivals, lakeside hangouts, and cozy cafés. Student life is active year-round, and areas like Kreis 4 and 5 are especially popular for nightlife and creative spaces.
Study.eu Tip: Switzerland has an excellent public transport network, but students can save money by getting discounted travel passes or bike subscriptions. Worth it if you plan to explore the city or head to the Alps on weekends.
Zurich is home to some of the most prestigious universities in Europe, offering top-tier education in a wide range of disciplines. Here’s an overview of the main institutions:
Curious about what it's like to pursue a graduate degree in this country? From tuition fees to application tips, our Master’s guide to studying in Switzerland covers everything you need to know.
Universities in Zurich: Degrees fully taught in English
With strengths in finance, technology, pharmaceuticals, and design, there are plenty of opportunities for students to find part-time jobs or internships while they study. International companies, innovative startups, and research institutes all have a presence in the city, which makes Zurich a smart choice if you're hoping to combine studies with career-building experience.
EU/EEA students are free to work in Switzerland without needing a work permit, while non-EU students with a residence permit can work up to 15 hours per week during the semester and full-time during holidays. Many students pick up jobs in cafés, shops, or as tutors, while others land internships in business, tech, or creative industries.
Some universities have career centers and job platforms to help connect students with local opportunities. While English is often used in academic and professional settings, knowing some German will definitely boost your chances of finding a job, especially in more public-facing roles.
Getting to Zurich is easy, thanks to its international airport (ZRH), which is just 10 km from the city center and offers direct flights to most major European and global destinations. If you're already in Europe, the city is also accessible by train, with direct and high-speed connections to cities like Munich, Milan, and Vienna.
Once you're in Zurich, moving around is super convenient. Students can buy monthly or semester passes at discounted rates, making it easy to get to class or explore the city and surrounding lakes and mountains. Cycling is another great option, especially in the warmer months.
Search universities & programmes in Zurich 
