The Best Universities in Zurich

Zurich offers all the excitement and opportunity of an international city, as well as an inspiring atmosphere for university study. When it’s time for a break, its lake and mountains are not far away. So, what are the best universities in Zurich?

The city offers among the world’s top-ranked institutions along with a range of specialised universities and business schools. Students can study in German or English, with many master’s programmes fully international. It’s easy to call Zurich home with its safety, quality of life, and career opportunities. This guide is here to help you find the right fit and understand why so many families see Zurich as one of Europe’s best places to study.

How do families choose the best Zurich university for their child?

Choosing a university in Zurich is about finding the right mix of academics and environment. The city’s universities have excellent teachers, modern facilities, and strong links to companies and research centres. The city of Zurich itself feels calm, safe, and offers plenty of cultural institutions to inspire creative thought, as well as the kinds of leisure spaces for students to take a break. 

The first thing to check is if the admission requirements suit your child’s background, from previous qualifications to language skills. Most bachelor’s programmes are taught in German, while many master’s degrees are in English. Tuition is something every parent thinks about. If budget is a concern, the public universities here offer great value with high standards and strong international reputations. They attract bright students and professors from all over the world. When you can, we suggest that you visit the campuses, join taster days, and talk to other students. 

Admission to Zurich’s universities is meticulous. Bachelor’s applicants must have a recognised secondary qualification equivalent to the Swiss Maturité and strong grades, especially in relevant subjects. Programmes taught in German require a high level of proficiency, usually at least C1, while master’s and doctoral programmes often accept English-language qualifications such as IELTS or TOEFL. Postgraduate applicants need a relevant bachelor’s degree, academic transcripts, a motivation letter, and sometimes recommendation letters or proof of professional experience. Application deadlines usually fall between February and March for the autumn intake. 

 

Practical considerations for choosing a university in Zurich

Student life in Zurich is a great mix of academic challenge and everyday enjoyment. Tuition at public universities is reasonable, but housing and living costs can be high. To counter the high living costs, students recommend taking advantage of every discount possible with your student card. Students also recommend eating at the university cafeteria and shopping for discounted groceries at the end of the day at Denner.

In terms of housing, most students spend between CHF 700 and 1,200 a month for a room. Areas such as Oerlikon, Altstetten, and Wiedikon are well connected and popular with students, while nearby towns like Winterthur, Dietikon, Adliswil, and Uster are ideal for those willing to commute. Trains run frequently, and the ride to central Zurich usually takes less than 30 minutes so it’s easy to live outside the city and still take full advantage of university life.

Outside academics, Zurich offers a lifestyle that balances study and leisure beautifully. Students enjoy a safe, friendly city with parks, cafés, cultural events, and the lake close by for swimming or picnics. Langstrasse is a popular street for students to meet in the evening. With excellent public transport, student discounts, and countless opportunities for internships, Zurich provides a truly world-class environment for both learning and living.

This guide to Zurich universities is here to help families choose the best fit for their child. It also shares practical insights on expat life in Zurich to make both the decision and the move a little smoother and more informed.

UNIVERSITIES IN OR NEAR ZURICH

More Universities in Zurich

Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich (ETH Zurich)

Universität Zürich

ARTICLES

This section brings together a selection of articles about education and everyday life in Zurich. From choosing the right school to settling into Switzerland’s largest city, it offers helpful advice and trusted insights for families and newcomers alike.