Did you know that many general managers of five-star hotels around the world share one thing in common? They studied in Switzerland. At RIM Education, we do more than simply help you study abroad; we guide you into the elite circle of the global hospitality industry. Switzerland is not only famous for its breathtaking Alpine scenery, but it is also recognized as the gold benchmark for Hospitality Management.
Why Choose Switzerland as a Study Destination?
- Practice-Based Education: The curriculum consists of 50% classroom theory and 50% paid internships at luxury hotels worldwide.
- High Internship Salary: Based on local regulations, students undergoing hospitality internships typically receive a gross salary of approximately CHF 2,303 – CHF 2,500 per month (approx. IDR 51 million – IDR 56 million).
- Global Alumni Network: Gain direct access to industry connections across every continent.
- Quality of Life & Safety: Switzerland consistently ranks as one of the safest and most comfortable countries for international students.
Favorite Cities for International Students
Each city in Switzerland offers a unique atmosphere that supports both the learning process and student lifestyle:
- Zurich: As Switzerland's largest city, Zurich is a global business and financial hub. It offers a perfect combination of quality education, job opportunities, and modern living.
- Geneva: The center of world diplomacy and home to the headquarters of the UN, WHO, and WTO. This city is ideal for students of international relations, diplomacy, and global business.
- Lausanne: Located in the French-speaking region, it is known as the Olympic capital and a rapidly growing hub for technology and innovation. It is also popular for business and hospitality.
- Lucerne & Montreux: Two beautiful cities that serve as hubs for the world's best hospitality and tourism schools.
Estimated Tuition Fees and Living Costs
Tuition Fees
The cost of tuition varies depending on the university and your chosen program of study.
| University Type | Estimated Cost (CHF) | Estimated Cost (IDR) |
| Public University | CHF 1,000 – CHF 4,000 | IDR 22 million – IDR 90 million |
| Private University | CHF 20,000 – CHF 40,000 | IDR 450 million – IDR 1 billion |
| Hospitality School | CHF 25,000 – CHF 50,000 | IDR 560 million – IDR 1.1 billion |
Tuition fees may vary depending on the university and study program you choose.
Living Costs
Living expenses in Switzerland depend on the city and lifestyle. Cities such as Zurich and Geneva are generally more expensive than Lucerne or Lausanne.
Here is the estimated monthly living cost breakdown:
| Expenses | Estimated Cost (CHF) | Estimated Cost (IDR) |
| Accommodation | CHF 700 – CHF 1,500 | IDR 15 million – IDR 34 million |
| Food | CHF 300 – CHF 600 | IDR 6.7 million – IDR 13.5 million |
| Transportation | CHF 70 – CHF 120 | IDR 1.5 million – IDR 2.7 million |
| Internet & Phone | CHF 50 – CHF 100 | IDR 1.1 million – IDR 2.2 million |
| Health Insurance | CHF 100 – CHF 350 | IDR 2.2 million – IDR 7.8 million |
| Personal Expenses | CHF 150 – CHF 400 | IDR 3.3 million – IDR 9 million |
Total Estimated Living Cost:
CHF 1,300 – CHF 2,500 per month, or approximately IDR 29 million – IDR 56 million per month.
Admission Student and Student Visa Requirements
Admission Requirements
Academic documents are among the most important requirements for university admission. For undergraduate programs, students must prepare their academic transcripts and graduation certificates. Generally, applicants must have completed high school or its equivalent.
For postgraduate programs, applicants are required to provide academic transcripts with good grades and a bachelor’s degree certificate. In addition, students should prepare a personal statement, academic or professional references, and a CV.
Besides academic documents, applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements through tests such as IELTS or TOEFL iBT. Most universities generally require IELTS scores between 6.0 – 7.0 and TOEFL iBT scores between 70 – 110. However, these requirements vary depending on the education level and program chosen.
If you choose a program taught in a local language, you may also need German language certificates (Goethe/TestDaF) or French language certificates (DELF/DALF).
Student Visa Requirements (D-Visa)
The Swiss Student Visa application process (also known as the National Type D Visa for stays longer than 90 days) is known for being strict and detail-oriented. However, RIM Education counselors are ready to assist you throughout every step of the process.
Here are the required documents and application requirements you need to prepare:
Academic & Administrative Documents
- Letter of Acceptance (LoA)
- Proof of Tuition Fee Payment
- Latest Diploma and Academic Transcript
- English Proficiency Test Results (IELTS/TOEFL iBT)
- Valid Passport
- Passport Photos
- CV (Curriculum Vitae)
- Motivation Letter
Financial Requirements
This is one of the most strictly reviewed sections by Swiss immigration authorities. You must prove that you have sufficient funds to cover at least your first-year living expenses.
- Personal or Sponsor Bank Statement:
The bank must be recognized in Switzerland or be an internationally reputable bank. The minimum required balance is generally around CHF 21,000 (or equivalent in other currencies, approximately IDR 360 million – IDR 400 million depending on exchange rates) for one year. - Sponsor Guarantee Letter (if funded by parents/third parties):
A signed sponsorship statement confirming the sponsor’s willingness to cover all tuition and living expenses, along with proof of family relationship (such as Birth Certificate and Family Card) and proof of sponsor income (salary slips/tax documents). - Scholarship Proof (if applicable):
If you receive a scholarship, include an official confirmation letter stating the scholarship coverage amount and duration.
Additional Documents
- Health Insurance:
International students are required to register for Swiss Health Insurance within 3 months after arrival. - Visa Fee Payment Proof:
Proof of payment for the visa processing fee (approximately CHF 80 – CHF 100 or around IDR 1.8 million – IDR 2.3 million).
Scholarship Opportunities
To help reduce financial burdens, there are several scholarship programs available for outstanding international students:
- Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships:
Fully funded scholarships from the Swiss Government for postgraduate students (Master’s/PhD) and researchers. - ETH Excellence Scholarship:
A scholarship from ETH Zurich for Master’s programs covering tuition fees and living expenses. - University Internal Scholarships:
Many universities and private hospitality schools offer merit-based scholarships based on academic achievements.
Career Opportunities
Switzerland offers highly promising global career prospects. As an international student, you are allowed to work part-time up to 15 hours per week during your studies and full-time during holidays.
After graduation, the Swiss Government allows international graduates to stay for up to 6 months to search for jobs relevant to their field of study. With the presence of multinational giants such as Nestlé, Novartis, Roche, Google, as well as global organizations like CERN and the World Economic Forum, your opportunities to build an international career network are wide open.
