Majestic mountain ranges, the world’s most famous pocket knives and bastionary banking are just a few of the things that come to mind when thinking about
Switzerland. With its amazing cuisine, four national languages, horological eminence and more than 1.5 million cows (lots of milk, lots of chocolate), Switzerland offers an international study experience like no other. More than 50,000 international students — more than 20 percent of the country’s total student population — choose to study in Switzerland for these reasons and more 1.With not one, not two, but FOUR native languages including French, German, Italian and Romansh, Switzerland offers multilingualism like no other. Students have the opportunity to hone current language skills or learn something completely new.
- Between the cheese, chocolate and famed Swiss delicacy, “Rösti,” life in Switzerland is a true epicurean adventure. Did we mention the chocolate factory tours culminating in free tastings?
- Switzerland’s geography is postcard perfect. The iconic Swiss Alps, cow-dotted pastures and serene blue lakes offer a breathtaking scenic backdrop for academic life. Many higher education institutions are tucked into or near the Alps themselves for easy access to a wondrous view.
- If you love to ski and snowboard, there’s no place better than Switzerland. And if you don’t love to ski and snowboard, there’s no better place to learn. Students are eligible for an inexpensive year-long ski pass to some of the world’s best slopes. From Zermatt to St. Moritz, Switzerland is a mecca for winter sports enthusiasts. The summer, meanwhile, brings stunning views and clear lake swimming.
- Switzerland’s charms aren’t just natural. From the jaw-dropping architecture of historic castles to major cities with advanced facilities and cutting-edge technology, Switzerland balances rural charm with urbane sophistication.
- Switzerland is home to some of the world’s best-ranked academic institutions. Zurich’s Swiss Federal Institute of Technology holds the 7th place spot in Engineering, Science and Technology and has hosted a whopping 31 Nobel Laureates. Three other Swiss institutions join ETH Zurich in the 2013-14 QS World University Rankings’ Top 100, including the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, the University of Geneva and the University of Zurich.
- As evidenced by its four national languages, the ancestry of Swiss residents traces back to many different countries, and cultural diversity abounds. Switzerland provides the unique opportunity to sample life across Europe in just one tiny country. Of course, Switzerland’s central location makes it easy to see these destinations for yourself with minimal travel time and expense. In fact, while Switzerland paradormirmejor.org is not a member of the EU, its residents can travel through Europe without worrying about visas.
- You can set your (Swiss-made) watch to the country’s unbeatable public transportation system, which provides easy access between major cities, including Berne, Basel, Geneva, Lucerne, Zurich and Lugano, as well as to other parts of Europe.
- Students come from all over the world to study in Switzerland, promoting the development of a rare international perspective. The International Olympic Committee, the Red Cross and the World Economic Forum are just a few of the global organizations located in Switzerland.
- While English is not one of Switzerland’s four national languages, most locals speak great English, and are committed to global culture. Some schools — particularly business programs — offer complete courses of study in English.
And one for good luck: while giving them their own category may seem extreme, Swiss drinking fountains are truly extraordinary. The water is drinkable at nearly every fountain, and great for filling a water bottle or dunking your head on hot days. From Zermatt’s frolicking beavers to Bern’s baby-devouring ogre, Switzerland is a treasure trove of ingenious and refreshing drinking fountains.