Why Indian Students Are Seeking Career-Prepared Education in Switzerland

09 July 2025

Switzerland is famous for its lovely mountains and expensive watches, but it is the original thing that is finding it so popular in the academic sector is its Dual Education System. It is different from all the other academic courses, where there is a mix of academic courses and practical industry training. For Indian students studying abroad, this could be the perfect method of gaining a qualification as well as professional know-how simultaneously.

At BCES Admissions Abroad, we allow students to venture beyond the conventional countries. The Switzerland alternate model of education is increasingly gaining popularity among Indian applicants who believe in career-focused learning, cost-effectiveness, and vocational superiority over scholastic study.

What is Switzerland’s Dual Education System?

The Dual Education System is a fused variant that incorporates vocational training (apprenticeship) and education. Approximately 70% of Swiss pupils take this pathway after secondary school. They divide their time between education lessons (typically 1–2 days a week) and remunerated work-based learning (3–4 days a week) in an associated company.

This program is well embraced by international employers and provides learners with a solid foundation in the workplace even before graduation. The areas of hospitality, IT, banking, healthcare, engineering, and business administration are some of the areas where learners are allowed to acquire practical experience.

Can Indian students enroll in this program?

Yes, Indian students will gain but there are conditions. Dual education schemes are normally aimed at Swiss citizens and EU/EEA students. Nevertheless, international students, such as Indians, can gain from the schemes either via private schools or vocational degrees at the university level that include internships.

Swiss universities such as BFH, FHNW, and EHL presently conduct practice-integrated bachelor’s and master’s courses in such fields as hospitality, business, and engineering. Some of them permit Indian students to work part-time legally in connected fields while studying—a virtual copy of the dual model.

Besides this, some institutions have partnerships with leading Swiss corporations such as Nestlé, UBS, Novartis, and Swisscom, which offer scope for high-scoring international students.

Benefits for Indian Students

Practical Work Experience: Rather than studying only theories, practical skills are developed and a good CV is established.

Industry Exposure: Get exposed to Swiss professionals, international work culture, and be future-ready.

Financial Advantage: The students of dual programs generally receive a stipend during apprenticeship, hence lowering the cost.

Career Opportunities: With Swiss experience and qualifications, students can find jobs in Europe, India, or internationally.

Multicultural Education: Switzerland has four national languages and students from over 120 nations, and is therefore a multicultural learning environment.

Points to Remember

Language Requirement: German, French, or Italian are some of the languages in which some of the courses are conducted. However, the majority of universities now offer English-taught double-track programs, namely business and hospitality.

Admission Criteria: Double education programs usually require prior academic foundation in similar disciplines and elementary knowledge of the German language at times.

Visa Regulations: Indian students need to verify visa regulations related to internships and paid work experience. Typically, the students can work 15 hours per week during term time and full-time holiday periods.

We here at BCES Admissions Abroad lead Indian students to courses that give them more than a degree. Switzerland’s dual course system develops skills, improves employability, and provides a budget-friendly, well-rounded international education. We can assist you in choosing the ideal practice-based course and guide you through the study abroad experience.

Ready to find out about Switzerland’s practice-based learning style? Call BCES Admissions Abroad now at +91 8800096600 and begin your international education experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Yes, but non-EU citizens are excluded from public vocational training. However, students can pursue similar practice-based courses conducted by private institutions and universities.

Yes, most Swiss universities teach dual-style courses in English nowadays, particularly in areas such as hospitality, business, and engineering.

Yes, in most instances. Students taking part in official apprenticeship schemes or work experience internships will receive a stipend, subject to company and contract.

Few of the programs would have minimum language proficiency based on where you are. Most of them are carried out entirely in English, particularly in cities and foreign institutions.

Yes, foreign graduates may remain in Switzerland for 6 months to pursue jobs after graduation according to Swiss law. Provided they are working, they may obtain a work permit.

Swiss tuition fees are relatively lower than the UK or the US, from CHF 1,000 to CHF 4,000 annually in state universities. The cost of living is CHF 1,300–2,000 per month.