Swiss Universities with Internship Opportunities for International Students

19 August 2025

Switzerland is renowned all over the world for its beautiful landscapes and for its excellent education system. The Swiss system of higher education is special in the sense that it brings together theory and practice. What this does for international students is that they get to go to degree courses that include internships, not books and lectures. These allow students to discover what Swiss working life is like, get job contacts, and gain practical experience as they study.

Here at BCES Admissions Abroad, we’ve observed firsthand how students succeed when they’re given both academic education and work experience. Picture studying business concepts in school during the week, and then practicing them in an internship with a multinational firm in Geneva or Zürich. That effortless integration of work and study enables students to graduate with a solid academic background and work confidence as well—making them very attractive in careers throughout the world.

Why are Internships a Top Characteristic of Swiss Education

Employers across the world now look for graduates who are work-ready from day one. Swiss universities know this is what is required and have altered a number of programs to include internships that are mandatory or optional. These internships are not add-ons but part of the course. They allow students to put what they learned in school into practice, transition more quickly to other cultures, and gain their professional identity.

Other nations such as Germany or the UK do have work placements too, but Switzerland is unique in the sense that it has an international setting, strong relations with industries, and there are plenty of multinational corporations, luxury brands, banks, and NGOs available there.

Best Swiss Companies with Internship Programs

A few Swiss schools are familiar with incorporating internships within their curricula:

École hôtelière de Lausanne (EHL)

One of the world’s leading hospitality schools, EHL mandates internships in major hotels and resorts. Such internships usually take place in high-end hospitality destinations, providing students with a cutting-edge advantage in establishing global careers.

ETH Zurich

ETH is strong in applied sciences and engineering. It offers industry internships and projects in advanced programs. Students are likely to work with corporate research and development teams and leading global companies, having real experience in innovative settings.

University of St. Gallen (HSG)

HSG is renowned for business and management. It has students undertaking internships or consulting projects. Students work with finance, consulting, or start-up companies. This prepares them for leadership roles.

Zürich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW)

ZHAW programs like Industrial Engineering and Life Sciences require students to complete their study by doing internships. Students are provided with close relationships with Swiss companies, which enable them to graduate with knowledge as well as experience.

Geneva School of Economics and Management (GSEM)

GSEM is part of the University of Geneva and provides business students with organized internships in local and international companies. Being in Geneva, which is home to many international organizations and NGOs, is a big advantage for students who want international careers.

2025 Swiss Internship Programs News

Recent development highlights that Switzerland is placing greater emphasis on concrete learning. ETH Zurich has initiated an “Industry Mentorship Initiative” with students collaborating with firms at the start of their course. The University of St. Gallen has incorporated additional internships by partnering with fintech firms, and GSEM now has hybrid internships that blend remote working with campus participation. This is a sign of Switzerland’s attempts to keep pace with evolving job markets and what students require.

Choosing a program that includes internships means completing with more than a degree—you graduate with a professional persona. BCES Admissions Abroad students often say that such internships encourage them to choose their profession, establish international contacts, and acquire job confidence. Backed by the strong Swiss brand, graduates are recognized in international competitive labor markets.

If you want to know more about the Swiss institutions that offer internships along with their courses, contact BCES Admissions Abroad today at +91 8800096600. We help you choose the best course, help you prepare your applications, and get the most out of study-abroad in Switzerland.