How Indian Students Experience Campus Culture in Switzerland

6 February 2026

Have you thought about what a normal everyday scenario would be in a country that is distinguished for its precision, diversity, and top-notch system of public education? For Indian students in Switzerland they are not only establishing an educational foundation internationally, but also delving into a campus culture very different from that which exists at home in India. Learning about this as soon as possible allows students to have a smooth transition and feel confident, comfortable, and connected during the first day of class.

In Swiss universities, students experience a relaxed but mentally alert atmosphere. A professor asks for participation, the halls buzz with an assortment of minds from all over the world, and students are encouraged to think for themselves. One of the biggest differences, which the Indian students have clearly experienced, has to do with responsibility. Professors do not supervise, they mentor, and expect students to use their time well, submit work well in advance honestly, and participate with meaningful inputs. This again reflects the overall idea of higher education in Switzerland, which is to have quality learning, not recitation.

Campus life in Switzerland is basically an international experience. Students from all over the world, including Europe, Asia, Africa, and America, study together on the same campus, and so the international learning experience does become global in nature. In Switzerland, the primary language used in the course of study, especially for master’s, is English, even though other languages are recognized as official languages too. Indian students acquire the experience of global communication with the help of the multicultural experience provided on the campus. Institutes have sent clear signals of their focus on inclusiveness in the form of expanded support services for international students.

Respect is one of the cornerstones of campus life in Switzerland. Time management, academic integrity, and respect for each other are values that are taken very seriously. Plagiarism policies are stringent, deadlines must be met, and behavior is always professional. It may be slightly too strict for a first-timer, but for many Indian students, it is worth it for the lack of ambiguity it provides for an international work environment. Eventually, they realize that it is for the better.

Aside from academics, there is much scope to relax, explore, and be with people. Freshman year offers many opportunities to join student organizations such as entrepreneurship, environmental stewardship, technology, arts, or culture-related groups. There are also many outdoor recreation opportunities available around our campuses, which are situated in the middle of pristine nature.

In recent years, universities across the globe have put an emphasis on student wellness by providing greater support for students with respect to mental health and wellness and community support programs.

Where you will live is equally as important as where you go to school. An Indian student who lives with other international students in an apartment will have the chance to learn about European culture and also about the Indian way of life.

Technology is an integral part of our campuses in Switzerland. There will be opportunities for digital learning using state-of-the-art technology, advanced laboratories to conduct research, and access to state-of-the-art libraries to conduct research and study. As a result, many schools are betting on emerging technologies and developing their curriculum to better match the future labour market. This is one of the reasons why international students find these institutions appealing.

For most Indian students, the adjustment process during the first few months is difficult; however, once they have adjusted and gotten used to their new surroundings, they will tell you that it has been very rewarding and empowering, due to the 3 components like academic freedom; cultural enrichment; and personal responsibility; all of which provide a complete education outside the walls of a university or college.

If you are an Indian student interested in studying in Switzerland, then there is a lot of guidance available to help you with making the right choices for you personally. The BCES Admissions Abroad service can assist you with the admissions / campus lifestyle information and also facilitate your transition to Switzerland as a new student. For more information on Swiss higher education, contact us at +91 9319996328 and begin your international journey today!