Visa Interview Questions Indian Students May Face During Their Application for Switzerland

16 June 2025

Planning to study in Switzerland is a thrilling choice. With its highly rated universities, peaceful environment, and cosmopolitan student-friendly culture, the country has a lot to offer in terms of academic and cultural experience. But before you get started, something needs to be done—cracking the student visa interview.

To some Indian students, the interview might appear as a tough obstacle. But given the right attitude and preparation, it can prove to be one of the easiest processes in your education journey abroad. BCES Admissions Abroad is here to support students in their education journey, and helping you prepare for your Switzerland visa interview is one of our strengths.

No matter if you’re applying for a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD degree level, your study plan, financial preparedness, and future objectives will come under discussion during your visa interview. Here’s the lowdown.

What Sets the Switzerland Student Visa Interview Apart?

Switzerland is not an EU member but being part of the Schengen territory, it has stringent and organized visa policies. Long-term visa rules (or the commonly called Type D visa) involve the student having a personal interview at the Swiss Embassy or Consulate.

The government of Switzerland doesn’t leave anything to the imagination regarding what they want: genuine students with a strong academic goal, financial capability, and a firm plan of going back to their country upon graduation. The interview is not designed to mislead or trick you, rather, it is an exchange for the purpose of verifying your intentions.

What sets Swiss interviews apart is their accuracy. Your responses must be cogent, realistic, and consistent with your papers. Indian students typically are interviewed at the Embassy of Switzerland in New Delhi or the Consulate General in Mumbai.

Some Most Common Questions You’ll Be Asked

These are some of the most common visa interview questions and tips for crafting thoughtful responses.

1. Why do you want to study in Switzerland?

Mention the academic strength of Swiss institutions, their global rankings, focus on research, and how studying there supports your career goals.

2. What makes this university and course right for you?

Refer to the unique modules, teaching methods, international exposure, or specific projects offered. Personalize it and show that you’ve done your homework.

3. How will this course help your career after graduation?

Be precise in stating how you will use your Swiss education in India. In case you are supposed to work in a certain industry or open your own company, set the plan.

4. How will you finance your tuition and expenses?

Be honest and precise. Mention your financial reports, show whether you have acquired a student loan or whether you are sponsoring your stay yourself.

5. Where will you reside in Switzerland?

Know your accommodation arrangements. It may be a university hostel, rented flat, or shared apartment. Carry the proof with you if you have booked it.

6. What do you intend doing after completing your studies?

Swiss visa officials are interested to know what you will do afterwards. Describe how you will use your degree when you return to India.

7. Could you please walk us through your educational background?

Provide a brief background of your previous studies. If you do have a gap year, be prepared to tell what you did to fill the gap—work, internships, or preparation.

8. Have you ever applied for a visa to any other country?

Be honest at all times. If you applied elsewhere, honestly state why you wanted to end up in Switzerland.

9. Why not in India or another country?

Discuss differences—possibly the Swiss course has a specialisation that cannot be done here in India, or international exposure and quality of education is superior.

10. Do you have any family members or friends in Switzerland?

It is not incorrect to state if you do, but demonstrate openly that your decision is based on the grounds of education, not relatives.

How to Conduct Your Interview with Confidence

• Dress formally and be punctual.
• Carry all original documents and crisp photocopies.
• Talk softly, audibly—flueness will follow confidence. 
• Don’t memorize. Know the question and talk spontaneously. 
• Be sincere. In case of doubt, it is better to acknowledge ignorance politely than take a guess. 

2025 Update You Should Know

As of the 2025 school year, Indian student visa processing typically takes 6 to 8 weeks based on volume. Swiss officials now increasingly verify documents that have been submitted electronically, so make your upload scans readable and certified. Interview rejections are also on the rise due to confusing or inconsistent answers—another reason BCES Admissions Abroad recommends interviewing with professional assistance.

Switzerland student visa interview need not be feared—it’s merely an opportunity to demonstrate that you’re prepared to pursue your education to the next level. With adequate preparation, adequate documentation, and a clear purpose, you can conquer it.

If you are not sure how to get started or need assistance preparing for your interview, we’ve got you. Contact BCES Admissions Abroad today at +91 8800096600 and our trained counselors will assist you in crafting targeted responses, navigate your documents, and assist with mock interviews to boost your chances.