University admission in Europe

There is no central admission system – each institution sets its own rules and deadlines, and you apply directly to it.

For a bachelor's programme you need a school leaving certificate that the institution recognises as equivalent to the Swiss Matura. The requirements for certificates from each country (subjects, grades) are published by swissuniversities – check the section for your country before you choose your final-year subjects.

Sample deadlines – University of Zurich (for applicants with a foreign school leaving certificate):

• autumn semester – from 1 January to 30 April; late applications until 31 July for an extra fee of CHF 300,
• spring semester – from 1 July to 30 November.

Other institutions have their own deadlines – check them on the website of your chosen institution.

If you come from outside the EU/EFTA, apply early: you need your admission letter for the visa application, and a visa takes at least 8 weeks to be issued (see: Residence and formalities).