Universities in Zurich - QS Best Student Cities Ranking | Top Universities
31,522
Views

Save

Share

Study in Zurich

User Image

Aisha Khan

Updated Jul 10, 2025
31,522 Views
 
Zurich is the best student city in Switzerland

Zurich is renowned for its prosperity, orderliness and low taxes, which may make it sound more like a place for millionaires than international students. However, look a little closer and you’ll see it certainly deserves its place among the world’s top student cities.

ETH Zurich is one of the top universities in continental Europe while the University of Zurich is also ranked highly in the QS World University Rankings.

Zurich gained plenty of acclaim in our student survey, with one student pointing out its “natural beauty and high standard of living” while another praised its “perfect combination of city life and nature”.

Would Zurich get your vote? Tell us why.

Top universities in Zurich

Rank
University
7

QS World University Rank

100

QS World University Rank

801-850

QS World University Rank

Zurich's QS Best Student Cities performance

Affordability rank 98
Desirability rank 3
Employer Activity rank =20
Student Mix rank 33
Student View rank 12

Why study in Zurich?

Affordable study destination

Despite a midtable rank for affordability this year, Zurich's high living fees are offset by its low tuition fees.

A desirable city

Zurich earns a top score in the desirability indicator this year.

World-class education

Switzerland is known for its world class education. This year, two of Zurich's universities rank impressively well: ETH Zurich and the University of Zurich.

Excellent job prospects

Zurich is one of the best cities in the world to work, with a good quality of life and excellent job prospects for graduates.

Cost of studying in Zurich 

Zurich is one of the more expensive student cities for living costs. While rent and socialising may be expensive, international tuition fees in Switzerland are relatively low, so the overall costs of studying in Zurich are likely to be considerably lower compared to cities in the UK, US or Australia, for example. 

Tuition fees are reasonably low, costing an average of US$2,100 per year. 

Life & culture in Zurich

An international hub, Zurich is the largest city in Switzerland and among the wealthiest in Europe – which brings both pros and cons for international students. On the one hand, its affluence means Zurich is clean, safe and immaculately maintained, frequently ranking among the world’s most liveable cities. 

It’s certainly tough to beat Zurich when it comes to scenery. Situated on the banks of picturesque Lake Zurich and with the stunning Swiss Alps within day-trip reach, this city would suit those who want to combine the attractions of city life with close proximity to some of Europe’s most beautiful natural landscapes.

Career in Zurich

Regarded as Switzerland's economic powerhouse, Zurich has one of the country's largest financial sectors. For this reason, graduate jobs are widely available in the finance sector, including in banking, accountancy, tax consultancy, business consultancy and wealth management. 

Other sectors hiring graduates include engineering, media, health, trade, education and architecture. 

  • QS Profile
  • QS Profile

+ 34 others
saved this article

  • QS Profile
  • QS Profile

+ 35 others saved this article

Recommended articles Last year