The Country of Rolex Watches
A cursory glance at Europe will show you 4 mountain ranges. Apennine mountains, the Pyrenees Mountains, the Alps, and the Carpathian Mountains. The Apennine is spread across Italy vertically. The Pyrenees is spread between France and Spanish, Portuguese border splitting the link between Europe and these two countries.
The Alps and Carpathians are the same with different features. The Alps is spread in a crescent shape across 8 countries. Switzerland, a European country with a history dating back to the 12th century has the Alps extending across its country.
Sandwiched between some of the biggest military powers it has somehow retained its neutrality without getting into any wars from the year 1815. This has enabled its economy and living standards to be maintained at a very high level all these years.
Head Quarters of the world
Home to just 8.7 million people Switzerland is the world’s wealthiest country with a per capita of USD 85000. The base for Swiss economy is the manufacturing sector, banking & insurance sector, trading, tourism, and the presence of world organisations. The manufacturing sector produces chemicals, medical instruments, electronic goods, precision instruments (watches), etc.
Red cross, World Trade Organisation, United Nations, World Health Organisation, International Labour Organisation, and the FIFA are all headquartered in Geneva.
Economy & Education
A tax haven for investors and the cooperative banking hub in the world, Switzerland is a private economy based on innovation and investment. With a tourism GDP contributing to approximately 8% this sector has always been a backbone of the economy. A member of the EFTA, they have protection in the agriculture sector leading to high food prices.
The primary education is very similar to European standards. At the tertiary level students are given choices based on their ability.
10 of the world’s top hotel management schools are from Switzerland making it the leading destination for hospitality careers. Being home to some of the world’s organisations and WHO those with advanced qualification in biotechnology, medicine, finance, etc.
This country in either side of the Alps will excite international students for the following reasons
- High level living standards
- Pleasant climate
- Post study visa option for 6 months
- Leading location for hospitality careers
- Presence of MNC’s and world organisations
- Peace loving country with no history of conflict in recent times
Eligibility Norms & Profile Suitability
- IELTS may be waived in most cases
- Students should have relevant qualification with bachelors or equivalent diploma certifications
- Master’s programs are based upon CGPA at undergraduate level
Application Window
While the applications are open until a few months before the program commences it is always good to start applying a good 8 months ahead. Since the timelines vary from institution to institution it is advisable to either go through the website or consult an expert.
Financing and Scholarship
The institutions in Switzerland provide full scholarship for tuition and students are required only to take care of their living expenses. The students also have the option to work outside campus to compensate for their expenses.