This guide shows Nigerian students how to study in Switzerland at bachelor’s or master’s level without needing IELTS. It uses simple English and explains every step—from choosing universities to arriving in Switzerland. You’ll also learn how IvyPlug helps with essays, statements, visas, and planning.
1. Why IELTS Is Not Always Needed
IELTS is common, but Swiss universities accept other proofs of English, such as:
- MOI (Medium of Instruction) certificate – shows your degree was taught in English
- Alternate English tests – TOEFL, PTE, Duolingo, Cambridge
- Internal English test or interview given by the university
- Conditional admission – you start studies after passing English requirements
Top universities like ETH Zurich, EPFL, and the University of Geneva openly allow admission without IELTS, using these alternatives :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}.
2. Which Universities Accept No IELTS
These Swiss universities accept alternative proofs instead of IELTS:
- ETH Zurich – English-taught masters, MOI or TOEFL accepted :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
- EPFL (Lausanne) – English masters, MOI or equivalent proof :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
- University of Geneva (UNIGE) – TOEFL, Cambridge or internal test accepted :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
- University of Basel, Bern, Fribourg, Lausanne – accept MOI or alternate English certificates :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
Many English-taught programs are available in bachelor’s and master’s runs at these schools :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}.
3. How to Prove English Without IELTS
3.1 MOI Certificate
Ask your Nigerian school or university for a letter stating your instruction was fully in English. This must be on official letterhead, signed, and dated. Swiss universities often accept this in place of IELTS :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}.
3.2 Alternate English Tests
- TOEFL iBT (e.g., minimum 90–100 points) :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
- Cambridge tests: FCE/CAE/CPE, often between 160–200 :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
- Duolingo English Test: accepted by many Swiss schools :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
- PTE Academic – usually also accepted
3.3 Internal University Test
Some universities, like UNIGE, let you take their own English test or interview instead of external certificates :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}.
3.4 Conditional Admission
You may get admitted on condition that you complete an English course at the university before starting your degree :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}.
4. Step-by-Step Application Process
4.1 Choose a Programme and University
Decide if you want a bachelor’s or master’s. Search for programs taught fully in English. Focus on ETH Zurich, EPFL, UNIGE, or other recognized universities.
4.2 Check Language Requirements
Visit the university website under “Admission” → “Language Requirements”. Find which proofs are accepted and required scores, like TOEFL 90 or equivalent.
4.3 Gather Your Documents
- Transcripts and degree certificates
- MOI certificate or English test score
- CV or résumé
- Motivation letter / personal statement
- 2–3 recommendation letters
- Passport photo and copy
4.4 Apply Online
- Make an account on the university’s application portal
- Select your programme and intake (e.g., Fall 2026)
- Upload scanned copies of all documents
- Pay the application fee (CHF 50–100 or equivalent)
- Submit your application before the deadline (3–6 months before intake) :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
4.5 Wait for the Offer
The university reviews your application. You may get:
- Unconditional offer: if your English proof is accepted
- Conditional offer: you may need to take their test or complete an English course
4.6 Accept Offer & Prepare for Visa
You’ll receive an official acceptance letter or e-confirmation. Use this to apply for your Swiss student visa at the embassy in Nigeria. Document needs:
- Acceptance letter
- Passport with validity
- Proof of funds (approx. CHF 1,500–2,000/month) :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}
- Health insurance
- English proof (MOI or alternative scores)
4.7 Apply for Visa
Book an appointment at the Swiss embassy in Abuja or visa centre. Submit your documents, visa form, and payment. If required, provide biometrics and a short interview.
4.8 Plan Your Stay
- Look for dorms or private housing
- Book your flight after your visa is granted
- Arrange health insurance coverage
4.9 Arrive and Register
Once in Switzerland:
- Register at local town hall (Commune)
- Open a Swiss bank account
- Get a local SIM card
- Attend university orientation and enrollment
5. Costs & Scholarships
- Tuition: Public universities charge CHF 500–2,000 per semester
- Living costs: CHF 1,500–2,500/month (housing, food, transport) :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}
- Application fee: CHF 50–100
- Visa fee: CHF 60–100
- English test fee: Duolingo ~USD 49; TOEFL/PTE ~USD 200
- Scholarships: University of Geneva and others offer full/partial funding without IELTS requirement :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}
6. Work and Post-study Opportunities
- You can work up to 15 hours/week during studies
- During breaks, you can work full-time
- After graduation, apply for a stay-back permit (up to 1 year) to find work
- Switzerland offers strong job opportunities in engineering, finance, and IT
7. Tips for a Strong Application
- Start 8–12 months early so you have time for visa and planning
- Shortlist 3–5 universities based on program quality and English requirements
- Request MOI early from your school
- Take an alternate test if MOI is not accepted by your chosen program
- Write a strong motivation letter that shows your goals and preparation
- Apply for scholarships early when offered by Swiss universities
- Prepare for Swiss living: language, culture, and cost awareness
8. How IvyPlug Supports You
If this seems overwhelming, IvyPlug offers expert help:
- Essay & personal statement support: Clear, error-free, engaging writing
- Document review: Ensuring your transcripts, MOI, and CV meet Swiss standards
- Language proof strategy: Advice on choosing between MOI, tests, or internal exams
- University selection: Based on program, cost, and English rules
- Visa application aid: Ensuring all forms and proofs are correct
IvyPlug guides you from choosing programs to living confidently in Switzerland.
9. FAQs
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Can I study without IELTS? | Yes—using MOI, TOEFL, Duolingo, or internal tests is accepted by top schools :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}. |
| Is MOI enough? | Often yes, if it clearly states instruction was in English and is recent. |
| Can I use Duolingo? | Yes, many Swiss universities allow it instead of IELTS :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}. |
| Do I need conditional admission? | Only if university requires you to complete an English course first. |
| Can I work while studying? | Yes—up to 15 hours weekly, more during breaks; post-study stay-back also possible. |
10. Quick Checklist
- Choose program and ensure it’s English-taught
- Check which English proof is accepted
- Request MOI or take an alternative test
- Prepare strong documents and apply online
- Apply early for scholarships
- Receive acceptance → apply for Swiss student visa
- Plan housing, insurance, and travel
- Arrive, register, and start your Swiss studies
11. Final Thoughts
Studying in Switzerland without IELTS is achievable with planning. Use MOI, alternative test scores, or internal university options. Choose the right universities, submit strong applications early, and secure scholarships. With help from IvyPlug, you’ll have expert guidance from essays to visas and beyond. Welcome to your journey toward a Swiss education—start today and make it happen!