Switzerland 2015/16 - grants and loans

Student grants

Each canton has its own regulations for the provision of grants and loans to students with residence in Switzerland (decentralised system). In all cantons the amount granted depends on the financial situation of the applicant and his/her family.

Loans

In principle, support in the form of grants or loans or a combination of both is provided, but the majority of beneficiaries only receive grants. [2013/14: about 11 % grants only, about 1 % loans only, about 1 % grants and loans].

Less than 1 % of students receive a merit-based grant.

Some higher education institutions have their own funds for  supplementary support of students. Students can only apply if they already have applied for cantonal grants/loans.