Bern University of Applied Sciences (BFH) logo

Bern University of Applied Sciences (BFH)

Bern, CH · Ranking #4

Bern University of Applied Sciences (BFH) is a public university in Switzerland focused on practice-oriented education and applied research. With campuses across the canton of Bern, BFH offers bachelor’s, master’s, and continuing education programs in engineering, business, health, social sciences, arts, architecture, and agricultural sciences. The university emphasizes small class sizes, close collaboration with industry, and real-world projects integrated into the curriculum. Many programs include internships or applied thesis projects developed in partnership with Swiss companies. BFH is known for its strong employability outcomes and direct connection to the labor market.

Bern University of Applied Sciences (BFH) logo

Bern University of Applied Sciences (BFH)

About the university

Bern University of Applied Sciences (BFH) is a public university in Switzerland focused on practice-oriented education and applied research. With campuses across the canton of Bern, BFH offers bachelor’s, master’s, and continuing education programs in engineering, business, health, social sciences, arts, architecture, and agricultural sciences. The university emphasizes small class sizes, close collaboration with industry, and real-world projects integrated into the curriculum. Many programs include internships or applied thesis projects developed in partnership with Swiss companies. BFH is known for its strong employability outcomes and direct connection to the labor market.

Key information

  • Location: Bern, CH
  • Ranking #4
  • Institution type: public

Popular faculties

  • Engineering and Information Technology Architecture
  • Wood and Civil Engineering Business Health Professions Social Work Agricultural
  • Forest and Food Sciences Bern Academy of the Arts

Programs (6)

  • Engineering
  • Architecture
  • Business Administration
  • Sociology
  • Civil Engineering
  • Art and Design

Student body

  • Total students: 7,500

Campus life

BFH operates through a decentralized campus model across several cities in the canton of Bern. The university emphasizes small class sizes, close interaction with professors, and real-world projects. Students actively collaborate with Swiss companies and research institutions. The environment is professional, innovation-driven, and strongly connected to the labor market.

Housing & accommodation

Housing cost: CHF 1,200 - CHF 2,000 / per month

Housing options

  • Student dormitories Private shared apartments (WG) Studio apartments Temporary accommodation for exchange students

Student clubs and organizations

  • Strong applied research environment Industry-linked projects Innovation labs Student associations

Sports

  • International exchange (Erasmus+
  • bilateral agreements)

Career & internships

Employment rate: 90%

Partner companies

  • Siemens ABB Swisscom Roche Novartis PostFinance RUAG

Internships: Mandatory internships (в окремих програмах) Industry research projects Collaboration with Swiss SMEs Career Services & job fairs Applied thesis projects with companies

Admission requirements

Required documents

  • The exact requirements depend on the program (Bachelor’s
  • Master’s
  • exchange)
  • but typically include: Completed online application form Secondary school diploma (for Bachelor’s) or Bachelor’s degree diploma (for Master’s) Official academic transcripts Proof of language proficiency (German or English
  • depending on the program) Curriculum Vitae (CV) Motivation letter Copy of passport or national ID Portfolio (required for Arts and Design programs) Reference letters (mainly for Master’s programs) Proof of payment of application fee (if applicable)

Minimum GPA: 3.5

Tuition costs

  • CHF 1,500 - CHF 2,500 / per year
  • Acceptance rate: 50.00%
  • Scholarships available: Bern University of Applied Sciences offers various forms of financial support for students, though it does not have large internal merit-based scholarship pools like some research universities. Students may access need-based grants, regional funds, and external scholarships. Many BFH students benefit from Swiss federal, cantonal, or private foundation scholarships. International students can apply for funding through programs such as Erasmus+ mobility scholarships, Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships (for postgraduate research), and industry-linked awards that help cover living costs or project work. Some programs also include financial support for mobility or research internships abroad. Scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and award amounts vary by program and nationality. Students are encouraged to consult BFH’s financial aid office or international office for tailored guidance.
  • Additional costs: In addition to tuition fees, students at BFH should consider the following additional expenses: Semester administrative fees – mandatory university service contributions. Health insurance – compulsory in Switzerland (approx. 250–400 CHF per month). Residence permit & visa fees – for non-EU/EEA students. Accommodation deposit – usually 1–3 months’ rent. Study materials – textbooks, software licenses, lab materials (varies by program). Equipment costs – especially for Engineering, IT, Arts, or Design programs (e.g., laptop, technical tools, portfolio materials). Public transportation – monthly or annual travel pass within the canton. Student association fees – optional but common. Meals & personal expenses – groceries, dining, daily living. International student fee (if applicable) – some programs may apply additional charges. Exchange or mobility expenses – travel, insurance extensions, accommodation abroad (if participating in Erasmus+ or mobility programs). Graduation fees – diploma issuance or final administrative processing.

Quick facts

  • Founded: 1997
  • Teaching languages: German, English
  • Study formats: offline

Contact

  • Website: https://www.bfh.ch/en/studies/study-at-bfh/