All universities and universities of applied sciences in Geneva

Why choose to study in Geneva?

The canton of Geneva, in Switzerland, offers you unmatched academic and professional advantages:

• Global diplomatic hub: Geneva is home to major diplomatic organizations (UN, WHO, etc.). This proximity creates an ideal environment for practical studies in law, economics, development, and political science.
• Professional connections: The strength of Swiss finance and economics radiates from this center. Your studies will be directly connected to the major challenges of our century. Universities work closely with these large organizations and civil society.
• High-level practical training: It’s not just theory, but top-level practice. Your education will be immediately relevant and will open doors.
• Collaborative academic excellence: Many members of Geneva’s academic community collaborate with the University of Lausanne (UNIL) through joint research programs. This cooperation strengthens the excellence of the Lake Geneva university hub.
• A justified cost: This level of collaboration and excellence increases the value and global recognition of education.
• Confirmation of global status and research focus: The quality of education in Geneva is recognized by the most prestigious rankings. The city’s main university consistently ranks among the best in the world.
• An optimal living environment: While quality of life in Geneva is exceptional, housing remains a challenge. To manage your budget and simplify daily life, an excellent strategy is to live just across the border in France, for example in a residence in Archamps.

💡 Expert tip: Your network is your future. In Geneva, your professors are often field experts, and your classmates come from all over the world. Take every opportunity to connect and grow your professional network. It’s a crucial bridge for your career! The excellence of this academic environment is a major asset.

The three accredited universities in Geneva

Geneva is proud to host three major accredited universities. Let’s focus on them:

1. The University of Geneva (UNIGE): The most well-known and the oldest (with a history dating back to 1559).
2. The Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies (IHEID): A highly specialized institute focused on social sciences and international relations.
3. Webster University (Geneva campus): An American university offering programs taught in English.

1. Focus on UNIGE: all fields of study

The University of Geneva (UNIGE), founded by John Calvin, is the beating heart of higher education in the canton. Under the authority of its rector, it welcomes nearly 18,000 students. UNIGE is a true research-driven institution, excelling in advanced fields such as life sciences, physics, and medicine. It is an institution that has shaped knowledge for centuries.

UNIGE is divided into nine major faculties, offering a wide range of study programs. You truly have plenty of choice:

• Sciences: A historic strength, with internationally recognized research centers.
• Medicine: Highly selective programs to become a healthcare professional in Switzerland.
• Economics and Management (GSEM): Highly sought-after economics and finance programs. The GSEM faculty is often compared with that of the University of Lausanne.
• Law: Specialized legal studies for careers in major institutions.
• Arts and Social Sciences: To explore history, languages, and modern society.

Each faculty is a center of excellence, and its members are leading references in their fields.

2. Focus on the Graduate Institute (IHEID): the beacon of international relations

If you are aiming for a career in diplomacy or development, the Graduate Institute (IHEID) is for you. This institute offers highly specialized Master’s and PhD programs.

Its faculty members are internationally recognized experts. Its proximity to international organizations makes it the ideal place to deepen your studies in applied social sciences. This renowned institute significantly contributes to Geneva’s academic reputation. Its academic environment is unique, and its expertise in development economics is unparalleled.

3. Focus on Webster University: an English-speaking option in Geneva

Webster University, an accredited American university, operates its own campus in Geneva.

It is an excellent alternative if you wish to study entirely in English. The institution is well known for its Master’s programs in management, international relations, and communication. Webster offers a different gateway into Geneva’s university ecosystem and complements the local academic offering.

How to apply: the admission process at the University of Geneva

Admission to the University of Geneva is selective and requires careful preparation. But don’t worry—we share the key advice here to help you succeed with your application.

Admission requirements and language level

You must meet two main requirements to join Geneva’s academic institutions:

• Your diploma: It must be recognized as equivalent to the Swiss Gymnasiale Maturity (Maturité gymnasiale). This is the basic requirement to start your studies.
• Your French language level: Teaching is often conducted in French. You must provide proof of at least a B2 level. If not, you should plan to improve your language skills. The online application form will require it!

Application procedures and deadlines guide

Your application must be flawless. Follow these steps line by line:

1. Step 1: Online application and fee payment. Start on the registration page of the chosen university or school and pay the application fee (around CHF 65, approx. €67.60 for UNIGE).
2. Step 2: Gather official documents. This is the moment for a complete presentation: diplomas, transcripts, language certificates—every document matters. Make sure everything is included, including a valid email address.
3. Step 3: Respect strict deadlines. Deadlines are non-negotiable. For the autumn semester, applications are usually submitted between January and February. Missing this deadline may cost you an entire academic year.

💡 Tip for diploma validation: If your diploma is complex or obtained abroad, contact the university’s admissions office as early as possible. This will help you avoid surprises and provide valuable guidance to validate your application. It’s the best strategy to secure admission to this prestigious academic institution.

Universities of Applied Sciences (HES): career-oriented education

Looking for a shorter and more practical program that prepares you directly for a profession? Universities of Applied Sciences (HES) are designed for you. These institutions offer university-level education with a strong focus on professional practice.

💡 Good to know: HES institutions focus on applied and fast-track education. They play a crucial role in the economic development of the canton of Geneva and often collaborate with university research centers such as those in Lausanne.

Here are the main HES institutions in Geneva:

• Geneva School of Management (HEG-Genève): Ideal if you are passionate about economics and management. This faculty offers highly regarded programs.
• Geneva University of Art and Design (HEAD): One of the best in Europe, focused on design (fashion, watchmaking) and visual arts.
• School of Engineering, Architecture and Landscape (HEPIA): For engineering sciences and architecture.
• School of Health Sciences (HEdS): The largest in French-speaking Switzerland, particularly in healthcare and nursing.

These institutions offer study programs that ensure rapid integration into the professional world. The value of excellence in these programs is reflected in the fast employability of graduates.

Conclusion

Your decision to study in Geneva is bold—and it will be rewarded. Whether your path leads you to the University of Geneva (UNIGE), the Graduate Institute, or a university of applied sciences, you will benefit from world-class education and a degree recognized by leading institutions worldwide.

We encourage you to finalize your admission research. Prepare your application line by line and respect deadlines carefully. Geneva is waiting for you!