EPFL — Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne

EPFL is distinguished by the close connection between advanced scientific education, research and innovation. Students work alongside internationally recognised professors and researchers and have access to more than 500 laboratories, chairs and research groups. The university is especially strong in engineering, computer science, mathematics, physics, life sciences, robotics, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences and architecture. (EPFL)

EPFL is consistently ranked among the world’s leading universities. It is currently placed 22nd in the QS World University Rankings and 35th in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026. In the 2026 Times Higher Education subject rankings, EPFL is ranked 20th worldwide in Physical Sciences and 21st in both Engineering and Computer Science. (EPFL)

What makes EPFL distinctive?

EPFL combines demanding theoretical education with laboratory work, interdisciplinary projects, internships and direct contact with cutting-edge research. Students are encouraged to apply scientific knowledge to real technological, environmental and societal challenges.

The university also has one of Europe’s strongest innovation ecosystems. Its campus brings together research laboratories, international companies, investors and technology start-ups. More than 500 start-ups have emerged from the EPFL ecosystem, making it an excellent environment for students interested in entrepreneurship and technological innovation.

EPFL is one of Europe’s most international technical universities, welcoming students, researchers and employees from more than 120 nationalities. Its degrees are highly respected worldwide and can lead to careers in research, engineering, technology, finance, consulting, architecture, biotechnology and entrepreneurship.

Bachelor’s programmes

EPFL offers 13 Bachelor’s programmes, including:

• Mathematics and Physics

• Computer Science and Communication Systems

• Electrical, Mechanical and Materials Engineering

• Microengineering

• Chemistry and Chemical Engineering

• Life Sciences Engineering

• Architecture, Civil Engineering and Environmental Sciences

The Bachelor’s degree normally lasts three years and consists of 180 ECTS credits. It provides the scientific foundations required to continue to a Master’s degree at EPFL or another leading university. (EPFL)

Language of instruction

Bachelor’s studies are taught primarily in French. A complete EPFL Bachelor’s programme cannot be followed exclusively in English. Most first-year courses are in French, although selected mathematics and physics courses may also be available in English or German. From the second year, some programmes may include a larger proportion of courses taught in English.

A minimum level of B2 French is required, while C1 is strongly recommended because of the academic complexity and intensity of the programmes. The preparatory CMS year is taught entirely in French. Many Master’s programmes are taught partly or entirely in English. (EPFL)

Admission requirements

Admission to EPFL is highly demanding, particularly for international applicants. Strong preparation in mathematics and physics is essential, together with excellent overall academic results.

Applicants holding a recognised Swiss gymnasial maturity certificate are admitted directly to the first year. Different and generally more selective conditions apply to foreign school-leaving qualifications.

For example, International Baccalaureate applicants are generally expected to have:

• Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry, Biology or Computer Science at Higher Level;

• at least 38 points out of 42, excluding bonus points;

• at least 6 out of 7 in Mathematics and Physics;

• sufficient French, normally at least B2.

Applicants with many other foreign diplomas must generally achieve at least 80% of the maximum possible overall grade, including at least 80% in mathematics and physics, although the exact requirements depend on the country and type of diploma. (EPFL)

From the 2025 academic year and for at least four years, EPFL has limited first-year Bachelor enrolment to 3,000 students. Applicants with EU, EFTA or UK certificates and IB diplomas who meet the minimum criteria are ranked according to their final results and admitted only within the available places. Meeting the published minimum requirements therefore does not always guarantee admission. (EPFL)

Applications are normally submitted online between mid-November and 30 April for studies beginning the following September. Depending on the applicant’s diploma and country of education, admission may be direct, based on academic results, through the preparatory Cours de mathématiques spéciales (CMS), or through the EPFL entrance examination. (EPFL)