Università della Svizzera italiana (USI)

Università della Svizzera italiana (USI) is one of twelve public universities coordinated by Swiss universities and officially recognized by the Swiss academic system. Also known as the University of Lugano, it is one of Switzerland's leading and most prestigious institutions. USI offers education across six faculties in a variety of fields of study and research, with particular strengths in architecture, communication, law, economics, information technology, medicine and biomedicine, public health, and the humanities.

The only university in Switzerland whose official language is Italian, Università della Svizzera italiana also offers the opportunity to study in English in most departments. The duration of study at the university is three years for bachelor's programs and two years for master's programs. Ranked among the top 300 universities in global rankings, USI placed 240th in the 2023 QS World University Rankings.

International prospective students wishing to pursue undergraduate studies at Università della Svizzera italiana are expected to meet the following criteria:

• High school diploma / IB diploma
• Transcript documents
• Language proficiency documents (Documents must be no more than 3 years old.)
• Depending on the program and department, an SAT/ACT score may be required
• Depending on the program and department, additional exams may be required
• A portfolio (A4 format) presenting various projects completed during the applicant's studies and practical work
• Statement of purpose
• Copy of passport or identity documents (front and back)

International prospective students wishing to pursue graduate studies at Università della Svizzera italiana are expected to meet the following criteria:

• University diploma and any other diplomas
• Transcript documents
• Language proficiency documents (Documents must be no more than 3 years old.)
• Depending on the program and department, a GRE/GMAT score may be required
• Statement of purpose
• Letter of recommendation
• Resume/CV
• Copy of passport or identity documents (front and back)
• A portfolio (A4 format) presenting various projects completed during the applicant's studies and practical work

Since Lugano is located in the Italian-speaking region of Switzerland, students may wish to learn some basic Italian. Università della Svizzera italiana offers a free Italian language course.