EPFL Lausanne

Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Innovation Since 1853

#18 World EngineeringFounded 1853Lausanne, Switzerland5 Schools

Matura Grade

5.5-6.0

Program dependent

International GPA

3.7-4.0/4.0

Country specific

World Ranking

#18

QS Engineering & Technology

Total Students

11,600+

Including 6,200+ international

About EPFL Lausanne

École polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) stands as one of the world's most prestigious and internationally recognized technical universities, established in 1853 with over 171 years of continuous engineering excellence, scientific innovation, and technological leadership that has fundamentally shaped modern technology, computer science, and engineering throughout Switzerland, Europe, and the global community while maintaining its position as one of the world's top-ranked technical universities consistently ranking among the top 20 institutions globally for engineering and technology. Located in Lausanne, Switzerland's fourth-largest city situated on the beautiful shores of Lake Geneva and one of Europe's most dynamic innovation centers known for its technology ecosystem, exceptional quality of life, Olympic heritage, international business environment, and vibrant academic atmosphere, EPFL has evolved into one of Europe's most influential technical institutions, serving 11,600+ students from over 125 countries who benefit from exceptional academic programs, world-class research opportunities, distinguished faculty including renowned scientists and engineers, and the extraordinary advantages of studying in one of the world's most innovative, culturally rich, and scenically beautiful cities that offers unparalleled opportunities for academic growth, technological innovation, research collaboration, and personal development while experiencing the perfect blend of Swiss precision, French culture, and international connectivity that creates an ideal environment for higher education and technological advancement.

Distinguished for its world-renowned engineering and computer science programs that have produced numerous breakthrough innovations and technological advances throughout the scientific and business communities, exceptional research institutes and innovation parks that drive technological advancement across multiple disciplines from robotics to renewable energy, comprehensive academic offerings spanning 5 schools with deep roots in Swiss engineering tradition and strong connections to international technology networks, and strategic partnerships with leading universities, research institutions, and technology companies worldwide, EPFL maintains its position as a premier center for technical education and interdisciplinary research while serving as a vital hub for engineering excellence, technological innovation, and scientific discovery throughout Europe and beyond. The university's unique location in Lausanne provides students with exceptional access to multinational corporations, innovation centers, and the Olympic movement while its centuries-old academic traditions ensure that students receive comprehensive education grounded in rigorous engineering principles, analytical thinking, and innovative problem-solving. EPFL's holistic approach emphasizes excellence in both theoretical knowledge and practical application, international collaboration, and entrepreneurial mindset, creating graduates who are exceptionally well-prepared for leadership roles in technology, research, engineering, and innovation while contributing meaningfully to technological advancement, scientific discovery, and economic development through innovative research, rigorous analysis, and commitment to advancing human progress in the tradition of Swiss engineering excellence, French academic heritage, and global technological leadership that has made EPFL a cornerstone of modern technical university education and engineering research.

EPFL Excellence Indicators

#18
QS Engineering & Technology
#36
QS World University Rankings
2
Turing Award Winners
171
Years of Excellence
€900M
Annual Budget

Academic & Research Excellence

  • Engineering: World-leading mechanical, electrical, and civil engineering
  • Computer Science: Pioneering AI, machine learning, and cybersecurity
  • Life Sciences: Innovative bioengineering and biotechnology programs
  • Architecture: Renowned for sustainable design and urban planning
  • Basic Sciences: Outstanding physics, chemistry, and mathematics
  • Management: Technology-focused business and innovation programs

Lausanne & Swiss Advantages

  • Innovation Hub: Swiss Innovation Park and technology clusters
  • Lake Geneva: Beautiful waterfront setting and cultural richness
  • Olympic City: International Olympic Committee headquarters
  • Multilingual Environment: French, English, and international diversity
  • Research Collaboration: Close proximity to CERN and other institutes
  • Startup Ecosystem: Thriving entrepreneurship and venture capital

EPFL Innovation & Technology Leadership Legacy

EPFL's illustrious research heritage includes 2 Turing Award winners and numerous technological breakthroughs, representing one of the world's most accomplished academic communities in engineering, computer science, and applied sciences. The university's alumni and research network includes pioneering engineers, technology entrepreneurs, leading scientists, and innovation leaders who continue to shape global technology, scientific advancement, and engineering excellence through their groundbreaking research, innovative solutions, and commitment to advancing human knowledge through excellence, innovation, and rigorous scholarship in the tradition of Swiss engineering precision and French intellectual excellence.

Technology & Innovation Leaders

  • Turing Award winners and computer science pioneers
  • Leading AI and machine learning researchers
  • Robotics and automation innovators
  • Renewable energy technology developers

Business & Startup Leaders

  • Technology startup founders and CEOs
  • Venture capital and innovation fund leaders
  • Multinational corporation executives
  • Digital transformation consultants

Research & Academic Leaders

  • University rectors and research institute directors
  • Leading engineering and computer science professors
  • International research collaboration leaders
  • Technology transfer and commercialization experts

Engineering Excellence

  • Civil and environmental engineering leaders
  • Bioengineering and medical technology pioneers
  • Materials science and nanotechnology experts
  • Sustainable technology and clean energy innovators

Matura & Swiss Requirements 2025

Detailed Matura Requirements by School

Study ProgramMatura GradeMathematics RequirementAdditional Requirements
Computer Science5.5-6.0Advanced Mathematics requiredProgramming experience recommended
Electrical Engineering5.5-6.0Mathematics + Physics requiredElectronics knowledge
Mechanical Engineering5.5-6.0Mathematics + Physics requiredTechnical mechanics understanding
Civil Engineering5.5-6.0Mathematics + Physics requiredStructural understanding
Architecture5.0-5.5Mathematics recommendedPortfolio + spatial ability
Bioengineering5.0-5.5Mathematics + Biology requiredLife sciences knowledge
Materials Science5.0-5.5Mathematics + Chemistry requiredMaterials understanding
Physics5.0-5.5Advanced Mathematics requiredPhysics laboratory experience
Mathematics5.0-5.5Exceptional mathematics requiredMathematical reasoning test
Communication Systems5.0-5.5Mathematics + Physics requiredTechnology aptitude

EPFL Excellence Standard: EPFL maintains exceptionally high admission standards reflecting its 171-year tradition of engineering excellence and innovation leadership. Swiss Matura grades from 6.0 (excellent) to 1.0 (insufficient). Computer science, electrical engineering, and mechanical engineering programs are particularly competitive due to global recognition and technology industry connections. International students must demonstrate equivalent academic preparation with strong STEM background. Always verify current requirements on EPFL's official website.

EPFL Innovation Excellence & Swiss Technology Leadership

Academic & Research Excellence

  • Engineering Leadership: Top 18 globally in engineering and technology
  • Innovation Excellence: €900M budget with cutting-edge facilities
  • Technology Heritage: 2 Turing Award winners and breakthrough innovations
  • Industry Partnerships: Strong connections with technology companies
  • Interdisciplinary Focus: Collaboration across engineering disciplines
  • Startup Ecosystem: Leading technology entrepreneurship programs

Lausanne & Swiss Advantages

  • Innovation Park: Swiss Innovation Park Ouest EPFL
  • Olympic City: International Olympic Committee headquarters
  • Lake Geneva: Stunning waterfront campus and lifestyle
  • Research Proximity: Close to CERN and other world-class institutes
  • Multilingual Hub: French-speaking with international environment
  • Cultural Richness: Vibrant arts, culture, and recreational opportunities

Your Gateway to Swiss Innovation Excellence

EPFL Lausanne represents the perfect combination of engineering excellence, innovation leadership, and Swiss precision that defines one of the world's most prestigious and internationally acclaimed technical universities, where students gain access to unparalleled educational opportunities, world-class engineering programs, distinguished research facilities, and over 171 years of continuous excellence while experiencing the extraordinary advantages of studying in Lausanne, one of the world's most beautiful and innovative cities known for its technology ecosystem, Olympic heritage, Lake Geneva setting, and vibrant international community. With exceptional programs across 5 schools including computer science, engineering, life sciences, and architecture, EPFL empowers students from around the world to pursue their academic passions while contributing meaningfully to technological advancement, scientific discovery, and engineering innovation through rigorous education, cutting-edge research, and commitment to excellence in the tradition of Swiss precision and French intellectual heritage.

Ready to Join Switzerland's Innovation Elite?

Take the first step toward an extraordinary academic journey at one of the world's most innovative technical universities, where 171 years of excellence meets cutting-edge technology on the shores of Lake Geneva.

Innovation Leadership
Top 18 globally in engineering & technology
Technology Heritage
2 Turing Award winners and breakthrough innovations
Lausanne Advantage
Olympic city on Lake Geneva

EPFL Success Formula: The university seeks students who combine exceptional academic achievement in mathematics and sciences with engineering passion, innovative thinking, and commitment to technological excellence. Your journey to EPFL begins with outstanding academic performance, strong foundation in STEM subjects, demonstrated problem-solving abilities, and clear understanding of how EPFL's unique combination of engineering excellence, innovation leadership, technology heritage, and Swiss precision will enhance your education and prepare you for significant contributions to technological advancement through rigorous scholarship, innovative research, interdisciplinary collaboration, and lifelong commitment to advancing engineering knowledge in the tradition of Swiss precision, French intellectual excellence, and global technology leadership that has made EPFL a cornerstone of modern engineering education and innovation research.