University of Zurich

Swiss Excellence in Research & Medicine Since 1833

#83 World RankingFounded 1833Zurich, Switzerland7 Faculties

Matura Grade

4.5-6.0

Program dependent

International GPA

3.3-4.0/4.0

Country specific

World Ranking

#83

QS World Universities

Total Students

25,800+

Including 5,200+ international

About University of Zurich

Universität Zürich (UZH) stands as one of Switzerland's most prestigious and internationally recognized comprehensive universities, established in 1833 with over 191 years of continuous academic excellence, research innovation, and educational leadership that has fundamentally shaped modern medicine, natural sciences, and humanities throughout Switzerland, Europe, and the global community while maintaining its position as one of Europe's most distinguished and internationally acclaimed research universities consistently ranking among the world's top institutions for medical research, life sciences, and comprehensive education. Located in Zurich, Switzerland's largest city and one of the world's most important financial and cultural centers known for its innovation ecosystem, exceptional quality of life, Alpine beauty, international business environment, and vibrant academic atmosphere, the University of Zurich has evolved into one of Europe's most influential comprehensive institutions, serving 25,800+ students from over 120 countries who benefit from exceptional academic programs, world-class research opportunities, distinguished faculty including Nobel Prize winners, and the extraordinary advantages of studying in one of the world's most liveable, economically dynamic, and culturally sophisticated cities that offers unparalleled opportunities for academic growth, research collaboration, cultural exploration, and personal development while experiencing the perfect blend of Swiss excellence, international diversity, and academic tradition that creates an ideal environment for higher education and scholarly pursuits.

Distinguished for its world-renowned medical and veterinary programs that have produced numerous breakthrough discoveries and medical innovations throughout the scientific community, exceptional research institutes and university hospital that drive medical advancement across multiple disciplines from neuroscience to molecular biology, comprehensive academic offerings spanning 7 faculties with deep roots in Swiss academic tradition and strong connections to international research networks, and strategic partnerships with leading universities, research institutions, and medical centers worldwide, University of Zurich maintains its position as a premier center for comprehensive education and interdisciplinary research while serving as a vital hub for medical excellence, scientific discovery, and intellectual discourse throughout Europe and beyond. The university's unique location in Zurich provides students with exceptional access to multinational corporations, research institutions, and cultural centers while its centuries-old scholarly traditions ensure that students receive comprehensive education grounded in rigorous scholarship, analytical thinking, and innovative research. UZH's holistic approach emphasizes excellence in teaching and research, international collaboration, and student-centered learning, creating graduates who are exceptionally well-prepared for leadership roles in medicine, research, academia, and industry while contributing meaningfully to scientific advancement, medical discovery, and cultural understanding through innovative research, rigorous analysis, and commitment to advancing knowledge and human progress in the tradition of Swiss academic excellence, European intellectual cooperation, and global research leadership that has made University of Zurich a cornerstone of modern comprehensive university education and medical research.

University of Zurich Excellence Indicators

#83
QS World University Rankings
#54
Life Sciences & Medicine
12
Nobel Prize Laureates
191
Years of Excellence
€1.8B
Annual Budget

Academic & Research Excellence

  • Medicine: Leading medical school with university hospital
  • Veterinary Medicine: Top-ranked veterinary programs globally
  • Life Sciences: Exceptional biology, biochemistry, and neuroscience
  • Economics: Strong business and economics programs
  • Law: Renowned Swiss and international law programs
  • Humanities: Outstanding philosophy, languages, and history

Zurich & Swiss Advantages

  • Research Hub: Major medical and scientific research center
  • University Hospital: Leading medical training and treatment
  • Financial Center: Access to banking and business networks
  • Cultural Richness: Museums, theaters, and cultural institutions
  • Alpine Setting: Beautiful mountains and lake environment
  • International Gateway: Central European location

UZH Research & Medical Innovation Legacy

University of Zurich's illustrious research heritage includes 12 Nobel Prize laureates and numerous medical breakthroughs, representing one of the world's most accomplished academic communities in medicine, life sciences, and natural sciences. The university's alumni and research network includes pioneering physicians, leading scientists, distinguished researchers, and academic pioneers who continue to shape global understanding, medical advancement, and scientific discovery through their groundbreaking research, innovative treatments, and commitment to advancing human knowledge through excellence, innovation, and rigorous scholarship in the tradition of Swiss medical excellence and European academic cooperation.

Medical & Research Leaders

  • Nobel Prize winners in medicine and physiology
  • Leading medical researchers and clinicians
  • Pioneering neuroscientists and biologists
  • Veterinary medicine innovators

Business & Economics Leaders

  • Banking and financial services executives
  • International business leaders
  • Economic policy experts
  • Consulting and advisory firm partners

Academic & Research Leaders

  • University rectors and research directors
  • Leading scholars in humanities and social sciences
  • Medical school deans and department heads
  • International research collaboration leaders

Innovation & Society Leaders

  • Healthcare innovation entrepreneurs
  • Medical technology developers
  • Public health policy makers
  • International organization executives

Matura & Swiss Requirements 2025

Detailed Matura Requirements by Faculty

Study ProgramMatura GradeSpecial RequirementsAdditional Tests
Human Medicine5.5-6.0Biology, Chemistry, MathematicsAptitude test required
Dentistry5.5-6.0Biology, Chemistry, PhysicsAptitude test required
Veterinary Medicine5.5-6.0Biology, Chemistry, PhysicsAptitude test required
Psychology5.0-5.5Mathematics, BiologyAssessment recommended
Biology4.5-5.5Biology, Chemistry, MathematicsLaboratory experience
Economics4.5-5.0Mathematics recommendedBusiness aptitude
Law4.0-5.0Languages, Social SciencesWriting assessment
Philosophy4.0-4.5Languages, LiteratureCritical thinking
History4.0-4.5History, LanguagesResearch skills
Theology4.0-4.5Languages, PhilosophyInterview may be required

UZH Excellence Standard: University of Zurich maintains high admission standards reflecting its 191-year tradition of academic excellence and research leadership. Swiss Matura grades from 6.0 (excellent) to 1.0 (insufficient). Medical programs are particularly competitive due to exceptional reputation and limited capacity. International students must demonstrate equivalent academic preparation and may need additional qualifications. Always verify current requirements on UZH's official website.

UZH Medical Excellence & Research Leadership

Academic & Research Excellence

  • Medical Leadership: Top-ranked medical and veterinary programs
  • Research Excellence: €1.8B budget with university hospital
  • Nobel Heritage: 12 Nobel Prize winners in medicine and sciences
  • Innovation Focus: Leading medical research and technology transfer
  • Interdisciplinary Approach: Strong connections across faculties
  • International Collaboration: Global research partnerships

Zurich & Swiss Advantages

  • Medical Hub: University Hospital and research institutes
  • Research Center: Major scientific and pharmaceutical companies
  • Quality of Life: Excellent living standards and environment
  • Cultural Diversity: International community and multilingual environment
  • Financial Access: Proximity to banking and business centers
  • Alpine Recreation: Mountains and lakes for work-life balance

Your Gateway to Swiss Academic Excellence

University of Zurich represents the perfect combination of research excellence, medical leadership, and Swiss academic tradition that defines one of Europe's most prestigious and internationally acclaimed universities, where students gain access to unparalleled educational opportunities, world-class medical programs, distinguished research facilities, and over 191 years of continuous excellence while experiencing the extraordinary advantages of studying in Zurich, one of the world's most liveable cities known for its research ecosystem, cultural richness, Alpine beauty, and vibrant international community. With exceptional programs across 7 faculties including medicine, life sciences, economics, and humanities, University of Zurich empowers students from around the world to pursue their academic passions while contributing meaningfully to medical advancement, scientific discovery, and research excellence through rigorous education, innovative research, and commitment to excellence in the tradition of Swiss precision and European academic leadership.

Ready to Join Switzerland's Academic Elite?

Take the first step toward an extraordinary academic journey at one of Europe's most research-intensive universities, where 191 years of excellence meets cutting-edge medical research in the heart of Switzerland.

Medical Excellence
Top medical and veterinary programs
Research Leadership
12 Nobel Prize winners and €1.8B budget
Zurich Advantage
World's most liveable city

UZH Success Formula: The university seeks students who combine exceptional academic achievement with intellectual curiosity, research aptitude, and commitment to academic excellence. Your journey to UZH begins with outstanding academic performance, strong foundation in relevant subjects, demonstrated analytical abilities, and clear understanding of how University of Zurich's unique combination of research excellence, medical leadership, international reputation, and Swiss quality will enhance your education and prepare you for significant contributions to scientific advancement through rigorous scholarship, innovative research, interdisciplinary collaboration, and lifelong commitment to advancing knowledge in the tradition of Swiss academic excellence, European intellectual cooperation, and global research leadership that has made University of Zurich a cornerstone of modern comprehensive university education and medical research.