University of Geneva

International Excellence & Research Since 1559

#105 World RankingFounded 1559Geneva, Switzerland9 Faculties

Matura Grade

4.0-6.0

Program dependent

International GPA

3.0-4.0/4.0

Country specific

World Ranking

#105

QS World Universities

Total Students

17,500+

Including 8,750+ international

About University of Geneva

Université de Genève (UNIGE) stands as one of Switzerland's most prestigious and internationally recognized comprehensive universities, established in 1559 with over 465 years of continuous academic excellence, research innovation, and educational leadership that has fundamentally shaped modern education, international relations, and scientific research 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 international studies, social sciences, and comprehensive education. Located in Geneva, Switzerland's second-largest city and one of the world's most important international centers known for its diplomatic significance, humanitarian organizations, multicultural environment, exceptional quality of life, and vibrant academic atmosphere, the University of Geneva has evolved into one of Europe's most influential international institutions, serving 17,500+ students from over 150 countries who benefit from exceptional academic programs, world-class research opportunities, distinguished faculty including renowned scholars and researchers, and the extraordinary advantages of studying in one of the world's most internationally connected, culturally diverse, and diplomatically significant cities that offers unparalleled opportunities for academic growth, international collaboration, cultural exploration, and personal development while experiencing the perfect blend of Swiss excellence, French culture, and international diversity that creates an ideal environment for higher education and global understanding.

Distinguished for its world-renowned international relations and social science programs that have produced numerous diplomats, international leaders, and policy makers throughout the global community, exceptional research institutes and international centers that drive advancement across multiple disciplines from international law to sustainable development, comprehensive academic offerings spanning 9 faculties with deep roots in Swiss academic tradition and strong connections to international organizations and research networks, and strategic partnerships with leading universities, research institutions, and international organizations worldwide, University of Geneva maintains its position as a premier center for comprehensive education and interdisciplinary research while serving as a vital hub for international excellence, diplomatic studies, and scholarly discourse throughout Europe and beyond. The university's unique location in Geneva provides students with exceptional access to United Nations agencies, international organizations, and diplomatic missions while its centuries-old scholarly traditions ensure that students receive comprehensive education grounded in rigorous scholarship, analytical thinking, and global perspective. UNIGE's holistic approach emphasizes excellence in teaching and research, international collaboration, and multilingual education, creating graduates who are exceptionally well-prepared for leadership roles in international organizations, research, diplomacy, and academia while contributing meaningfully to global understanding, scientific advancement, and international cooperation through innovative research, rigorous analysis, and commitment to advancing knowledge and human progress in the tradition of Swiss academic excellence, French intellectual heritage, and international cooperation that has made University of Geneva a cornerstone of modern international university education and diplomatic studies.

University of Geneva Excellence Indicators

#105
QS World University Rankings
#47
Politics & International Studies
50%
International Student Body
465
Years of Excellence
€700M
Annual Budget

Academic & Research Excellence

  • International Relations: World-leading diplomatic and policy studies
  • Law: Exceptional international and Swiss law programs
  • Social Sciences: Outstanding sociology, psychology, and economics
  • Medicine: Renowned medical school and research
  • Sciences: Strong physics, chemistry, and life sciences
  • Humanities: Excellent philosophy, history, and languages

Geneva & Swiss Advantages

  • International Hub: UN, WHO, WTO headquarters and agencies
  • Diplomatic Center: Major diplomatic missions and organizations
  • Multilingual Environment: French, English, and international diversity
  • Lake Geneva: Beautiful lakefront setting and Alpine views
  • Cultural Richness: Museums, theaters, and international festivals
  • Global Connectivity: International airport and transport links

UNIGE International Leadership & Research Legacy

University of Geneva's illustrious heritage includes numerous international leaders, diplomats, and Nobel Prize-affiliated researchers, representing one of the world's most accomplished academic communities in international relations, social sciences, and global studies. The university's alumni and research network includes UN Secretary-Generals, international judges, leading diplomats, and academic pioneers who continue to shape global understanding, international cooperation, and diplomatic relations through their groundbreaking research, policy contributions, and commitment to advancing human knowledge through excellence, innovation, and rigorous scholarship in the tradition of Swiss academic excellence and international cooperation.

International & Diplomatic Leaders

  • UN officials and international organization leaders
  • Diplomatic corps and foreign ministry officials
  • International court judges and legal experts
  • Humanitarian organization directors

Research & Academic Leaders

  • Leading social science and policy researchers
  • International law and relations scholars
  • Medical and scientific research pioneers
  • University rectors and research directors

Business & Finance Leaders

  • International banking executives
  • Multinational corporation leaders
  • Economic policy advisors
  • International development finance experts

Cultural & Social Leaders

  • International media and journalism leaders
  • Cultural institution directors
  • NGO and civil society advocates
  • International education policy makers

Matura & Swiss Requirements 2025

Detailed Matura Requirements by Faculty

Study ProgramMatura GradeLanguage RequirementAdditional Requirements
Medicine5.5-6.0French proficiency requiredNumerus clausus + aptitude test
International Relations4.5-5.5French + English recommendedGlobal awareness assessment
Law4.5-5.0Excellent French requiredLegal reasoning test
Psychology4.5-5.0French proficiencyMathematics + Statistics
Economics4.0-4.5French + English recommendedMathematics proficiency
Physics4.0-4.5French or EnglishMathematics + Physics required
Biology4.0-4.5French proficiencyBiology + Chemistry required
Philosophy4.0-4.5Excellent French requiredCritical thinking skills
Translation & Interpretation4.0-4.5Multilingual proficiencyLanguage aptitude test
Theology4.0-4.5French + Ancient languagesReligious studies background

UNIGE Excellence Standard: University of Geneva maintains high admission standards reflecting its 465-year tradition of academic excellence and international leadership. Swiss Matura grades from 6.0 (excellent) to 1.0 (insufficient). Medical and international relations programs are particularly competitive due to exceptional reputation and global recognition. Strong French language proficiency is essential for most programs. International students must demonstrate equivalent academic preparation and language competency. Always verify current requirements on UNIGE's official website.

UNIGE International Excellence & Multilingual Leadership

Academic & Research Excellence

  • International Leadership: Top-ranked in politics and international studies
  • Research Excellence: €700M budget with international focus
  • Multilingual Tradition: 50% international student body
  • Global Partnerships: Strong connections with international organizations
  • Interdisciplinary Approach: Collaboration across multiple faculties
  • Professional Networks: Extensive alumni in international careers

Geneva & Swiss Advantages

  • International Organizations: UN, WHO, WTO headquarters
  • Diplomatic Hub: Major embassies and international missions
  • Multilingual City: French-speaking with global languages
  • Lake Geneva Beauty: Stunning alpine and lakefront setting
  • Cultural Diversity: International festivals and cultural events
  • Global Access: International airport and European connectivity

Your Gateway to International Excellence

University of Geneva represents the perfect combination of international excellence, multilingual education, 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 international programs, distinguished research facilities, and over 465 years of continuous excellence while experiencing the extraordinary advantages of studying in Geneva, one of the world's most internationally connected cities known for its diplomatic significance, humanitarian organizations, cultural diversity, and vibrant international community. With exceptional programs across 9 faculties including international relations, law, medicine, and social sciences, University of Geneva empowers students from around the world to pursue their academic passions while contributing meaningfully to international understanding, diplomatic relations, and global cooperation through rigorous education, innovative research, and commitment to excellence in the tradition of Swiss precision and international collaboration.

Ready to Join Switzerland's International Elite?

Take the first step toward an extraordinary academic journey at one of the world's most internationally connected universities, where 465 years of excellence meets global diplomacy in the heart of international Geneva.

International Excellence
50% international students, global networks
Diplomatic Heritage
465 years of academic tradition
Geneva Advantage
UN headquarters and international hub

UNIGE Success Formula: The university seeks students who combine exceptional academic achievement with international curiosity, multilingual abilities, and commitment to global understanding. Your journey to UNIGE begins with outstanding academic performance, strong language proficiency (especially French), demonstrated global awareness, and clear understanding of how University of Geneva's unique combination of international excellence, multilingual education, diplomatic heritage, and Swiss quality will enhance your education and prepare you for significant contributions to international relations through rigorous scholarship, cross-cultural research, diplomatic collaboration, and lifelong commitment to advancing global understanding in the tradition of Swiss academic excellence, French intellectual heritage, and international cooperation that has made University of Geneva a cornerstone of modern international university education and diplomatic studies.