University of Geneva
Innovation and excellence at the heart of international Geneva.
📍 Geneva, Switzerland 🇨🇭
🏆 #3 in Switzerland · QS World #155 · THE World #166 · ARWU #58
Quick Facts about University of Geneva
- Founded: 1559
- Type: Public
- Students: 18,261
- International: 38%
- Campus: Urban
- Tuition: $580 – $580/year
- Language: French, English
- Intakes: Fall, Spring
About University of Geneva
The University of Geneva (UNIGE) is a public research university in Geneva, Switzerland, established in 1559 by John Calvin. It is Switzerland's second largest university, with over 16,500 students from 150 different nationalities. UNIGE is a leading research institution and a member of the League of European Research Universities (LERU).
Academics
UNIGE offers nearly 300 degree programs across nine faculties, including Sciences, Medicine, Arts, Social Sciences and Economics, Law, Theology, Psychology and Educational Sciences, and the School of Translation and Interpreting. While undergraduate courses are primarily taught in French, the university provides a number of Master's programs in English. UNIGE emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration and scientific progress, with key research areas in life sciences, physical sciences, neurosciences, historical sciences, environmental sciences, and finance and society. It is home to several National Centres of Competence in Research, focusing on areas like genetics, materials science, and affective sciences.
International Students
With almost 40% of its 18,261 students coming from over 150 foreign countries, UNIGE boasts a diverse and international population. The university has strong ties with international organizations like the United Nations and the World Health Organization, offering unique opportunities for students. While specific details on dedicated international student support services and organizations were not extensively detailed, the university's strong international outlook and numerous partnerships suggest a welcoming environment.
Campus & Location
The University of Geneva is integrated into the vibrant city life of Geneva, a cosmopolitan hub known for its high quality of life and international organizations. The university's campus is urban, with various facilities located around the city, such as Uni Bastions, Uni Dufour, and Uni Mail. Geneva itself offers a multicultural experience with museums, cafes, and live music venues, and its natural surroundings near Lake Geneva and the Alps provide opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and water sports. Public transportation, including trams, makes navigating the city and reaching campus locations convenient.
Career Outcomes
Swiss university graduates generally enjoy strong employment prospects, with a low unemployment rate a year after graduation. While the exact employment rates specifically for the University of Geneva vary, the institution actively fosters connections with industry and international organizations. UNIGE also supports a startup culture through initiatives like the Science Innovation Hub, which helps researchers commercialize their findings and offers pre-incubation support for new ventures. The university's career services and industry connections are geared towards preparing students for diverse professional paths, particularly in fields like life sciences, finance, and international affairs.
Information for International Students at University of Geneva
University of Geneva in Geneva, Switzerland welcomes international students, with 38% of the student body coming from abroad.
- 38% of students are international
- Visa support available
- No on-campus work
- Student housing available
- Work placement / internship opportunities available
- Teaching languages: French, English
Admissions Requirements for University of Geneva
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to University of Geneva:
- IELTS minimum: 6
- TOEFL minimum: 80
- Duolingo minimum: 110
- GPA minimum: 2.7
- Application fee: $65
- Selectivity: Selective (20-40%)
- Application deadline: February 28, 2026 (for September 2026 intake)
Programs at University of Geneva (42 programs)
University of Geneva offers 42 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.
Bachelor Programs (14)
- Bachelor of Arts in Law (BA) — 36 months · French · $1,000/yr
This program provides a foundational understanding of legal principles, Swiss law, and international legal systems, developing critical thinking and analytical skills essential for legal professions.
Field: Law
Career outcomes: Legal Assistant, Paralegal, Public Administrator, Compliance Officer - Bachelor of Science in Physics (BSc) — 36 months · French · $1,000/yr · STEM
This program provides a comprehensive understanding of fundamental physical principles, from classical mechanics to quantum physics, preparing students for advanced studies or careers in science and technology.
Field: Physics
Career outcomes: Research Assistant, Data Scientist, Engineer, Educator - Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (BSc) — 36 months · French · $1,000/yr · STEM
This program provides a strong foundation in the theoretical and practical aspects of computer science, covering areas such as algorithms, programming, data structures, and software engineering.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Software Developer, Data Analyst, IT Consultant, System Administrator - Bachelor of Science in Mathematics (BSc) — 36 months · French · $1,000/yr · STEM
This program provides a rigorous education in fundamental mathematical concepts, including algebra, analysis, and geometry, developing strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
Field: Mathematics
Career outcomes: Mathematician, Statistician, Actuary, Financial Analyst - Bachelor of Science in Biology (BSc) — 36 months · French · $1,000/yr · STEM
This program covers the fundamental principles of biology, from molecular and cellular processes to ecology and evolution, providing a broad scientific education.
Field: Biology
Career outcomes: Laboratory Technician, Environmental Consultant, Biotechnology Assistant, Science Educator - Bachelor of Arts in International Relations (BA) — 36 months · French · $1,000/yr
This program explores the complexities of global politics, international law, economics, and diplomacy, preparing students for careers in international organizations, government, and NGOs.
Field: International Relations
Career outcomes: Diplomat, Policy Analyst, International Project Manager, Journalist - Bachelor of Arts in Psychology (BA) — 36 months · French · $1,000/yr
This program introduces students to the scientific study of mind and behavior, covering areas such as cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, social psychology, and neuroscience.
Field: Psychology
Career outcomes: Research Assistant, Human Resources Assistant, Social Worker Assistant, Counseling Support - Bachelor of Arts in Law (BA) — 36 months · French · $1,000/yr
This program provides a foundational understanding of legal principles, Swiss law, and international legal systems, developing critical thinking and analytical skills essential for legal professions.
Field: Law
Career outcomes: Legal Assistant, Paralegal, Public Administrator, Compliance Officer - Bachelor of Science in Physics (BSc) — 36 months · French · $1,000/yr · STEM
This program provides a comprehensive understanding of fundamental physical principles, from classical mechanics to quantum physics, preparing students for advanced studies or careers in science and technology.
Field: Physics
Career outcomes: Research Assistant, Data Scientist, Engineer, Educator - Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (BSc) — 36 months · French · $1,000/yr · STEM
This program provides a strong foundation in the theoretical and practical aspects of computer science, covering areas such as algorithms, programming, data structures, and software engineering.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Software Developer, Data Analyst, IT Consultant, System Administrator - Bachelor of Science in Mathematics (BSc) — 36 months · French · $1,000/yr · STEM
This program provides a rigorous education in fundamental mathematical concepts, including algebra, analysis, and geometry, developing strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
Field: Mathematics
Career outcomes: Mathematician, Statistician, Actuary, Financial Analyst - Bachelor of Science in Biology (BSc) — 36 months · French · $1,000/yr · STEM
This program covers the fundamental principles of biology, from molecular and cellular processes to ecology and evolution, providing a broad scientific education.
Field: Biology
Career outcomes: Laboratory Technician, Environmental Consultant, Biotechnology Assistant, Science Educator - Bachelor of Arts in International Relations (BA) — 36 months · French · $1,000/yr
This program explores the complexities of global politics, international law, economics, and diplomacy, preparing students for careers in international organizations, government, and NGOs.
Field: International Relations
Career outcomes: Diplomat, Policy Analyst, International Project Manager, Journalist - Bachelor of Arts in Psychology (BA) — 36 months · French · $1,000/yr
This program introduces students to the scientific study of mind and behavior, covering areas such as cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, social psychology, and neuroscience.
Field: Psychology
Career outcomes: Research Assistant, Human Resources Assistant, Social Worker Assistant, Counseling Support
Master Programs (14)
- Master of Science in Physics (MSc) — 24 months · English · $1,000/yr · STEM
This master's program offers specialization in areas such as particle physics, condensed matter physics, and astrophysics, combining advanced theoretical knowledge with experimental techniques.
Field: Physics
Career outcomes: Physicist, Researcher, R&D Engineer, Quantitative Analyst - Master of Science in Computer Science (MSc) — 24 months · English · $1,000/yr · STEM
This master's program allows students to specialize in advanced areas of computer science, including artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data science, and software systems, through in-depth coursework and research.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: AI Engineer, Cybersecurity Analyst, Data Scientist, Research Scientist - Master of Science in Mathematics (MSc) — 24 months · English · $1,000/yr · STEM
This master's program offers advanced study in pure and applied mathematics, including areas like numerical analysis, statistics, and mathematical physics, preparing students for research or specialized careers.
Field: Mathematics
Career outcomes: Quantitative Researcher, Data Scientist, Cryptographer, Academic Researcher - Master of Science in Biology (MSc) — 24 months · English · $1,000/yr · STEM
Students can specialize in areas such as molecular biology, neurosciences, ecology and evolution, or bioinformatics, gaining advanced knowledge and research experience in their chosen field.
Field: Biology
Career outcomes: Biologist, Research Scientist, Biotechnologist, Pharmaceutical Researcher - Master of Arts in International Affairs (MA) — 24 months · English · $1,000/yr
Focusing on global governance, security, and development, this master's program provides advanced analytical tools and practical skills for addressing contemporary international challenges.
Field: International Relations
Career outcomes: International Civil Servant, NGO Program Officer, Consultant, Researcher - Master of Science in Psychology (MSc) — 24 months · French · $1,000/yr
This master's program allows for specialization in clinical psychology, cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, or social psychology, combining advanced theoretical knowledge with practical research and clinical skills.
Field: Psychology
Career outcomes: Psychologist, Therapist, Researcher, Human Resources Manager - Master of Law (MLaw) (MLaw) — 24 months · French · $1,000/yr
The Master of Law program offers advanced specialization in various legal fields, including international law, business law, and criminal justice, preparing students for legal practice or further academic pursuits.
Field: Law
Career outcomes: Lawyer, Judge, Legal Counsel, International Legal Advisor - Master of Science in Physics (MSc) — 24 months · English · $1,000/yr · STEM
This master's program offers specialization in areas such as particle physics, condensed matter physics, and astrophysics, combining advanced theoretical knowledge with experimental techniques.
Field: Physics
Career outcomes: Physicist, Researcher, R&D Engineer, Quantitative Analyst - Master of Science in Computer Science (MSc) — 24 months · English · $1,000/yr · STEM
This master's program allows students to specialize in advanced areas of computer science, including artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data science, and software systems, through in-depth coursework and research.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: AI Engineer, Cybersecurity Analyst, Data Scientist, Research Scientist - Master of Science in Mathematics (MSc) — 24 months · English · $1,000/yr · STEM
This master's program offers advanced study in pure and applied mathematics, including areas like numerical analysis, statistics, and mathematical physics, preparing students for research or specialized careers.
Field: Mathematics
Career outcomes: Quantitative Researcher, Data Scientist, Cryptographer, Academic Researcher - Master of Science in Biology (MSc) — 24 months · English · $1,000/yr · STEM
Students can specialize in areas such as molecular biology, neurosciences, ecology and evolution, or bioinformatics, gaining advanced knowledge and research experience in their chosen field.
Field: Biology
Career outcomes: Biologist, Research Scientist, Biotechnologist, Pharmaceutical Researcher - Master of Arts in International Affairs (MA) — 24 months · English · $1,000/yr
Focusing on global governance, security, and development, this master's program provides advanced analytical tools and practical skills for addressing contemporary international challenges.
Field: International Relations
Career outcomes: International Civil Servant, NGO Program Officer, Consultant, Researcher - Master of Science in Psychology (MSc) — 24 months · French · $1,000/yr
This master's program allows for specialization in clinical psychology, cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, or social psychology, combining advanced theoretical knowledge with practical research and clinical skills.
Field: Psychology
Career outcomes: Psychologist, Therapist, Researcher, Human Resources Manager - Master of Law (MLaw) (MLaw) — 24 months · French · $1,000/yr
The Master of Law program offers advanced specialization in various legal fields, including international law, business law, and criminal justice, preparing students for legal practice or further academic pursuits.
Field: Law
Career outcomes: Lawyer, Judge, Legal Counsel, International Legal Advisor
PhD Programs (14)
- PhD in Computer Science (PhD) — 48 months · English · $1,000/yr · STEM
The PhD program in Computer Science offers advanced research opportunities in various subfields, enabling students to contribute original knowledge to the discipline under the guidance of faculty mentors.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: University Professor, Research Scientist, Lead Software Architect, Innovation Manager - PhD in Mathematics (PhD) — 48 months · English · $1,000/yr · STEM
The PhD in Mathematics program focuses on original research in various branches of mathematics, allowing candidates to make significant theoretical contributions to the field.
Field: Mathematics
Career outcomes: University Professor, Research Mathematician, Algorithm Developer, Financial Modeler - PhD in Biology (PhD) — 48 months · English · $1,000/yr · STEM
The PhD in Biology offers opportunities for in-depth research across various biological disciplines, contributing to new discoveries in areas like genetics, developmental biology, and environmental science.
Field: Biology
Career outcomes: Academic Researcher, Biotech R&D Director, Environmental Scientist, Medical Science Liaison - PhD in International Relations (PhD) — 48 months · English · $1,000/yr
This doctoral program supports original research into complex international phenomena, allowing candidates to contribute to theoretical and empirical advancements in the field of international relations.
Field: International Relations
Career outcomes: Academic Researcher, Think Tank Analyst, Senior Policy Advisor, International Organization Specialist - PhD in Law (PhD) — 48 months · French · $1,000/yr
This doctoral program enables candidates to conduct original and significant legal research, contributing to the development of legal theory, policy, and practice in specialized areas of law.
Field: Law
Career outcomes: University Professor of Law, Legal Scholar, Senior Legal Advisor, Policy Maker - PhD in Physics (PhD) — 48 months · English · $1,000/yr · STEM
The PhD in Physics program involves cutting-edge research in various domains of physics, often in collaboration with CERN and other international research institutions, leading to significant scientific contributions.
Field: Physics
Career outcomes: University Professor, Senior Research Scientist, Industrial Physicist, Accelerator Scientist - PhD in Psychology (PhD) — 48 months · French · $1,000/yr
The PhD in Psychology program offers advanced research training across various subfields of psychology, enabling candidates to conduct original studies and contribute to psychological science and practice.
Field: Psychology
Career outcomes: University Professor of Psychology, Clinical Psychologist, Research Psychologist, Consultant - PhD in Computer Science (PhD) — 48 months · English · $1,000/yr · STEM
The PhD program in Computer Science offers advanced research opportunities in various subfields, enabling students to contribute original knowledge to the discipline under the guidance of faculty mentors.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: University Professor, Research Scientist, Lead Software Architect, Innovation Manager - PhD in Mathematics (PhD) — 48 months · English · $1,000/yr · STEM
The PhD in Mathematics program focuses on original research in various branches of mathematics, allowing candidates to make significant theoretical contributions to the field.
Field: Mathematics
Career outcomes: University Professor, Research Mathematician, Algorithm Developer, Financial Modeler - PhD in Biology (PhD) — 48 months · English · $1,000/yr · STEM
The PhD in Biology offers opportunities for in-depth research across various biological disciplines, contributing to new discoveries in areas like genetics, developmental biology, and environmental science.
Field: Biology
Career outcomes: Academic Researcher, Biotech R&D Director, Environmental Scientist, Medical Science Liaison - PhD in International Relations (PhD) — 48 months · English · $1,000/yr
This doctoral program supports original research into complex international phenomena, allowing candidates to contribute to theoretical and empirical advancements in the field of international relations.
Field: International Relations
Career outcomes: Academic Researcher, Think Tank Analyst, Senior Policy Advisor, International Organization Specialist - PhD in Law (PhD) — 48 months · French · $1,000/yr
This doctoral program enables candidates to conduct original and significant legal research, contributing to the development of legal theory, policy, and practice in specialized areas of law.
Field: Law
Career outcomes: University Professor of Law, Legal Scholar, Senior Legal Advisor, Policy Maker - PhD in Physics (PhD) — 48 months · English · $1,000/yr · STEM
The PhD in Physics program involves cutting-edge research in various domains of physics, often in collaboration with CERN and other international research institutions, leading to significant scientific contributions.
Field: Physics
Career outcomes: University Professor, Senior Research Scientist, Industrial Physicist, Accelerator Scientist - PhD in Psychology (PhD) — 48 months · French · $1,000/yr
The PhD in Psychology program offers advanced research training across various subfields of psychology, enabling candidates to conduct original studies and contribute to psychological science and practice.
Field: Psychology
Career outcomes: University Professor of Psychology, Clinical Psychologist, Research Psychologist, Consultant
Scholarships & Tuition at University of Geneva
Annual tuition for international students: $580 – $580/year
✅ University of Geneva offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.
Rankings of University of Geneva
- National Ranking: #3 in Switzerland
- QS World University Ranking: #155
- Times Higher Education (THE): #166
- Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU): #58
- Ranking tier: Top 200
- Research output: Very High
Campus & Facilities at University of Geneva
- Student housing available
- Sports facilities available
- No disability support info
- Campus type: Urban
Key Highlights
- Leading global center for international relations
- Renowned for groundbreaking physical science research
- Consistently ranked among top world universities
- Strong focus on life sciences and medicine
- Strategic partnership with CERN and United Nations
- Diverse international student and faculty population
Accreditation
- League of European Research Universities (LERU)
- 4EU+ Alliance
- Coimbra Group
- International Forum of Public Universities (FIUP)
- European University Association (EUA)
Fields of Study at University of Geneva
- International Relations
- Law
- Economics
- Science
- Humanities
Notable Alumni
- Kofi Annan
- Ian Fleming
- José Manuel Durão Barroso
- Michel Mayor
- Didier Queloz
Frequently Asked Questions about University of Geneva
What is University of Geneva?
University of Geneva is a public university located in Geneva, Switzerland, founded in 1559. It has approximately 18,261 students, with 38% being international students.
How much does it cost to study at University of Geneva?
Tuition fees at University of Geneva for international students range from $580 – $580/year. Scholarships are available for international students.
What are the admission requirements for University of Geneva?
IELTS minimum: 6. TOEFL minimum: 80. Duolingo minimum: 110. GPA minimum: 2.7. Application fee: $65. Selectivity: Selective (20-40%). Application deadline: February 28, 2026 (for September 2026 intake).
What language are courses taught in at University of Geneva?
Courses at University of Geneva are taught in French and English. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 6.
How many programs does University of Geneva offer?
University of Geneva offers 42 programs: 14 Bachelor's, 14 Master's, and 14 PhD programs across various fields of study.
What is University of Geneva ranked?
#3 in Switzerland · QS World #155 · THE World #166 · ARWU #58.
Does University of Geneva offer scholarships?
Yes, University of Geneva offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.
Does University of Geneva provide visa support?
Yes, University of Geneva provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available.
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