Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne Overview

The Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne, commonly known as EPFL, is a leading public research university located in Lausanne, Switzerland. Founded in 1853, EPFL is renowned for its cutting-edge research and education in engineering, technology, and the sciences. It attracts a diverse international student body and is known for innovation and collaboration with industry.

Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne Offered Programs

  • Architecture
  • Civil Engineering
  • Computer Science
  • Electrical Engineering
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Microengineering
  • Environmental Engineering
  • Physics
  • Mathematics
  • Life Sciences
  • Chemistry and Chemical Engineering
  • Management of Technology

Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne Tuition Fees

Student TypeEstimated Annual Tuition & Fees
Swiss/EU StudentsCHF 1,266
Non-EU StudentsCHF 1,266

Note: Tuition fees at EPFL are relatively low compared to many other international universities due to Swiss public funding.

Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne Required Documents and Admission Requirements

Undergraduate Admission Requirements

  • Secondary school diploma equivalent to the Swiss Matura
  • Proof of proficiency in French or English depending on program
  • Entrance exam or preparatory year for some programs
  • Transcripts and academic records

Graduate Admission Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree in a related field
  • Official transcripts
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV)
  • Statement of purpose
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Proof of language proficiency (English or French)

Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne Deadlines

EventDate (Approximate)
Fall Semester ApplicationApril 30
Spring Semester ApplicationNovember 15
Enrollment ConfirmationJuly (for Fall semester)

Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne Scholarships Offerings

  • Merit-based scholarships
  • Excellence scholarships for international students
  • Need-based financial aid
  • Research grants and fellowships

Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne Rankings

Ranking SourceCountry RankWorld Rank
QS World University Rankings1 (Switzerland)17
Times Higher Education1 (Switzerland)20

Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne Acceptance Rate

EPFL has an acceptance rate of approximately 20%, reflecting a competitive admission process especially for popular programs.

Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne Student Campus Life (with accommodation options)

EPFL offers a vibrant campus life with numerous student clubs, cultural activities, sports facilities, and international events. The campus includes modern research labs, libraries, and social spaces.

Accommodation Options:

  • On-campus student residences
  • Shared apartments and studios nearby
  • Off-campus private housing
  • Support services for finding accommodation

Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne Cost of Living

Lausanne is one of the more expensive cities in Switzerland, with higher costs for housing and daily expenses. Students should budget carefully.

Expense CategoryEstimated Monthly Cost (CHF)
Housing800 – 1,500
Food and Groceries400 – 600
Transportation70 – 100
Personal Expenses200 – 300
Books and Supplies100 – 150

Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne Contact Informations

  • Website: epfl.ch
  • Phone Number: +41 21 693 11 11
  • Email Address: admission@epfl.ch
  • Address: Route Cantonale, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland

Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne Online Application

Applications are submitted online via the EPFL application portal. Prospective students must upload required documents, academic transcripts, language certificates, and meet application deadlines for their program of interest.