BSc

Architecture

Learn more about studying Architecture as an international student.

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Key facts

  • Degree type
    Bachelor's
  • Duration
    3 years
  • Delivery method
    On campus
  • Pace
    Full-time
  • Annual tuition fee
    2,190CHF
  • Start date
    Sep
  • QS Ranking
    #22

Program overview

What EPFL – École polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne says about their program:

The Architecture programme at EPFL – École polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne offers both a Bachelor's and a Master's degree. This programme is designed to provide a comprehensive education in architecture, combining theoretical knowledge with practical skills.

The Bachelor's degree focuses on essential foundations, including design, urban planning, and sustainable construction, while the Master's degree emphasizes advanced theory and practical work. Students engage in project workshops and can choose specializations that align with their interests, fostering a multidisciplinary approach.

This programme is ideal for those aspiring to become versatile architects, equipped to address contemporary challenges in architecture. Graduates are prepared for careers that require a strong understanding of design, sustainability, and the socio-economic impacts of architectural decisions.

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Admission requirements

Undergraduate academic requirements

  • Completion of high school/ secondary education

Postgraduate academic requirements

  • Completion of a bachelor's degree (four or five years) in a suitable subject from a recognised university with a minimum grade of Second Class Honours Lower Division (2

    2) or equivalent.

English proficiency

English proficiency is required; accepted tests include IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent.

English proficiency waivers

Documents required

  • Passport
  • Academic Transcripts
  • Degree certificate or diploma
  • Proof of English proficiency
  • Statement of purpose or personal statement
  • Recommendation letters
  • Finance proof
  • Translations
  • Credential evaluations
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Required grades

to see how attainable this program is.

  • A levels

    A*A*A

  • International Baccalaureate (IB)

    38

All grade information on Studee is provided for guidance only. Always check the university's official program page for the latest information on required grades.

Additional requirements

Documents

  • Curriculum vitae (resume);
  • Complete transcripts from each institution attended;
  • Identity card or passport;

All documents must be in English, French, German, or Italian; documents in another language require a legalized translation

Essays and statements

  • Statement of purpose required, maximum 1,000 words, describing academic background and career strategy

Recommendations

  • Contact details of three academic referees are required. Referees must submit confidential recommendation letters themselves through the online application. At least two recommendation letters must be received. Exemptions apply to eligible EPFL, ETH Zurich, Swiss university/FHS/HES, and specified UNIL applicants.

Creative and performance

  • Architecture applicants must submit a work portfolio through the dedicated web server after completing and paying the online application

Experience

  • Architecture candidates must have twelve months of professional experience; upload work certificates if available

How to apply

  • Direct

    Fixed deadline
    Application fee150.00 CHF
    Fee waiver

    CHF 150 for applicants holding a foreign Bachelor degree; reduced fees apply to eligible Swiss and EPFL Bachelor degree holders

Scholarships at EPFL – École polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne

  • EPFL social scholarship

    Official page

    EPFL offers a social scholarship to international students who experience a difficult financial situation and an unexpected, sudden change in their social, family or financial circumstances. International students may apply only after completing at least one year at EPFL and successfully completing the first-year cycle. The scholarship is subsidiary, awarded for an academic year or one/two semesters, and applicants must first investigate other funding sources.

All scholarship information on Studee is provided for guidance only. Always check the university's official scholarship page for the latest information on eligibility, award amounts, deadlines, and application requirements.

Fees

EPFL – École polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne provides fee information that can help students understand how study costs may be structured or may vary across options. EPFL – École polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne encourages students to review official funding and financial-support information to confirm what cost guidance or support may be available.

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What is the cost of living near EPFL – École polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne?

Category Cost  (in Swiss Franc)
Rent, 1-bed apartment in city centreCHF 1,837
Rent, 1-bed apartment outside centreCHF 1,504
Utilities (electricity, heating, water, refuse)CHF 186
Internet (60 Mbps unlimited)CHF 56
Mobile phone plan (data + calls)CHF 32· Switzerland average
Monthly public transport passCHF 99
Monthly grocery basketCHF 933
Books and study supplies (monthly)CHF 100
Coffee shop drinkCHF 6
Cinema or cultural event ticketCHF 25
Gym membershipCHF 75

Indicative monthly costs per person.

Data sourced from livingcost.org (Crowdsourced), numbeo.com (Crowdsourced) and epfl.ch (University published).

Visa requirements for EPFL – École polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne

Navigating the visa process is a crucial step in your study abroad journey. Make sure to seek guidance and support to ensure you meet all necessary requirements for your time at EPFL – École polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne.

Switzerland student visa requirements