Join Engineering in EPFL for Indian Students

Joining École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) for an engineering program as an Indian student involves understanding the admission process, fees, accommodation options, scholarships, and visa requirements. EPFL is one of the top engineering schools in Europe, and it's known for its strong focus on research and innovation. Here’s a detailed guide for Indian students interested in pursuing engineering at EPFL:

1. Programs Offered at EPFL

EPFL offers a wide range of Bachelor's, Master's, and Ph.D. programs in engineering and technology fields.

Bachelor’s Programs:

• Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering
• Bachelor of Science in Electrical and Electronic Engineering
• Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering
• Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
• Bachelor of Science in Materials Science and Engineering
• Bachelor of Science in Microengineering
• Bachelor of Science in Environmental Sciences and Engineering

Master’s Programs:

• Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering
• Master of Science in Electrical and Electronic Engineering
• Master of Science in Civil Engineering
• Master of Science in Computer Science
• Master of Science in Data Science
• Master of Science in Microengineering
• Master of Science in Environmental Sciences and Engineering
• Master of Science in Robotics

Ph.D. Programs:

EPFL offers a wide range of Ph.D. programs, with a focus on cutting-edge research in engineering fields.

2. Admission Requirements

Undergraduate (Bachelor’s) Admission:

Admission to EPFL’s bachelor’s programs for international students is highly competitive.

• Academic Qualifications:
  • Indian students must have completed Class 12 (ISC/CBSE) with very high marks in Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry.
  • EPFL requires students to have a strong academic record—typically above 90%—in their final high school results.
  • Entrance Exams: For students from non-Swiss education systems, EPFL might require students to take an entrance exam unless they have particularly strong academic records.
• Language Proficiency:
  • French proficiency is required for bachelor’s programs as most undergraduate courses are taught in French. You will need at least B2 level in French. You can demonstrate proficiency through recognized exams such as DELF, DALF, or TEF.
  • If your education was in English, no additional test may be required for proof of language proficiency in English. However, it's essential to understand that most courses are in French.

Graduate (Master’s) Admission:

Master’s programs at EPFL are more accessible for international students and are often taught in English.

• Bachelor’s Degree: Applicants should have a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (engineering, science, technology) with strong academic performance (often a GPA equivalent of 3.5/4.0 or higher).
• Language Proficiency:
  • For English-taught programs, proof of English proficiency is required:
    • TOEFL iBT with a minimum score of 90.
    • IELTS Academic with a minimum score of 6.5.
  • For French-taught programs, applicants must have a minimum B2 level proficiency in French.
• Statement of Purpose (SOP) and Recommendation Letters: Applicants must submit a motivational letter and two to three letters of recommendation, which are critical in assessing their academic and research potential.

Ph.D. Admission:

• Master’s Degree: A Master’s degree in a relevant field is required for Ph.D. admission.
• Research Proposal: You need to submit a research proposal and identify potential supervisors for your Ph.D. project.
• GRE Scores: Some departments may require GRE scores, especially for highly competitive fields.
• Language Requirements: The language requirement depends on your research group. Most Ph.D. programs are conducted in English.

3. Application Process

Bachelor’s Programs:

• Application Portal: You can apply through the EPFL online application system.
• Application Deadline: The deadline for bachelor’s programs is typically January 15 for the autumn intake.
• Required Documents:
  • Class 12 (or equivalent) final or predicted grades.
  • Proof of French proficiency (for French-taught programs).
  • Personal statement or motivational letter.
  • Letters of recommendation (optional but recommended).

Master’s Programs:

• Application Portal: Apply through the EPFL online application portal.
• Application Deadlines: For autumn intake, applications usually open in November and close in April.
• Required Documents:
  • Bachelor’s degree transcripts.
  • Proof of English or French proficiency.
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV).
  • Letters of recommendation (typically 2-3).
  • Statement of Purpose or Motivational Letter.

Ph.D. Programs:

• Application Process: Ph.D. applications are submitted through EPFL’s graduate school. You need to contact potential supervisors before submitting your application.
• Application Deadlines: Ph.D. programs often have rolling admissions, so there is no fixed deadline, but early applications are recommended.

4. Fees

Tuition Fees:

EPFL is a public university, and the tuition fees are relatively low compared to many other top universities.

• Bachelor’s and Master’s Programs:
  • Tuition fees are CHF 730 per semester (approximately INR 66,000).
• Ph.D. Programs:
  • Ph.D. students at EPFL are generally employed as research assistants and receive a monthly salary instead of paying tuition fees.

Other Fees:

• Student Association Fees: Approximately CHF 35 per semester.
• Administrative Fees: Around CHF 50-100 per year.

Living Costs:

Living in Lausanne (where EPFL is located) can be expensive. Students should budget between CHF 1,500 to CHF 2,000 per month for rent, food, transportation, and personal expenses.

5. Accommodation

EPFL offers various options for student accommodation, but securing a place can be competitive.

On-Campus Accommodation:

• EPFL has several student dormitories where you can live at relatively affordable prices.
• Monthly Rent: On-campus dormitory rent ranges from CHF 500 to CHF 900 per month, depending on the type of room and facilities.

Off-Campus Accommodation:

• If on-campus housing is not available, students can rent private apartments or shared flats in the city.
• Private Housing Rent: Renting a room in a shared apartment costs CHF 700 to CHF 1,200 per month, depending on the location.

Finding Accommodation:

• EPFL offers support through its Housing Office and collaborates with housing platforms such as FMEL and Lausanne Home.
• It’s advisable to start looking for housing early, as demand for accommodation is high.

6. Scholarships

EPFL offers several scholarship opportunities for international students to help with tuition fees and living costs.

EPFL Excellence Fellowships:

• Available for highly qualified master’s students.
• Covers CHF 10,000 per semester to help with living expenses and includes a reservation for on-campus accommodation.
• No separate application is required; you are automatically considered when applying for a master's program.

Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships:

• These scholarships are offered to highly qualified international postgraduate students.
• Covers tuition fees, provides a monthly stipend, and includes health insurance.

External Scholarships:

• Indian students can apply for external scholarships like the Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships, J.N. Tata Endowment Scholarships, or Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships.

7. Student Visa and Residence Permit

Indian students must apply for a Swiss student visa and obtain a residence permit once in Switzerland.

Visa Application:

• You will need to apply for a Type D Visa (national long-stay visa) at the nearest Swiss embassy or consulate.
• Documents required:
  • Proof of admission to EPFL.
  • Proof of financial means (approximately CHF 21,000 per year).
  • Proof of accommodation.
  • Valid passport and passport-sized photos.
  • Completed visa application form.

Residence Permit:

• Upon arrival in Switzerland, you will need to apply for a residence permit within 14 days at the local immigration office.

8. Work Opportunities

During Studies:

• International students are allowed to work 15 hours per week during the semester and full-time during vacations.
• Working part-time can help cover living expenses.

After Graduation:

• Switzerland allows graduates to apply for a 6-month job-seeking visa after completing their studies, giving you time to find employment.

9. Application Timeline

• Research Programs: Start researching your preferred programs a year before the intended intake.
• Prepare Documents: Collect all necessary documents, including academic transcripts, test scores, letters of recommendation, and personal statements.
• Apply Early: Ensure you apply within the deadlines for bachelor’s, master’s, or Ph.D. programs, keeping in mind that Swiss visa applications can take time.

10. Other Considerations

• Language: While many master's and Ph.D. programs are offered in English, knowing French can be beneficial for living in Lausanne and interacting with the local community.
• Research Opportunities: EPFL has strong research programs and offers collaboration with top Swiss and international companies.

If you need additional information or assistance with your application, feel free to ask!