University of Geneva
The University of Geneva has a student body of 14,500 students. More than one-third of all students come from abroad, attracted by the University's location in the heart of an international city which is home to many international organizations. Renowned for its high level of excellence, UNIGE offers a wide spectrum of academic courses in diverse fields of study such as the exact and natural sciences, medicine, social sciences and the arts. As most classes are taught in French a good command of the language is required. The academic year is divided into two semesters, beginning mid-September and ending mid-June.
Many international rating bodies have ranked UNIGE as a leader in scientific research, in particular in the fields of molecular biology, astrophysics, social sciences and economics. The University of Geneva has been listed as one of the top 12 research universities in Europe and since 2002 is a member of the League of European Research-Intensive Universities.
Scholarship Opportunity
The University of Geneva is offering three scholarships of CHF1000/monthly to three UCLA exchange students for the next academic year. Interested students should complete the scholarship essay form and submit it with their application materials by the April 15 deadline. Preference will be given to applicants for whom the experience of studying abroad will have the greatest potential impact academically and personally.
Application Process
To apply, you need:
- A completed application form
- Study plan (course descriptions can be found at www.unige.ch/progcours.html)
- Letter of personal and academic intent (in French)
- Curriculum vitae (in French)
- Letter of recommendation from a faculty member
- Letter of recommendation from a faculty member verifying language proficiency
- Copy of your transcript
- Copy of your passport
- Students interested in applying for the scholarship, should also include a completed scholarship essay form with their application materials.
All application materials should be submitted to the UCLA International Education Office located in B300 Murphy Hall by the application deadline. Upon review of completed applications, the UCLA IEO will forward materials along to UNIGE with a nomination letter.
Application Deadlines
April 22 for fall semester (September - January); August 31st for spring semester (February - June)
Visa Information
The International Relations Office at UNIGE will contact and guide you through
the process of obtaining a visa once you are accepted to the program.
Please contact Claire Giordano,
Inbound Overseas Exchange Coordinator, for more information.
Health and Travel Insurance
The University of California provides a traveler's insurance policy to all UC students studying abroad. UCLA students will be enrolled in this insurance program:
Health Insurance Benefit
Summary
Health Insurance FAQ
Housing
The University's Bureau des Logements manages various housing options, from one-bedroom apartment to shared apartments. Housing is not guaranteed for exchange student participants and is dependent on availability. You can find more information online at www.unige.ch/dase/bulog/.
Estimated Living Expenses
The average monthly expense for students in Geneva is approximately CHF 2,000.
Geneva International Students Program (GISP)
The University of Geneva offers a 3 month interdisciplinary program for international
students. Applications are due August 31. The program runs from February to
May. Click
here for details and application instructions.