EPFL – École polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne

Overview

The École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) is a renowned research university located in Lausanne, Switzerland, specializing in the natural sciences and engineering. Its origins trace back to 1853 when a private school with just 11 students was founded, evolving over time into one of Switzerland's two Federal Institutes of Technology, now hosting over 10,000 students.

Situated in the French-speaking region of Switzerland, EPFL collaborates with ETH Zurich, forming a prominent academic partnership. Known for its cutting-edge research, EPFL operates unique facilities such as a nuclear reactor, fusion reactor, Gene/Q Supercomputer, and bio-hazard laboratories.

The admissions process at EPFL is straightforward for Swiss undergraduates, though students must pass a block exam after the first year to continue their studies. EPFL’s expansive campus on the shores of Lake Geneva includes over 65 buildings, as well as various amenities like restaurants, museums, and entertainment facilities.

With students from 112 different countries, EPFL promotes a vibrant campus life that includes sports, clubs, student media, and arts events such as the Balélec Festival, a major music festival attracting 15,000 visitors annually. Despite these exciting opportunities, the university still works towards improving gender diversity, with women representing about 27% of the student population as of 2014.