Admission

Admission to English-language graduate-level (Master) programmes at USI require a good command, or advanced knowledge, of the English idiom. Non-English native speakers applying for such programmes, or whose previous degree was obtained in another language, are required to provide an internationally acknowledged language certificate equal to the B2 level, as defined by the Common European Framework of Reference for language learning (CEFR), or equivalent (e.g. TOEFL, IELTS, etc.).

The B2 level on the CEFR corresponds to the following scores in internationally acknowledged exams:

Whilst it is an important requisite to be fluent in English, you do not need to know or learn Italian in order to successfully participate in the proposed study programme.

Italian

As Lugano is located in the Italian-speaking part of Switzerland, students might be interested in acquiring the basics in Italian, in order to be able to get around in everyday life.
The Università della Svizzera italiana offers an Italian language study programme organized in various modules. All its non Italian-speaking students, researchers and professors are invited to participate free of charge.

1. Preparative intensive course for beginners
   In the three weeks preceding the beginning of the fall term, an intensive Italian class is organised.
2. Courses offered during the semesters
   Several Italian classes with different levels of difficulties are organised during the academic year.

Read all details about the Italian classes offered at USI, here.