A bit of Myth-busting: common misconceptions about studying at USI

1. USI is only for Italian speakers

USI may be the only University of Italian language and culture in Swiss Academia, but it is certainly not only for Italian speakers.  

Many courses are taught in English. Courses of the first three semesters in the Bachelor of Economics are offered in both Italian and English. The Bachelor in Informatics is held entirely in English.

All Masters offered at USI are taught in English, with the exception of the “Master in Lingua, letteratura e civiltà italiana” and “Master in Economia e politiche internazionali” which are held in Italian, and “Master in Public Management and Policy” which is bilingual Italian/English.

Learn Italian!

Studying in an Italian-speaking region also presents a valuable opportunity to learn a new language! USI offers free-of-charge Italian language courses for exchange students, find out more here.

2. Doing an exchange at USI is too expensive

While Switzerland is known for its high cost of living, Ticino is significantly cheaper compared to other areas of the country. Tuition fees are waived at USI where a reciprocal exchange agreement has been signed and students are formally nominated by their home university.

Additionally, most incoming students from partner universities are eligible for the SEMP (Swiss-European Mobility Programme) scholarship, which provides a useful contribution to cover the expenses incurred during the exchange period. Find out more about the SEMP scholarship here.

3. USI does not offer courses that are relevant to my study program

Exchange students are free to attend a variety of classes, both at undergraduate and graduate levels. Although they are enrolled in a faculty, they are entitled to attend classes and sit examinations in the other faculties too. However, in case the student chooses courses offered by different faculties and/or at different levels, there is a higher risk of overlap in the course and exam schedules. Exams can be taken only on the official dates and in the prescribed modality.

Find the full list of courses here.

4. Swiss bureaucracy is too complicated

While it is true that Switzerland has a reputation for thoroughness in administrative matters, the International Relations and Study Abroad Service at USI offers robust support to help students navigate these processes. Students receive guidance on visa applications, residence permits, health insurance, and other administrative requirements. The necessary steps are explained in detail during the mandatory information sessions and students are provided with all the necessary documentation, including step-by-step guides and translations.

With the support provided, students can handle bureaucratic tasks efficiently, allowing them to focus on their studies and fully enjoy their exchange experience.

5. There is no social life or free time activities

The USI community may be relatively small, but it is vibrant. USI boasts a rich array of extracurricular activities: the university itself and the many acknowledged student associations contribute significantly to the social and cultural events calendar.

The Erasmus Student Network (ESN) Lugano section organizes various social events, trips, and activities to help exchange students integrate and make the most of their exchange experience.

Outside the University, Ticino offers many interesting attractions, the mountains and the lakes are the perfect setting for numerous outdoor activities. The many seasonal festivals and events provide a great opportunity to immerse oneself in the local culture.

6. It is difficult to travel to/from Ticino

Due to the small size of Ticino, it is easy to assume that it is not well-connected.

On the contrary, being situated between Zurich and Milan, it is easily reachable by rail, road, and air. Its strategic position on the north-south axis and right at the centre of Europe facilitates the connection to major Swiss and European cities, while maintaining human-scale characteristics. The many rail connections make Ticino an ideal home base for exploring the rest of Switzerland, as well as Northern Italy.