International Student Support

​

At SWISS UMEF, we are committed to the academic success, well-being, and integration of our international students. Our dedicated International Student Support Centre offers a comprehensive range of personalised services to guide students before, during, and after their academic journey in Switzerland.

​

1. Pre-Arrival Support

• Visa Assistance
  Personalised guidance on the visa application process, including document preparation and timelines.

• Orientation Programmes
  Pre-arrival webinars and welcome sessions to help students understand academic life, cultural norms, housing options, and life in Geneva.

• Accommodation Support
  Advice and resources to find suitable student housing or host family arrangements.

​

2. Academic Support

• Language Support
  Referrals to affordable and accredited French and English language institutions for non-native speakers.

• Academic Advising and Mentorship
  Guidance on course selection, academic planning, and adjustment to Swiss academic expectations.

• Workshops and Study Skills Seminars
  Tools and strategies for time management, research writing, and exam preparation.

​

3. Personal and Social Integration

• Student Counselling Services
  Confidential mental health and emotional support for cultural adjustment, academic pressure, or personal concerns.

• Cultural Integration Support
  Activities and excursions to foster intercultural dialogue and help students feel at home: buddy programmes, student clubs, international dinners, and city tours.

​

4. Financial Support and Advice

• Scholarships for International Students
  SWISS UMEF assists with scholarship applications, including three dedicated scholarships for students from developing countries:

  • Global Impact Scholarship – for students engaged in sustainable development.

  • Southern Excellence Scholarship – based on academic merit.

  • Equal Opportunity Scholarship – for high-potential students facing financial hardship.

• Budget Planning
  Personalised guidance to manage living and study expenses in Switzerland.

• Student Employment
  Information on part-time work permitted under student visa regulations.

​

5. Career and Internship Services

• Career Coaching
  CV and cover letter writing, interview preparation, and career path planning.

• Internship Placement Support
  Assistance in finding internships in Switzerland or abroad, aligned with academic goals and visa conditions.

​

6. Health and Wellness Support

• Health Insurance Guidance
  Assistance in obtaining mandatory health insurance coverage and understanding Swiss healthcare requirements.

• Medical Access Support
  Help in identifying local doctors, clinics, and emergency care services in Geneva.

​

7. Post-Graduation Support

• Visa and Residency Guidance
  Information on visa extensions and legal options for staying in Switzerland after graduation for work or further studies.

• Alumni Seminars and Continued Learning
  For up to two years after graduation, alumni can participate in educational seminars, personalised support sessions, and career development events.

​

Why SWISS UMEF?

Our human-scale institution offers a warm, responsive, and personalised environment. The International Student Support Centre is designed to ensure fast, flexible and caring support for every student’s unique needs.​​

​

​