FAQ
Can I transfer credits into BSL programs?
BSL accepts up to 90 credits (from recognized institutions of higher learning) into the BBA program. Credits are not transferable for MBA programs.
How is it possible to complete a BBA in two years at BSL?
The BSL BBA is a three year 180 ECTS-equivalent bachelor program accredited by ACBSP. In Europe, university programs are measured in terms of workload hours, which is a combination of class hours and study hours. The BSL program accelerates a typical three-year bachelor program into an intense two-year program by increasing the number of classes provided over the two-year period and by adding two 10 week summer terms.
The credit hours given by BSL differ slightly to both the traditional US systems of semester hours and quarter hours. During a calendar year, BSL gives four, ten-week terms, allowing students to earn 15 hours of credit per term. A student with a full load takes five, three credit-hour courses, with four contact hours per week per course, and thus spends a total of 20 hours per week in the classroom. By maintaining this rigorous schedule students can complete the 120 US credits required for the BBA in a minimum of eight terms or two calendar years.
What specializations are available at BSL?
The BSL degrees, especially our BBA and MBA specialize in ‘Global Business Management,’ giving you a wide range of skills in all business areas. In specializing in global business, you will be prepared for any area of business. We also provide dynamic masters programs that allow you to focus your studies on Finance, Marketing, International Business or Sustainable Entrepreneurship.
What is the language of tuition at BSL?
All courses at BSL are given in English, the international language of business.
What TOEFL score do I need to enter BSL?
Every potential student for BSL is interviewed in order to assess their level of English and their chances of success in the programmes. As a guide you’ll need English at TOEFL level 213 (computer based) or 550 (paper based). The BSL TOEFL code is 0018.
What are the estimated living expenses in Lausanne?
Furnished studio apartment with bathroom and kitchen facilities from - CHF 950.--
Furnished room from - CHF 600.--
Food and toiletries (If you prepare your own meals) - CHF 950.--
Medical and accident insurance - see the page on this website
Where do I live in Lausanne?
See the webpage on ‘Accommodation’
Do I need to take the GMAT to enter the MBA?
At BSL, we recommend complimenting an application with a GMAT score. Typically, we consider scores above 550, and the average score at BSL is 640. However, a GMAT score is not required, as we want to assess your real chances of success in the BSL environment through an interview. All MBA and EMBA candidates will interview with the Dean or Associate Dean before joining our program.
Does BSL have a distance-learning program?
Though we offer some online courses as preparation class (prerequisites for the MBA/EMBA) we do not offer distance learning. We believe that the most valuable part of the learning comes from interaction and discussion in the classroom.
Do I need a visa to study in Switzerland?
See the webpage ‘Visa Requirements’
Can I work in Switzerland with a Study Permit?
It is possible for students to work a maximum 15 hours per week during their studies PROVIDING both the school and the police give their prior permission (the employer must also obtain permission).
Does BSL offer scholarships?
A limited number of scholarships are available for students in special situations
What is the meaning of ‘accreditation’?
Institutional or program accreditations ensure that a school and its programs offer a high quality level of education. Only 10% of business schools are accredited (have undergone the rigorous accreditation process). BSL was the first business school in Europe to achieve full ACBSP accreditation for all of its programs in 1996. Institutional accreditations such as AACSP and EQUIS validate the viability of a school, whereas, program accreditations, such as AMBA (only for MBA programs) and ACBSP (for all business programs including the doctorate level) validate the continuous high quality of the programs delivered. For more information on BSL's accreditation, see 'Accreditation.'
Are BSL degrees equivalent under the European Credit Transfer System?
In accordance with the Bolognia reform, BSL has adapted all of its programs to ensure equivalence under the European university requirements. The BSL BBA program is a three-year 180 ECTS-equivalent bachelor program that is offered in an intense, accelerated 2-year program structure for ambitious students. All MBA courses, from full-time to modular to the Executive program are equivalent to 60 ECTS credits of post graduate degrees, recognized as MAS (Master of Advanced Studies degrees).