University of St. Gallen: Acceptance Rate, Courses, Fees, Rankings, Scholarship & More
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The University of St. Gallen (HSG) is one of Europe’s leading institutions, renowned for its business, economics, law, and social sciences programs. Established in 1898, HSG has built a strong reputation for academic excellence, global rankings, and high employability rates, making it a preferred choice for students worldwide. With an acceptance rate of 27%, gaining admission to HSG is competitive, and students must demonstrate strong academic performance and language proficiency. This guide provides a detailed overview of the University of St. Gallen’s acceptance rate, courses, tuition fees, global rankings, scholarships, and accommodation options to help prospective students make informed decisions.
Highlights
| Feature | Details |
| Year of Establishment | 1898 |
| Campus Size | 4 acres |
| QS World University Ranking (2025) | Ranked #436 globally |
| Campus Locations | Main campus located in St. Gallen, Switzerland, with additional facilities integrated throughout the city. |
| Placement Rate | Over 80% of graduates receive an employment offer after graduation. |
| Top Recruiters | Leading global firms such as PwC, Kessler, Merantix, Credit Suisse, Deutsche Bank, UBS, ABB, Accenture, Allianz, Deloitte, Generis, Nevo Engineers, Cavalry Ventures Management, and Miele |
| Popular Courses for International Students | Business Administration, Economics, Law, Social Sciences, International Affairs, and Computer Science |
| English Language Exam Required | IELTS: Minimum 6.0; TOEFL: Minimum 92 |
| Acceptance Rate | Approximately 27% |
| Annual Tuition Fees for International Students | Bachelor’s Programs: CHF 20,000–CHF 25,000; Master’s Programs: CHF 22,000–CHF 28,000; Doctoral Studies: CHF 8,000 |
| Website | www.unisg.ch |
University of St. Gallen: Courses, Eligibility, and Fees
The University of St. Gallen (HSG) is one of Europe’s leading business and management universities, offering a wide range of bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs. It is particularly known for its business administration, economics, finance, law, and social sciences programs, attracting students from over 120 nationalities each year.
The university’s commitment to high academic standards means that students must demonstrate strong academic performance, language proficiency, and in some cases, standardized test scores like GRE, GMAT, IELTS, or TOEFL. Below is a detailed breakdown of popular programs at the University of St. Gallen in 2025, including their tuition fees, eligibility criteria, duration, and language requirements:
| Course | 1st Year Tuition Fees (INR & AUD) | Duration | Eligibility Criteria | Language & Exam Requirements |
| MS | INR 6,00,000 / AUD 11,000 | 24 months | Bachelor’s degree in relevant field, strong academic record | IELTS: 6.5+, TOEFL: 100+, GRE |
| MBA / PGDM | INR 6,00,000 / AUD 11,000 | 12-24 months | Bachelor’s degree, minimum 2 years work experience (preferred) | IELTS: 6.5+, TOEFL: 100+, GRE/GMAT |
| M.Sc. | INR 6,00,000 / AUD 11,000 | 12-24 months | Bachelor’s degree in related discipline, work experience may be required | IELTS: 6.5+, TOEFL: 100+, GRE/GMAT |
| BBA | INR 6,00,000 / AUD 11,000 | 3 years | High school diploma or equivalent with strong grades | IELTS: 6.0+, TOEFL: 90+ |
| LL.M. | INR 6,00,000 / AUD 11,000 | 18 months | Bachelor’s degree in law or related field | IELTS: 6.5+, TOEFL: 100+ |
| B.E. / B.Tech | INR 6,00,000 / AUD 11,000 | 3 years | High school diploma with strong mathematics and science background | IELTS: 6.0+, TOEFL: 90+ |
| M.A. | INR 6,00,000 / AUD 11,000 | 18 months | Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field | IELTS: 6.5+, TOEFL: 100+, GRE/GMAT |
| B.A. | INR 6,00,000 / AUD 11,000 | 3 years | High school diploma or equivalent | IELTS: 6.0+, TOEFL: 90+ |
University of St. Gallen Rankings
The University of St. Gallen (HSG), established in 1898, HSG has a strong reputation in business, economics, law, and social sciences, making it a preferred choice for students worldwide. The university’s Master in Strategy and International Management (SIM-HSG) is regarded as one of the best management programs in the world, while its Banking and Finance (MBF) program is highly ranked in Europe. HSG’s MBA program also stands out, ranking among the top 50 globally. Below is a detailed overview of University of St. Gallen (HSG) global and subject-specific rankings for 2025:
| Ranking Body | Global Rank (2025) | Regional Rank |
| QS World University Rankings | #436 | Top 10 in Switzerland |
| Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings | 351-400 | Top 10 in Switzerland |
| US News Best Global Universities | #1106 | #403 in Europe, #10 in Switzerland |
| Financial Times European Business Schools | #6 in Europe | #1 in Switzerland |
| Financial Times Master in Strategy and International Management (SIM-HSG) | #1 in the world | Top in Switzerland |
| Financial Times Banking and Finance (MBF) Program | #11 in the world | Top 5 in Europe |
| Top MBA (Global MBA Rankings) | #34 | Top in Switzerland |
University of St. Gallen Acceptance Rate
The University of St. Gallen (HSG) is known for its highly competitive admissions process, particularly for international students. With an acceptance rate of approximately 27%, securing admission requires strong academic credentials, language proficiency, and a well-rounded application. Each year, thousands of applicants from around the world apply, but only about 27 out of every 100 applicants secure a place at HSG.
While Swiss citizens, citizens of Liechtenstein, and those holding a Swiss residence permit (Type C) are exempt from certain selection criteria, international students must go through a rigorous evaluation process. Below is a detailed overview of the University of St. Gallen acceptance rate and admission requirements for 2025:
| Category | Details |
| Acceptance Rate (2025) | Approximately 27% – highly selective admissions process for international students. |
| Factors Affecting Admission | Academic performance, entrance assessments, and language proficiency. |
| Selection Process | Based on results achieved during the admission procedure and academic performance. |
| Language of Selection Procedure | Same as the language of instruction for the first year of the program (German or English). |
| Exemptions from Selection Process | Swiss citizens, citizens of Liechtenstein, and Type C Swiss residence permit holders. |
| Undergraduate Programs Admission Requirements | High school diploma with strong academic performance and language proficiency. |
| Master’s Programs Admission Requirements | A bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline with strong academic results. |
| Doctoral Programs Admission Requirements | A master’s degree with a strong research proposal and academic credentials. |
| Documents Required for Indian Students Applying to HSG | Valid Passport Letter of Acceptance Proof of Financial Means Academic Transcripts & Certificates Proof of Accommodation in Switzerland Passport-Sized Photos Cover Letter Paid Swiss Visa Fee Receipt |
University of St. Gallen Scholarships
Financing higher education can be a major concern for many students, particularly for those studying abroad. The University of St. Gallen (HSG) recognizes this challenge and offers a variety of scholarships and financial aid programs to support talented and deserving students. Switzerland, known for its world-class education system, can also be one of the most expensive places to study, with annual living costs ranging from CHF 18,000 to CHF 28,000 ($20,000 – $31,000 USD).
To bridge this financial gap, HSG provides several merit-based and need-based scholarships, including Excellence Scholarships, Loan & Scholarship Funds, and Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships. Below is a detailed breakdown of the scholarships available at HSG for the academic year 2025:
| Scholarship Name | Eligibility Criteria | Benefits | Application Process |
| Excellence Scholarships for Bachelor Students | – Outstanding academic performance in the HSG Assessment Year – Invitation to apply based on merit | Covers tuition fees for six semesters | – Identified students receive an invitation to apply – Submission of a creative personal introduction and motivation letter |
| Excellence Scholarships for Master Students (Starr International Foundation Scholarship Fund) | – Highly talented foreign-language students – Recognized foreign Bachelor’s degree – Enrolled in English-language Master’s programs (e.g., SIM, MiQE/F, MIA, MBF, MiMM, MEcon, MIL, MACFin, MCS) | CHF 20,000 per program | – Candidates are identified by the Advice Center for Study Funding – Additional documentation may be requested |
| Loan and Scholarship Fund (DSF) | – Students at assessment, bachelor, or master levels – Demonstrated financial need | Financial assistance through scholarships and loans (does not cover full study or living costs) | – Application available on Compass (HSG’s student portal) under “Requests” → “Study Funding” – Submission of documents for means testing |
| HSG Social Scholarships | – Open to Swiss and international students – Must be facing significant financial difficulties impacting studies | Financial support to help continue studies | – Case-by-case evaluation, considering financial situation, commitment, and motivation |
| Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships (ESKAS) | – Open to international students pursuing Master’s or Ph.D. programs – Must plan to conduct doctoral or postdoctoral research at HSG | Covers university tuition fees, provides a monthly stipend for living expenses, travel allowance, and research grants | – Apply through Swiss Embassies in home countries – Must find an academic supervisor at HSG for research-based scholarships |
University of St. Gallen Accommodation
Finding suitable accommodation is an essential part of the student experience at the University of St. Gallen (HSG). As one of Switzerland’s top business and management universities, HSG attracts students from over 80 countries, creating a diverse and vibrant student community. With more than 9,500 students enrolled, the demand for affordable and comfortable housing is high.
Unlike some universities, HSG does not offer on-campus dormitories, meaning students must arrange off-campus accommodation. However, the university provides housing support services, helping students find shared apartments, private studios, and student residences. The following section provides a detailed overview of the main accommodation options available to HSG students in 2025, along with their estimated monthly rental costs:
| Accommodation Type | Description | Approximate Monthly Rent (CHF) |
| Shared Apartments | Furnished private bedroom in a mixed-gender or single-gender apartment with shared kitchen and bathroom facilities. Utilities and Wi-Fi included. | 500–900 |
| Single Rooms with Private Bathrooms | Furnished rooms featuring a private bathroom, with shared kitchen and dining areas. Utilities and Wi-Fi included. | 700–1,200 |
| Private Apartments | Independent living spaces ranging from studios to multi-bedroom units, ideal for those seeking privacy. May include kitchen facilities; utilities may or may not be included. | 1,000–2,500 |
Conclusion
Studying at the University of St. Gallen offers students a world-class education, strong career prospects, and a dynamic international community. With top global rankings in business and finance, generous scholarship opportunities, and various housing options, HSG ensures a well-rounded academic experience.
For students aspiring to join one of Switzerland’s most prestigious universities, early preparation is key—whether it’s meeting admission criteria, securing scholarships, or finding accommodation. With over 80% of graduates securing job offers post-graduation, HSG is an excellent choice for students aiming for success in the global job market.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the University of St. Gallen’s acceptance rate in 2025?
The University of St. Gallen (HSG) has an acceptance rate of approximately 27%, making it a competitive institution for international students. Admission is based on academic performance, entrance assessments, and language proficiency.
What are the most popular courses at the University of St. Gallen?
The university of St. Gallen is known for its Business Administration, Economics, Law, Social Sciences, International Affairs, and Computer Science programs. The Master in Strategy and International Management (SIM-HSG) is ranked among the best in the world.
How much does it cost to study at the University of St. Gallen?
Tuition fees at the University of St. Gallen for international students range from:
- Bachelor’s Programs: CHF 20,000–CHF 25,000 per year
- Master’s Programs: CHF 22,000–CHF 28,000 per year
- Doctoral Studies: CHF 8,000 per year
Is the University of St. Gallen affordable for international students?
Compared to other top European business schools, HSG offers relatively affordable tuition fees, but the cost of living in Switzerland (CHF 18,000–CHF 28,000 per year) should be considered when budgeting for studies.
How does the University of St. Gallen rank globally in 2025?
- QS World University Rankings 2025: Ranked #436 globally
- Times Higher Education (THE) 2025: Ranked 351-400 globally
- Financial Times European Business Schools 2025: #6 in Europe, #1 in Switzerland
- Financial Times SIM-HSG (Master in Strategy and International Management): #1 in the world
