EHL: What it's really like

Want to pursue an international career in hospitality, management, finance, or marketing? EHL might be the perfect university for you.

École hôtelière de Lausanne (EHL) at a glance:

Max, Field Sales Executive for EHL Hospitality Business School and a former student at the school, shares what it's like to study there.
 

What’s the institution like? 

When it opened in 1893, EHL was the world's first hospitality management school. The school now has over 4,000 students from over 125 different countries.

The degree we offer is International Hospitality Management, with two six-month internships anywhere around the world. We’re often visited by top people within the industry, like the CEO of Yves Saint Laurent, a luxury fashion brand. Hearing what successful people have to say about how they got to where they are is really motivating, helping students understand how they can potentially achieve the same one day.If I had to describe the institution in three words, they would be ‘diverse’, ‘holistic’, and ‘fun’.

What's it like for students to live in the local area?

The main school is located in Lausanne, Switzerland, with two other campuses in Singapore and Passugg (a German-speaking part of Switzerland). As someone who was based in Lausanne, I can tell you there’s lots for students to do there in their spare time. The university is a campus but it’s a short drive to the city, where you can go to the lake and admire the mountains in the summer, or take advantage of one of the skiing resorts in the winter.

When it comes to nightlife, there’s a big range of clubs, bars, and restaurants with easily accessible transport links via the metro, bus, or car. One of my favourite clubs when I was a student was called MAD: the name itself should tell you why! Da Carlos was a great Italian restaurant where I went for lunch each weekend. Lausanne Flon is the main city centre where most students enjoy hanging out.

In Singapore, students can explore vibrant neighbourhoods like Little India and Chinatown, as well as the stunning architecture and green spaces it’s known for. In Passugg, students can connect with nature through outdoor activities like hiking, bird watching, or simply relaxing by the serene lake.

What accommodation options are available to students? 

In the first six months, you live on campus in either a single room, double room, or shared flat, before you start your six-month internship. You can get breakfast, lunch, and dinner on campus during the week using your student card which has money put onto it from the start of the semester, taken from your school fees.

Once you depart for your internship in whichever location you choose, you can then choose where to live based on your commute. I did my internship in London at the Four Seasons at Park Lane and lived in Battersea, a train ride away. Some companies may even offer you accommodation. After you return from your internship, you can live anywhere you want to. I myself lived in three different houses with my friends during my time at EHL.

What facilities does the institution have that make it stand out from other institutions? 

On campus, you’ll find a state-of-the-art swimming pool with an ice bath, sauna, and steam room. There are tennis and paddle courts, a beach volleyball pitch, and an enormous sports hall with a modern gym and yoga room.

There is also a Michelin-star restaurant, which you’ll have the pleasure of working in during your first six months. All of the classrooms are brand new with modernised equipment to help facilitate your learning process at school.

There are lots of study spaces scattered around the campus, alongside the library and classrooms. I did a lot of my Real Estate Finance learning in the Tschumi, which is named after the founder of EHL.

What is the top reason a student living in the UK should study here? 

As someone who was born and raised in Britain, I’d say the top reason to go here is the level of international exposure you get. Before attending EHL I lived in London for 21 years, and it’s easy to get caught up in a bubble and limit your learning to one culture. It was truly a life-changing experience to go to EHL and if I could do it all over again, I would in a heartbeat. I met so many amazing people from different backgrounds, and boosted my career hopes for the future through such a holistic degree.

Studying here gives you a good opportunity to understand exactly what you want to do in life. The options you get after graduation are enormous due to the school's recognition, and the variety of courses ranges from finance to marketing and psychology to legislation.

What is the top reason an international student should study here? 

One of our international students says:
 

“One of the most compelling reasons for international students to choose EHL is the global perspective it provides. The school attracts students from all corners of the world, fostering a rich tapestry of cultures and ideas. This diverse community not only enhances your cultural awareness but also broadens your network, which is invaluable for your career later on in life.

EHL’s emphasis on practical experience is another standout feature. The schools close ties with industry partners mean that students have access to internships and real world projects at some of the world's most renowned companies. This hands-on approach is a game changer in terms of preparing you for a brilliant career."

Who shouldn’t apply?

Of course, if you want to become a doctor or a lawyer or a scientist, EHL wouldn’t be suited to your needs. What I can say however, is that a degree in international hospitality management will never become obsolete. Because for me, it’s the basis of human interaction. And with all the different courses it covers, you get a solid understanding of what would be best for you upon graduation. It could be hospitality, marketing, finance, sports, or something else.

One more thing – you might prefer the Lausanne campus if you’re looking for a bustling environment. Singapore and Passugg are more quiet and calm. 

How does the institution meet the needs of students with different accessibility requirements?

At EHL, there’s mental health support on-campus, like counselling and psychologists who you can chat to about anything that’s worrying you.

There's the chance to get scholarships and bursaries as well. For example, as an international student from the UK, if you have exceptional grades and a variety of co-curricular activities, you could be offered a scholarship. There’s also the possibility for UK students to access loans.

We provide a wide range of material to help facilitate your learning through classes in person or online, through the use of audio, video, and text.

Do you offer any work placements or study abroad options for students?

We have two six-month internships. One is operational and the other is administrative. For example, my first internship was at the Four Seasons Hotel in London, and my second was within the marketing team for a restaurant. We now also offer the opportunity to go to Singapore for one of your semesters. You’ll get lots of opportunities to travel and see the world through your degree. 

One of our students says:
 

“My internship experience at EHL was a game changer. It's one thing to learn about work in a classroom, but stepping into a real world role was an entirely different level of learning. EHL’s network is unparalleled, and I had the opportunity to intern at UBS in the wealth management team. During those months, I was able to apply what I had learned in class, work with a diverse team, and truly understand the dynamics of banking and finance.”

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