Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne vs University of California, Los Angeles
01 · Global Academic Standing
EPFL is a hyper-specialized European technical institute, unparalleled in deep science and engineering. UCLA is a top-tier American public research university, celebrated for its academic breadth and vibrant culture. EPFL holds a higher global ranking for its technical niche, while UCLA offers broader prestige and comprehensive experience.
02 · Departmental & Subject Strengths
EPFL is clearly superior for specialized engineering, particularly "Robotics and Autonomous Systems," offering unparalleled depth. Conversely, UCLA dominates in programs like "Film and Television," leveraging its Hollywood proximity and industry connections for unparalleled opportunities.
03 · Campus Environment & Cohort Culture
Choose EPFL if you seek a highly focused, research-intensive STEM education with strong European industry ties. Choose UCLA if you desire a comprehensive, diverse US university experience with top-tier academics and robust American career pathways.
Head-to-Head Indicator Showdown
| Comparative Dimension | Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne | University of California, Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
QS World University Rank Global employer & academic reputation index | #22 (2027)+27 places | #49 (2027) |
THE World University Rank Teaching, research environment & citations | #36 (2027) | #20 (2027)+16 places |
ARWU Shanghai Rank Nobel/Fields alumni & highly cited researchers | #43 (2026) | #14 (2026)+29 places |
U.S. News Global Rank Global research reputation & publications | #80 (2027) | #11 (2027)+69 places |
Admissions Selectivity Estimated acceptance rate (lower = more selective) | 20% | 9%More selective |
Annual International Tuition Estimated undergraduate/graduate base fee | $1,794Lower tuition | $46,296 |
Founding Heritage Year of institutional establishment | 1969 | 1919Lead |
Student Cohort Scale Total enrolled degree-seeking students | 14,012 | 46,430 |
Campus Safety Index Composite campus & surrounding municipal safety | 93 / 100Lead | 90 / 100 |
10-Year Historical Ranking Trajectory
Decade-long global standing curve across major league tables (higher curve position = stronger rank).
QS Subject Rankings Showdown
Click any discipline row to inspect side-by-side degree programs, tuition, and scholarships below.
Swiss Federal Institute · Specialist Subject Standings
California, Los Angeles · Specialist Subject Standings
Cost of Living & Annual Budget Face-off
Estimated monthly student expenditure in Lausanne vs Los Angeles alongside annual international tuition.
Swiss Federal Institute (Lausanne)
California, Los Angeles (Los Angeles)
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