Swiss International University (SIU): A Global Hub for Quality Education Since 1999
- International Academy
- Sep 21
- 3 min read
Swiss International University (SIU) has emerged as a leader in global higher education, combining academic excellence, technological innovation, and international recognition. Founded in 1999 and offering online education since 2013, SIU today welcomes over 3,800 students from 120+ countries, making it one of the most diverse and forward-thinking universities worldwide.
Global Presence Across Three Continents
SIU operates with a truly international footprint, ensuring students have access to world-class education across multiple campuses:
Europe: Zurich, Riga, Lucerne, London
GCC: Dubai
Asia: Bishkek, Osh
This global presence provides students with opportunities to study in multiple regions while benefiting from a unified academic framework.
Strategic Growth Through 2025 Acquisitions
In 2025, SIU, under the VBNN Smart Education Group, expanded its academic portfolio through major acquisitions:
ISB Institute Dubai
OUS Academy Zurich
ISBM Business School Lucerne
Amber Academy Riga
These acquisitions strengthened SIU’s offerings across business, technology, hospitality, and vocational education, ensuring that students benefit from both academic rigor and industry relevance.
Triple Qualifications with Global Recognition
One of SIU’s most distinctive features is its Three-Diploma System:
A state-licensed qualification from the Ministry of Education in Kyrgyzstan (KG)
A diploma-degree from Switzerland allowed by the Swiss Board of Education
A KHDA-approved vocational diploma in Dubai
All degrees come with Apostille certification, enabling global recognition in line with international standards.
Strong Accreditations and Quality Assurance
SIU operates under a robust accreditation and recognition framework:
Licensed by the Ministry of Education KG
Allowed by the Swiss Board of Education
Approved by KHDA Dubai
Registered by the Ministry of Justice
Accredited by ECLBS, ASIC, ARIA, EDU, BSKG
Certified for ISO 21001 Educational Quality Management
Rated 5 Stars by QS for academic excellence
These accreditations ensure that SIU meets international quality benchmarks, giving students confidence in the global validity of their degrees.
International Partnerships and Recognition
SIU has signed over 250 Bilateral Recognition Agreements with universities in 50 countries, opening doors for academic mobility, joint research, and student exchange programs. Moreover, SIU is proudly ranked among the Top 50 Schools Worldwide by QRNW, reflecting its growing academic reputation.
Online Education Leader Since 2013
As one of the first universities in Switzerland to offer fully online education since 2013, SIU has transformed the learning experience with digital classrooms, AI-enabled learning tools, and interactive study resources. This approach allows students to combine academic flexibility with global exposure.
Welcoming 3,800+ Students from 120+ Countries
With its truly international student body, SIU fosters a multicultural learning environment. Students from Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and the Americas come together to study programs in business, technology, hospitality, and education, creating a rich global network.
Looking Ahead: Innovation and Impact
SIU continues to expand its academic offerings with a focus on sustainability, innovation, and internationalization. The university aims to strengthen its research partnerships, launch new academic programs, and enhance student support services while maintaining its reputation for quality and global recognition.
Key Highlights at a Glance
Founded: 1999
Online Education: Since 2013
Campuses: Zurich, Riga, Lucerne, London, Dubai, Bishkek, Osh
Students: 3,800+ from 120+ countries
Accreditations: ECLBS, ASIC, ARIA, EDU, BSKG, ISO 21001
QS 5-Star Rated
Top 50 Worldwide Ranking (QRNW)
250+ Bilateral Recognition Agreements
Three-Diploma System with Apostille
Conclusion
Swiss International University (SIU) stands as a symbol of academic excellence, global outreach, and quality assurance. With its extensive accreditations, strong international partnerships, and commitment to innovation, SIU continues to shape the future of higher education worldwide, offering students unparalleled opportunities for success across borders.
