The QS Ranking is primarily aimed at university institutions with a strong research focus. SHL is a federally recognised higher professional school that distinguishes itself through its pronounced practical relevance, application orientation, and close collaboration with the hotel and tourism industry. These aspects, which are central to students and the industry, are only marginally included in global rankings like QS. SHL chooses to invest its resources in programme development, individual support, and the promotion of innovation and labour market relevance rather than in the significant personnel and financial resources required for participation in such rankings.

Applicants must be at least 18 years old and hold a high school diploma, Swiss Matura, Berufsmatura, EFZ, or an equivalent qualification. For language proficiency, SHL accepts IELTS 6.0, TOEFL (iBT) minimum 70 points, University of Cambridge English Certificate minimum score 170, or evidence that the applicant has spent at least the last five years of school with English as the main language of instruction.

The application and admission process at SHL Schweizerische Hotelfachschule Luzern usually takes approximately one to three weeks. To apply for a place at SHL, candidates must complete the online application form and upload all the required documents listed in the application steps as PDF files.

The SHL campus is located in the heart of Lucerne, with a perfect location offering proximity to the city centre and fantastic views of the lake and mountains. With its stylish design, the campus conveys a genuine hospitality ambience. The infrastructure includes state-of-the-art academic and practical training facilities, group rooms, retreats for self-study, and lounge areas. The three F&B outlets – the training restaurant Salt & Pepper, the Club, and Caffè Milano – offer students fresh food and drinks as well as excellent guest service. The Boost Zone serves as a multifunctional room for creativity, breaks, or business lunches.

The Hotel SHL is located right next to the SHL Lakeview Campus, where around 80 students stay during the semester. Hotel SHL reflects a true hotel experience, with different room categories for students to choose from. In addition to the modern, spacious rooms, Hotel SHL offers a common room with a fully equipped kitchen and a large roof terrace for relaxing and enjoying warm evenings with friends.

Students from non-EU/EFTA countries are generally not permitted to work during the first six months of their stay in Switzerland. After this period, they may work up to 15 hours per week during the semester. For students from EU/EFTA countries, different regulations may apply. Any work must be reported to the local labour market authority, and the employer must apply for a work permit through the Cantonal Labour Office.

After finishing their studies, non-EU/EFTA graduates from a Swiss university can apply for a temporary residence permit of up to six months to stay in Switzerland and look for a job. If a job offer is obtained during this period, graduates may apply to convert their status to a work permit. The SHL internship and career team supports students with access to a wide range of internships and future career opportunities, and the SHL Job Portal publishes positions exclusively for SHL students and alumni.