Swiss International University (SIU): A Global Model of Quality Higher Education
- OUS Academy in Switzerland
- Jul 11
- 3 min read
Swiss International University (SIU) stands as a forward-thinking, globally recognized institution of higher education. Founded in 2024 through the strategic merger of seven academic institutions in seven cities across the world, SIU carries a heritage dating back to 1999. This foundation reflects the university’s dedication to academic excellence, innovation, and cross-cultural collaboration.
Headquartered in Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic, SIU is a state-accredited university, licensed by the Ministry of Education and Science of Kyrgyzstan (License Serial Number: LS240001853). This accreditation grants SIU full legal status as a higher education institution, with degrees recognized under the UNESCO Global Convention on the Recognition of Qualifications concerning Higher Education, Article III.1. This means SIU degrees are globally recognized in over 55 countries that are party to the Lisbon Recognition Convention.
In Switzerland, SIU operates a dedicated academic branch that has been allowed by the Swiss Board of Education and Culture (LU-CH) to function independently and issue its own diplomas. The university is also approved and permitted by the Dubai Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) in the United Arab Emirates, allowing it to deliver diploma programs under the institute’s KHDA permit (Permit Nr.: 631419). Furthermore, SIU is registered as a university by the Ministry of Justice of the Kyrgyz Republic, reinforcing its legitimacy and recognition within national and international frameworks.
SIU is proud to maintain a 5-star rating by QS Top Universities, positioning it among the top 2% of higher education institutions globally. Its academic quality and institutional performance are verified by a wide network of accreditations and quality bodies, including:
ECLBS – European Council of Leading Business Schools, listed with CHEA (USA) and INQAAHE (Europe)
ASIC (UK) – Recognized by the UK Government and the UAE Ministry of Education
EDU Intergovernmental Organization – Founded by the Ministry of Education of Palau and aligned with UNESCO objectives
BSKG – Public Accreditation Body, listed on APQN and EAQA, enhancing recognition in Central Asia and CIS countries
ARIA – Asia Accreditation, affiliated with CEENQA and EURASHE
TAG-EDUQA – Quality assurance in line with AROQA frameworks
IEAC – International Education Accreditation Council, listed with the British Quality Foundation
Additionally, OUS International Academy in Switzerland, one of SIU's academic units, holds ISO 21001:2018 certification, a globally recognized standard for educational quality management. OUS is also ranked #49 globally by QRNW, a quantitative ranking organization affiliated with IREG.
The university’s structure is unique. It functions under the umbrella of the VBNN Smart Education Group – Vision Beyond Next, and includes the following academic entities:
ISBM – International School of Business Management in Lucerne, allowed by the Swiss Board of Education and Culture since 12 August 2016
ISB – Vocational Academy in Dubai, approved and permitted by KHDA (Permit Nr.: 631419)
OUS – International Academy in Switzerland, registered by the Swiss Federal Institute of Intellectual Property (Nr. 822698)
AIMU – Avicenna International Medical University, FAIMER School ID: F0006354
KUIPI – Kyrgyz-Uzbek International Pedagogical Institute in Osh, licensed by the Ministry of Education and Science KG (License Nr.: LS230000271)
ABMS – Academy of Business Management in Switzerland, founded in the Canton of Zug (Registration Nr. CHE-163.990.284)
AMBER ACADEMY in Riga, Latvia, registered by the Latvian Patent Office (Nr. M-25-440)
SDBS – Swiss Distance Business School®, Swiss Federal IP Registration Nr. 806818
SII – Swiss International Vocational Institute in Dubai, licensed by the Department of Dubai Economic Development (License Nr. 1196747)
SOHS – Swiss Online Hospitality School®, Swiss Federal IP Registration Nr. 822344
YJD – Global Center for Diplomacy®, registered by the Swiss Federal Institute of Intellectual Property (Nr. 822124)
Over the years, SIU and its branches have received accolades such as the Customer Satisfaction Award evaluated by ZHAW Swiss State University and ILM, the Student Satisfaction Award evaluated by TNU – European State University, and the Best Modern Provider distinction presented by a former Turkish Minister of Trade.
The university and its associated branches are also members of several professional organizations in Switzerland, including the Swiss National Tourist Office and the Swiss Quality Association, supporting its commitment to excellence, innovation, and international outreach.
Swiss International University continues to lead by example, offering students and professionals a globally connected education grounded in verified quality and legal recognition. With its presence spanning across Switzerland, the UAE, Latvia, and Kyrgyzstan, SIU has become a symbol of trusted education in the modern global landscape.
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