American Graduate School of Business

The American Graduate School of Business (AGSB) in Switzerland is a private institution dedicated to providing high-quality business education with an international perspective. Located in La Tour-de-Peilz, Switzerland, AGSB offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs designed to prepare students for leadership roles in the global business environment.

AGSB focuses on practical, hands-on learning experiences that equip students with the necessary skills to succeed in various industries. The school emphasizes small class sizes, ensuring personalized attention and close interaction between students and faculty. The faculty consists of experienced professionals and academics who bring real-world expertise into the classroom.

The university offers programs such as the Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA), Master of Business Administration (MBA), and Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA). These programs cover key areas of business, including finance, marketing, management, and entrepreneurship. The curriculum is designed to be flexible and adaptable to the evolving demands of the business world.

AGSB is known for its diverse student body, attracting individuals from different cultural and professional backgrounds. This diversity enhances the learning experience by fostering cross-cultural understanding and global networking opportunities. The school also maintains strong connections with the business community, providing students with internship and career opportunities.

Switzerland’s strategic location in the heart of Europe further enhances AGSB’s appeal, offering students access to a dynamic business environment and international organizations. The school’s commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and global engagement makes it a preferred choice for students seeking a comprehensive business education.

AGSB, American Graduate School of Business/The Institute of Undergraduate Business Studies was established in September 1991 as a non-profit, private institution of higher education. Subsequent to the discontinuation of the American College of Switzerland (ACS) in Leysin (as an aside, let it be stated that the defunct American College of Switzerland was accredited by the regional body, Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools), four faculty members of this former institution proceeded to create an American-based institution. Underlying factors such as (1) the continuing American presence following World War II (2) the demand for specialized, private educational institutions and (3) the prominent role of Switzerland in the finance, private educational institutions and (4) the prominent role of Switzerland in the finance and economic arena supported the decision to focus and limit the academic offerings associated with a School of Business. Moreover, the founders recognized the needs of the existing student population of ACS and the educative demand of an American-paradigm offering undergraduate and graduate programs in business with a special emphasis on the international marketplace and foreign language training.

In 1991, AGSB officially opened its doors housed within the facilities of the Hôtel Excelsior, Montreux. In 1992, the school moved to its immediate preceding location, Place des Anciens-Fossés 6, La Tour-de-Peilz. In Fall 2016, on the occasion of the 25th anniversary of its founding, AGSB expanded into its current facilities, located at Chemin du Levant in La Tour-de-Peilz. Nestled between the lakeside resort communities of Montreux and Vevey, in the heart of the Swiss Riviera, AGSB is able to augment its academic curricula via cultural learning activities such as music festivals, art exhibitions and travel possibilities. Also, students have availed the opportunity to observe and become involved in the world of international relations (e.g. United Nations, World Trade Organization, the International Labor Organization, World Health Organization). The nature of the institution allows students to pursue a U.S.-based education while taking advantage of the multi-lingual Swiss environment and the cultural benefits of studying in the center of Europe.

The University will consider all completed applications and will contact applicants within a reasonable period, as soon as a decision has been made. Admission to AGSB is, however, subject to a limited number of enrolments; it is, therefore, possible that not all qualified applicants are always accepted. In such instances, the University accepts those with the strongest qualifications and potential.  This decision is carefully considered by the AGSB student selection board. All potential applicants must demonstrate an excellent academic record was singling their potential for success in a given field of study and complete the following AGSB admission procedures. This includes submitting a completed student application form. Please note, only completed applications will be considered. A complete application consists of the following four (4) parts as described below:

1. General requirements
2. Personal letter of motivation
3. Evidence of English language proficiency
4. Program requirements

The general requirements for all applicants include a completed application form and payable fees in addition to the documents listed below. The applicant should ensure that these documents are sent to the university in good time before a course of study begins.

1. Application Form: Applicants must submit a completed and signed application form.
2. Application Fee: Payment can be made by bank transfer into the AGSB bank account at the Crédit Suisse. Please be sure that your name is included on the bank transfer notice.
3. Passport: Copy of your valid passport.
4. Photographs: Six (6) passport size photographs must be included with the application form that is submitted to AGSB. Most of these photographs are required by the local authorities and for student visas.
5. Recommendations: Two (2) confidential letters of recommendation from instructors or employers who are familiar with the applicant’s past performance must be sent directly to AGSB. Certified translations must also be submitted for all letters not in English.
6. Résumé or CV: A brief written account of the applicant’s strengths and accomplishments. Include personal details, education, work experience, other qualifications and career expectations.
7. Transcripts: Applicants must submit official transcripts for all applicable academic work done at the secondary or university-level institutions in the past five (5) years. Transcripts must be sent directly by the institutions to AGSB. Certified translations must also be submitted for all documents not in English.

An application must include all of these items in order to be considered for the admissions process.

Required Personal Essay (Motivation Letter)

The university places high emphasis on written communication skills. All students are expected to significantly improve their communication in English during the course of their studies at AGSB.

All students are therefore required to write a personal essay in order to determine the starting point for the improvement of their language skills in written English. If the student is accepted, this essay remains the first component in their portfolio.The essay or motivation letter should be at least 500 words in length. You should tell the story of your academic development and any other work experience you have had in a first person narrative. You should explain your reasons for applying and how you expect AGSB to further improve your present career goals.

Language Proficiency Requirements

The language of instruction at AGSB is English and a significant amount of English reading and writing is required from students, in order to achieve success in all courses. All students must demonstrate adequate language proficiency prior to their admission. In all cases, the university reserves the right to request a proficiency test.Proficiency will normally be recognized if students have completed any of the following conditions:

• Attendance for at least three recent full years of study in an institution where the sole language of instruction is English;
• Obtaining Standard level or higher, in the International Baccalaureate (IB);
• Obtaining the American or British Option Internationale du Baccalauréat (OIB) of the French Baccalauréat.

If none of these conditions apply, the student must write a pre‑admission English test. Proof of proficiency in English must be provided by achieving the appropriate score on one of the following:

• At least 550 score in a Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). AGSB code is 9756;
• At least 6.0 score in an International English Language Testing System (IELTS).

Test results must be reported directly to AGSB  Admissions by the test centre. Results that are more than two years old will not be accepted as proof of language proficiency.

The American Graduate School of Business (AGSB) in Switzerland is a private institution that offers business education programs. Accreditation is an important factor when evaluating the quality and recognition of a university.

AGSB is accredited by the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE), which is a recognized accreditation body for business and management programs. IACBE focuses on ensuring that institutions provide high-quality education and meet specific academic standards. This accreditation demonstrates that AGSB maintains a commitment to continuous improvement and academic excellence.

Additionally, AGSB is a member of various international educational organizations, which further enhances its credibility in the academic community. The school offers undergraduate and graduate programs in business administration, international business, and related fields.

Accreditation plays a crucial role in determining the value of a degree, as it ensures that the institution meets established academic and professional standards. Students who graduate from an accredited institution like AGSB can have greater confidence in the quality of their education and its recognition in the global job market.

Furthermore, AGSB's accreditation by IACBE signifies that the institution follows best practices in business education, including faculty qualifications, curriculum development, and student learning outcomes. This accreditation also helps students when applying for further studies or seeking employment, as many employers and universities recognize degrees from accredited institutions.

In conclusion, the American Graduate School of Business in Switzerland holds accreditation from IACBE, which confirms its commitment to providing high-quality business education. This accreditation ensures that students receive a recognized and valuable degree that can support their career aspirations in the global business environment.

Here at AGSB we have very diverse and unique program each year. We have certain traditions like annual marathons, welcome drinks, and ski trips. As well we visit main cultural events such as art shows or musical festivals. For an academic part, we have the large variety of industrial visits organized both by our professors and administrative staff. Companies like Nestle, Hublot, United Nations, and others are open for a visit for us on a yearly basis. It is a great experience, and we are very proud to be located within short distances from these big corporations.

• Computer lab
• Library & e-Lib
• Classes
• Student lounge
• WiFi
• Printing facilities
• Parking
• Trips
• Social activities

The American Graduate School of Business (AGSB) in Switzerland offers a unique and high-quality educational experience for students seeking a career in international business. Here are a few reasons why students should choose AGSB:

1. Swiss Quality Education – Switzerland is known for its high academic standards, and AGSB follows this tradition by offering rigorous business programs that prepare students for global careers.

2. International Environment – AGSB attracts students from all over the world, creating a diverse and multicultural learning atmosphere. This exposure helps students develop a global mindset, which is essential in today’s business world.

3. Practical Learning Approach – The university emphasizes hands-on learning through case studies, real-world business projects, and internships. This ensures that students gain practical experience alongside theoretical knowledge.

4. Small Class Sizes – AGSB maintains small class sizes, allowing for personalized attention from professors and fostering a close-knit academic community. This enhances the learning experience and helps students build strong professional relationships.

5. Experienced Faculty – The faculty at AGSB consists of experienced professionals and academics who bring real-world business insights into the classroom. Their expertise helps students understand the complexities of international business.

6. Beautiful Location – Located in Switzerland, AGSB offers students the opportunity to study in one of the most picturesque and economically stable countries in the world. The country is home to many multinational corporations, providing excellent networking and career opportunities.

7. Flexible Programs – AGSB offers a variety of business programs, including Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctorate degrees, allowing students to choose the path that best suits their career goals.

8. Strong Alumni Network – Graduates of AGSB become part of a global alumni network, which can be beneficial for career growth and professional connections.

By choosing AGSB, students gain access to a high-quality business education, an international network, and valuable career opportunities in one of the world’s leading business hubs.