With around 50 nationalities on campus, IMI is a microcosm of the world. You will meet roommates from Europe, classmates from Asia, mentors from the Americas – all under one roof. This cultural diversity means every day you will learn something new, whether it is a friend teaching you a recipe from their home country or a festival celebration bringing global traditions to campus.
New students are welcomed with a dedicated Induction Week — a full week designed to help you settle in, meet your classmates, and learn everything you need about IMI, life on campus, and the Lucerne region. It’s a supportive introduction that ensures you feel prepared, informed, and excited for the journey ahead.
Our owner’s presence on campus and approachable staff create a true sense of belonging. We celebrate birthdays, cultural nights, and successes together like a family would.
You will get to know almost everyone by name, creating a warm ‘home away from home’ atmosphere. With small class sizes and approachable faculty, it often feels more like a close-knit community than a traditional university.
Training kitchens, a student-run restaurant, modern classrooms, and quiet library spaces support both practical work and academic study.
We offer breakfast, lunch, and dinner in buffet style every day, along with dishes from our gourmet training restaurant. Our chefs prepare varied menus that reflect Switzerland’s culinary standards and support different dietary needs.
Students stay in furnished single or shared rooms with Wi-Fi and optional en-suite facilities, all within a short walk of class.
A curated calendar of on-campus and off-campus engagements supporting cultural awareness, industry exposure, and student development.
A beloved celebration of cultural diversity, where students showcase their heritage through food stands, traditional dress, and live performances.
An expertly guided sommelier masterclass where students learn the foundations of wine appreciation and service — a valuable skill in the hospitality industry.
A day of friendly competition in football, volleyball, and other activities that promote team spirit and wellbeing.
Industry-focused visits to leading food production companies, luxury hotels, and Michelin-starred restaurants, offering real-world exposure beyond the classroom.
Leisure trips such as a day at Europa Park or sightseeing in nearby Swiss cities. Being in the heart of Europe, weekend adventures to Paris, Milan, or Munich are within easy reach.
Regular sessions with hospitality professionals and industry leaders, offering insights into current trends, leadership, and innovation.
Part of student life at IMI is experiencing the incredible location. Lucerne (Luzern) is just down the road – a beautiful city known for its medieval architecture, waterfront promenades, and lively arts scene.
On weekends, you can stroll through Lucerne’s old town, visit museums, or relax in cafes near the Chapel Bridge. The city is very student-friendly, with cinemas, shops, and regular events, many of which offer student discounts.
Thanks to Switzerland’s efficient transport system, it is easy to take a train to Zurich for a day trip or go hiking on Mount Pilatus, which is visible from our campus. Many students use the Swiss Rail student pass to explore the country at a lower cost.
Experience all four seasons, from summer days by the lake to the colourful autumn period, winter skiing or snowboarding in Engelberg just an hour away, and lively spring festivals. Every season offers its own activities and atmosphere.
Studying in Indonesia for my whole life, this was my very first time studying abroad and being surrounded by so many different cultures. It really pushed me out of my comfort zone, in a good way! I got to meet people from all over the world and make so many amazing friends!
Coming from a non-hospitality background, IMI changed my perspective entirely. Here I learned that hospitality is about creating a sense of belonging. Through campus life and warm connections, IMI taught me the value of making people feel at home.
IMI maintains a true open-door policy. Students are encouraged to visit lecturers and staff in their offices at any time — whether it is for academic advice, personal guidance, or simply a quick check-in. This flexibility ensures that every student can connect with someone they feel comfortable speaking to.
Our small class sizes and close-knit community make it easy for students to connect with faculty whenever they need guidance. Lecturers are approachable and present throughout the day, which encourages natural, ongoing interaction. For questions outside class, students can reach staff directly through MS Teams or email and usually receive quick, helpful responses.
We understand that living and studying abroad can be challenging at times. Our team is always available to listen, offer guidance, and connect you with the right support when needed. Whether you are managing stress, homesickness, or personal concerns, you will always find someone to talk to at IMI.
From organising your residence permit to helping open a bank account or book a dentist appointment, our Student Services team is here to make everyday life in Switzerland as smooth as possible. You will find them approachable, multilingual, and always willing to help.
Our dedicated Internship & Career Office supports you from the start of your IMI journey. Whether you are exploring future career paths, preparing a CV, or getting ready for interviews, personalised guidance is available throughout your studies.
