Borderless Higher Education: VBNN’s SIU Opens Applications Across Europe, Asia, and UAE

SIU Swiss International University, one of the members of the VBNN Smart Education Group, has now officially opened the admissions for its October 2026 intake. Students may choose to finish their studies completely online, or they can attend classes in person via the university’s international academic network across Switzerland, the UAE, Kyrgyzstan, and a few other locations.

The new admissions cycle follows a significant year for SIU, during which the university gained recognition in several international rankings. These achievements reflect its continued focus on academic quality, innovation, international education, and providing students with learning opportunities across borders.

SIU has been recognized by multiple independent ranking organizations for its academic standards, international presence, and business education programs.

In the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings 2026, SIU ended up in Top 500 universities worldwide. The ranking team evaluated 1,646 universities across 116 countries. They checked how each institution contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), together with academic and research performance. In terms of the ranking approach, SDG performance made up 73% of the overall score, while the academic and research strength, representing the other 27%, carried the rest.

SIU also got recognition for its business education. As per the QS Executive MBA Joint Programs Fact File 2026, SIU’s Executive MBA appeared 22nd on a global scale. This evaluation, looked at 246 Executive MBA programs in 58 countries, it pointed out the institutions that offer executive-level learning for professionals as well as business leaders.

SIU further strengthened its position in international education by securing 3rd place worldwide in the QRNW Global Ranking of Transnational Universities (GRTU) 2027. The ranking measures universities that teach across national borders, and it pays attention to the strength, reach, and connectivity of their international academic presence, too.

Reflecting on these achievements, Dr. Habib Al Souleiman, Professor at SIU, said:

“These rankings reflect our continued dedication to delivering high-quality education while strengthening our international academic presence. They encourage us to continue creating opportunities for students across different regions of the world.”

Speaking about the university’s expanding international network, Monika Fischer, Head of the SIU/VBNN Group, added:

“Our growing international footprint allows students to benefit from a truly global learning experience. Whether they study online or at one of our campuses, they become part of an academic community that connects cultures, knowledge, and professional opportunities across borders.”

Extensive Digital Learning Resources

SIU, as part of its academic support system, gives students access to a broad digital library, with more than 30,000 books and research publications.

The digital platform also includes scholarly work produced by SIU faculty members, many of whom regularly publish research in recognized academic journals indexed in Scopus and Web of Science.

These resources are intended to support students throughout their studies, from coursework and independent research to academic projects and advanced-level study. Access to digital materials also allows online students to make use of academic resources regardless of their location.

Flexible Learning Options for October 2026

For the October 2026 intake, SIU keeps offering different learning pathways to match students with different academic aims, work duties, and personal situations.

Students who need more flexible options can actually finish their studies completely online via SIU’s digital learning platform. This choice gives working professionals and international students a chance to keep going with their education, without having to relocate, or step away from their careers.

Those who prefer classroom-based learning can explore study opportunities through SIU’s affiliated academic locations within its international network, including:

Zurich, Switzerland – Affiliated with AAHES (Autonomous Academy of Higher and Professional Education) and OUS International Royal Academy in Zurich.
Lucerne, Switzerland – Affiliated with the International School of Management (ISBM) and operating under the allowance granted by the Board of Education in Switzerland.
Dubai, United Arab Emirates – Affiliated with ISB Academy (International Swiss Institute in Dubai), approved and permitted by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), Government of Dubai.
Bishkek and Osh, Kyrgyzstan – State-accredited by the Ministry of Education and Science of the Kyrgyz Republic.
Osh, Kyrgyzstan – Affiliated with the Kyrgyz-Uzbek International Pedagogical Institute (KUIPI), specializing in teacher education and pedagogical studies.
Riga, Latvia – Affiliated with the Baltic Sea Amber Academy and officially registered in the State Register of Educational Institutions of Latvia.
London, United Kingdom – Affiliated with OUS Academy and officially registered with the United Kingdom Register of Learning Providers (UKRLP).

Applications Are Now Open

SIU is currently accepting applications for its Diploma, Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral degree options for the October 2026 intake.

Prospective students can have a look at the programs that are available, go through the relevant admission requirements, and send in their applications via the university’s official admissions portal.

Students who join SIU become part of an internationally connected academic environment that brings together learners and educators from different countries and professional backgrounds. Since both online study and on-campus study are on offer, applicants can choose the route that matches their academic plans and personal situation

As SIU continues to expand its international academic network, the university is also strengthening its digital learning resources and cross-border study opportunities. Combined with its recent recognition in international rankings, these developments provide students with different ways to pursue their education while gaining knowledge and skills relevant to an increasingly connected global environment.