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Switzerland already has four languages, but as far as its universities are concerned is fast acquiring a fifth one - English. Experts say the country has long welcomed foreign scholars and sent its own students abroad. But the rise of English reflects Swiss universities' more global outlook, as well as the effects of the Bologna reforms.

Switzerland's neighbours, and Germany in particular, still provide the bulk of non-Swiss students and staff. However, the intake from other countries is on the rise. Of non-European countries, China has the most foreign students in Switzerland. India and Russia also have important contingents. Switzerland has the highest proportion of foreign students in Europe, second only to Australia worldwide.

"If you want to attract foreign students, you will best do it by having courses in English," said Johanna Ziberi of the Rector’s Conference of Swiss Universities, who is responsible for promoting contacts between Swiss and foreign universities. "English is the language of academia."