Held once a year in October/November, this event is an opportunity for university members to meet with representatives of the political, academic and business worlds. It is also attended by representatives of federal bodies, other Swiss universities and partner institutions.

Dies Academicus acts as an occasion for the faculties to present their honorary doctorates and the University Council to acknowledge the best theses. The Credit Suisse Award for Best Teaching is also presented to a lecturer, the "Alumnus of the Year"/"Alumna of the Year" prizes are given and the title of honorary senator is honored.

Information on those honoured each year, programmes and speeches is available in German.