Switzerland is famous for attracting a large number of international students. Aurélia Gervasoni, a student, shares essential tips for newcomers.
Switzerland
Picking Switzerland for my studies was one of the best choices I’ve ever made—though it wasn’t without its hurdles. From my own journey, I’ve put together some key advice to help you navigate your time here smoothly and avoid some of the bumps I faced.
Switzerland’s top-tier universities draw students from all over the world, offering both academic brilliance and rich cultural experiences. But what should you keep in mind before making the leap?
Getting Ready for Your Swiss Adventure
Language Matters More Than You Think
Switzerland has four official languages: French, Italian, German, and Romansh. When selecting a university, keep this in mind—courses are taught in different languages depending on the institution. You might even want to pick a school that teaches in the language you’re hoping to learn.
Speaking the local language of your study region is usually a must. And if you plan to work in Switzerland (either during or after your studies), the language of your degree can play a big role.
Hunting for Housing? Start Early
Finding affordable housing in Switzerland can feel like a treasure hunt. Luckily, your university’s resources can help. The trick is to begin your search as soon as possible, check listings often, and browse Facebook groups where students sublet rooms or share advice. Don’t dismiss shared housing either—living with others might seem strange at first, but it often turns into one of the most rewarding parts of your experience.
Dealing with Swiss Bureaucracy
First things first—don’t stress! Your university will email you all the necessary details. Still, there are a few steps to tackle before you’re fully settled.
You’ll need a residence permit based on your enrollment. And shortly after arriving, you’ll have to sign up for mandatory health insurance. The good news? Switzerland’s administrative system is efficient, the steps are clearly explained, and staff usually speak English.
Academic Life: What to Expect
Teaching Style—Less Interaction, More Independence
Like many European universities, most classes here are lecture-based rather than interactive. Professors speak for an hour or more while students take notes.
Grades are mostly based on final exams, with little continuous assessment. That means strong note-taking skills are a must.
The student-teacher dynamic can feel formal—but that doesn’t mean you can’t approach them for help or a chat. The Swiss system emphasizes self-directed learning, so you’ll need to take charge of your studies.
Core Modules vs. Optional Courses
Some universities, like the University of Zurich, categorize courses differently. Core modules are mandatory—if you fail one, you’ll have to retake it the next semester. Fail twice, and you might not be able to continue your degree.
Other courses can often be swapped for similar subjects. For example, if you miss a civil law class, you might take contract law instead since both fall under “private law.” Your university will guide you on which courses are required and which are flexible.
The High Cost of Living
Budget Wisely—Student Perks Help
Switzerland is one of the most expensive countries in the world—but also one of the best places to live. To avoid end-of-month stress, smart budgeting is key. After rent, plan carefully for food and other expenses.
Look for stores (like Denner) that slash prices on unsold items at the end of the day. Your student card also unlocks discounts—some universities have cheap canteens, unlimited sports passes, and more. Because of high costs, many students opt for house parties over clubs.
Note: Tuition is low compared to other countries (around CHF 900/£790 per semester), but living costs are higher than in most European cities.
Swiss Culture & Lifestyle
Safety? Switzerland Nails It
Switzerland is one of the safest countries globally, with very little crime. It’s normal to see students leave laptops unattended in libraries. As a woman, I’ve never felt safer—walking home at night or leaving my things in a café is completely stress-free. Studying in such a secure environment eases so much mental pressure.
Breaking the Ice with the Swiss
Swiss culture values respect, politeness, and punctuality (no surprise in the land of watches!). Locals tend to have tight-knit social circles, so breaking in might feel tough at first—they can be reserved.
But don’t worry—that’s just the first impression. Once they warm up, they’re welcoming and friendly. Don’t hesitate to join student activities or strike up conversations. Just make sure you’re on time!
Making Friends & Exploring
Switzerland’s train system is super easy to use, and your student card gets you discounts on museums and transport.
Every Swiss university has student clubs you can join, and if you live with roommates, you might even plan a ski trip during winter break.
Final Thoughts
Switzerland is packed with incredible opportunities—both academically and personally. If you’re looking for a safe, stimulating, and rewarding place to study, Switzerland is waiting for you.