Student life in Switzerland: housing, work, weather and culture
Work and money
15 hours a week after the first 6 months (immediately for master's students at Swiss universities), full time in holidays, at No national minimum; cantonal minimums of CHF 20 to 24 an hour in Geneva, Neuchâtel and Jura. Living costs of CHF 1,800 to CHF 2,600 a month; immigration expects CHF 21,000 a year.
Where students live
| City | Student areas | Room rent |
|---|---|---|
| Zurich | Oerlikon, Altstetten and student halls run by WOKO. | CHF 800 to CHF 1,400 for a room |
Everyday life
- Switzerland has four national languages; Zurich is German-speaking, Geneva and Lausanne French, Lugano Italian.
- ETH Zurich has produced more than 20 Nobel laureates.
- Public universities admit on the strength of your previous degree; entrance exams apply to some bachelor's applicants.
- Hospitality degrees include paid internships of four to six months in Swiss hotels.
- The Half-Fare card cuts train fares by 50 percent for CHF 190 a year.
- Rubbish bags are taxed; recycling is taken seriously.
- Salaries for graduates commonly start at CHF 70,000 to CHF 90,000.
- Most shops close by 7pm and on Sundays.
Health cover
Compulsory Swiss health insurance or an approved foreign equivalent.
Figures are indicative for the 2026/27 cycle, change with exchange rates and policy, and should be confirmed with the university or the relevant government before you decide.
Get this checked for your case
Rules change and every application is different. A counsellor confirms the current position for your country and course. Free.
Talk to a counsellorRelated questions
Is Switzerland expensive for students?
Yes. Budget CHF 1,800 to CHF 2,600 a month. Tuition at public universities is low, so the total cost is comparable to the UK once fees are included.
Can international students work in Switzerland?
Yes, up to 15 hours a week after six months (immediately for master's students who completed a bachelor's at a Swiss university), and full time in holidays.
Do I need German or French?
For bachelor's programmes at public universities, usually yes. Most master's at ETH, EPFL and the business and hospitality schools are in English.