Switzerland is a beautiful place to study, with a world-class education and gorgeous countryside. It’s no secret, though, that Switzerland is also one of the most expensive places to live. That can be a struggle for students on a tight budget, but with a little planning and helpful tricks, you can make it work. Here are 10 easy money-saving tips for studying in Switzerland.
1. Find Affordable Student Housing
The biggest expenditure for a student is tuition. Rent can be very expensive in Switzerland, especially in Zurich or Geneva. However, many universities have student housing that is less expensive than renting. Make sure you search early, as student housing gets very competitive. If there’s no university housing, live in an apartment with other students and split the bill.
Also, consider rooms in co-op or residence halls, which are more affordable and a convenient way to meet others. Living a little way outside the city can save you some money since rents are generally cheaper in the suburbs.
2. Take Advantage of Student Discounts
Switzerland offers many student discounts, so always bring your student ID. Check if there’s a student discount when buying a train ticket, going to a museum, or going out to get something. There are also student deals on streaming services, gyms, and even cultural excursions that will help stretch your money.
Common student discounts in Switzerland are as follows:
- Public transportation passes
- Movie theaters and cultural events
- Restaurants and cafes
- Museum and gallery admissions
- Retail and online shopping
3. Cook at Home and Shop Smart
In Switzerland, dining out frequently will quickly empty your wallet. Cook at home as much as possible. Not only is home cooking more affordable, but it is also better for your health and the environment. Swiss supermarkets such as Migros and Coop have student-friendly prices if you stick to the core items. Seek out the supermarkets’ own brands, which are typically cheaper than the name brands, and watch for weekly offers.
Buy at discount supermarkets such as Aldi or Lidl to get staples even cheaper. Almost all Swiss supermarkets also lower the price of produce that’s nearing its sell-by date, so you can save money by shopping in the evening.
4. Use Public Transportation Wisely
Swiss public transport is frequent, modern, and well-maintained, but also costly. If you’re a regular commuter, consider a student pass for public transportation. Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) has a “Swiss Half Fare Card” where you save 50% on most of the public transportation in Switzerland. Some cities also have month-to-month or annual travel passes just for students.
Biking is an option if you don’t have to commute every day. The Swiss are very cycle-friendly, and there are plenty of city bike rental places where you can rent bikes for very cheap. Not only will it save you money, but it will keep you physically active.
5. Manage Your Health Insurance Costs
Swiss Health insurance is compulsory and can be very expensive. You might be eligible for cheaper health insurance as a student. Compare plans and providers to see which is the best one. Some universities even have their own health insurance plans at lower rates for foreign students.
Sometimes, you can also get a health insurance exemption if you are covered in your country of origin. Check with your university’s international office for information on health insurance to mitigate this cost.
6. Find Part-Time Work Opportunities
Part-time work can supplement your income during your studies in Switzerland if you have a student visa that permits it. You may also find work on campus at most universities, be it in libraries, cafes, or offices. These jobs are typically hourly, and they accommodate your college hours.
For multilingual students, translating, tutoring, or freelance writing can be profitable too. Remember that you’re an international student, so you can only work a certain number of hours per week (typically, it’s 15 hours during the semester), so make sure to check with your local government or the career services department at your university.
7. Use Free University Resources
Make the best of what your university has to offer. Many universities offer free software, textbooks, journals, and even printing services. Some even provide counseling, access to the gym, and even language training free of charge. See what’s available on campus so you don’t pay for what you can get for free.
You can also find free and inexpensive student websites that offer learning tools, resources, and other aid. If you need help writing a paper, for example, you can Google “Which website can just do my essay for cheap?” and you will likely find some good providers. Just make sure to check customer testimonials before ordering.
8. Explore Low-Cost Leisure Options
Swiss tourism may be a luxury, but Switzerland’s beauty is ripe for cheap travel. Instead of expensive excursions, there are free and open-access places to enjoy Switzerland’s natural splendor. You’ll find trails, lakes, and parks everywhere you go that are not expensive to get to.
A second factor is that there are many free events and festivals in most cities in Switzerland, especially in the summer months. Some museums even have free entrance on certain days of the week or are free for students, so you can also afford to explore Switzerland’s culture.
9. Borrow or Buy Secondhand Textbooks and Supplies
Textbooks and other study materials are not cheap in Switzerland, but most universities have libraries where you can get the textbooks for free. Look for student groups where students can get free resources and study materials. Secondhand stores and marketplaces are also great for getting things you need at a lower cost. University bookstores usually do buy-back periods at the end of each semester, so you may even be able to sell your books later and cover some of your costs.
10. Make Use of Student Meal Plans or Canteens
The majority of Swiss universities have student meal plans or on-campus canteens in which students get their meals subsidized. These meals are generally cheaper than restaurant food and are usually more nutrition-conscious. If your university does not have a meal plan, search for student cafeterias around town with student discounts. There are universities that even have food apps where you can purchase meals in advance and get a discount. By eating on campus, you’ll save time, be healthier, and not have to spend money dining out all the time.
Enjoy Switzerland Without Breaking the Bank
You do not have to pay a lot to stay and study in Switzerland. With proper housing, transportation, food, and entertainment planning, you can still have a Swiss experience without ever having to think about your bank account. Don’t forget to use your student ID, be on the lookout for discounts, and take advantage of free university resources. These money-saving tips will get you well on your way to balancing studying and living in Switzerland and having a fantastic time.
