Life as a Student in Switzerland

Oct 14, 2021

Topic: Study in Switzerland

What is it really like to study in Switzerland?

When people think of Switzerland there’s usually a fairly standard thought process:

  1. Is that where IKEA is from? (Hint: Switzerland isn’t Sweden)
  2. What language do the Swiss speak? (Check out our Switzerland in 2 minutes: Languages post)
  3. Isn’t it all just cheese, chocolate and snow?

And yes, there is a lot of snow, cheese and chocolate. All very wonderful things in their own right. But there’s also so much more.

Easy access to – everywhere!

Once you’re here, it’s extremely easy to travel around the country. The Swiss are renowned for their time-keeping, and this extends to their public transport system. It’s clean, safe to use and well connected throughout the country. Students (& anyone 25 and under) enjoy discounted rates to make it even more accessible.

Being right in the heart of Europe, with Geneva & Zurich airports offering regular flights across Europe and beyond. EasyJet provide very reasonably priced flights for weekend breaks to all of the top destinations and Milan is only 3 hours thanks to a direct train that runs twice a day from Montreux.

Switzerland is an influencer’s dream

Stunning skylines, beautiful sunsets, dramatic vistas and sparkling waters. Once you’ve spent time in Switzerland, it’s hard to find somewhere that matches its beauty.

There’s no shortage of activities. With around 1,500 lakes across the country, and countless rivers there are plenty of opportunities for paddle boarding, rafting, and jet skiing! There are also 65,000 km (!) of hiking trails to explore, often with great restaurants and plenty of stunning views along the way.

Give your CV a boost!

If you’re looking for work experience, Swiss companies are very familiar with the concept of student internships. Many major international corporations have their headquarters in Switzerland and it’s very common practice of students as young as 14 to spend a week learning about different industries and roles.

Speaking of CV’s, here are some of our favourite interests!

Switzerland is a foodie’s haven, with 3-star Michelin restaurants, vegan restaurants, Five Guys, and everything in between. There are huge food halls in Globus and Manor, local outdoor food markets at the weekend and at least one fondue restaurant nearby.

There’s a thriving music scene, with 400 musical festivals across the country each year. The most well-known is the Montreux Jazz Festival – no longer a pure jazz festival, you’ll find a diverse line up each year, from Rag’n’Bone Man to Quincy Jones.

Switzerland is also home to several major events each year, including the Zurich Film Festival, Art Basel, Geneva Car Show and Baselworld. You can easily buy tickets to these events and do a bit of celeb spotting – recent visitors include Sharon Stone and Chris Hemsworth.

What are you waiting for? Drop us an email and we’ll talk you through your options – for FREE!