Living in Lausanne on 1000 CHF per Month as a Graduate Student at EPFL

Surviving in Lausanne with a monthly budget of 1000 CHF as a graduate student at EPFL may seem challenging, but with careful financial management, it is entirely possible. This guide will help you navigate the costs and practicalities of living on a tight budget while pursuing your academic dreams.

Cost Breakdown

Housing

Rent for a room in a shared apartment typically ranges from 500 to 800 CHF. Finding a room on the lower end of this range is crucial for staying within budget.

University Housing: University accommodation may offer more affordable options, but availability can be limited.

Food

Having a reasonable budget for groceries might be around 200-300 CHF per month. Cooking at home is one of the most effective ways to save money compared to eating out.

Student Cafeterias: Stay within your budget by taking advantage of affordable meal options provided by student cafeterias.

Transportation

Public transportation in Lausanne is efficient, with a monthly pass costing approximately 70 CHF. However, students may qualify for discounts.

If you are located closer, walking or biking can save you money on transportation costs.

Health Insurance

Health insurance is mandatory in Switzerland, with monthly premiums typically ranging from 100 to 300 CHF. Students may have access to lower rates.

miscellaneous Expenses

This includes mobile phone bills, internet, and leisure activities. Budgeting around 100 CHF for these can be reasonable.

Tips for Managing on 1000 CHF

Shared Housing

Look for opportunities to live in shared accommodations to lower rent costs. Sharing with roommates can help split the bill and reduce expenses.

Meal Preparation

Cooking at home and planning meals can help minimize food expenses. Buying the cheapest items at the most budget-friendly stores can further reduce costs.

Student Discounts

Make use of student discounts for transportation and leisure activities. Universities often provide various perks and discounts for their students.

Part-Time Work

Consider part-time job opportunities on or off-campus to supplement your income. This can help bridge the gap between your expenses and budget.

Conclusion

While living on 1000 CHF per month in Lausanne as a graduate student is tight and requires a frugal lifestyle, it is possible with careful budgeting and planning. Many students successfully manage their finances with similar constraints by prioritizing essential expenses and seeking out cost-effective solutions.

Back in 2014, I managed to survive with 940 CHF, room rent was 500 CHF and bills were around 170 CHF. I spent less than 10 CHF per day on food. It was manageable when I cooked at home using the cheapest items in the cheapest stores. This worked for a few months, but after six months, you might feel frustrated and disappointed.