Is it Possible to Study at EPFL with a Monthly Income of 1300€?

Yes, it is definitely possible to study at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (EPFL) with a monthly income of 1300€ (approximately 1843 CHF). I can confirm this from personal experience as an Erasmus student and from my own students who have managed to make it work with similar budgets over the past five years.

The key to success lies in securing a good rental deal. As Emeric Studer noted, finding an affordable and appropriate living arrangement is crucial. In my case, with a budget of about 800 euros per month (1250 CHF), I managed to make it work comfortably. This budget can serve as a benchmark for others looking to study at EPFL with a modest income.

Securing Affordable Rent

If you're planning to study at EPFL, securing a good deal on your rental expenses is paramount. In the past, I was fortunate to find a modern and comfortable one-bedroom apartment at a very reasonable price of 520 euros per month with the help of the FMEL - Fondation Maisons pour Etudiants Lausanne.

Make sure to start your search for a flat as early as possible, even before securing approval from EPFL. This proactive approach can help you secure a suitable place well in advance, reducing stress and ensuring a smooth transition into your studies.

Managing Day-to-Day Expenses

When it comes to day-to-day expenses, such as food, you can find ways to save and still manage to enjoy your time at EPFL. I, for example, used to eat at the EPFL canteen for about 7 CHF per lunch. For dinner and breakfast, I would buy reasonably priced food from local supermarkets like Denner, which allows you to stretch your budget further.

With a budget of 1300€ per month, you should be able to cover more than just basic necessities. In my case, I managed to comfortably afford:

Yearly tuition fees: 2 x 700 CHF Necessary study materials and supplies Regular meals Inexpensive or free activities with friends

Furthermore, as a student, you might not need to pay for a Swiss health insurance, which typically costs around 200 CHF per month. Keeping this in mind can help further reduce your monthly expenses.

Transportation and Additional Savings

One important cost to consider is transportation. To cut costs, it's a good idea to get a half-price CFF/SBB public transport price divided by 2 card. This card not only saves you money on public transport but can also greatly enhance your ability to explore the surrounding area and participate in various activities.

For those who already have health insurance, or prefer to transfer the cost to their parents, there's no need to worry about the additional expense. However, it's always advisable to have some form of accident and illness coverage while studying abroad.

Conclusion

To summarize, a monthly income of 1300€ can indeed cover the cost of studying at EPFL. By focusing on securing a good rental deal, managing your food expenses strategically, and taking advantage of various cost-saving opportunities, you can live comfortably and make the most of your time at this prestigious institution.