Orientation

The International Affairs Office organizes an orientation meeting for international students at the beginning of every semester. This meeting takes place on Friday in the week before lectures start. Participants will receive all relevant information on the orientation meeting before their arriving in Geneva.

Estimated living expenses

On average, a student will need at least CHF 1,200 per month:

• food: CHF 600
• cultural activities and leisure: CHF 250
• communication: CHF 130
• study materials: CHF 100
• public transportation: CHF 45
• health care/other insurances: CHF 80

This estimate does not include accommodation fees and depends on the student's spending habit. Accommodation fees (rent) are already covered by the EuroScholars Program Fee.

Accommodation

The University of Geneva offers participants of the EuroScholars Program a private room with shared facilities (with max. 4 persons). Rooms are located downtown, at a short distance from the University buildings.

Health and accident Insurance

Medical and pharmaceutical costs are high in Switzerland. You must absolutely purchase medical and accident insurance upon your arrival.

1. As an exchange student, you are eligible for health insurance at the price of CHF 80 per month.  Discounted insurance is available for mobility students (partnership negotiated with UNIGE). You are nevertheless free to choose any health and accident insurance provider that is recognized in Switzerland.
2. The various available insurance options will be sent to you with your letter of acceptance.
3. If you have private insurance, you can request recognition of its equivalence using the form “check form for the equivalence of Swiss health insurance 2019 “ (EN)

Ideally, this should be done before your arrival in Switzerland.

For more information, please contact Ms. Vera Sandoval at the University of Geneva.

Visa and Residence Permit

Depending on your nationality, you will need a visa to study in Geneva. It can take up to three months to obtain a visa.

1. To enquire as to whether you need a visa or not, consult the website of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs. If you have several nationalities, verify the conditions for each nationality as one of them may permit you to enter Switzerland without a visa.
2. Once you have received your letter of acceptance, you may apply to the Swiss embassy in your country/region.
3. Cost: Inquire at the Swiss Embassy of your country/region.
4. Your visa allows you to enter Switzerland. Once in Switzerland you must ask for a residence permit. This is mandatory for all students. It costs approximately CHF 250 for the entire stay. Full details will be provided during the Orientation.