u/kocchikochi

Hi everyone,

I’m an exchange student from Japan coming to EPFL this September, and I would love to join a local choir during my stay in Lausanne. However, I have one major concern: I don't speak any French.

I’ve been looking into the UNIL-EPFL choir, and it seems like a perfect fit for the type of music I want to sing. Back in Japan, I have sung in several large-scale classical projects as a bass. My past repertoire includes Brahms' Ein deutsches Requiem, Mendelssohn's Lauda Sion, and Haydn's Nelson Mass.

I have a few questions for anyone familiar with the local music scene:

1. UNIL-EPFL Choir: Is it strictly required to understand French to join and follow the rehearsals? I can read sheet music and have classical choir experience, but I’m worried about the language barrier during practice.
2. Alternative Recommendations: Are there any other choirs in Lausanne or the surrounding area that focus on similar large-scale classical works and are accommodating to non-French speakers or exchange students?

Any advice or shared experiences would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!

Hi everyone,

I’m an exchange student coming to EPFL from Japan this September and will be living in Lausanne. I’m looking into public transport (metro/bus) subscriptions and would like to double-check how the Mobilis pass discounts work.

I’ve read online about two different savings options:

1. Mobilis Jeune / Junior pass (for under 25s)
2. Ville de Lausanne subsidy (50% reduction coupon for young people in education)

Could someone clarify a few things for me?

• How it works: Does the 50% city subsidy apply on top of the already reduced Mobilis Jeune annual price (zones 11 & 12), or is it calculated differently?
• Resident Registration: How long does it usually take to get the city subsidy voucher after registering at the Contrôle des habitants in Lausanne? Is it better to buy a monthly pass first while waiting for registration/vouchers?

Any advice on the cheapest way to get around Lausanne for a newly arrived student would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks in advance!

Hey, I’m planning to study applied math at EPFL starting this September as an exchange student from Japan. According to the acceptance letter, an intensive French course will be held from August 17th to August 28th, 2026, by the EPFL Language Center. To be honest, I don't speak French at all. The course is attractive as a way to socialize with others (especially locals), and it would be a good chance to make friends with other exchange students. On the other hand, some say that a good command of English is sufficient for university life. Also, on a personal note, the rent for an additional half-month's stay in Lausanne is a bit of a financial burden.

Do you recommend this course and why? It is a good chance to make friends?