New exchange students
Pre-arrival assistance and administrative tips
Key dates for your academic start – February 2026
Welcome Day
(Only at the Autumn semester) Friday 5th September 2025. The mandatory Welcome Day allows you to explore the campus and learn more about EPFL. Further details regarding this event will be communicated later on.
General information
You will receive by e-mail, before the beginning of the semester, all important information and deadlines for your exchange.
Start of classes
Classes start on Monday 16 February 2026. Check your timetable online.
Your first academic obligations
Personal details
At the start of each semester, you should validate your personal and academic details in the Academic Registration Form, using the “FRAC” tab on your secure IS-Academia student portal.
Enrolment certificate
Once you have validated your personal details, your enrolment certificate will be available in the “personal details” tab.
Course registration
At the beginning of the semester you will have to indicate the courses/projects that you follow on the “Course Registration” tab. An email will notify you as soon as registrations open. Registration deadline for the Spring semester: 27th February 2026.
For any academic query, please contact the academic exchange advisor of your section.
Prepare for your arrival
The challenge of integration
Tips and information for a smooth adaptation.
Intensive French course (on-campus)
2 weeks of intensive French classes before the start of the semester. Dates: from 26 January to 6 February 2026. Registration: from 15 November to 12 December 2025.
ESN
ESN EPFL is a student association whose purpose is to help international and exchange students in Lausanne make the best of their stay in Switzerland.
Booklet “Welcome to EPFL”
You will find in our booklet “Welcome to EPFL” information and contacts of the main services for students.
Practical resources
IT services and tools, course materials and infrastructure
Administrative information
EPFL account
After your admission has been confirmed, you will receive your IT account (EPFL username and password). It enables you to access secured EPFL services, such as your personal mailbox, the Moodle platform, etc. Find out more at “Resources for students“.
Student card
You will receive your student card at the beginning of the semester. If you are staying for more than one semester, this card must be updated in a CAMIPRO terminal at the start of your second semester. It allows you to enjoy various services and advantages.
Rules and study plans
Rulebooks and study plans by section can be found on our website. You may also find legal documents related to study regulations at EPFL on the Polylex portal.
Adjusting to university life
Keys to success
keys to maximize your chances of success!
Trust Point
The entry point to professionals who provide individual support in case of difficulty in the following areas: studies management, work environment, relationship/integration, financial, accessibility/arrangements, parenthood/care, mental health, physical health, LGBTIQ+ support, equal opportunity/diversity/inclusion, harassment/discrimination, spirituality
Contact
Student Services Desk
+41 21 693 43 45
EPFL VPA-DP-RE-SAE
BP 1229 (bâtiment BP)
Station 16
CH – 1015 Lausanne