Must students insure themselves?
Yes: any student residing in Switzerland is subject to the LAMal obligation, to take out within 3 months of arrival. Foreign students can request an exemption if they prove equivalent cover (e.g. a home or European policy valid in Switzerland) — applied for at the cantonal authority, within the deadline.
Young-adult premiums
Insurers apply reduced premiums for young adults (typically 19-25), clearly lower than for adults. As for everyone, the premium varies by insurer, canton, deductible and model: a healthy student often benefits from a high deductible and an alternative model to pay as little as possible.
Don't forget subsidies
Many low-income students qualify for a cantonal subsidy (premium reduction), sometimes without knowing. Conditions depend on income and canton. The reflex: compare premiums to pick a cheap insurer, then check subsidy eligibility with the cantonal body. Both savings stack.