Copyright

Disclaimer

Cookie Policy 🍪

Digital accessibility 

Sweden.se ↗️

Visitsweden.com ↗️

Swedenabroad.com ↗️

Join our newsletter 📧

Universities

Find study programmes

Higher education in Sweden

Degree programmes

How to apply

Scholarships

Fees &#038; costs

Study with a disability

Plan your studies

The Swedish Way

Permits &#038; visas

Accommodation &#038; budget

Health insurance

Learn Swedish

Day-to-day practicalities

Work &#038; internships

After your studies

Moving to Sweden

All blog posts

Meet our ambassadors

Student blogs

Header Menu

Afghanistan

Åland Islands

Albania

Algeria

American Samoa

Andorra

Angola

Anguilla

Antarctica

Antigua and Barbuda

Argentina

Armenia

Aruba

Australia

Austria

Azerbaijan

Bahamas

Bahrain

Bangladesh

Barbados

Belarus

Belgium

Belize

Benin

Bermuda

Bhutan

Bolivia, Plurinational State of

Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba

Bosnia and Herzegovina

Botswana

Bouvet Island

Brazil

British Indian Ocean Territory

Brunei Darussalam

Bulgaria

Burkina Faso

Burundi

Cambodia

Cameroon

Canada

Cape Verde

Cayman Islands

Central African Republic

Chad

Chile

China

Christmas Island

Cocos (Keeling) Islands

Colombia

Comoros

Congo

Congo, the Democratic Republic of the

Cook Islands

Costa Rica

Côte d'Ivoire

Croatia

Cuba

Curaçao

Cyprus

Czech Republic

Denmark

Djibouti

Dominica

Dominican Republic

Ecuador

Egypt

El Salvador

Equatorial Guinea

Eritrea

Estonia

Ethiopia

European Union

Falkland Islands (Malvinas)

Faroe Islands

Fiji

Finland

France

French Guiana

French Polynesia

French Southern Territories

Gabon

Gambia

General

Georgia

Germany

Ghana

Gibraltar

Greece

Greenland

Grenada

Guadeloupe

Guam

Guatemala

Guernsey

Guinea

Guinea-Bissau

Guyana

Haiti

Heard Island and McDonald Islands

Hej! I’m Adriana, originally from Bolivia, a country known for the Uyuni salt flat, traditional dances, biodiversity, and delicious food. It was a long way to Sweden, and I am pleased with my decision to become a SISGP scholar. I did my research when choosing to study abroad. I considered different programs and countries, and Sweden was what I was looking for. As the nerd I am, I was looking for an innovative country with investment in research and high technology. I am the happiest with my program; it is precisely what I sought. Plus, Sweden has the most beautiful views, and I love nature. Something about me: I am interested in education as a Sustainable Development Goal (SDG). I love sharing knowledge. I’ve been a speaker at different events, from motivational to technical, from Google developer groups to podcasts and TEDx events. Also, I love tutoring. I taught math, physics, and programming classes and was a tutor in hackathons and organizations. I aim to be a better version of myself, and since I got here, I’ve learned so much from Swedish culture and other international students. I look forward to connecting with you! Adri ✨

My name is Adriana, and I’m from Bolivia 🇧🇴. I’m a student at Blekinge Institute of Technology, where I am pursuing a Master’s in Software Engineering.

Adriana

Hola (Hi)!
My name is Jazmin Alexandra, but feel free to call me Jazmin. I’m from Peru, a country in South America known for its delicious food and as the home of Machu Picchu, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Since moving to Sweden, some of my friends joke that Peru is on the other side of the world—and they’re not wrong! It took me nearly two days to get here.
I’m now living in Lund, and this city has really surprised me in so many ways. You might wonder why I traveled so far to study here. Well, studying abroad has always been a dream of mine, and Sweden felt like the perfect fit—not just for its world-class education, but also for its welcoming and progressive society, as well as its natural beauty.
After being here for a month, I can honestly say it’s been worth it. I even got to witness the Northern Lights from the rooftop of my accommodation in just my second week! It was an unforgettable experience. Plus, I’m learning so much from being in such a diverse, international environment. 
I’m truly honored to serve as a Digital Ambassador for Study in Sweden. This role feels especially meaningful because, just like many of you, I relied heavily on the blog and Instagram videos when I was preparing for my move here—yes, anxiety was real! I know how overwhelming it can be to leave your home country for a new one, and I want to offer you some comfort and certainty by sharing what life in Sweden is really like.
Coming from Peru, I bring a Latin American perspective to this experience. My culture is very different from Swedish and European ways of life, and that’s why I’m excited to show you the full picture—the beautiful moments and the tough ones. I’m here to share the highs and lows, to let you know that no matter your nationality, age, or identity Sweden can be a place for you too.
I’m also passionate about talking openly about mental health and allyship, and I’ll be addressing these topics as well. My goal is to be real with you and share my journey, so you can feel more prepared for yours.
Feel free to reach out anytime if you have questions about life in Sweden and studies! Let’s live this experience together!

My name is Jazmin and I’m from Peru 🇵🇪. I'm a student at Lund University, where I study a Master's in Media and Communication Studies.

Jazmin

Hi everyone! I’m Johi, a returning ambassador for the Instagram team. Don’t remember seeing me last year? That’s because I just returned from an exchange year in South Korea 🇰🇷 I’m doing a 4 year Master programme in international business. It’s a really interesting programme that you start with your high school diploma and finish with a Master’s degree! I will be graduating in June and I’m so excited for what the future holds for me 😊 I’m a really big fan of winter. I think it’s the most beautiful, exciting season and since this is probably my last winter in northern Sweden, I intend to enjoy it fully ❄ The thought of the Swedish dark and cold winters can be quite scary, but I promise you there’s so much more to it than that! 🧣 When I’m not hanging out outside with my friends, I like to spend rainy days and long winter nights at home, crocheting or knitting with a warm cup of tea ☕ I also love playing the guitar and singing. It’s so good to be back in Sweden for my last year of university and I cannot wait to share it with you! 😊 Johi 🤍

My name is Johi and I'm from Czech Republic 🇨🇿. I'm a student at Umeå University, where I study a Master's in International Business.

Johi

Dzieeeeń dobry, this is Kacper from the Instagram Team! My full name is Kacper Roman, and that is what makes it easier to distinguish me from Casper the Ghost 👻
I moved to Sweden in 2024, to the beautiful city of Norrköping. I can’t say it was a huge culture shock since I only moved about 500 km from my home in Poland, but the short winter days definitely take some time getting used to. 
 It’s not my first time studying or living abroad, and I moved here to pursue a master’s degree in Design. I came here for the degree, but along the way, I found so many reasons to stay that I am planning my future here. I’m in my second year of studies, which makes me feel like a battle-hardened veteran at this point. 
 What I love most about Sweden is summer. People slow down, relax, and spend their time outdoors, soaking up every ray of sunshine. It’s a win-win for me, because Swedish summers are perfect for everything—from swimming in the Baltic Sea to hiking in the forests.
Currently, I’m on my way to learn Swedish, but I believe that if you are a persistent fighter (or a German native speaker), the language won’t defeat you! Check what I will say at the end of my studies. I’m excited to start my journey with SIS — follow along and see where it takes me!

My name is Kacper and I’m from Poland 🇵🇱. I’m a student at Linköping University where I study a master's in Design.

Kacper

Hey!
My name is Kelsey! I’m from the United States, and I lived in Florida my entire life before moving to Sweden.
I recently graduated from the University of South Florida with bachelor’s degrees in Political Science and Sustainability Studies. Now, I’m pursuing my Master’s in Political Science: Environmental Governance and Behavior at the University of Gothenburg. Given my interest in environmental politics, I was drawn to both the unique program and Sweden’s genuine commitment to sustainability and environmental protection.
When I’m not in the library, I like to spend time in nature, whether that’s hiking or simply lying in the grass at one of Gothenburg’s many beautiful parks. I also love to practice yoga, explore the city, and hang out with new friends! I’ve already found such an incredible community of international students, plus welcoming Swedes, who have truly made me feel supported during this big transition. I know you will too!If you’re considering studying in Sweden, you’ve come to the right place! When I was in your shoes, I relied on the Study in Sweden blog every step of the way.
With my blogs, I hope to create unique and authentic pieces about my experience in Sweden, ranging from winter survival guides (as someone used to year-round summers) to hiking recommendations. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out 🙂

My name is Kelsey, and I’m from the United States 🇺🇸 I’m a student at the University of Gothenburg where I study a Master’s in Political Science: Environmental Governance and Behavior.

Kelsey

My name is Lan and I'm from China 🇨🇳. I'm studying a Master's in Toxicology at Karolinska Institutet.

Heyho! I’m Maël, which is pronounced Ma-ää-le for those wondering (which is probably most of you ;D). I come from kind of everywhere, having grown up in Hungary, then France, and, most recently: Berlin! This is actually my 11th time moving, so you might be wondering: why to Sweden?
Well, that’s what I’m hoping to clear up with this blog! And no, it&#8217;s not only because of the great cold weather (autumn is the best season, and even more so in Sweden &#8211; change my mind).I’m the kind of person that lives for art, and can find art in anything. I love discovering the beauty in the unexpected or overseen, the rare, and the weird. I’m passionate about music, song lyrics and sounds, peotry and literature. Given my ecology studies, I really value going out to nature, hiking and literally touching some grass (and bugs) if you will. Obviously, all of this becomes ten times more fun with all the sweet humans I meet! 🦎🍂🐞🏔🌟
So, even though I’ve started many adventures myself, I get that you, at the beginning of yours, probably feel overwhelmed, maybe even scared, because I did, too. But I also felt curious, exited, impatient.
I like to think that adventure awaits in the unknown. So just leap for it! And don’t worry, beginnings are always a bit messy, but thats’s okay, and, honestly? Maybe even the fun of it. Anyway, this blog will be right by your side, as it was on mine, which is why I’m even more honored to be a part of it. I want to share real experiences, add a little sparkle through my lgbtq+ and neurodivergent background, and just have the most fun in this new chapter &#8211; with you!

My name is Maël and I'm from a few different places! I'm studying a Master's in Ecology and Biodiversity at Stockholm University.

Maël

Hi there! 💐  I am Ozioma, a Nigerian communications professional and one of the Digital Ambassadors for the Study in Sweden IG team, currently pursuing my Master’s in Communication at the University of Gothenburg. Back during my undergraduate days in Nigeria, I dreamt of studying in Sweden. I spent hours reading Study in Sweden blogs and watching ambassador videos, learning how to apply, write a motivation letter, and navigate life abroad. Those ambassadors inspired me deeply — and now, being chosen as one myself and as a Swedish Institute Scholar for Global Professionals (SISGP) feels like a full-circle moment, and I want to do the same for you. I am currently watching autumn leaves fall outside my window while eating a Swedish cinnamon roll (you will get addicted once you try it). I have also swapped coffee for hot chocolate during fika, and Sweden has the best I have ever tasted. My favorite part of my faculty is having lunch while facing the sea, though the seagulls are bullies, so guard your food! I am learning, creating contents, growing, and perfecting my communication skills every day, and I hope to inspire your own journey. I want this wholesome, romantic experience for you too. So, let’s meet in Sweden, through my content, or physically when you arrive? With all my love and hugs, Ozioma!

Ozioma

Originally from the wide-open plains of South Dakota, I traded prairie dogs for cobblestone streets, and I now proudly call Stockholm home. I’m a professional performer turned international student, currently studying International Business and Politics at Stockholm University. When I’m not biking to class, you’ll find me discovering new cafés, or planning my next adventure across Sweden&#8217;s cities.
Before moving abroad, I spent years onstage and behind the scenes, performing as a Dancer/Singer with Carnival Cruise Lines, making my Off-Broadway debut in New York, choreographing a production of Mamma Mia, and being in front of the camera in films like Happy Gilmore 2!
I am a business owner of a media company (why I study business), and my dream is to continue to dance professionally, while producing stage and screen works internationally (why I studied international business specifically)!
Now, as a Study in Sweden Ambassador, I am excited to share my journey mixing stage lights with northern lights—showing how creativity, curiosity, and community all thrive here. Whether I’m choreographing, studying international politics, or on a quest for the best cinnamon bun in town, I’ll bring my signature energy, optimism, and dance breaks right to you!

My name is Payton and I'm from the United States 🇺🇸. I'm a student at Stockholm University where I study a bachelor's in International Business and Politics.

Payton Steffensen

Hej Hej! I’m Ravindu—you can call me Ravi for short—and I’m part of the Blog team here in the Study in Sweden. I’m from Sri Lanka, a tropical island quite different from Sweden, but in 2024, I moved to Skövde, a small, charming Swedish city that’s become a hub of innovation. 

Last year, after scouring the globe for the perfect program in Bioinformatics, I decided to go with Sweden, not just for its world-class education, but also because of its inclusive, progressive society, where you can express yourself freely, without judgment. That’s a big reason I knew this was the right place for me. One year in and I couldn’t be happier with my choice! 

As someone who loves hiking, whether with friends or solo, there’s nothing better than lying down in the quiet Swedish wilderness, letting the sounds of nature surround you. When I’m not out exploring, I love meeting new people. It’s amazing how different our lives can be, yet how similar we are at the core. I’m also a huge fan of thick books (the kind that make my wrists hurt) and writing poetry that makes even me ask, “What the hell did I mean by that?” Another thing that I love, but deeply miss, is playing music on my piano—couldn’t fit that in a suitcase! 

I know just how helpful the Study in Sweden platform was for me when I was deciding to come here, and I’m so grateful for the blogs that guided me along the way. That’s exactly what I’m here to do: pay it forward (double it and give it to the next person! 😉). I want to help you understand what studying in Sweden is really like, how to embrace everything this country has to offer (the Swedish way, of course!), and why, if you’re on the fence about applying, you should definitely take that leap.
Feel free to reach out anytime, whether you have questions about studying or just want to chat about life in Sweden—I’m here to help. Let’s make the most of this experience together!

My name is Ravindu and I’m from Sri Lanka 🇱🇰. I’m a bachelor’s student 
at the University of Skövde, where I study Molecular Bioinformatics.

Ravindu

Right now I’m living in Stockholm, where I’m studying a Master’s in AI and Language at Stockholm University. My program explores how artificial intelligence can understand and generate human language — a field that perfectly combines my interests in technology and linguistics. 💡
Moving from Beijing to Stockholm has been a big step for me. I wanted to experience a new culture, see how people think about innovation here, and live in a country known for its openness and creativity. Sweden’s calm atmosphere and balance between life and work really inspire me.
Outside my studies, I enjoy photography and filmmaking, often capturing small moments of daily life in Stockholm — the reflections on the water, the changing light, or the quiet streets after rain. I’m also fascinated by the universe and love watching films that explore space and human consciousness. 📸
Living in Sweden has taught me to slow down, stay curious, and find beauty in simplicity.
Best, Tianle

My name is Tianle and I'm from China 🇨🇳. I'm a student at Stockholm University where I study a master's in AI and Language.

Tianle

Hej! I’m Yiwei, Digital Ambassador for the Chinese social media team 🌼
I’m from Taizhou, a beautiful coastal city in China. I’m currently studying a Master’s in Digital Humanities at Uppsala University.
I chose Sweden because I’ve always been drawn to its nature, calm rhythm of life, and the idea of living in a smaller, close-knit city like Uppsala. Since moving here, I’ve been surprisingly quick to adapt — the cozy cafés, bike-friendly streets, and balance between study and life make every day feel just right.
A few curious facts about me: I covered the Nobel Prize on site this October (an unforgettable experience!), and I love hiking and baking in my spare time — nothing beats the smell of freshly baked bread after a long walk in the woods!
I’m really looking forward to sharing my experiences and discoveries about studying and living in Sweden with you all 💛
Yiwei with love, 
MA in Digital Humanities, Uppsala University

My name is Yiwei and I'm from China 🇨🇳. I'm a student at Uppsala University where I study a master's in Digital Humanities.

Yiwei

Hey everyone, I’m Yiwen!
I’m currently pursuing a master’s degree in Disaster Risk Management and Climate Change Adaptation at Lund University.
Fun fact: this is actually my 1.5th master’s program in Sweden! Last August, I started a master’s in Design at Linköping University, focusing on Service Design and Social Innovation.
There were so many “service design is seriously world-changing!” eureka moments during my studies.But here’s the thing—I’m passionate about designing around climate change, yet I realized I knew very little about climate and environmental issues. So, in my eagerness, I decided to hit the reset button and jump into a new adventure this September at Lund, hoping to learn all about Sweden’s cutting-edge sustainability practices. I believe my “nonlinear” journey could offer a unique, unpolished perspective on real student life. Let’s go explore the unknown world of Sweden together!

My name is Yiwen and I'm from China 🇨🇳. I'm a student at Lund University where I study a master's in Disaster Risk Management and Climate Change.

Yiwen

What Doing an Internship in Sweden Has Taught Me

How to Fight the Swedish Seasonal Blues

A Goodbye Letter to Swedish Summer and Autumn

Top 5 Blogs That Helped Me in the Application Process

What Failure Has Taught Me to Get to Sweden

How to Get Involved Outside the Classroom

So You Arrived to Sweden&#8230;What Now?

How to Navigate Stores in Sweden

How to Get Groceries in Sweden

What Happens If I Don&#8217;t Get in?

Life Hacks: How to Establish a Bank Account and Bank ID in Sweden

9 Things Studying in Sweden Taught Me in 2020

COPYRIGHT/PHOTO: Melker Dahlstrand 
@melkerdahlstrand
melker@dahlstrand.se
+46-70 630 20 88

_p6a1350-1

_P6A1350 (1)

youtube

3-32

Want to apply to study in Sweden?

📺 Check out our YouTube channel ↗️

instagram_appicon_150px

Instagram_AppIcon_150px

insta-2

INSTA 2

DIG DEEPER

{name} was a digital ambassador between {year} and is not available for answering emails and comments on posts.

Past Ambassador

📷 Instagram team ↗️

📺 YouTube team ↗️

Moving to Sweden from a non-EU country: Dalaa&#8217;s story

Things You Should Know Before Moving to Sweden

5 tips to write a great letter of intent

Before moving here the biggest question I had in my mind was " how Swedes really are"? But really honestly can someone please tell me?&nbsp;And all I got as an answer was pure stereotypes and misconceptions....



Well, here I am. Telling you, what I (and this is important to highlight) think about Swedish people, and how they're like.&nbsp; Plus,&nbsp; I am going to give you some tips on how to become one (in case you're wondering about the procedure). Trust me there's no surgical change, there's no secret ingredient to Swedes... Maybe a little bit of a different approach to a world and different traditions. But isn't it just like with any other culture which differs from yours? How is so so special about Swedes that attracts you?



If you want to read a very interesting article about 11 weird things Swedes do: <a href="https://blogs.studyinsweden.se/2017/01/23/11-things-swedes-do/">check this out!</a>



<h2>1. Being humble</h2>



One of the first things I have realized that Swedish people are very humble. They don't brag, they don't necessarily like to accept your compliments, whether it's simply just an "oh I like your shirt" or, more of an "academic compliment" like "I really liked your paper about the mating habits of white sharks".&nbsp; It's not about being unaware of your qualities. It is very simply about the idea that "no human is different from the other" and we're all equal.



Tip: Be proud of who you are and where you came from, but don't brag about your wealth, or externalities. 



<figure class="wp-block-image alignnone size-large wp-image-29121"><img src="https://cms.studyinsweden.se/app/uploads/2020/02/IMG_5527-768x1024.jpg" alt="A group of Study in Sweden digital ambassadors." class="wp-image-29121"/><figcaption>This is (some) of Us, Digital Ambassadors, with our extremely humble laugh, almost giggles Photo: Lusanda</figcaption></figure>



<h2>2.&nbsp; Finding the humor</h2>



Where I come from (Central Europe, Hungary) people are very VERY very pessimistic. We don't believe that life can be good, we tend to complain, and complain, and complain. Sometimes I feel like that is what holds us together.



Swedes, on the other hand, are exactly the opposite.&nbsp;Yes it's dark, yes it rains, yes it's cold. BUT WHO CARES? Life goes on, and NO ONE, not even the sun itself can stop you from having fun. Do you remember the Sun from the Teletubbies?&nbsp; I feel like in Sweden it's the clouds that set the exact same vibe on your day. It does nothing else but giggles, and nothing matters.



<figure class="wp-block-image alignnone size-large wp-image-29122"><img src="https://cms.studyinsweden.se/app/uploads/2020/02/IMG_7740-768x1024.jpg" alt="A person standing beside a blue tram." class="wp-image-29122"/><figcaption>When I posted this picture on Instagram, someone commented: "You put house doors on trams"? Well, if you look closely..... / Photo: Sara Heindl</figcaption></figure>



Tip: Be positive, and take life easy. Very cliche 'advice', but try to see the glass full. (This is DEFINITELY something I am trying to follow every day)



<h2>3. Appreciating 'the little things'</h2>



Okay, nature is not something that can be labeled as a 'little thing' but we all forget to care about it sometimes. We just simply forget our surroundings. Swedish people are taking walks, they jog, they genuinely enjoy to be outside.



Hiking, swimming, wandering around, while touching, listening, and starring at the same time. I love how they just appreciate the clear air, the fresh and delicious water, and spend every time possible outside.



It makes me laugh every time how Swedes are smiling when a little sunbeam just catches their face. They just freeze and stay there breathing in its every molecule. Even in the city center. No matter how cold is it, if the sun is out, winter coats are hanged on their shoulder, and they just turning towards the sun like some kind of dazed sunflowers.



Tip: As soon as the sun is out, run outside and enjoy it! Our sweet Nguyen wrote an amazing and very decorative blog post about her latest adventure. <a href="https://blogs.studyinsweden.se/2020/02/02/sun-sea-sand-and-friends-a-perfect-day-out-to-maklappen/">Give it a look</a>, and prepare to be amazed. 



<figure class="wp-block-image alignnone size-large wp-image-29126"><img src="https://cms.studyinsweden.se/app/uploads/2020/02/IMG_7896-768x1024.jpg" alt="Tropical plants inside a large greenhouse." class="wp-image-29126"/><figcaption>Nature in a glass box. But still. Walking around in the Palm House feels liberating. / Photo: Sara Heindl</figcaption></figure>



<h2>&nbsp;4. Fika culture</h2>



Northern and Western people are often labeled as workaholics and robots. Hmm.... every time when someone mentions this with a mocking tone, I tend to get very annoyed. Swedes do work, they work hard, but they know EXACTLY where and when to stop. If you're working hours are over, during weekend, and holidays, you won't be seeing a policeman in his uniform, nor your administrator answering your thousandth email. (Except some of our teachers... they even answer you at 4 am in the morning. But I am sure they are made of kryptonite or something.)



Nothing else proves this than the amazing, the one and only FIKA.&nbsp; At any time of the day, you have ti remind yourself to stop, have a good conversation with someone or with yourself (yep!) and just enjoy the delicious bryggkaffe and something sweet to eat.



Tip: I will not even try to further explain, check <a href="https://blogs.studyinsweden.se/2019/07/19/50-shades-of-fika/">this blog post about fika culture out</a> and you will get the general image. 



<h2>5. Wearing 'whatever'</h2>



What Swedes wear? Yet again, there's no golden rule, but in general, Swedes are very fashionable. And the most fashionable thing about them is that they do not care about fashion (seemingly). Their way is gender-neutral, retro, <a href="https://blogs.studyinsweden.se/2019/11/19/dare-to-care-sustainability-for-dummies/">SUSTAINABLE</a>, recycled, clean, minimalistic, <a href="https://blogs.studyinsweden.se/2019/02/03/sustainability-challenge-second-hand-shopping/">THRIFTED</a>, free, extravagant. There's no such thing that you can't wear here. This is something I absolutely love and admire.&nbsp; You can wear whatever, with whatever, wherever. Isn't it great?



TIP: Thrifting and recycling is not  something that only Swedes can do 😉



<figure class="wp-block-image alignnone size-large wp-image-29124"><img src="https://cms.studyinsweden.se/app/uploads/2020/02/2F1F2B66-556C-46B1-B97D-68B110F0F8A7-616x1024.jpg" alt="A child standing at a bus stop." class="wp-image-29124"/><figcaption>A very fashionable tiny human / Photo: Sara Heindl</figcaption></figure>



<h2>6. Hating hierarchy</h2>



Everyone always calls everyone on first name bases. There's no Mr., Miss, or Mrs., at the university there's no Professor XY. But it can also a bit confusing when you don't know who is the professor in the classroom!



Tip: When you introduce yourself in Sweden, the 'who are you' often means 'what are you' as well. Mentioning your profession, and interest can come handy later on :)



<h2>7. They're just being Swedes</h2>



They say 'Oj!' all the time. It means 'wow', 'really', it means 'excuse me', it can mean a lot of things.



Swedish people also like to repeat words in a very cute way. Hej, hej! Tack, tack! Puss puss! Mors, Mors!, etc. It is adorable, and at least you can easily learn them :)



Tip: You don't have to be Swede. Absolutely not. These are just small things that I personally noticed, but everything that is written above can be something absolutely opposite of what YOU have seen. 



Generalizing, and creating stereotypes is unfortunately in our nature. But don't let anyone (including me ) else influence your impressions. And don't let your first impressions (especially quickly made ones) fool you. Just like everyone else in the world Swedes are unique, colorful, and beautiful. How do you see Swedes?

'How to become Swedish?'

What’s it like to move across the world for your studies? To leave behind the familiar and dive into a new culture, education system, and climate? In this blog post, I interviewed Dalaa, a fellow Study in Sweden Digital Ambassador from Cambodia. Thanks to a unique scholarship opportunity, Dalaa decided to move to Sweden to study Human Rights Law at Lund University. Read more to learn honest insights and helpful tips for non-EU students thinking about making Sweden their new academic home. 👇



<h2 class="wp-block-si-study-tsw-tsw-heading">Why Sweden?</h2>



There were several reasons why I chose Sweden. First of all, the high-quality education. Coming from Cambodia, I was really looking forward to experiencing the education system in a developed country like Sweden, as well as at the prestigious <a href="https://studyinsweden.se/university/lund-university/">Lund University.</a> 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://cms.studyinsweden.se//app/uploads/2025/06/Obrazok-WhatsApp-2025-06-25-o-17.12.53_b05f60a7-576x1024.jpg" alt="Lund University" class="wp-image-45566" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo: Chandara</figcaption></figure>



The second reason is that I found a great scholarship opportunity. During my bachelor’s degree, I did an internship with a Swedish organisation called the Raoul Wallenberg Institute, which has its headquarters in Lund and an office in Cambodia. While I was doing my internship, I found out about this scholarship for Cambodian students who’d like to study Human Rights Law at Lund University in Sweden. This scholarship is no longer offered, but Sweden offers many other scholarship opportunities that are worth looking into. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://cms.studyinsweden.se//app/uploads/2025/06/Obrazok-WhatsApp-2025-06-25-o-17.22.41_6ac490d5-scaled.jpg" alt="A girl posing with flowers and diploma. " class="wp-image-45572" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo: Chandara</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-si-study-tsw-tsw-heading">How was the application process for you?</h2>



<h3 class="wp-block-si-study-tsw-tsw-heading">University admission</h3>



I think <a href="https://www.universityadmissions.se/intl/start">www.universityadmissions.se</a> makes the application process very straightforward. I just had to organise my CV, motivational letter, transcript of my bachelor's degree, the IELTS (English proficiency test), and recommendation letters. For the scholarship, they required the same things as for the programme. 



<h3 class="wp-block-si-study-tsw-tsw-heading">Residence permit</h3>



In order to apply for the residence permit, you need a minimum of 10 584 SEK/month in savings. Since I have the scholarship, I just needed the scholarship letter showing that I will receive enough funds to support myself in Sweden. The main documents they want is the admission letter from the university and proof that you have enough money to support yourself financially. I made the application online, and then I had to go to the Swedish embassy to give my fingerprints and take a picture for the residence permit card. The problem is that there is no Swedish embassy in Cambodia, so I had to fly to Thailand. It took me about a month to obtain it. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://cms.studyinsweden.se//app/uploads/2025/06/Obrazok-WhatsApp-2025-06-25-o-17.12.53_3549debb-576x1024.jpg" alt="Passports" class="wp-image-45565" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo: Chandara</figcaption></figure>



Note: Before applying for a residence permit, you need to pay the tuition fees. 



<h2 class="wp-block-si-study-tsw-tsw-heading">What were the biggest challenges you faced?</h2>



For me, it was mainly obtaining the BankID because it was so complicated. When I came to Sweden, I had a coordination number, so they created a bank account for me, but I could not use a BankID. I had to use another app called Freja. It was an alternative form of digital ID that I used instead of BankID until I received a personal identity number. Freja can be used in many places, but it's not accepted everywhere. Also, I remember that the waiting time to get an appointment at the bank was quite long, which can be annoying.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://cms.studyinsweden.se//app/uploads/2025/06/Obrazok-WhatsApp-2025-06-25-o-17.12.47_8069b7e8-scaled.jpg" alt="City street" class="wp-image-45567" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo: Chandara</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-si-study-tsw-tsw-heading">Was it hard to find accommodation in Sweden?</h2>



As an international student from a non-EU country, I had a housing guarantee at Lund University. To apply for student housing, you need to follow the university website's guidelines. I had to create an account and apply during the period when the application process was open. <a href="https://www.lunduniversity.lu.se/student-life/housing">Learn more about the housing provided by Lund University. </a>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://cms.studyinsweden.se//app/uploads/2025/06/Obrazok-WhatsApp-2025-06-25-o-17.12.53_2edc5088-1024x768.jpg" alt="Corridor room" class="wp-image-45562" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo: Chandara</figcaption></figure>



I chose to live in a corridor room, and I think it was a good idea. The friends that I have now are mainly from the Orientation Week and the corridor. If you like a bit of privacy, but also a place to hang out with others, definitely pick a corridor room. But keep in mind that it can get quite messy in the shared kitchen, depending on how clean the others are. So if that's something you can't handle, maybe a corridor room is not the best idea. 



<h2 class="wp-block-si-study-tsw-tsw-heading">How do you manage your living costs?</h2>



It’s expensive, but I got the scholarship, so I got a monthly living allowance. This allowance covers my basic needs like food and accommodation. I also live in a student corridor since I am a non-EU student with a housing guarantee, so it's more affordable. 



<h2 class="wp-block-si-study-tsw-tsw-heading">How would you describe the student life?</h2>



At Lund University, you have a mentor when you arrive in Sweden. So when you have any questions, you can always ask them, and in the Orientation Week, you get to know other people. The university also organises a lot of activities for students, like hiking or hanging out. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://cms.studyinsweden.se//app/uploads/2025/06/Obrazok-WhatsApp-2025-06-25-o-17.12.45_e7529341-768x1024.jpg" alt="A girl posing by a sign Lund." class="wp-image-45564" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo: Chandara</figcaption></figure>



I had not made many Swedish friends until I moved to a corridor room. In my opinion, people in Sweden are a bit reserved, and it can be hard to establish deeper connections with them unless you share something in common. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://cms.studyinsweden.se//app/uploads/2025/06/Obrazok-WhatsApp-2025-06-25-o-17.12.53_4185e228-768x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-45563" /></figure>



Also, something I needed to get used to is that in Sweden, they have an academic quarter, so if the teacher says the class starts at 10:00, it's often 10:15 (not always though!). Unless it says specifically that it's 10:00 sharp.



<h2 class="wp-block-si-study-tsw-tsw-heading">What were the biggest culture shocks?</h2>



Now, after 2 years in Sweden, a lot of culture shocks are not shocking anymore, but one of the biggest things was how you address professors in Sweden. You don't call them sir or madam, you're just supposed to call them by their names, which felt very weird and rude at first.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://cms.studyinsweden.se//app/uploads/2025/06/Obrazok-WhatsApp-2025-06-25-o-17.12.45_8296e199-768x1024.jpg" alt="A girl posing with a suitcase." class="wp-image-45568" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo: Chandara</figcaption></figure>



Another culture shock for me was how reliable the public transport is. Coming from Cambodia, where we don't have good public transport, it felt very convenient in Sweden. Same as the self-checkout option in the stores, which is very efficient. It's built a lot on trust. If you did that in my country, you'd probably go bankrupt. 😂



<h2 class="wp-block-si-study-tsw-tsw-heading">Any final advice for other non-EU students?</h2>



Don't be afraid to put yourself out there, join in the events, talk to people, and eventually, you're going to make a lot of great friends in Sweden. If you want to go to an event but no one wants to come, you can always find new people at the event, so don’t be dependent on others. If you want to do something, just do it by yourself!



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://cms.studyinsweden.se//app/uploads/2025/06/Obrazok-WhatsApp-2025-06-25-o-17.23.01_35799871-768x1024.jpg" alt="A group of friends posing." class="wp-image-45569" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo: Chandara
</figcaption></figure>

Moving to Sweden from a non-EU country: Dalaa's story

The admission results are out, and you probably have a lot of questions—what should you do next? How do you prepare for the move? What should you pack? I remember I was really excited at that time but also totally confused. So, in this blog I want to share some things I wish I had known before moving to Sweden so you can be better prepared and avoid some of the mistakes I made along the way!



<h2 class="wp-block-si-study-tsw-tsw-heading">1. The Bureaucracy Takes Time</h2>



If you’re a non-EU student, getting settled in Sweden isn’t as simple as booking a flight and showing up. There’s a long to-do list, and if you don’t start early, it can seriously delay everything. Here’s how it goes: ✔️ Step 1: Residence Permit First, you need to apply for your residence permit. Seems straightforward, right? Well, if your country doesn’t have a Swedish embassy (like mine didn’t 😅), you’ll need to travel to another country just to verify your passport. So, plan ahead! ✔️ Step 2: Get Your Personal Number (Personnummer) Once you arrive, your next mission is getting a personal number (personnummer)—basically your Swedish identity number. Without it, you won’t be able to do much, so apply as soon as possible! ✔️ Step 3: Swedish ID Card After getting your personnummer, you need to apply for a Swedish ID card (yes, another step!). This costs money and requires another appointment, but it’s necessary for daily life. ✔️ Step 4: Bank Account &amp; BankID (The Ultimate Key to Sweden) Here’s where it gets fun—BankID is essential for everything in Sweden. Want to sign a contract? You need BankID. Want a phone plan? You need BankID. Want to access government services? You guessed it—BankID. But here’s the catch: you can’t get BankID without a Swedish bank account… and getting a bank appointment can take up to a month. Only after opening a Swedish bank account will you finally have access to BankID. I’m not going to sugarcoat it—this whole process can take anywhere from 3 to 5 months, depending on how fast you move and, honestly, a bit of luck. My biggest advice is to start as soon as possible! The sooner you begin, the smoother your transition will be. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://cms.studyinsweden.se//app/uploads/2025/03/WhatsApp-Image-2025-03-29-at-20.29.27-768x1024.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-45074" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo: Jazmin</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-si-study-tsw-tsw-heading">2. Cash? What’s That?</h2>



I still remember my dad insisting that I take cash with me for so long. He told me, "Just get some dollar bills with you, just in case!" I followed his advice, and I can say that I still have those dollars in my wallet. Why? Because Sweden is a cashless society. There are no places where they accept cash—at least, I’ve never seen one! Everything is paid by card. And here’s the kicker—those dollars? Not useful here in Europe! It’s much better to have euros. Euros saved my friend when she found herself at a local restaurant with nothing to pay with. Usually, people from Latin America think in dollars because we’re more used to that currency, but if you’re coming to Europe, it’s better to change that mindset. Another thing I learned the hard way was bringing a card that wasn’t accepted here. I brought an American Express credit card, and just like the dollars, it wasn’t accepted in most of the places I went in Sweden. So, which are your best options in Sweden? Definitely VISA and Mastercard. Ironically, I also brought a VISA credit card, but due to some problems with my bank in Peru, I could never use it. So, my advice would be to get a VISA or Mastercard credit card and make sure to contact your bank in your hometown to confirm that it’ll work in Europe—there’s a special setup required for international transactions. And if you run into problems, consider using Revolut or Wise—international banks that work well in Sweden too. These are great options to have before you can get a Swedish bank account because, as I mentioned, it can take time.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://cms.studyinsweden.se//app/uploads/2025/03/cashless.jpg" alt="A hand is holding a debit card up to a payment terminal." class="wp-image-45071" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Lieselotte van der Meijs/imagebank.sweden.se</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-si-study-tsw-tsw-heading">3. The Clothes Are Too Big!</h2>



Alright, here's one that might hit home for many of you—the clothes are too big! Now, this might not apply to everyone, especially if you're tall, like most Swedish people who average around 1.80 meters. If you’re one of them—lucky you! You’ve found your perfect place because the clothes here are just as big as the people! But if, like me, you're 1.64 meters (and yes, that’s considered tall for women back in my home country, Peru), you might be in for a bit of a shock. In Sweden, I’m definitely on the petite side. I used to wear size M or L back home, but here? I’m an S. Now, pants— pants are my nightmare! They’re all designed for tall people, so finding a pair that fits me in length has been almost impossible. Most pants are way too long for my legs, which I never considered a problem until now. 😅 So, here’s my advice: If you’re short like me, bring your pants with you. Sure, you can always buy clothes online from other countries, but if you want to avoid stressing over finding the perfect fit, it’s better to just pack the pants you need from home. Trust me, you’ll be grateful to have them when you get here! If you're tall, enjoy the oversized clothing paradise—just be prepared for a few inches of extra fabric if you're petite! 😅 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://cms.studyinsweden.se//app/uploads/2025/03/WhatsApp-Image-2025-03-29-at-20.26.06-768x1024.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-45072" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo: Jazmin</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-si-study-tsw-tsw-heading">4. You Are Going to Miss Your Food!</h2>



This one’s for everyone, especially if you're from a country where food is a big part of your culture. You may not notice it while you’re at home, but once you’re in Sweden, you’ll quickly realize how hard it is to find the flavors you love. If you’re from Latin America like me, let me tell you, there are not enough places to find our food or ingredients here. It’s incredibly hard to find certain items or even restaurants serving meals from our countries. It’s a real struggle! However, if you’re from Asia or the Middle East, you’re in luck. There are tons of markets and restaurants dedicated to your home cuisine, so you won’t have to miss your favorite dishes. You’re definitely one of the lucky ones in this food adventure! But, if you’re not from those regions, here’s my tip: Consider packing some essential ingredients from home. I know I, along with my Peruvian friends, packed lots of food and snacks before coming. Why? Because you’ll miss them. The snacks, the spices, the ingredients you grew up with—they’re hard to replace here. It takes time to figure out which Swedish brands or new ingredients you might like, so in the meantime, it’s comforting to have those familiar flavors to fall back on. They’ll keep you feeling connected to home, and let’s face it, sometimes a taste of something familiar is just what you need to cheer you up on tough days. For me, missing Peruvian food was so tough that I ended up traveling to Spain, where there are tons of Peruvian restaurants, and did a bit of food tourism. If you’re craving a taste of home, you’ll figure out ways to find it! So, don’t forget to pack your food essentials—it’ll make all the difference! 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://cms.studyinsweden.se//app/uploads/2025/03/WhatsApp-Image-2025-03-29-at-20.10.28-576x1024.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-45073" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo: Jazmin</figcaption></figure>

The Student blog

Hi! 👋 In this blog you can read about our experiences as international students in Sweden!

Filter posts

Listing all