Before you arrive
Are you an international student coming to Gothenburg? Are you nervous? Don’t be! We will take care of you. This checklist has all the practical matters to prepare for your move to Sweden and arrival in Gothenburg. Make sure to look into residence permits, insurances and housing in time. If you have questions, don't hesitate to contact us.
Get your finances in order
Although Sweden is considered somewhat expensive, your cost of living will in many ways depend on your individual lifestyle. A number of commodities are somewhat more costly than the European mean, while other might be cheaper. However, by planning a monthly budget most newcomers find it easy to adjust.
When you need to start your planning process, depends on which country you are coming from and if you need to pay tuition in Sweden:
As soon as you are admitted, or even earlier, you should get your finances in order.
If you are required to pay tuition fee in Sweden you need to pay the first installment, before you can start the application process for a residence permit i Sweden.
Further information on tuition fee payment
If you are a student outside EU/EEA admitted for exchange studies or a full programme you will be required to show proof that you can support yourself during your time here, when you apply for a residence permit. In other words, you need to have the money at your disposal before coming to Sweden.
Students from EU or EEA countries don't pay tuition and Sweden and can enter Sweden without applying for a residence permit. However, it is always good to make a budget for your stay in Sweden.
Learn more about living costs in Sweden
Residence permits and insurances
When and how you apply for a residence permit depends on which country you come from. All students in Sweden are insured during the studies, but you might need additional insurances.
Start look for housing
Gothenburg has more students than any other city in Sweden. Because of this, the demand for student housing is extremely high. Many students find it difficult and time-consuming to look for accommodation. Unfortunately, the University cannot guarantee housing. It is not impossible to find a place to stay, but you need to start the process in time.
Learn about your new study destination
University studies in Sweden might be different to what you are used to from previous studies. For example, many international students are surprised by our informal contact between students and professors. If you are a person that likes to prepare yourself and read up on how it works before coming here, you have a lot of guides available for you.
The University of Gothenburg is for everyone. If you have a documented permanent impairment, there is support you can get to help manage your studies. Some steps you should take before the semester starts.
How studies work at our University and in Sweden
Prepare for your arrival in Gothenburg
How cold will it get during winter? How does health care in Sweden work? How can I spend my free time in Gothenburg? Starting up a new life in a new country brings up a lot of questions. Luckily, we can help you answer them, both before you arrive and during our Welcome Programme, which kicks off each semester.
