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Sweden for international students offers an exceptional blend of academic excellence, innovation-driven education, and a high quality of life. Whether you’re pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate studies, this comprehensive guide explores all you need to know—top Swedish universities, fully funded scholarships, affordable student housing, visa procedures, and vibrant student life insights tailored for learners from South Asia, Southeast Asia, Africa, and beyond.
Studying in the Sweden as an international student has many challenges—but this guide will assist international students specially from South & South East Asia and Africa.
Top Universities in Sweden
Sweden’s top universities are globally ranked for innovation, academic excellence, and student-friendly education in a sustainable, inclusive environment.
| University Name | QS World Rank 2025 | City / Location |
|---|
| Lund University | 85 | Lund |
| KTH Royal Institute of Technology | 89 | Stockholm |
| Uppsala University | 116 | Uppsala |
| Chalmers University of Technology | 129 | Gothenburg |
| Stockholm University | 153 | Stockholm |
| University of Gothenburg | 187 | Gothenburg |
| Linköping University | 246 | Linköping / Norrköping |
| Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) | 295 | Uppsala / Alnarp / Umeå |
| Örebro University | 511–520 | Örebro |
| Linnaeus University | 751–760 | Växjö / Kalmar |
Benefit of choosing these universities for international students.
- Globally Ranked Institutions – Study at world-class universities like Lund, KTH, and Uppsala, consistently featured in QS World Rankings.
- 🌍 International Student-Friendly – English-taught programs, multicultural campuses, and strong support services.
- 💼 Career-Focused Education – Industry-integrated learning with strong ties to global employers like Volvo, Ericsson, and Spotify.
- 🧠 Research & Innovation Leadership – Access to cutting-edge research in sustainability, AI, engineering, and life sciences.
- 💸 Low or No Tuition for EU/EEA & Scholarships for Non-EU Students – Generous funding options through Swedish Institute and university scholarships.
- 🏡 Safe & Sustainable Living – Enjoy a high quality of life in clean, green, and inclusive cities.
- ✈️ Post-Study Work Opportunities – Stay back for up to 1 year to seek employment after graduation.
- 📚 Student-Centered Learning – Progressive teaching models that promote critical thinking and independence.
Swedish Universities – Comparison by Ranking, Affordability & Placement
| University | QS World Rank 2025 | Affordability (★=High, ★★★=Low) | Placement / Employability (★=Average, ★★★=High) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lund University | 85 | ★★ | ★★★ |
| KTH Royal Institute of Technology | 89 | ★★ | ★★★ |
| Uppsala University | 116 | ★★ | ★★★ |
| Chalmers University of Technology | 129 | ★★ | ★★★ |
| Stockholm University | 153 | ★★★ | ★★ |
| University of Gothenburg | 187 | ★★★ | ★★ |
| Linköping University | 246 | ★★★ | ★★ |
| SLU (Agricultural Sciences) | 295 | ★★ | ★★ |
| Örebro University | 511–520 | ★★★ | ★★ |
| Linnaeus University | 751–760 | ★★★ | ★★ |
🧭 Key Notes:
- Affordability reflects tuition fees for non-EU/EEA students + average cost of living in that city.
- Placement considers each university’s international partnerships, research-to-industry links, and graduate employability based on QS Graduate Employability Rankings, alumni success, and employer reputation.
Student Campus Life
Campus life in Swedish universities is vibrant and inclusive, offering international students a welcoming environment filled with cultural events, student unions, and modern learning spaces.
International students in Sweden enjoy a balanced lifestyle with eco-friendly campuses, global peer networks, and strong academic support services tailored for success.
👉 Essential Resources for Studying in Sweden
Swedish Council for Higher Education – University Admissions
Apply to bachelor’s and master’s programs at Swedish universities through one platform.
🔗 https://www.universityadmissions.se
👉 KTH, Lund, Uppsala & Chalmers International Pages
Explore campus facilities, international admissions, and student services:
https://www.chalmers.se/en/education/international/
https://www.lunduniversity.lu.se/international-admissions
https://www.uu.se/en/admissions
Want to explore other key destinations
✨ Also explore: Top UK Universities
✨ Also explore: Top US Universities
Government-Funded Scholarships
- Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals (SISGP): Prestigious government-funded program offering full tuition, living expenses, and travel grants to highly qualified international students from specific countries.
🔗 Swedish Institute Scholarships
University-Specific Scholarships
- Lund University Global Scholarship: For top academic students from outside the EU/EEA. Covers up to 100% of tuition.
🔗 Lund Global Scholarship - Uppsala University Global Scholarships: Tuition fee waivers for talented international students.
🔗 Uppsala Scholarships - Chalmers IPOET Scholarships: For non-EU/EEA students in Master’s programs. Covers 75% of tuition.
🔗 Chalmers Scholarships
Foundation or Private Scholarships
- Adlerbert Study Scholarships: Offered by Chalmers University and private foundations for international students.
- KTH Scholarship: Tuition waivers for top students applying to Master’s programs at KTH Royal Institute of Technology.
🔗 KTH Scholarships
Thematic or Merit-Based Scholarships
- Karolinska Institutet Global Master’s Scholarships: Targeted at global health, biomedicine, and public health Master’s students.
🔗 KI Scholarships
Finding affordable and comfortable student accommodation is a key part of preparing for your study journey in Sweden. Whether you’re moving to Stockholm, Gothenburg, Lund, or Uppsala, international students can choose from university housing, shared apartments, private rentals, or global student platforms. Swedish cities offer a high standard of living, and although student housing is in high demand, most universities offer guidance and dedicated housing offices to support international applicants. Below is a complete guide to student housing options, platforms, tips, and essential resources.
🏢 1. University-Managed Student Housing
Most Swedish universities offer on-campus or partnered student housing, especially for international students in their first year. These accommodations are usually furnished and include internet, laundry, and common kitchen facilities.
Key Features:
- Rent: SEK 3,500 – 6,000/month (depending on city and room type)
- Utilities and Wi-Fi often included
- Options: Single rooms, studios, shared apartments
Examples:
- Lund University Accommodation
🔗 https://www.lunduniversity.lu.se/student-life/housing - KTH Royal Institute of Technology (Stockholm)
🔗 https://www.kth.se/en/studies/exchange/housing - Uppsala University Housing Office
🔗 https://housingoffice.se/ - University of Gothenburg
🔗 https://studentportal.gu.se/english/study/accommodation
💡 Tip: Apply as soon as your admission is confirmed—Swedish student housing is limited and competitive.
🏠 2. Private Student Housing Providers
If university housing is full or not offered, many international students choose private student residences, which are modern, centrally located, and designed for young professionals and students.
Top Providers:
- SSSB (Stockholm Student Housing) – Largest student housing network in Stockholm
🔗 https://sssb.se/en/ - AF Bostäder (Lund) – Popular among Lund University students
🔗 https://www.afbostader.se/english/ - Chalmers Studentbostäder (Gothenburg)
🔗 https://www.chalmersstudentbostader.se/ - Uppsalahem – Offers student rooms and apartments in Uppsala
🔗 https://www.uppsalahem.se/student
🌐 3. Global Student Housing Platforms
Several platforms cater to international students looking for verified, pre-booked accommodation in Sweden:
- HousingAnywhere
🔗 https://housinganywhere.com - Uniplaces
🔗 https://www.uniplaces.com - AmberStudent – Sweden Listings
🔗 https://amberstudent.com/ - Student.com – Sweden
🔗 https://www.student.com/se
These sites offer filters by city, budget, property type, and rental duration.
🛋️ 4. Private & Shared Rentals
Students may also explore private apartments or shared rentals (commonly called “second-hand rentals”) through online marketplaces and local networks. This is more common after the first semester once students are familiar with the city.
Popular Swedish Rental Platforms:
- Blocket Bostad – Nationwide listings
🔗 https://bostad.blocket.se/ - BostadsPortal
🔗 https://bostadsportal.se/ - Qasa (now part of Blocket)
🔗 https://www.qasa.se
⚠️ Be cautious of scams when dealing with individual landlords—always use verified platforms or university referrals.
🌍 5. South Asian & African Student Support Housing Forums
Students from India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, and similar regions often find shared housing via WhatsApp or Facebook groups dedicated to their national communities.
Helpful Community Groups:
- Indians in Sweden – Facebook
🔗 https://www.facebook.com/groups/indiansinsweden - Nigerians in Sweden – Facebook
🔗 https://www.facebook.com/groups/nigeriansinsweden - International Students in Stockholm / Gothenburg / Lund – Facebook
🔗 Search your city-specific student groups for housing posts
📋 6. Documents & Tips for Housing Application
Common Requirements:
- Admission Letter / University ID
- Copy of Passport
- Proof of income or sponsor (for private rentals)
- Local bank account (optional but useful)
Practical Tips:
- Start applying as soon as you receive your admission
- Consider temporary accommodation for the first 2–3 weeks (hostels or Airbnb)
- Be open to nearby suburbs with good transport links (e.g., Umeå or Solna near Stockholm)
💡 Summary
Finding student accommodation in Sweden is manageable with the right planning and support. Whether you choose university-managed housing, private student residences, or shared rentals, always start early and use verified platforms. With vibrant student towns, sustainable living standards, and multicultural neighborhoods, Sweden offers international students a comfortable and enriching place to live and study.
Preparing to study in Sweden goes beyond receiving your admission letter — it involves academic readiness, language tests like IELTS, document preparation, and cultural orientation. Sweden welcomes international students with a strong emphasis on equality, research-led education, and English-taught programs. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you get fully prepared before your departure.
📖 Language Requirements: IELTS & Alternatives
Most Swedish universities require proof of English language proficiency for non-native speakers.
✅ Accepted English Language Tests:
| Test | Typical Minimum Score |
|---|---|
| IELTS Academic | 6.5 overall (no band < 5.5) |
| TOEFL iBT | 90–100 |
| PTE Academic | 62 |
| Cambridge C1 Advanced | Grade B or above |
💡 Always check your program’s exact requirements on the university’s official page.
🌐 Useful Links:
- IELTS Sweden Test Booking
- TOEFL Test Centers in Sweden
- University Admissions in Sweden – English Requirements
📁 Documents to Prepare Before Arrival
To study in Sweden, you’ll need to ensure the following documents are ready and translated into English (if applicable):
- Passport (valid for the full duration of your study)
- Admission Letter from a recognized Swedish university
- Residence Permit (Student Visa)
Apply via: https://www.migrationsverket.se/ - Academic Transcripts & Certificates
- Proof of Financial Support (minimum SEK 10,314/month for duration of stay)
- Health Insurance (usually included in tuition fee or provided by university)
- Accommodation Confirmation (temporary or permanent)
- Passport-size photographs, biometric as per embassy requirements
💬 Pre-Departure Preparation for Indian & Other Students
🧳 Packing Checklist for Sweden
- Winter clothing: Down jackets, thermals, gloves, waterproof boots
- Universal adapter (Sweden uses Type C and F plugs)
- Prescription medications with English prescription copy
- Original academic documents
- Travel insurance valid for initial entry
🧠 Tip: Do not overpack food items — most Indian, Asian, and African groceries are available in Sweden.
💰 Currency & Banking
- Carry SEK 1,500–2,000 in cash for initial expenses
- Use Wise, Revolut, or Niyo Global Card for low-fee foreign exchange
- Open a Swedish bank account after arrival (popular: SEB, Swedbank, Nordea)
🛬 Arrival & Orientation
✈️ Airports in Sweden
- Stockholm Arlanda (ARN) – Major international gateway
- Gothenburg Landvetter (GOT) – Western Sweden
- Malmö Airport (MMX) – South Sweden
Many universities offer pick-up service or arrival day events — check your university’s international office page.
🏫 Orientation Programs
Most universities offer 1–2 week orientation weeks covering:
- Campus tours and student card registration
- Swedish SIM card and bank account setup
- Meet & greet events
- Cultural sessions and survival Swedish
🌐 Examples:
🌍 Cultural Adaptation & Basic Swedish
🌱 Swedish Culture
- Informal but respectful communication
- Emphasis on punctuality and independence
- “Lagom” lifestyle – balance and moderation
📘 Learn Basic Swedish
Even though courses are in English, learning Swedish helps with:
- Social integration
- Part-time jobs
- Grocery shopping and public services
🧩 Start learning Swedish:
📱 Useful Apps Before You Arrive
| App | Use |
|---|---|
| Migrationsverket | Visa status & updates |
| SL, Skånetrafiken, Västtrafik | Regional transport |
| Mecenat & Studentkortet | Student discounts |
| Google Translate | On-the-go translation |
| Karma & Too Good To Go | Discounted meals |
| Swish & BankID | Digital payments (after arrival) |
👨🏽🎓 Connect With Other Students
Before you land in Sweden, consider joining local or university-specific student groups to prepare socially and emotionally.
Also check if your university has:
- Buddy/Mentor Programs
- International Student Associations
- Whatsapp/Telegram Arrival Groups
Sweden offers a mix of global cuisine and local Nordic flavors, making it easy for international students to enjoy both familiar and new foods. While eating out in Sweden can be expensive, students can save significantly by cooking at home using fresh groceries available at a wide range of supermarkets and ethnic stores.
🛒 Popular Supermarkets in Sweden
- ICA
One of Sweden’s largest grocery chains with branches in nearly every city. Offers a wide range of food products, household goods, and student-friendly meal deals.
🌐 https://www.ica.se/ - Coop
A sustainability-focused supermarket chain offering organic and fair-trade products. Great for eco-conscious students.
🌐 https://www.coop.se/ - Willys
A budget-friendly supermarket ideal for students. Known for low prices on staples like rice, pasta, bread, milk, and eggs.
🌐 https://www.willys.se/ - Lidl Sweden
A popular German discount chain operating across Sweden, offering good quality produce, bakery items, and packaged food at lower prices.
🌐 https://www.lidl.se/ - Hemköp
Slightly more premium but offers good quality groceries and discounts through their loyalty program.
🌐 https://www.hemkop.se/
🥘 Affordable Eating Options for Students
- Student Cafeterias (Matsalar): Most universities in Sweden have on-campus dining halls offering subsidized meals for students.
- Lunch Buffets (Dagens Lunch): Many restaurants offer “Dagens lunch” (daily lunch specials) between 11 AM – 2 PM, usually for SEK 90–130, including salad, drink, and coffee.
- Food Trucks & Kiosks: In cities like Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Lund, you can find food trucks serving falafel, kebabs, and wraps at reasonable prices.
🌍 South Asian, African, and International Grocery Stores
Sweden is increasingly diverse, with international grocery stores catering to South Asian, Middle Eastern, African, and East Asian communities.
- Oriental Supermarket (Stockholm, Malmö): Offers Indian spices, lentils, rice, snacks, and frozen foods.
🌐 https://orientalmarket.se/ - Kista Grossen (Stockholm): Large ethnic supermarket with Halal meats, Indian groceries, and African ingredients.
🌐 https://www.kistagrossen.se/ - Himalaya Livs (Stockholm): Nepali-Indian store stocking Maggi noodles, masalas, rice, and pickles.
🌐 https://www.facebook.com/himalayalivs/ - Asien Livs Göteborg: East and South Asian grocery items in Gothenburg.
🌐 https://www.facebook.com/asienlivs/
🍚 Typical Monthly Grocery Budget in Sweden (2025 Estimate)
| Item | Approx. Price (SEK) | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Milk (1L) | 12 – 15 | Weekly |
| Rice (1kg, Basmati) | 30 – 45 | Biweekly |
| Eggs (12 pack) | 25 – 35 | Weekly |
| Bread (loaf) | 20 – 30 | Weekly |
| Chicken (1kg) | 60 – 90 | Weekly |
| Fresh vegetables (1kg) | 25 – 40 | Weekly |
| Lentils (1kg) | 35 – 55 | Monthly |
✅ Average monthly grocery expenses for students: SEK 1,500 – 2,500 depending on diet and city.
👩🏽🍳 Tips for Budget-Friendly Eating
- Cook in batches and freeze leftovers.
- Join a student cooking group or food-sharing app like Karma (for discounted unsold food).
- Compare supermarket prices on Matspar.se for best deals.
📱 Helpful Apps for Grocery Savings & Food Discovery
- Matpriskollen – Compare prices across Swedish grocery chains.
🌐 https://www.matpriskollen.se/ - Too Good To Go – Get discounted surplus food from cafes and bakeries.
🌐 https://toogoodtogo.se/ - Karma – Buy surplus meals from restaurants and stores at half price.
🌐 https://karma.life/
Sweden offers a unique blend of academic excellence, cultural richness, sustainability, and inclusivity — making it a top destination for international students from South Asia, Southeast Asia, and Africa. From eco-conscious student living to active student unions and a robust visa support system, Sweden ensures that students experience a well-balanced and fulfilling life beyond the classroom.
🧑🏽🎓 Student Life in Sweden
🌍 A Multicultural, Inclusive Society
Sweden prides itself on being an open, tolerant, and equal society. Campuses across cities like Stockholm, Gothenburg, Uppsala, and Lund are welcoming to international students, with dedicated student support, intercultural events, and English-friendly environments.
- Over 1,000 English-taught programs across major universities
- Strong focus on collaborative learning and innovation
- LGBTQ+ inclusive and gender-equal campuses
✅ Tip: Join Facebook groups like Indians in Sweden or International Students in Stockholm to connect before arrival.
🏫 Student Unions & Clubs
Every university has a student union (kår) responsible for organizing events, guiding academic issues, and managing student welfare. Examples include:
- Lundaekonomerna – Lund University’s student union
- THS KTH – Royal Institute of Technology’s student union
- Göta Studentkår – University of Gothenburg
Unions host:
- Welcome weeks and orientation programs
- City tours and cultural festivals
- Affordable lunches and travel discounts
- Career events and language exchange programs
🏕️ Outdoor & Cultural Experiences
With Sweden’s deep connection to nature and seasonal festivals, students often participate in:
- Hiking, kayaking, and camping trips in summer
- Northern Lights viewing in winter (esp. Kiruna)
- Valborg (Spring Festival) and Midsommar (Summer Solstice) events
- Free entry to many museums and cultural sites with student ID
🌐 Explore more on: https://visitsweden.com/
💡 Digital & Smart Living
Sweden is highly digitized. Students benefit from:
- BankID and Swish for instant payments
- Campus-wide high-speed WiFi
- Public library access with free book and laptop rentals
- Free language-learning apps like SFI for Swedish basics
🛂 Visa for Studying in Sweden
📌 Do You Need a Visa?
If you’re a non-EU/EEA student, you’ll need a residence permit for studies for programs longer than 90 days.
✅ Visit the official Swedish Migration Agency portal for all visa info:
🌐 https://www.migrationsverket.se/
📋 Visa Requirements – Key Documents
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- Official admission letter from a Swedish university
- Proof of full-time study (at least 30 ECTS credits/semester)
- Financial proof: At least SEK 10,314/month for the entire stay
(e.g., 1-year stay = ~SEK 123,768) - Health insurance (usually included in your tuition or provided by the university)
- Accommodation details or proof of lodging arrangement
- Visa application fee: SEK 1,500 (approx.)
⏳ How to Apply
- Apply online via the Migration Agency portal
🌐 https://www.migrationsverket.se/English/Private-individuals/Studying-in-Sweden.html - Create an account and submit digital documents.
- Pay the residence permit application fee.
- Wait for biometric appointment at the nearest Swedish embassy or visa application center.
- Once approved, you’ll receive a residence permit card.
⏱️ Processing Time: Typically 2–4 months. Apply early.
📅 Visa Validity & Extensions
- Residence permits are issued for the duration of your course (1–2 years)
- You can extend your permit online if continuing your studies
🌐 Visa extension guide
🎯 Post-Study Visa & Job Search
Sweden encourages graduates to stay and work:
- 12-month job search visa available after graduation
- Apply before your student visa expires
🌐 Stay in Sweden after studies
✅ After securing a job, you can switch to a work permit.
💼 Part-Time Work on Student Visa
- You are allowed to work unlimited hours while studying (no hourly restriction), but coursework should remain the main focus.
- It’s advisable to work 10–15 hours per week during term time.
- Explore job portals:
👩🏽💻 Useful Links Summary
| Resource | Link |
|---|---|
| Swedish Migration Agency (Visa Info) | migrationsverket.se |
| Study in Sweden Official Portal | studyinsweden.se |
| Student Housing & Life | https://www.sssb.se/ |
| Student Unions by University | https://www.sverigesförenade.se/ |
| Public Transport & Student Card | https://sl.se/ (Stockholm) |
Sweden boasts one of the most efficient, eco-friendly, and well-integrated public transportation systems in Europe. Whether you’re studying in Stockholm, Gothenburg, Uppsala, or Lund, you’ll find a reliable network of buses, metros, trams, and commuter trains that make it easy to get around—without needing a personal vehicle.
For international students, understanding how to navigate local transport and access student discounts can significantly reduce monthly expenses.
🚆 Modes of Public Transportation in Sweden
Sweden’s transport is operated regionally, with each county having its own transit agency and student discount system.
🔹 SL – Stockholm Local Transport
- Covers metro (Tunnelbana), commuter trains (Pendeltåg), buses, and trams
- Metro is fast and runs every few minutes; ideal for students in KTH, Stockholm University, Karolinska, and Södertörn
🌐 Official site: https://sl.se/
🔹 Västtrafik – Gothenburg & West Sweden
- Covers trams, buses, ferries, and commuter trains
- Extensive tram network useful for students at Chalmers and University of Gothenburg
🌐 Official site: https://www.vasttrafik.se/
🔹 Skånetrafiken – Malmö, Lund, and Southern Sweden
- Buses and regional trains between Malmö, Lund, Helsingborg
- App-based ticketing and multi-trip cards with student discounts
🌐 Official site: https://www.skanetrafiken.se/
🔹 UL – Uppsala County
- Bus and train system ideal for students at Uppsala University
- Student pricing for monthly passes
🌐 Official site: https://www.ul.se/
🎟️ Student Transport Discounts
Most counties in Sweden offer student discounts on monthly travel cards for full-time students. To qualify, you’ll typically need to:
- Be enrolled full-time in a Swedish university
- Be under 26 years old (some counties have age-based restrictions)
- Carry a Mecenat Card or Studentkortet
🎓 Apply for your Mecenat student discount card:
🌐 https://www.mecenat.com/se
📱 Travel Apps & Smartcards
🔸 Regional Apps for Ticketing
- SL App (Stockholm)
Download: Android / iOS - Västtrafik To Go (Gothenburg)
https://www.vasttrafik.se/en/tickets/to-go-app/ - Skånetrafiken App (Lund/Malmö)
https://www.skanetrafiken.se/en/ - UL App (Uppsala)
https://www.ul.se/en/
💡 Most apps accept Swish, card payments, or direct debit, and allow you to store digital travel cards.
🔸 Nationwide Travel Platforms
- SJ.se – Swedish National Rail (for intercity trains)
🌐 https://www.sj.se/ - Omio – Compares buses, trains, and flights across Europe
🌐 https://www.omio.com/ - FlixBus Sweden – Long-distance budget buses across Europe
🌐 https://www.flixbus.com/
🚲 Biking in Sweden
Sweden is a bike-friendly country with dedicated cycling lanes in almost all university cities.
- Students in Lund, Uppsala, and Malmö often prefer cycling for daily commutes
- You can rent or buy second-hand bikes affordably through:
- https://www.blocket.se/ (Buy/Sell used bikes)
- Campus bike resale groups (Facebook/Student unions)
🚲 Free city bike apps like Donkey Republic and Voi (e-scooters) are also available in major cities.
🚖 Taxis & Ride-Sharing
While taxis are available in all cities, they are expensive and rarely used by students. Alternatives include:
- Bolt (Stockholm, Gothenburg)
🌐 https://bolt.eu/ - Uber Sweden (limited availability)
🌐 https://www.uber.com/se/en/ - Local ride-sharing through student Telegram or WhatsApp groups
🧾 Estimated Monthly Transport Costs for Students (2025)
| City | Monthly Pass (with student discount) | App Used |
|---|---|---|
| Stockholm | ~SEK 670 | SL |
| Gothenburg | ~SEK 635 | Västtrafik |
| Lund/Malmö | ~SEK 620 | Skånetrafiken |
| Uppsala | ~SEK 600 | UL |
🧠 Tips to Save on Transport
- Always check if your university offers free campus shuttles
- Buy monthly passes instead of single tickets
- Use student ID or Mecenat card when purchasing tickets
- Combine walking or biking with short-distance public transport
Studying in Sweden doesn’t have to be expensive if you take full advantage of the country’s generous student discounts. From public transport and fitness to food, books, and tech, international students enrolled in Swedish universities can access a wide range of deals using official student cards and mobile apps.
Knowing where and how to save can significantly cut monthly costs and enhance your student life experience.
🎓 Official Student Discount Cards in Sweden
🔹 Mecenat Card (Mecenatkort)
The Mecenat Card is the most widely accepted student ID in Sweden. It offers thousands of discounts across transport, food delivery, online shopping, gym memberships, entertainment, and more.
- Available digitally via the Mecenat app
- Issued automatically to students at most Swedish universities
- Used for verifying student status for SL, SJ, Västtrafik, etc.
🔹 Studentkortet
Another widely accepted student discount platform and app. Offers deals on:
- Books, tech, clothing, software, and subscriptions
- Nationwide transport and local stores
🌐 https://www.studentkortet.se/
📲 Download both apps to access mobile-exclusive offers and QR-based verification at stores.
🚍 Transport Discounts
Public transport providers across Sweden offer up to 25–40% off monthly passes and tickets for full-time students:
- SL (Stockholm): https://sl.se/
- Västtrafik (Gothenburg): https://www.vasttrafik.se/
- Skånetrafiken (Lund/Malmö): https://www.skanetrafiken.se/
- UL (Uppsala): https://www.ul.se/
Eligibility usually requires:
- Full-time enrollment
- Under 26 years old or proof of Mecenat/Studentkortet card
📦 Food, Delivery & Grocery Discounts
🍔 Food Delivery Apps
- Foodora – 10–15% off on selected orders with Mecenat
🌐 https://www.foodora.se/ - Uber Eats – Frequent promo codes for students
🌐 https://www.ubereats.com/se - Karma – Buy surplus food from cafes and bakeries at half price
🌐 https://karma.life/
🛒 Grocery Savings
- Check Matpriskollen app to compare grocery prices across ICA, Coop, Lidl, and Willys
🌐 https://www.matpriskollen.se/ - Some ICA & Coop stores accept Mecenat for in-store promotions
🖥️ Tech & Software Discounts
Students in Sweden are eligible for massive discounts on essential software and tech tools:
- Microsoft Office 365 – Free for university students
🌐 https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/education/products/office - Adobe Creative Cloud – 65% off with Mecenat
🌐 https://www.adobe.com/se/creativecloud/buy/students.html - Spotify Student Premium – 50% discount
🌐 https://www.spotify.com/se/student/ - Apple Education Store – Offers discounted MacBooks and iPads
🌐 https://www.apple.com/se-edu/shop
👟 Fashion, Fitness & Lifestyle Offers
🛍️ Fashion Retailers
- H&M, Zalando, NA-KD, and Asos offer 10–20% student discounts via Mecenat or Studentkortet.
- Regular student sales around semester starts and holidays.
🧘 Gym & Wellness
- Fitness24Seven, Friskis & Svettis, and SATs offer student memberships.
- Discounts range from SEK 100–200/month depending on location.
💡 Check with your university for access to on-campus gyms or free yoga clubs organized by student unions.
📚 Books, Events & Entertainment
📖 Textbooks & Study Materials
- Adlibris and Bokus offer discounted academic books
🌐 https://www.adlibris.com/
🌐 https://www.bokus.com/
🎬 Streaming & Leisure
- SF Anytime – Discounted movie rentals with student ID
🌐 https://www.sfanytime.com/ - Netflix & Disney+ – Occasionally offer student deals via ISIC or telecom bundles
- Museums & Galleries – Free or reduced entry with student cards
📱 Must-Have Apps for Student Discounts
| App | Purpose | Link |
|---|---|---|
| Mecenat | Official student ID & discounts | Download |
| Studentkortet | Student coupons & deals | Download |
| Karma | Surplus food deals | https://karma.life/ |
| Too Good To Go | Leftover food at restaurants | https://toogoodtogo.se/ |
| Matpriskollen | Compare supermarket prices | https://www.matpriskollen.se/ |
🧠 Tips for Maximizing Student Discounts in Sweden
- Always ask if a place offers student discount, even if not advertised.
- Keep your digital student ID (Mecenat or Studentkortet) accessible at checkout.
- Watch for seasonal student campaigns (especially August, January, and Black Friday).
- Subscribe to student newsletter deals and push notifications from Mecenat & Studentkortet.