Welcome! 🙂

For newly admitted students – congratulations on being accepted to study at Linköping University! Moving to a new country for your studies can be an exciting and life-changing experience. However, it also requires a lot of preparation and planning to make sure that everything goes smoothly. In this blog, I will talk about some steps you can/should/must take before moving to Linköping. I will also answer some of the most common questions that accepted students were asking me when I was calling some of you in the past two weeks. From obtaining the necessary paperwork and securing housing to learning about Swedish culture and preparing for the academic environment, I’ll cover some (but not all) things you need to know to ensure a successful transition to your new life in Sweden. So, sit back, relax, and let’s explore the exciting journey of preparing to move to Sweden this autumn.

MUST

  1. (If applicable) Apply for a student visa or residence permit. Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa or residence permit to study in Sweden. Check with the Swedish embassy or consulate in your home country to determine how to apply.
  2. (If applicable) Pay tuition fees. The deadline for tuition fees this year is the 15th of May. Here is the page where you can see more details.
  3. Find accommodation. Maybe you’re applying in the national round, or maybe you are still a bit hesitant about coming to Sweden. If you’re even considering moving here, it is of utmost importance that you look into accommodation right now. You don’t need to apply or book anything but register to gather points – this website explains it all. This year there are two new things; firstly, if your programme is based in Norrköping you have guaranteed accommodation (if you apply early enough) and secondly, this year you can apply for accommodation earlier than July. However, you may choose to find your own accommodation through private rental agencies or private landlords. You can use several sites for it like Facebook groups, Blocket or KOMBO. But be aware of scams and how to avoid them if you’re looking for private accommodation.
  4. Plan your finances. Create a budget to estimate your monthly expenses and plan your finances accordingly. You may also research banks before you arrive to make it easier to manage your money – please see below. If you’re interested in more about estimated living expenses read this article.
  5. Plan your travel and arrival. Plan your travel to Sweden and arrange for transportation from the airport or train station to your accommodation. Be sure to check the opening times of the agency you’re renting a room from so that you can pick up the key! If you arrive during one of the arrival days some of your worries will be gone though… This is because during arrival days (11.00-20.00)  you will have an opportunity to have free transportation between the train and bus station and your accommodation – it is arranged by LiU. Also, the International Office has extended opening hours so you can directly register. This year’s arrival days are 2, 15, 16, 21, and 22 August for Linköping and 18 August for Norrköping.

 

SHOULD

  1. Research the culture. Read up on Swedish culture, customs, and traditions to help you better understand the country and its people. I didn’t have a culture shock when I moved here but I know people who do. Whether it was the peace and silence or right-hand traffic or actual darkness during winter or others, it’s really good that you’re mentally prepared for it. Here are very nice two blogs that talk about general things and some tips to keep in mind.
  2. Prepare for the weather. The weather in Sweden can be unpredictable and can vary widely depending on the season. Be sure to pack appropriate clothing and gear for the season, including warm jackets, hats, and gloves in the winter. Alternatively, you can buy them here as well so it doesn’t take up much of your space in your luggage. Also, be sure to check the weather conditions for your arrival day so you don’t get unpleasantly surprised with e.g. rain!
  3. (If applicable) Check requirements for personal number application. If you plan to live in Sweden for one year or more you should be listed in Swedish Population Registry. You do that with Skatteverket and more information is available here.

 

CAN

  1. Practice some Swedish. Although many Swedes speak English fluently, learning Swedish can help you integrate into the local community and make the most of your experience in Sweden. You can try Duolingo for example or there are several podcasts or YouTube channels for learning Swedish. Of course, you don’t need to learn Swedish before your arrival. While you’re here you can enrol on a Swedish language course offered by LiU.
  2. (If applicable) Research banks. Opening a bank account in Sweden may be a hassle in certain situations. Sometimes it takes a few months to receive a bank account. If I remember correctly, in my case it was 2 months. Although I know people who got it much slower (like 6 months) or faster (rarely). Therefore, if you’re staying here for e.g. 2-year master’s programme you can research some banks already to see where you could apply. Once you open a bank account you’ll get a digital BankID and Swish which make your life in Sweden so much easier!
  3. Connect with other international students. Follow the social media of student organisations to connect with other international students and start building a network before you arrive. Some of the international student organisations include ISA, ESN, ISO or you can check one according to your interests.

Remember, preparation is key to making the most of your experience in Sweden. Start planning early, stay organized, and be proactive in connecting with other students and resources to help you adjust to life in a new country. Studying abroad is an exciting opportunity to learn and grow, but it can also be challenging. Be open-minded and flexible, and be prepared to step outside your comfort zone and embrace new experiences.

Good luck and we’re looking forward to seeing you in August!

 

/Alexandra, Experimental and Medical Biosciences

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Why don’t continue the conversation with us?

Start with checking out:

Our programmes, the application process, webinars, and our Instagram and Facebook account.

Still left wanting more?Book an appointment with our recruitment coordinator at infocenter@liu.se.

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