April 29, 2024
Get Set Before You Jet! The End of April Checklist
Congratulations once again on your decision to study in Sweden! As the excitement builds and you start counting down the days until your big move, it’s essential to ensure you’re fully prepared. Whether you’re navigating the final steps of your preparations in late April or just looking for reassurance that you haven’t missed anything, this checklist is your go-to guide to make your transition as smooth as possible.
Below is the Ultimate End of April Pre-Departure Checklist
- Tuition Payment Confirmation
For Self-Funded Students: Ensure that your first semester’s tuition is paid no later than May 15th unless you’re a scholarship recipient. Keep a copy of the payment confirmation, as you’ll need it for your residence permit application.
For Scholarship Holders: Have your scholarship details handy. It’s important to keep all your scholarship correspondence organized and easily accessible.
- Visa and Residence Permit
Begin your visa or residence permit application process immediately if you haven’t already. You’ll need proof of your tuition payment or scholarship, proof of living expenses, and a valid passport. Check the expiration date on your passport — it should be valid for at least six months beyond your intended period of stay.
- Accommodation Arrangements
Confirm your housing situation. Whether you’ve arranged an apartment already or are in the process of finding student housing on your own, double-check all details and keep all correspondence regarding your accommodation, so that by at least mid-July, you have a ready apartment/housing.
- Travel Insurance
Purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers not only travel-related issues such as cancellations and lost luggage but also health coverage until your Swedish health insurance kicks in.
- Flight Bookings
Book your flights if you haven’t already. Considering arrival dates that give you enough time to settle in before your classes start is wise. But most importantly, target your arrival to fall before your Roll Call date.
- Prepare for Life in Sweden
Start learning some basic Swedish phrases. While most Swedes speak excellent English, knowing some local language can be incredibly helpful and is greatly appreciated by locals. Familiarize yourself with Swedish culture and customs. This will help you adjust more quickly to your new environment and reduce cultural shock.
Moving to a new country for studies is an exciting journey filled with new experiences and opportunities. By following this checklist, you’re ensuring that your transition to life in Sweden is as seamless and stress-free as possible. I’m thrilled to welcome you to the vibrant student community here, and I can’t wait to meet all of you this August.
Yours, Chelsea.
