Sweden has 52 universities and university colleges. Swedish Universities date back to the fifteen century.

Universities and companies in Sweden are highly innovative and take pride in a number of successful innovations such as: the computer mouse, Bluetooth, the pacemaker, the ball bearing and much more. 

Leading subject areas
Swedish universities are known for high studies in a variety of subjecs, including;

• Innovation
• Art
• Design 
• Technology 
• Fashion 
• Music

International students in Sweden 

Approximately 30,000 international students are currently studying in Sweden making for a vibrant international study environment. The possibilities of studying in Sweden for an international student are increasing with the number of students applying.

University rankings

Some Swedish Universities feature in the top 50 best universities in the world according to Times Higher Education, showing the high level of studies in Sweden. 

In Sweden you find two different kinds of university; Research universities and University Colleges. Research universities are the one and only model used in the UK. The difference of the two universities is that the Research Universities will prepare students to understand the workings of the world and University Colleges prepare students to work in the world.

University Colleges   

Different from the Research Universities the University Colleges offer Problem Based Learning

Problem based learning provides students with:

• The ability to solve realistic work related problems
• A modern learning technique where students get hands-on experience
• The opportunity to work together with fellow students on solving a problem
• A creative way of thinking
  
• The opportunity to think outside the box and question the traditional way of solving different problem statements

As a result of this kind of training many students are ready to hold a job after graduation. Employers today seek to find new employees that has been out in the field and gotten a view of how business works outside school and that makes the students graduating from university colleges more employable. Internships are often included in the education.

Research Universities
Teaching and the commitment of the students to learn is taken extremely seriously but there is often a relatively informal relationship between the teacher and students. Attendance at lectures is required but students are also expected to work independently and develop an in-depth knowledge of their subject through independent study.

The teaching methods used focus on the critical analysis of the course content with the use of real case studies wherever possible. There is often an emphasis on group work. Personal initiative and independent thinking are prized. You will be required to take an active role and contribute with your opinions and ideas at lectures, seminars and in group discussions.

Taking the initiative and questioning old presumptions is rewarding, especially in the long term. It will give you the opportunity to develop your individual strengths and refine your academic abilities.

To understand the difference from Research University and University Colleges please click here.

• Strong analytical skills
• Communications skills 
• International experience 
• Cultural awareness

Accommodation

• Universities in Sweden do not offer on-campus accommodation
• Students live in or near the university town depending on how much you are willing to spend on rent. 

Useful websites for accommodation in Sweden

• justlanded.com
• blocket.se
• studentlya.nu

Costs of an average room

An average room in Sweden costs approximately 2,500 SEKK

- For universities located in smaller towns, accommodation prices range from SEK 2,000 to SEK 3,500 for a room.
- For universities located in medium-sized towns, accommodation prices range from SEK 2,300 to SEK 4,300 for a room.
- For universities located in cities (Uppsala, Lund, Stockholm and Göteborg), accommodation prices range from SEK 2,500 to SEK 4,500 for a room.

A few things to be aware of when seeking a room:

• Make sure you check what bills are included in the rent, as it may have a large impact on your budget. Some accommodations include gas, electricity, TV and internet in the rent, for others you are expected to pay them separately.
• Make sure you read through your rental contract before signing it and check what you are allowed to do with your room.  
• Some rooms are rented unfurnished and some furnished. Make sure you are aware of the costs of furniture if you decide to rent an unfurnished room and if you decide to rent a furnished room know what furniture that includes.  

There are no Tuition Fees for UK students studying in Sweden! Fees are paid by the Swedish government

Though most students live on a tight budget, there are ways of making your money go further. You can use your student card for discounts and on-campus restaurants are good value. You can also cook your own food; most student accommodations have some form of kitchen facility open to residents.

Living costs in Sweden

Below you see a breakdown of the costs approximately of living in Sweden per month.