Student life in Stockholm
Adapting to a new city as a student is no easy task. Luckily, there is lots of information available. Here is what you need to know about finding student accommodation, what to expect in terms of living costs, and making the most of student discounts in Stockholm.
Student accommodation in Stockholm
An excellent place to start your search is with your hosting university. Many exchange programmes and universities have housing and dormitories on or nearby campus for international students. Most accommodation will be single rooms in shared apartments or houses.
If you prefer to find accommodation off-campus or rent privately, Stockholm has affordable shared accommodation options and small studio apartments. Check out Expat.com's guide on finding accommodation in Stockholm.
Student clubs and activities in Stockholm
Every university in Sweden has its own student union and various smaller clubs in the departments. Check on your host university's website or Facebook group for more information. There are also Facebook groups online like International & Exchange Students Stockholm for general information about exchanges to the city.
Stockholm University has a list of clubs for students and faculty members. Each department in the university also has its own clubs and activities. Students who would like to join a group outside of the university can look towards volunteer organisations like TEDxStockholm.
Living costs in Stockholm
Yes, living costs in Stockholm are incredibly high. It will take some getting used to; from accommodation costs to food, transport, and leisure activities, expect to spend more than in other countries. However, there are some ways that you can save money while studying in Stockholm.
For example, students from outside the EU/EEA and Switzerland can apply for scholarships. Universities in Sweden offer scholarships for studying in Stockholm that cover things like accommodation costs and give stipends for transportation and food.
Student discounts in Stockholm
Membership cards
Luckily, transportation in Stockholm is affordable, and students can even get a discount on SL passes. Many shops and restaurants around the city offer student discounts, and there are membership cards like Mecenat and Student Kortet with lots of offers. The International Student Identity Card (ISIC) has offers in more than 100 countries, including Sweden.
Food
The popular convenience store Pressbyrån has good deals on things like coffee on the go, snacks, and combo offers of coffee and a snack ' the little things that make early morning classes more bearable! Fast-food chains and coffee shops around the university campuses might have similar deals; simply ask about possible student discounts at the counter when you place your order.
Leisure activities
Some of Stockholm's many attractions and activities also offer student discounts. The Vasa and Fotografiska photography museum give discounts for any student with a valid student card, while the Royal Opera in Stockholm offers 50% off for students under the age of 26. Many fitness centres have special discounts for students.
Free and affordable things to do in Stockholm
Of course, if you want to save money on leisure activities there are lots of free and affordable things to do like wander around Stockholm's impressive green parks or grab a budget treat at one of Stockholm's food halls. Physical activities like jogging, cycling, and visiting one of Stockholm's many outdoor gyms is a great way to get fit without paying for a gym membership.
