About the City – Why You’ll Love to Study in Lund
When you study in Lund, you’re not just choosing a university, you’re stepping into an academic community that dates back nearly 400 years. Located in southern Sweden, just 15 minutes from Malmö and 40 from Copenhagen, Lund blends history, innovation, and almost too much student spirit (in the best way possible).
This city might be small, home to around 90,000 people, but it punches far above its weight. Nearly half the population are students or university staff. That means cafés double as study spots, lectures spill into casual conversations at bars, and cycling is basically a lifestyle.
And the city itself? Picture cobblestone streets, historic brick buildings, minimalistic design, and cozy winter vibes. Then add buzzing student nations (Lund’s version of social clubs), outdoor hot tubs mid-winter, and international friendships that go way beyond the classroom.
Living and learning in Lund isn’t about just surviving student life. It’s about thriving in one of Europe’s most forward-thinking places.
Why International Students Choose to Study in Lund
1. World-Class Education, Scandinavian Style
Lund University is ranked among the top 100 universities worldwide. If you’re into innovation, research, and being taught by people who actually help shape the future (no joke), this place is for you. Fields like engineering, law, sustainability, economics, and public health all offer English-taught programs.
2. Everyone Speaks English, Fluently
Thinking you’ll get lost in translation? Don’t worry. Sweden ranks No. 1 for non-native English speaking skills. So while learning Swedish is encouraged, you can function, and flourish, just fine with English.
3. Inclusive, International, and Incredibly Safe
Over 8,000 international students call Lund home each year. There are dedicated welcoming weeks, buddy programs, and cultural events. Plus, Sweden consistently ranks in the world’s top 10 for safety and quality of life.
4. Close-Knit but Global
Although Lund itself is a modest-sized town, its connections are global. You’re less than an hour from Copenhagen Airport, meaning weekend trips across Europe are totally within reach.
5. Sustainability Meets Student Spirit
Sweden is basically the blueprint for sustainability, and Lund is leading the pack. Expect eco-smart buildings, a cycling-first mindset, and an education system that’s tackling climate change head-on.
To put it plainly: studying in Lund is where international education gets done right.
Top 10 Universities or Colleges in Lund
1. Lund University
Sweden’s top research university. Founded in 1666. Offers over 100 international degree programs and renowned for innovation in science, sustainability, law, business, and medicine.
2. Faculty of Engineering (LTH)
Part of Lund University but deserves a shoutout of its own. Think automation, nanotech, renewable energy, and cutting-edge design labs. Courses often include industrial collaborations.
3. School of Economics and Management (LUSEM)
International students love this faculty for its solid reputation in finance, entrepreneurship, business analytics, and global management. Most programs are offered fully in English.
4. Lund University School of Architecture
One of Sweden’s top destinations for students interested in urban planning, architecture, and environmental design thinking.
5. Campus Helsingborg (Lund University)
Located 40 km from central Lund, this is still part of the main university but focuses on service management, fashion, logistics, and communications, all taught in English.
6. Akademiska Hus Learning Labs
Cutting-edge learning spaces created in collaboration with various departments. Excellent for hands-on research-focused programs.
7. Folkuniversitetet Lund
Adult education institute offering Swedish language classes and cultural orientation for newcomers and degree-prep students.
8. Study Abroad Foundation (SAF) – Lund Center
Partnered with international universities, this center provides culturally immersive study abroad experiences.
9. Lund International Study Centre
Privately organized courses, support, and pre-degree modules for students adjusting to life and academics in Sweden.
10. Hvilan Folk High School
Not a traditional university, but great for pre-university Swedish language immersion and creative arts certifications.
Top 10 Student Accommodation Properties in Lund
- AF Bostäder – Sparta
- AF Bostäder – Delphi
- AF Bostäder – Ideon
- LU Accommodation – Spoletorp South
- LU Accommodation – Klostergården
- Greenhouse Eco Room Residence
- StudentHome Sweden
- Helsingkrona Nation Housing
- Eddan – Smålands Nation Housing
- International Student Aparts via Lund University
These properties are managed either by the student nations or the university itself. Options range from corridor housing to shared flats and studio apartments.
Top 10 Student Areas in Lund (With Housing and University Access)
1. Delphi
- Nearby: School of Engineering (LTH)
- Housing: AF Bostäder, corridor-style apartments
Lively, loaded with student events, and literally five minutes from class. Most popular among STEM students.
2. Sparta
- Nearby: Central campus and science faculties
- Housing: AF Bostäder – Sparta
Spacious and social. It has everything: laundry, gyms, shops nearby. Known for its shared social halls.
3. Klostergården
- Nearby: Humanities and law buildings
- Housing: LU Accommodation
More residential, peaceful, but still walkable to everything. Close to supermarkets and sports arenas.
4. Ideon Science Park Area
- Nearby: LTH and tech innovation hubs
- Housing: AF Bostäder – Ideon
High-tech surroundings. Great for those in IT, medicine, or sustainability degrees.
5. Smålands Nation (Eddan)
- Nearby: Central Lund
- Housing: Nation-related corridor housing
For students who care about activism, culture, and killer vegetarian dinners on Thursdays.
6. Helsingkrona Nation
- Nearby: All major faculties
- Housing: Helsingkrona towers
Quiet during the day, party-ready at night. Great mix of social energy and personal space.
7. Spoletorp South
- Nearby: Business and Management School
- Housing: LU Accommodation
Modern and cozy housing, popular with international grad students on shorter stays.
8. Östra Torn (East Lund)
- Nearby: Bus access to all faculties
- Housing: Family-style and private apartments
Longer-term students and those with jobs prefer this more local neighborhood.
9. Professorsstaden
- Nearby: Humanities and social sciences
- Housing: Mostly private rentals and university lets
Beautiful, historic area. If you’re lucky enough to score accommodation here, keep it!
10. Linero
- Nearby: Off-centre with bus routes to everywhere
- Housing: Available via StudentHome and private options
Affordable, quiet, and particularly good for upper-year and postgraduate students.
Cost of Living in Lund – Breakdown for Students
Living in Sweden doesn’t have to break the bank, especially in Lund, where student discounts are everywhere.
| Expense Category | Estimated Monthly Cost (€) |
|---|---|
| Rent (incl. utilities) | €350–€600 |
| Groceries & Food | €200–€250 |
| Public Transport | €25 (but many just bike!) |
| Mobile & Internet | €30 |
| Study Materials | €30–€50 |
| Social Life/Leisure | €80–€150 |
Total: Around €750–€1,100/month, depending on housing and lifestyle.
Quick savings tips:
- Eat at nation lunches, meals for as low as €3.5.
- Use Mecenat or Studentkortet student discount cards.
- Bike instead of using buses, you can get a second-hand one for under €100.
Sweden may have a reputation for being pricey, but Lund proves you can live well on a student budget.
Local Transport – Getting Around Lund
Lund is famously compact and student-friendly. Transit is easy, clean, and eco-minded.
1. Bicycles
This is how most students move around. Safe bike lanes are everywhere. Rain or shine, your bike is your ride.
2. Skånetrafiken (Public Transport)
Connects Lund with Malmö, Helsingborg, and more. Student monthly passes start at €25–€30.
3. Walking
You can walk across central Lund in about 20 minutes. The city is flat, scenic, and stress-free.
4. Regional Trains & Flixbus
Want a quick trip to Copenhagen or Stockholm? Trains are fast, comfortable, and discounted with student cards.
5. Scooters & E-bikes
Companies like Voi provide easy scooter rentals, fun and useful for short campus hops.
Summary – Why You Should Study in Lund
If you want world-class education in a setting where cobblestone charm meets innovation labs, study in Lund. This Southern Swedish city ranks among Europe’s best for academic reputation, student happiness, and sustainable living.
You’ll grow academically and personally in a city built for students. From bike rides at sunset to lunch at a nation, everything in Lund invites you to learn, connect, and belong.
Lund isn’t loud. It isn’t chaotic. But it’s everything you need, and more. Understated. Brilliant. Unforgettable.
Top 10 FAQs About Studying in Lund
1. Is Lund a good city for international students?
Absolutely! It’s safe, welcoming, and nearly half the city is made up of students.
2. Can I study in English in Lund?
Yes. Over 100 English-taught degrees are offered at Lund University alone.
3. How much does it cost per month to live in Lund?
Estimate around €750–€1,100, including rent, food, and extras.
4. Are there scholarships for international students?
Yes. Lund University offers merit-based scholarships and Sweden has external grant networks like SI.
5. Is public transport free for students?
No, but student discounts apply, and many get by with a bike alone.
6. What’s the weather like in Lund?
Cool in winter, mild in summer. Expect rainy days, cozy nights, and snow in January.
7. Do I need to speak Swedish?
No. It helps socially, but it’s not required for most programs or daily life.
8. Is it hard to find student housing?
It can be tough. Apply early to AF Bostäder and LU Housing. Nation housing helps too.
9. Is Lund expensive compared to other European cities?
It’s cheaper than Stockholm or Oslo. You can live well on a student budget.
10. Can I stay in Sweden after graduation?
Yes! Non-EU students can apply for a post-study work permit for 12 months.
