About the City – What It’s Like to Study in Stockholm
To study in Stockholm is to dive into innovation and sustainability without giving up breathtaking views, globally respected universities, or cozy café corners. A city built on 14 islands, Stockholm is a unique blend of medieval beauty and forward-thinking design. Museums, waterways, and student life all mingle between cobblestone alleys and glass skyscrapers.
With a population of just under 1 million, Stockholm offers a perfect mix, urban energy with nature never more than a few steps away. And yes, people actually swim in the clean, sparkling waters in the middle of the city during summer.
Speaking of summer, the sun barely sets. Winter? Embrace candle-lit libraries, snow-dusted sidewalks, and those classic Swedish cinnamon buns after a full day of lectures.
This is where international students thrive. Whether you’re studying artificial intelligence, public health, fashion, or fine arts, Stockholm combines serious academic opportunities with a lifestyle that feels both calm and exciting.
Why Stockholm Is a Smart Move for International Students
1. Top-Quality Education
Stockholm is home to some of the world’s most respected universities. Whether it’s KTH (Royal Institute of Technology) or Karolinska Institutet, you’ll have access to leading research, world-class professors, and cutting-edge facilities. Many schools offer English-taught bachelor’s and master’s programs, especially in tech, science, business, and social studies.
2. Global and Inclusive
The city is home to over 25,000 international students. That means you’re never alone. Orientation weeks, buddy programs, student unions, they’re all there to help you integrate fast. Plus, 90% of Swedes speak English fluently, so you can feel at home even if you’re still navigating “Hej!” and “Tack!”
3. Career Launchpad
Stockholm is ranked among Europe’s top cities for start-ups, sustainability, and tech innovation. Home to Spotify, Klarna, and H&M, it’s a magnet for networking, internships, and job opportunities post-graduation.
4. Life Quality: Next Level
Public transport is world-class. Tap water is sparkling clean. Study spaces are cozy. Crime rates are low. Cafés are endless. Cultural experiences? Everywhere. You get the idea.
Considering everything, to study in Stockholm is to be at the beating heart of the Nordic academic experience, without losing touch with life.
Top 10 Universities or Colleges in Stockholm
- KTH Royal Institute of Technology
Sweden’s largest and most prestigious tech university. Ranked globally and offers top programs in engineering, computer science, architecture, and sustainable energy. - Karolinska Institutet (KI)
Top medical university worldwide. Known for clinical research, medicine, public health, and for choosing the Nobel Laureate in medicine. - Stockholm University
Renowned for humanities, law, and sciences. Large international community. Extensive English-taught programs across bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. - Stockholm School of Economics (SSE)
Private, highly selective business school. Offers elite programs in economics, finance, and marketing. Great job placements. - Konstfack – University of Arts, Crafts and Design
For creatives. Offers programs in fine art, visual communication, ceramics & glass, and industrial design. - Royal College of Music in Stockholm
Premier music institution. Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in performance, composition, and conducting. - Royal Institute of Art
High-level artistic programs including fine arts, sculpture, and contemporary media. Considered Sweden’s top art school. - Södertörn University
South Stockholm-based. Combines social sciences with journalism, media studies, and environmental sciences. Offers many English programs. - University College Stockholm
Theology, human rights, and religious studies with a strong global perspective. Small, focused, and community-driven. - Beckmans College of Design
Boutique design school. Focus on visual communication, product design, and fashion. Offers workshops, exhibitions, and lots of networking.
Top 10 Student Accommodation Properties in Stockholm
- KI Housing (Karolinska-owned)
- SSSB (Stockholms Studentbostäder)
- Kista Studentbostäder
- AF Bostäder Stockholm
- Lappkärrsberget Student Village
- BaseCamp Stockholm
- The Fizz Odenplan
- Livensa Living Stockholm
- Stockholm Apartments for Students (Private Market)
- UNITY Stockholm Kista
These housing options range from shared corridor-style units to premium studio apartments. Apply early, waiting lists are real here!
Top 10 Student Areas in Stockholm – Where to Live & Why
1. Kungsholmen
- Universities nearby: KTH, Stockholm University
- Vibe: Central, calm, close to water
Ideal for students who love early morning walks and café study sessions with a view.
2. Vasastan
- Universities nearby: KTH, SSE
- Vibe: Trendy and vibrant
Popular with international students and young professionals. Lots of shared apartments.
3. Södermalm
- Universities nearby: Royal Institute of Art, Stockholm University
- Vibe: Hipster haven
If you live for live music, thrift markets, and independent cinemas, this is your place.
4. Gamla Stan (Old Town)
- Universities nearby: SSE, Konstfack (via metro)
- Vibe: Historic and stunning
Rents are high, but you’ll be surrounded by charm and cobblestones.
5. Lappkärrsberget (Student Village)
- Universities nearby: Stockholm University
- Vibe: Affordable and social
Specifically designed for students. Immediate access to nature and good transport.
6. Kista
- Universities nearby: KTH ICT Campus
- Vibe: Techie and multicultural
Home to Stockholm’s “Silicon Valley” and lots of student apartments.
7. Hammarby Sjöstad
- Universities nearby: Konstfack, Södertörn
- Vibe: Eco-friendly
Modern apartments, good buses, and gorgeous views. Peaceful but pricey.
8. Årsta
- Universities nearby: Södertörn + City via metro
- Vibe: Residential, well-connected
Less student-heavy, but affordable and safe. Great for those who value quiet.
9. Solna
- Universities nearby: Karolinska Institutet
- Vibe: Smart and suburban
Close to hospital and research centers. Reliable and easy metro access.
10. Flemingsberg
- Universities nearby: Södertörn University
- Vibe: Budget-friendly
More space, cheaper rents, and developing student-focused infrastructure.
Cost of Living in Stockholm – Monthly Student Budget
Yes, Sweden has a reputation for being pricey. But Stockholm offers a lot of value for your kronor, especially if you plan well.
| Category | Estimated Monthly Cost (€) |
|---|---|
| Shared Rent | €400–€700 |
| Groceries & Food | €180–€250 |
| Phone & Internet | €30 |
| Public Transport | €35 (student rate) |
| Entertainment & Extras | €100–€200 |
➡️ Total: Approx. €850–€1,200/month
Tips to save:
- Always use your Mecenat card for transport, events, and student discounts.
- Cook at home, food delivery and eating out will burn your budget fast.
- Opt for university cafeterias where meals are around €5–€7.
- Apply early for SSSB housing, they reward queuing time!
Local Transport in Stockholm – Student-Friendly and Smooth
Stockholm’s transport system is among the best in Europe.
1. SL (Stockholm’s Public Transport)
Includes metro, buses, trams, ferries, and suburban trains. With a monthly student discount, it’s about €35, totally unlimited.
2. Biking
Stockholm is safe for cyclists. There are dedicated bike lanes and you can rent/end with city e-bikes everywhere.
3. Walking
Especially in areas like Södermalm, Vasastan, and Kungsholmen, it’s easy to ditch wheels.
4. Ferries
Get on a boat using your metro card! It doesn’t get more Stockholm than that.
5. Intercity Travel
Arlanda Airport is just 20 minutes away by train. Trains to Uppsala and Gothenburg? Simple, punctual, and scenic.
Summary – Why You Should Study in Stockholm
To study in Stockholm is to immerse yourself in one of Europe’s most progressive, balanced, and globally connected cities.
It’s a place where your classroom might overlook the sea, where sustainability isn’t a trend, it’s a way of life. And where education feels like a conversation, not a lecture.
Whether you’re into neuroscience, fashion, gaming, or green cities, Stockholm welcomes you with open arms (and really good coffee). It’s smart, safe, and social, with just the right splash of adventure.
Top 10 FAQs About Studying in Stockholm
1. Is Stockholm safe for international students?
Yes, it’s one of the safest cities in Europe and ranks high on quality of life.
2. Are there English-taught programs in Stockholm?
Absolutely, many at bachelor’s and almost all master’s programs are taught in English.
3. How expensive is Stockholm for students?
Expect to budget €850–€1,200/month, depending on housing and lifestyle.
4. Can international students work part-time?
Yes! No limit for EU/EEA students. Non-EU students can also work while studying.
5. Can I survive without knowing Swedish?
Yes. Most locals speak excellent English, but learning Swedish boosts your experience.
6. How can I find student accommodation?
Use SSSB, KI Housing, SGS, and private platforms. Apply early!
7. Are there scholarships available?
Yes, Swedish Institute and specific universities offer scholarships for non-EU students.
8. What is student social life like?
Student nations, clubs, quizzes, film nights, it’s vibrant and international.
9. Is transport free for students?
Not free, but you get major discounts on public transport and intercity travel.
10. Why choose Stockholm over other Swedish cities?
Academic prestige, rich cultural life, career opportunities, and incredible quality of life. It’s the full package.
