About the City – What It’s Like to Study in Uppsala
To study in Uppsala is to plant yourself right in Sweden’s academic soul. This city, just 40 minutes north of Stockholm, isn’t just historic, it’s legendary. Uppsala is home to Sweden’s oldest university, founded in 1477, and a student culture so ingrained that it practically vibrates through the streets.
But Uppsala isn’t just about textbooks and tradition. It’s also cozy cafés, choir concerts, riverside picnics, and those late-night debate sessions that suddenly get deep. The city is compact, completely bikeable, and perfect for anyone who enjoys balance, between study and social, adventure and comfort.
With around 230,000 residents, including over 30,000 students, Uppsala somehow keeps that “university town” feel in a setting that’s also vibrant, international, and forward-thinking. Picture yourself walking past gothic cathedrals, grabbing a cinnamon bun (kanelbulle) with friends, then heading to a lecture in a university older than most countries.
If you’re on a quest for meaningful education in a city that knows how to live, Uppsala is it.
Why Uppsala Is a Smart Choice for International Students
1. A Pedigree That Speaks for Itself
Let’s start with the big name: Uppsala University. One of Europe’s most prestigious institutions, with over 500 years of academic excellence. It ranks consistently in the world’s Top 100. This is where Carl Linnaeus once studied. Where the Nobel Prize gets real. Where knowledge still feels sacred.
Today, the university is home to more than 45 master’s programs taught in English, along with tons of exchange and PhD opportunities. Fields like medicine, biotechnology, education, law, and data science are particularly strong.
2. Built for International Students
Each year, over 4,000 international students come to Uppsala. The city is equipped with welcoming activities, student nations (unique social clubs), and mentorship programs, specifically designed to help you transition smoothly.
3. A Cultural Life That’s Truly Swedish… and Global
Want to understand true student tradition? Join a gasque (formal dinner party). Love art? Museums and galleries abound. Into music? Uppsala’s choir and jazz scenes are electric.
At the same time, it’s a place where international students initiate their own cultural events, celebrating Diwali, Lunar New Year, or Brazilian samba nights.
4. Small City Feel, Big City Access
Uppsala is just 40 minutes from Stockholm by train. Close enough for weekend adventures, far enough to avoid city chaos.
5. Safety and Sustainability
Sweden is already one of the safest countries in the world. Uppsala takes it up a notch, calm, clean, and climate-conscious.
In short? To study in Uppsala is to get the Scandinavian college experience at its best.
Top 10 Universities or Colleges in Uppsala
1. Uppsala University
The crown jewel. Offers a wide range of English-taught degree programs (especially master’s). Known globally for medicine, law, humanities, life sciences, and tech.
2. Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU)
SLU’s Uppsala campus offers world-leading programs in agronomy, veterinary science, landscape architecture, and environmental sciences. Fantastic community for nature lovers and scientists.
3. Johannelund School of Theology
Highly specialized Christian theological seminary rooted in Nordic academic tradition. Offers bachelor’s and master’s in theology and leadership.
4. Upsala College Sweden (Private Institution)
Focuses on business, arts, and international education. Opportunity for customized study abroad modules.
5. Uppsala International Summer Session
Offers summer programs to international students interested in language, culture, and Nordic studies.
6. Uppdragshuset – Academic Training Institute
Specializes in public sector management training. Not a full university but a hub for professional development.
7. Folkuniversitetet Uppsala
Provides Swedish language courses and university-prep programs. Very popular with new international arrivals.
8. KUI Uppsala – Care and Welfare Education
Vocational school for care, education, and public health. Focused more on locals, but open to international students.
9. NTI Uppsala
A tech-focused school offering courses in web development, IT, and culinary studies.
10. Artisan School Uppsala
Offers short courses in crafts, woodworking, and visual arts, great for creative study abroad students looking for unique electives.
Top 10 Student Accommodation Properties in Uppsala
- Studentstaden Uppsala (Uppsalahem)
- Flogsta Student Housing
- Rackarberget Dormitories
- Studentvägen Corridor Apartments
- EKONOVA Student House
- ByggVesta Campus Living
- HUB Uppsala Student Apartments
- Kantorsgatan Shared Residences
- Uppsala Akademiförvaltning Properties
- Snerikes Student Housing (Student Nations)
Most come fully furnished with a shared kitchen, laundry, and common-friendly corridors. Bonus: Many are within walking or biking distance to campus and downtown.
Top 10 Student Areas in Uppsala (With University Access & Living Options)
1. Flogsta
- Universities Nearby: Uppsala University (Science and Tech faculties)
- Housing: Flogsta Towers, corridor flats
Famous for the “Flogsta scream”, a nightly student tradition! Packed with international students; social, lively, legendary.
2. Rackarberget
- Universities Nearby: Most central faculties
- Housing: Rackarberget dorms
Tree-lined streets, slightly quieter than Flogsta but still fun. Good balance between academia and nightlife.
3. Studentvägen
- Universities Nearby: Uppsala University main library
- Housing: Corridor and studio options
Just north of the city, classic student area. Housing is affordable and practical.
4. Kantorsgatan
- Universities Nearby: Uppsala University Hospital
- Housing: Shared and family apartments
Popular with med students and researchers. Calmer and close to nature.
5. Luthagen
- Universities Nearby: Humanities and theology departments
- Housing: Akademiförvaltning properties
Cozy and central. A bit on the pricier side, but beautiful old buildings and Scandinavian design interiors.
6. Eriksberg
- Universities Nearby: SLU campus
- Housing: Quiet student flats
Suburban feel with good bus connections. Popular among senior and doctoral students.
7. Centrum (City Center)
- Universities Nearby: All major departments, student nations
- Housing: Private rentals
Charming streets, walking distance to everything. Expect to pay more, but the vibe is worth it.
8. Kåbo
- Universities Nearby: Science Park, Biology depts
- Housing: Mixed dorms + private lets
Greenery galore. Mansion-adjacent housing in a calm neighborhood. High-end.
9. Gottsunda/Valsätra
- Universities Nearby: SLU and South Uppsala campuses
- Housing: Budget-friendly family apartments and flats
Often overlooked but growing in popularity. Affordable and multicultural.
10. Gamla Uppsala (Old Uppsala)
- Universities Nearby: 15–20 min bike ride
- Housing: Low-rise houses and elder student areas
Ideal for quiet study and long nature walks. Historical surroundings and close to archaeological sites.
Cost of Living in Uppsala – Monthly Breakdown for Students
Let’s get real, Sweden isn’t cheap. But Uppsala offers a pretty good deal for students, especially when you compare it to Stockholm.
| Item | Monthly Cost (€) |
|---|---|
| Rent (shared/studio) | €350 – €700 |
| Groceries & Food | €200 – €250 |
| Transport (if needed) | €40 (many just bike!) |
| Mobile + Internet | €30 |
| Study Materials | €30 – €50 |
| Social/Leisure | €80 – €150 |
➡ Total Estimate: €800 – €1,200/month
Tips to save:
- Apply early for Studentstaden apartments
- Use your Mecenat student card for cinema, shops, and gym discounts
- Rent a bike instead of using the bus long-term
- Cook at home, Swedish supermarkets are cheaper than eating out
Pro tip: Many Erasmus and scholarship students can live here comfortably on €900/month and still enjoy regular fika outings.
Local Transport – How Students Move Around Uppsala
You won’t need a metro, Uppsala is completely manageable.
1. Biking
Almost every student here owns a bike. Clean, efficient, and zero emissions. Buy a secondhand one or rent monthly, it’s the true student style.
2. Buses
Uppsala’s city buses are clean, frequent, and easy to use. Download the UL app and grab a student pass for about €40/month.
3. Walking
The city is compact, especially around campus and student housing. Add in scenic parks and riverside paths, and walking is often the preferred choice.
4. Regional Trains
Need a weekend escape? Stockholm is only 40 minutes away. Trains run frequently, especially on Fridays and Sundays.
Summary – Why You Should Study in Uppsala
Classic without being outdated. Social without being overwhelming. Academic without the burnout. That’s Uppsala in a nutshell.
When you study in Uppsala, you’re joining rich traditions, all while embracing modern programs and global perspectives. From Nobel legacy to student nation parties, from winter magic to springtime bike rides, this place gives you every reason to call it home.
Not just a city. Not just a degree. It’s a life-changing chapter waiting to be written.
Top 10 FAQs About Studying in Uppsala
1. Is Uppsala safe for international students?
Yes, Uppsala is one of the safest and most student-friendly cities in Europe.
2. Are there English-taught programs in Uppsala?
Definitely. Uppsala University offers 45+ master’s and several bachelor programs in English.
3. How much does it cost for a student to live in Uppsala?
On average, €800–€1,200/month, including rent and all living expenses.
4. Can students work part-time while studying?
Yes. EU and non-EU students can work without limitations, though knowing Swedish helps.
5. How do I apply for housing in Uppsala?
Apply early with Uppsalahem or Studentstaden. Student nation housing is also available.
6. Do I need to speak Swedish to live there?
Not really. Most people speak excellent English, especially in university environments.
7. What’s the winter like in Uppsala?
Cold, snowy, and magical. Expect -5°C to -15°C with cozy indoor culture to match.
8. Are student discounts available?
Yes! Use the Mecenat or Studentkortet for travel and local deals.
9. What’s the best student area in Uppsala?
Flogsta is the most iconic, but places like Rackarberget and Studentvägen are equally great.
10. Why should I study in Uppsala over Stockholm or Lund?
Rich tradition, top rankings, laid-back charm, and access to both nature and nightlife make Uppsala uniquely balanced.
