Author: Guestblogger (Page 1 of 20)

The moment you get your acceptance to Uppsala University – Campus Gotland, the adventure really begins: your next quest is to find a place to call home in Visby. Knowing where and how to look can make the whole transition so much smoother.  

Understanding UUHO Housing 

For fee-paying international students, the university guarantees housing through the Uppsala University Housing Office (UUHO). Once you pay your tuition fee for the first semester, you get an invitation from UUHO to create your account with details of how to apply. If this is you, the first place you should look for your next home is with UUHO. They have 3 housing areas in Visby you can choose from. Keep in mind that guaranteeing housing doesn’t mean that your tuition fee includes your housing rent. You must pay your rent for the next month at the end of the previous month.  

If you are a non-fee-paying student 

For non-fee-paying international students, you must find housing on your own. Unlike in Uppsala, Gotland’s student nation, Rindi doesn’t provide their own housing. However, Rindi together with Campus Gotland and Region Gotland, has created Gotlands Student Bostad , a platform which gathers rental listings from housing companies, private landlords and students finding roommates. If you are a non-fee-paying student or are not satisfied with the housing provided by UUHO, you can search for your new home here. UUHO also provides housing for non-fee-paying students once the quota for fee-paying students fills up.  

How housing contracts work 

Normally, the housing contracts in Visby last for 9 months (final week of August to first week of June). This is because these apartments are rented for higher prices for tourists during the Summer (June, July, August). Students normally leave their luggage at storage facilities in Visby during this period and leave for the vacation. However, housing areas Mejerigatan 4-7 and Fältgatan 73 rented through UUHO has an exception where you can stay for the same rental fee during the summer. Therefore, housing contracts with UUHO can be either 1,2 or 3 years (bachelor’s students only) long depending on your preferences. To end a contract before the mentioned period, you must inform your landlord 3 months prior to the date you wish to end, unless the contract says otherwise.  

You can find a list of housing options below with detailed information on housing areas from UUHO. 

Housing at the Uppsala University Housing Office (UUHO) 

The Uppsala University Housing Office rents student apartments from 3 housing areas in Visby.  

1. Mejerigatan 4-7

• Room type: Studio Apartments/ Corridor for Single Occupancy 

• Area of the unit: Studio apartment- approx.18-19 sqm 
                                   Corridor room- approx. 10-11 sqm 

• Distance from Campus: 1km (10-15 -minute walk; closest to campus out of all 3 housing areas) 

• Monthly rent: Studio apartment- 4 600 – 4 700 SEK 
                              Corridor room- 4 300 – 5 100 SEK 

• Surroundings: Much larger housing area with several buildings and main roads in front.  

• What’s Nearby: 5-minute walk to Ica Atterdags. 2-minute walk to Visby Gym and Söderports Vårdcentral(Hospital), 10-minute walk to Österport(Mc Donalds, Max Burgers, Coop Öster, Apoteket (Pharmacy), Flying Tiger, Normal, Åhlens etc), 40-minute walk to Willys and Lidl, 40-minute walk to Ica Maxi, Dollar Store, Jysk, Jula.  

• Inclusions in the Rent: Electricity, Water, Internet, Heating Studio Apartments: Private Bathroom, Private Kitchenette, Mini Refrigerator with Freezer, Private Storage Unit, Access to shared kitchen, Access to shared laundry Corridor Rooms: Access to Shared Bathroom, Access to Shared  Kitchen, Access to shared laundry 
• Furniture included: Single bed, Table, Two Chairs, Shelf, Blinds 

• Not included: Router, Curtains (Curtain Rods can be available sometimes), Shower Curtains, Pillows, Duvet, Bed Linen, Kitchen Utensils (Included in the corridor rooms), Cleaning equipment, Tablecloth 

• Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/J1Po2bSBC7wXLGvM8  

• Website: Mejerigatan 4-7 – Uppsala University Housing Office  
  

2. Fältgatan 73

• Room type: Studio Apartments 

• Area of the unit: Approx.18-19 sqm 

• Distance from Campus: 1.8 km (20-25 -minute walk) 

• Monthly rent: Studio apartment- 4 600 – 4 700 SEK 

• Description: Single building with a few other apartment buildings around. Much calmer surroundings. 

• What’s Nearby: 15-minute walk to Ica Atterdags. 15-minute walk to Visby Gym and Söderports Vårdcentral(Hospital), 15-minute walk to Österport(Mc Donalds, Max Burgers, Coop Öster, Apoteket (Pharmacy), Flying Tiger, Normal, Åhlens etc), 30-minute walk to Willys and Lidl, 30-minute walk to Ica Maxi, Dollar Store, Jysk, Jula.  

• Inclusions in the Rent: Electricity, Water, Internet, Heating, Private Bathroom, Private Kitchenette, Private Storage Unit, Access to shared kitchen, Access to shared laundry 

• Furniture included: Single bed, Table, Two Chairs, Shelf, Blinds, Mini Refrigerator with Freezer 

• Not included: Router, Curtains (Curtain Rods can be available sometimes), Shower Curtains, Pillows, Duvet, Bed Linen, Kitchen Utensils (Included in the corridor rooms), Cleaning equipment, Tablecloth 

• Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/jermbf1nTcS4Fua46  

• Website: Fältgatan 73 – Uppsala University Housing Office  

3. Volontärgatan

• Room type: Studio Apartments 

• Area of the unit: Approx.24 sqm 

• Distance from Campus: 2 km (30-35 -minute walk) 

• Monthly rent: Studio apartment- 5800 SEK 

• Description: A larger student residential area with much calmer surroundings. Also, in front of a main road. 

• What’s Nearby: 25-minute walk to Ica Atterdags. 25-minute walk to Visby Gym and Söderports Vårdcentral(Hospital), 20-minute walk to Österport(Mc Donalds, Max Burgers, Coop Oster, Apoteket (Pharmacy), Flying Tiger, Normal, Åhlens etc), 20-minute walk to Willys and Lidl, 15-minute walk to Ica Maxi, Dollar Store, Jysk, Jula.  

• Inclusions in the Rent: Electricity, Water, Internet, Private Bathroom, Private Full Kitchen, Private Storage Unit, Access to shared laundry, Private Balcony/Patio 

• Furniture included: Single bed, Desk, Desk Chair, Table, Two Chairs, Shelf, Armchair, Router, Curtains, Shower Curtains, Oven, Microwave, Refrigerator

• Not included: Pillows, Duvet, Bed Linen, Kitchen Utensils, Tablecloth 

• Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/YNmWbXqsiunPH8n66  

• Website: Volontärgatan – Uppsala University Housing Office 

Other Housing Companies

• K2A: Lediga lägenheter – K2A 

• Ruthström Fastigheter: Lägenheter i Visby | Ruthström Fastigheter 

• GotlandsBoenden: Studentboende – Gotlandsboenden 

• GotlandsHem: Gotlandshem i Visby – från medeltid till modern tid 

To find more housing companies visit Gotland’s Student Bostad: Housing companies 

You can contact them through the provided phone number or email address on the respective websites for more information and contracts. 

Private Landlords & Student’s Finding Roommates

Many private landlords renting housing for students publish it on Gotland’s Student Bostad: Available housing through private landlords 

You can also find students who already have rented housing and are looking for roommates to join them on Gotland’s Student Bostad as well: Find a roommate 

You can contact them through the provided phone number or email address on the respective websites for more information and contracts. 

Before signing your contract 

• Beware of scammers 

• Always read your contract well and sign only if you agree because this is a legal document 

• Ask for images, videos, housing tour from your landlord if not included properly in their websites for advertisements.  

• Some landlords will ask for a deposit before arriving. Check whether it’s refundable, non-refundable, or how it works. 

• Note that sometimes rent can increase at the beginning of a new academic year or year. Ask your landlord about how it works for them.  

It may take some searching, but once you’re settled, you’ll discover that living in Visby is one of the most rewarding parts of studying at Campus Gotland. Good luck — you’ve got this, and Visby is ready to welcome you! 

Whether you’re from a country with a warm or cold climate, winters in Sweden can be a real challenge to navigate, especially as a student. Personally, even though I come from Poland, a relatively cold country, Polish winters were no match for what I’ve experienced in Sweden, especially when it comes to the temperatures and darkness. However, since I have managed to get through two Swedish winters already, here are some of my tips for you on how to embrace the cold, beat the darkness, and make Swedish winter work for you!

Weather

Swedish people tend to say “there isn’t bad weather, only bad clothing”, and I couldn’t agree more. When the temperatures drop below zero, layering is essential. My first line of defence is a base layer, made of a thermal shirt and tights, followed by a thick hoodie or a sweater, and finally topped off with a jacket, scarf, gloves and a hat. With this set of clothes, you are guaranteed to feel warm and cosy even in lower temperatures, with one caveat.

While wearing extra layers can be helpful, the materials you choose for them also matter. Picking clothes made of good materials, such as wool or fleece, will allow for better breathability inside and warmth retention outside. In addition, choosing an insulated jacket can be a life-changer, especially for snow and wind protection, given the changing weather conditions. Lastly, don’t overlook the choice of footwear; well-insulated and waterproof boots with a strong gripping sole can prove to be crucial on the icy and slushy pavements.

Darkness

In the depths of winter, Uppsala gets less than 6 hours of daylight, which can significantly influence your mood, sleep and overall energy levels. Therefore, firstly, it is critical to look after your health – taking vitamin D supplements, going outside during the day, and getting some exercise might be small habits, but surprisingly make a big difference in how you feel long-term during the darker months. Personally, one of the biggest game-changers for me has been a daylight lamp, acting as an artificial equivalent of sunlight, which you can purchase in local shops, or if you’d rather not invest in one straight away, visit a dedicated light therapy room on campus.

Social life

While maintaining a social life during winter months may sound more challenging, it is much easier than you think! No matter how cold, snowy or windy it is, meeting up with friends and going to a nation pub or club is not an obstacle for Swedish students. Joining a nation is the best way to keep up with social activities, especially when you want to meet new people or bond over a hobby. Personally, joining yoga classes, as well as poetry evenings with friends, has been the highlight of my winter months. Beyond going to nations, making concrete plans with peers gives you something to look forward to and keeps the winter blues away – whether that is going for a fika, lunch or a study session together.

Finally, it’s good to remember that while winters in Sweden can be challenging, it is completely normal to struggle with it, no matter where you come from. Give yourself time and patience to navigate the new conditions and find something that works for you through ensuring good preparation, the right mindset and people around you. In the end, wintertime passes more quickly than you’d think, and sunnier days are always ahead. You’ve got this!

If you are wondering why you’re seeing even more advertisements for pastries and fika in Sweden… You know, semla season is around the corner!

A semla (or semlor in plural) is a must-try when you are visiting Sweden during January-Easter, as the pastries are finally available then.
The tradition dates back to the 16th century, when it began as a simple wheat bun in hot milk, marking the start of the fasting period during Lent, as it was traditionally eaten on Ash Wednesday.  
That is also where the name ‘Fettisdagen’, translated to ‘Fat Tuesday’, comes from.
The semla was so tasty that rumours even spread that King Adolf Frederick died after eating 14 hetvägg (semlas served in a bowl of warm milk), causing digestion problems, as it was his favourite dessert.

If you want to try the semla on Ash Wednesday, be ready for a huuuuuuge queue and bakery-crazyness, as apparently 4 MILLION semlor are sold during that day in Sweden…
But don’t worry, you can eat them at another moment too if you don’t want the rush.

Nowadays, we haven’t heard other stories of people dying after eating too many semlor, so you should be safe!
Also, creativity and semla go hand in hand, different tastes and forms, for everyone’s taste!
It started with the basic taste of a cheat bun in hot milk, to now a wheat bun with cream and almond paste, and even combined with pistachio, Nutella, banana,…  or in a wrap, milkshake,… even a princess semla isn’t too crazy anymore!

Semla Hunt

As there are a loot of café’s, I’ve made a list of my favourite places and other popular places!

1. Ofvandahls Hovkonditori: winner of last year (especially the wiener variant is so good!)
2. Güntherska: crowned as best semla 2026
3. Konditori Fågelsången: tried my first ever semla here with Farah, and it didn’t disappoint!

Other places, where I haven’t been yet for a semla yet:

• Storken
• Café Årummet
• Uno
• Bröd & salt and Espresso house
• But also supermarkets
• …

How to eat?

When you finally find the perfect place, the next struggle can start:

How do you even begin to eat it?
There are many ways, but from some you a different looks or you need to wear a bib!

The classic one
For this elegant way of eating, you take off the lid and eat it first. Then you eat the rest with your knife and fork.
(proper clothes guaranteed!!)

The old school
You eat the semla in a bowl with milk.

The architect
You carefully deconstruct everything: lid, cream, almond paste, bun,…

I don’t care and just want to eat
You just eat it with your hand, like a burger, without removing the lid first.
(don’t foget to whipe your mouth clean!)

Recipe

There are many recipes online, from using storebought buns to making everything from scratch, spending more than 2 hours in the kitchen…
So, after a little research on our beloved platform, Instagram, this is a recipe that seems foolproof!

Semla (makes 8 buns) – recipe from @bakedbylaora

Buns:
150 ml milk, 1 egg, 350 g all-purpose flour, 100 g butter, 50 g sugar, 5 g salt, 25 g fresh yeast or 7 g dry yeast, 1 tsp cardamom.

Almond remonce:
150 g almonds, 80 g powdered sugar or honey, 80–100 ml milk, 1 tsp vanilla extract.

Whipped cream:
500 ml whipped cream, 60 g powdered sugar, 1 tbsp vanilla extract.

Buns Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, warm the milk until lukewarm, then add it to a bowl (stand mixer or by hand).
2. Add the egg, yeast, sugar, and cardamom, and stir until dissolved.
3. Add the flour and mix on low to medium speed for 3–5 minutes, then add the butter and salt and mix on high for 5–6 more minutes.
4. Grease a bowl and form the dough into a ball and place into greased bowl, cover with plastic foil, and let it proof for 1 hour.
5. After proofing, punch the dough down and transfer to a floured surface. Divide into 8 equal balls (around 80 g each) and place on a baking tray with parchment paper. Cover and let rise a second time for 40 minutes. Brush gently with egg wash and bake at 200°C (fan) for 15 minutes. Let them cool down completely.

Almond paste Instructions:

Blend the almonds for about 1 minute. Add the sweetener and vanilla, then blend again. Add milk little by little until the texture becomes spreadable and softer, just make sure it doesn’t get too runny.

Assembling:

Cut the top off each bun with a bread knife and scoop out about 1/3 of the bun to make room for the filling. Traditionally, you save some of the scooped dough and mix it into the remonce, but you can skip this. Fill with the remonce, top with whipped cream, and place the “lid” back on. Sprinkle with powdered sugar and enjoy

Home Alone, Love Actually, The Polar Express, Elf, and the list goes on. These classic films have helped shape our mental image of Christmas or the winter holidays and what elements make the season feel more magical than the rest of the year. Depending on where you’re from, these key elements can greatly vary. Although the prolonged darkness and freezing temperatures that characterize December in Sweden are the complete opposite to what I’m used to during this time of the year, the past two Christmas seasons that I spent in Uppsala have introduced me to a new set of Christmas-related elements to look out for once winter starts. Here are my top 5 (in no particular order):

1: Advent Countdowns

The appropriate time to start preparing for Christmas is always a topic of debate across different cultures. Some countries start as soon as the calendar gets to the -ber months while others prefer to start the festivities at the last minute. For Swedes, once the iconic triangular advent candle holder (Adventsljusstake) makes its appearance on their window sills, usually on the first Sunday of Advent, you know it’s time to start counting down to Christmas. Another Advent tradition in Sweden is Julkalendern on SVT, wherein a new series – sometimes featuring characters from classic Swedish literature – is shown on the channel every year. Not only is it one way to count down the days to the festivities, but it is also a good way to learn more about Swedish culture and the language.

2: Lucia

The 24th or 25th (depending on when you celebrate) is not the only special day of December for Swedes. Rooted in both religious and pagan traditions or legends, Lucia, which is held on the 13th of December, is another festive day where lots of gasques and choir performances take place to celebrate light in the midst of the dark winter. To fully explain Lucia would require a whole individual blog post, but if it were to be summarized in a few phrases, the words “lussekatter”, “pepparkakor”, “glögg”, “lady in white with a ring of candles on her head” would definitely appear.

3: Christmas Decorations and Musical Performances

It truly is the most wonderful time of the year with all the warm lights around the city, the decorated domkyrka, the iconic small ceramic houses where you put candles in, and even miniature Christmas villages. There are also several choir and orchestra performances at different venues including the churches, the nations, the main university building, and even the campuses throughout the month, especially as Christmas draws near. While some of the performances require tickets, there are also a lot of free ones. Just make sure to keep an eye out for them!

4: Julbord

Literally translating to “Christmas table”, julbord is a meal where people get together to celebrate the season. While each group can usually add their own twist to the tradition, with having a potluck where food from different countries are served is the most common, Swedish Christmas food like Janssons frestelse, meatballs, sill, julmust, glögg, Christmas ham, and different types of korv (sausage) definitely have to make an appearance! It’s a great way to celebrate with your newfound friends in Sweden as an international student.

5: Christmas Markets

Each city in Sweden usually has at least one Christmas market going on in December. While it’s true that you can also buy some of the products sold at the markets for a cheaper price at grocery stores, novelty shops, and the like, most of these products were handcrafted by locals. But even if you don’t go to buy something, Christmas markets can still be fun to go to, especially with friends, for the general vibe. You might even get a free taste of some of the products!

There might be some more Swedish Christmas traditions that did not make it to this list but also contribute to creating the Christmas spirit in Sweden. Make sure to follow @studyatuu on Instagram to see the different ways that international students in Sweden celebrate the winter holidays.

What about you, what’s your favorite Swedish Christmas tradition?

Applying for a Master’s at Uppsala University is exciting, but it can also feel like navigating a maze–different documents, country-specific rules, mysterious templates, and programme pages that seem simple until you scroll down and suddenly realise there’s a PDF you must fill out in a very specific font size.

When I prepared my own application, I basically lived inside 20 open browser tabs and oscillated between “I’ve got this” and “Wait… what even is an Application Summary Sheet?”

But once I understood the structure behind the process, everything became much more manageable, and honestly, even enjoyable. Uppsala might look bureaucratic from the outside, but the system is logical, the instructions are clear once you know where to find them, and the support teams are far more responsive than you’d expect.

So here is the guide I wish someone had given me: a practical, student-to-student look at how to plan your application, avoid unnecessary stress, and present yourself authentically without drowning in documents.

1. First Things First: The General Supporting Documents

Before getting into the programme-specific documents, start with the general ones that every Master’s applicant needs. These are what admissions officers use to check that you meet the basic requirements:

✔ Passport photo page

✔ Bachelor’s degree certificate and diploma

✔ Official transcripts with all completed courses and grades

✔ Proof of English proficiency

A few insider tips:

• If your documents aren’t in Swedish, Danish, Norwegian or English, they must be translated officially.
• Diplomas can also be in French or German, but transcripts usually can’t.
• Always submit the original-language version alongside the translation – the translation doesn’t replace it.
  

It’s easy to rush through this section because it feels very “admin,” but small mistakes here can slow down your whole application.

Here is also where you need to check the so-called “country-specific rules,” so make sure to read the information for your country.

And truly, don’t hesitate to email the International student support team at study@uu.se if you’re unsure about something (like whether a translation is acceptable). These details stressed me out way more than they should have until I asked someone inside the system and got quick reassurance. They expect students to reach out – so use that support.

2. Programme-Specific Documents: Your Make-or-Break Section

Each Uppsala programme has its own specific instructions. Some require no extra documents. Others ask for a CV, a thesis summary, a one-page motivation letter, or even a specific PDF called an Application Summary Sheet.

This is where you stand out from other applicants – and also where most people get things wrong.

Because every programme has its own expectations, you’ll need time to tailor your materials. But tailoring doesn’t mean losing yourself. A common mistake (one I used to make myself) is trying too hard to “fit” every single requirement. That usually turns your application into a checklist rather than a story.

Your main selling points should align with the programme, of course. But your materials also need to sound like you. Selection committees aren’t looking for identical applicants – they want a mix of perspectives, backgrounds, and motivations.

So yes, shape your profile to the programme, but don’t shape it so much that it stops being your profile. Remember, there is no single “prototype” for any Master’s programme – what committees are looking for is your unique perspective, experiences, and voice, not a carbon copy of an ideal applicant.

And needless to say, always submit exactly what they ask for – nothing more. Uppsala is very Swedish about this: concise, structured, and to the point. Extras won’t help.

3. Still in Your Final Bachelor’s Year? No Problem.

Uppsala is very flexible with final-year students – surprisingly non-bureaucratic, actually.

If you haven’t graduated yet, you can still apply. Just upload:

• your transcript up to your most recently completed semester
• a statement of enrolment status confirming you’re in your final term

There’s even a ready-made form for this on Universityadmissions.se that your current university can sign.

You’ll only need to present your actual degree certificate once you arrive in Uppsala for in-person registration.

4. Writing Your Statement of Purpose 

This is usually the key programme-specific document – and the one you’ll spend the most time on. Your statement of purpose (or motivation letter) is typically one page and should clearly cover:

• why you want this programme
• what you expect from it
• relevant experience
• what you hope to do afterward

I’m currently finishing my master’s and writing my next round of statements, and honestly, this is the easiest part to overthink. It feels intimidating to “prove” that your “purpose” is worthy. But reframing it helped me. I now think of it in the good old-fashioned terms of a “motivation letter.” Instead of treating it as if I have to prove something, I simply focus on the core questions: Why do I want this programme? Why here? And why am I a good fit?

Once you look at it that way, the writing becomes much more natural – even enjoyable.

Some programmes (mine included) require your statement to be written directly inside an Application Summary Sheet instead of a separate file. They do that mostly to standardise word counts and formatting across all applications.

And regardless of whether you have a summary sheet or not, stick to the page or word limit. In my case, the template literally locked the font and textbox, which was annoying but also a useful life skill: learning to express big motivations in a tight space is something you’ll need in many professional settings too.

5. Your Bachelor’s Thesis: What If You Don’t Have One?

Many Uppsala programmes want either:

• your full Bachelor’s thesis (usually 8,000+ words), or
• a summary in English
  

BUT, if your university didn’t require a thesis, you can submit an alternative piece of academic work. Just email the programme coordinator to confirm what’s acceptable. They are surprisingly quick and helpful.

6. The CV and Letters of Recommendation

Keep your CV structured, relevant, and professional. Creative design is not a priority in Sweden – most people use minimalistic, standardized CVs. What matters most is consistency: capitalization, punctuation, and how you start your descriptions. Colors and icons don’t add value.

Letters of recommendation are mandatory for some programmes.

They should highlight:

• academic ability
• analytical skills
• research experience
• work ethic

Choose recommenders who know your work well, not just well-known names. Academic recommendations are usually preferred, but they don’t have to come from professors with permanent positions – a PhD student mentor can be accepted if they know your work closely. Ideally, higher-ranking academics who truly know you are best; if not, it’s better to have a lower-ranking recommender who can genuinely vouch for your abilities.

7. When You’re Lost, Use Uppsala’s Support System

As mentioned earlier, Uppsala University offers a strong support system for applicants, both through the International student support team as well as programme-level coordinators. You can book a one-on-one slot with the International student support team on Mondays or Wednesdays, and new slots open every Wednesday. They also respond (quickly!) via study@uu.se.

8. And Lastly: Don’t Panic, Just Plan

At first, the application process can feel daunting, but once you break it into steps, it turns into a clear, manageable plan rather than something to stress over.

My advice?

• Start early.
• Read your programme page twice.
• Remember, the admissions committee wants to see you, not a perfect checklist.
• Submit only the documents requested.
• Use the support teams whenever you need help.
• And try to enjoy the process – it’s the first step toward studying in one of the most historic and intellectually inspiring cities in Europe.

Moving abroad for studies is exciting, but it comes with a long checklist of tasks. When I applied to Uppsala University Campus Gotland, I had little idea how many steps were involved, from submitting my application to finally getting BankID (which is essential for life in Sweden). If you’re planning to study here or have just arrived, this timeline might help you understand what to expect. 

Application & Admission Phase 

• Application Submission: 09 January 2025 

 The official deadline was January 15, and you can make changes to your application, like adding or removing programs, changing the ranking of your selected programs, and editing your personal details, until the deadline, even after submitting. 

• Submitting Documents: 02 February 2025  

The official document deadline was 03 February 2025. After submitting your application, you still have a few more days to submit your documents. I had a few complications with mine, so I had to submit them at the last moment. Don’t let this happen to you! 

Results & Tuition 

• Admission Results: 03 April 2025  

Note that the date of publication of results is different for Master’s programs and Bachelor’s programs. It was the 27th of March for Master’s programs this year. Make sure you keep your email notifications on because this is The Big Day! 

• Paying the First Instalment of Tuition Fee: 16 April 2025  

If you are required to pay tuition fees, the payment confirmation is crucial for your residence permit application. Keep in mind that Migrationsverket takes a bit longer than usual to process applications during the summer vacations. I paid mine as early as possible to ensure I had enough time for my visa process. 

Visa Process

• Applying for Visa: 02 May 2025  

The earlier you start, the better! 

• Receiving the Email requesting to provide Biometrics: 08 May 2025  

Since my country didn’t have a Swedish Embassy, I had to visit the Swedish Embassy in India to provide biometrics. 

• Providing Biometrics: 23 May 2025  

Fortunately, I didn’t have to face an interview. Booking an appointment was not required to provide biometrics, but it is necessary if you need to attend an interview. Also note that these requirements can vary depending on the embassy and your application year. 

Housing

• Applying for Housing (UUHO): 15 May 2025 

 If you are required to pay tuition fees, you are guaranteed housing through the Uppsala University Housing Office (UUHO), which provides housing in both Uppsala and Visby. Make sure you pay your first instalment of tuition fee on time to get the advantage of this benefit. 

• Housing Decision: 02 June 2025 

Visa Decision & Travel 

• Visa Decision: 02 June 2025  

I was lucky to get my Visa in one month, but these processes can vary widely. It’s always a good idea to check the Migrationsverket website for the most up-to-date information on estimated timelines. 

• Booking Flight Tickets: 03 June 2025 

I booked my flight seats as soon as my Visa was granted with excitement and to secure a better rate. 

• Residence Permit Card Arrival at the Swedish Embassy in Delhi: 12 July 2025 

• Collecting my RP Card at the Swedish Consulate in Sri Lanka: 23 July 2025 

I didn’t have to visit the Swedish Embassy in India to collect my RP card because they sent it directly to the Swedish Consulate in Sri Lanka. 

• Arrival in Visby: 24–25 August 2025  

It was finally time for the move. I left Sri Lanka on the 24th of August and landed in Visby on the 25th. It was almost a 24-hour journey with 2 layovers. 

Settling in Sweden

• Applying for Personal Number: 27 August 2025  

You can get a Swedish Personal Number if your program lasts for more than a year. An appointment was not needed to visit Skatterverket (The Swedish Tax Office) in Visby to apply for the personal number but booking one can make the process easier and more convenient. You can book an appointment through Skatterverket’s website. It’s recommended to do this as early as possible because the steps leading up to getting a Swedish BankID can take quite a long time. 

• Receiving the Personal Number: 26 September 2025 

• Applying for a Swedish ID Card: 02 October 2025  

You cannot apply for an ID without an appointment at Skatterverket and your personal number. 

• Getting ID Card: 10 October 2025 

Banking & BankID 

• Applying to ICA Bank: 03 October 2025  

ICA Bank is a very student-friendly bank, offering multiple benefits for students, especially when shopping at ICA grocery stores and Apotek Hjärtat pharmacies. Unfortunately, ICA Bank doesn’t have any physical branches and cannot issue BankID unless you already have one or are a Swedish citizen. Since BankID is required to register and use the app, you can still apply for a student account using your personal number on their website while waiting to get BankID from another bank. 

• Getting an appointment with LF Gotland: 13 October 2025  

It is often said that your life in Sweden truly begins once you get BankID. BankID is the most essential and sometimes the only verification method for accessing many services in Sweden. It can be hectic waiting for a long time to get an appointment at a bank to get BankID. But I found LF Bank to be very quick in this process. 

• The date of Appointment and Submitting Documents: 14 October 2025 

• Getting Bank Account, BankID & Swish: 22 October 2025  

Finally, my life began in Sweden! 

• ICA Bank Card Arrival: 24 October 2025 

The entire process sounds overwhelming. But planning and keeping track of deadlines makes it manageable. The key is to start early, especially with tuition payments and visa applications, because these steps unlock other essentials like housing and your residence permit. Once you arrive, focus on getting your personal number and ID card, as they are prerequisites for banking and BankID. Remember to check official sources always and stay flexible. With patience and preparation, settling into life in Sweden becomes a smooth and rewarding experience. 

Disclaimer: This blog is based on my personal experience as an international student at Uppsala University Campus Gotland. It is not a promotion or criticism of any brand or service mentioned. Timelines and processes may vary depending on your country, year of application, and individual circumstances. 

Good Luck with your journey to Sweden! 

Starting your master’s in your late twenties can feel like a step back. Maybe you had stability, friends with “adult lives,” and then suddenly—you’re in a student room with no furniture, facing uncertainties about the future. But here’s the truth: uncertainties never really go away. They are part of life. What we can do is prepare ourselves and learn to embrace change when it comes.

At Uppsala, I’ve learned that age is less important than perspective. In my program, most of us were born in the nineties which was a pleasant surprise, but other programs—like Peace and Conflict—bring in students with years of fieldwork and professional experience. That diversity is an asset. It shows that whether you are coming straight from your bachelor’s or after years in the job market, you belong here. Your experience matters.

And yes, priorities shift. You might still go to nation parties but leave early for your yoga class the next morning or to do laundry. I jokingly call it “being a señora,” but really, it’s just recognizing that growing older means prioritizing other values. At the same time, you’ll learn from younger classmates how to take risks and be fearless. (Honestly, Swedish students in their twenties sometimes feel more ‘adult’ than I was back when I was that age!)

So, if you’re wondering whether it’s “too late” to study—trust me, it isn’t. Uppsala is proof that every stage of life brings something unique to the classroom. The only thing that matters is showing up with curiosity, courage, and openness to learn.

Moving from the coastal city of Galle, Sri Lanka, to Visby, Sweden, felt like a poetic transition. As someone who grew up wandering through colonial forts and watching sunsets over the Indian Ocean, arriving in Visby felt strangely familiar yet thrillingly new— this time it was the Baltic Sea! But what truly made the experience special was the warm welcome I received as a new student at Campus Gotland. From the moment I landed, the university’s Welcome Activities made me feel not just like a student, but like a part of a vibrant, international community. Through this blog, I’d like to walk you through how this year’s welcome activities looked and what you can expect once you begin your journey here at Campus Gotland and Visby.

Arrival Days – August 27 & 28

The arrival days at Campus Gotland are to make sure new students feel supported from the moment they step off the plane or ferry. Although I came a couple of days earlier, arriving on the official arrival days makes the transition a lot more easier. You will have to sign up earlier to get the services.

What to expect:

• Free shuttle service from Visby Airport and ferry terminal
• Student hosts to guide you to your accommodation
• A calm, welcoming start to your student journey

Orientation Day – August 29

Orientation Day at Maltfabriken (Campus Cafe) was the first big event that brought the students together. It was informative, friendly, and a great way to ease into university life.

What to expect:

• Presentations on academics, student services, and Swedish systems
• Tips for navigating life in Visby and Campus Gotland
• Fika to meet fellow students and staff, plus a little game (It was Bingo this year!)

Guided Walking Tours in Medieval Visby– August 30 & 31

This guided walk through Visby’s medieval streets was a beautiful way to connect with the city’s history and charm. There’s a north and south walk, and I participated on the 30th.

What to expect:

• A city tour led by the University Guide, Mikael Norrby
• Stories about Gotland’s History
• Exploration of ruins, alleys, and hidden gems

Don’t worry if you miss this first one, because this trip is organized from time to time. (But still don’t miss it!)

Welcome Ceremony – September 1

The Welcome Ceremony at St. Nicolai Ruin was truly magical. Joining the procession starting from the student union, Rindi, led by “The Knight of Knowledge”, was a fun and meaningful way to start student life in Visby, especially indulging in Gotlandic traditions.

What to expect:

• A symbolic procession through Visby
• Speeches from the Vice Chancellor and other senior university officials
• Swedish music and celebration in a stunning historical setting

(Check out for more insights into the event in the highlight “Gotland” on our Instagram, @studyatuu !)

Lamningen – September 3 till 12

Lamningen was two weeks of fun and bonding organized by the Gotland Student Union, Rindi. It was the perfect way to meet people and feel part of the student community. Once you buy a ticket for the event, you’ll be placed in a group and will compete together as a team.

What to expect:

• Games and challenges every evening on weekdays
• Pub nights, game nights, parties, and a Gasque at the end of the event
• A warm welcome into Gotlandic student traditions

Tourist Train – September 5

Even though I missed this, the tourist train ride is meant to be a lighthearted way to explore Visby with new friends on a cute little train that doesn’t need a railway track to run on!

What to expect:

• A free ride on the Visby’s famous tourist train
• A recorded guided ride through Visby’s main sights
• Great photo opportunities and relaxed vibes

Discover Gotland Bus Tour – September 27–28

I participated in the 27th, and this tour took us beyond Visby into the southern countryside of Gotland. It was a refreshing escape and a chance to see more of the island’s beauty. You will have to sign up early because the seats fill up very quickly!

What to expect:

• A free bus ride and a little snack while immersing in Gotlandic culture
• Visits to coastal cliffs, churches, villages, and stunning landscapes
• Historical insights from the university guide, Mikael Norrby

(Check out the reel I posted about the bus tour on our Instagram here)

Student Expo – October 7

The Student Expo was the best place to discover clubs, services, and opportunities on campus and meet all of them in one place.

What to expect:

• Booths from university services and student services beyond campus
• Info on volunteering, sports, and creative activities
• In-person meetups with the services and friendly conversations (and free chocolates!)

(Check out the different services offered for you as a student at Uppsala University, Campus Gotland in brief, here.)

The welcome activities helped me connect with the university, the city, and most importantly, new friends. If you’re a future student reading this, I encourage you to take part in everything you can. Please also note that these were the activities that came up this year (August 2025), and they can be subject to change in the coming years. So, bring your curiosity, your stories, and your camera because Uppsala University, Campus Gotland, is not just a place to study; it’s a place to live, learn, and grow.

It’s 3:45pm, and my eyes are already struggling to adjust. The weather app tells me that sunset is an hour and a half away, but I’m not convinced. My classmates and I had a fika at this time only a few weeks ago, but we were basking in the warm rays of sun. Now, I’m huddled in the corner of a cafe, holding my chai latte close, and reminding myself that it’s not bed time yet.

When I was applying to Uppsala University, there were so many things I was excited for – the vast landscapes, a chance to see the northern lights, endless sauna sessions, and of course, ABBA music everywhere! But one thought made its home in the back of my mind: how would I, an Australian who comes to life in the sunshine, survive the winters here?

I won’t lie, I’m still nervous about what’s to come over the next few months. It will get colder. And it will get darker. But there are a few important steps to make sure I’m taking the path of least resistance!

Learning to Cope

My first step was to learn how to cope with the cold, dark days. Before I’d even made it to Sweden, I spent hours trawling through the internet for tips and recommendations to make it through! One bit of advice in particular that I can give is this: if you already know someone who lives up north (e.g. Canada, Scandinavia, Scotland), ask them how they get through winter!

There are of course some practical items that can give you some assistance through the darkest days. SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder) lamps are extremely popular in Scandinavia, as they simulate natural sunlight, and boost your mood and energy levels. They hold up signposts for your body’s internal clock, saying “It’s daytime now!”, when the sun isn’t there to do it. On the same note, I have a sunrise alarm clock, which additionally simulates sunrise and sunset on either side of your day. I find that it helps my transitions in and out of day time to be a lot more peaceful! And any Swede you meet will swear by Vitamin D tablets from your local pharmacy store.

However, there’s plenty of other ways to make it feel more like home in wintertime as well! Filling your room with fairy lights, lamps and candles can help make it feel more cosy and homey. But I would also recommend making the effort to find your favourite cafes to fika and study in, as it’s so important to spend time in social environments and around other people! The warm drink in your hand is just a bonus!

Learning to Rethink

Once I had the basics down, I realised that framing it in my mind as how to “survive” winter was actually pretty counterproductive! If you approach a task or experience, strong in the belief that you have to “overcome”, “survive” or “beat” it, you’re already starting on the back foot. Instead, I’ve been trying to think of winter here in Uppsala as something to experience, rather than endure.

So, in the past couple of months, I’ve been stopping myself mid-thought whenever a negative comment about the weather or (lack of) sun has popped into my mind. I’ve filled my Notion pages and Pinterest boards with cozy images of Christmas markets, northern lights and red snow-capped cottages. Some might call it delusional, but I would simply say I’m learning to appreciate Sweden for all it offers (okay, maybe both are true…).

This approach has made such a difference for me. Instead of comparing where I am to where I’ve come from – and let’s be honest, judging Sweden by the quality of their beaches and amount of sunlight isn’t exactly a fair fight – I’m reminding myself how fortunate I am to be able to study and live somewhere completely new and different to everywhere I’ve been before! On walks and bike rides through Uppsala, I admire how the seasons are changing before my eyes, how red the leaves are, and how the bright-coloured buildings look even more vibrant against the clouds. As I sit in one of the nations’ cozy cellar pubs, I look around at the pink noses of my friends, and am grateful to have people to cuddle up in the warmth and drink glögg with (warm, spiced wine).

Learning to Live

All of these moments – the autumn leaves, twinkling fairy lights and memories I’ve captured – have changed how I see this place, and more importantly, how I feel about moving here. But, the biggest thing I’ve learnt since coming to Sweden is that there’s one more step to take, past learning to appreciate the magic of winter here. I’ve started learning to live, in a slower, softer and more purposeful way.

As someone who in the past prided themselves in having an over-flowing calendar of tasks, appointments and plans, I’ve come to realise that that is completely unsustainable here. Life in Uppsala feels built for stillness. Locals embrace the comfort in their rituals: long fikas with friends, daily walks along the river, and cozy evenings at home once the daylight retreats. I’m learning to let myself rest without guilt, feel the fulfillment of a “quiet day” and an empty calendar, and let the natural light cycles dictate my routines a bit more.

Just as the landscapes around us change, I’m learning about my own rhythms, and how they intertwine with the climate outside. Cold, dark winter days give me time to explore my creative side – to read, write, draw, and play my guitar. My walks outside may be shorter, but I appreciate the crunch of leaves under my feet, and the sharp feeling of cold air in my lungs. I don’t see as many people, but the long evenings over a home-cooked meal bonding with a friend feel even more meaningful to me.

Learning to live in Sweden is not about shutting out the negative thoughts and feelings, or seeking out constant adventure. It’s about embracing all parts of life here in their entirety. I’m redefining what comfort means to me, and discovering it through new rhythms, surroundings and connections.

Most importantly, getting settled into life here is about seeing yourself as a part of the landscape, rather than just a temporary visitor in it. Australia still feels like home to me, but Uppsala is starting to feel like home too. Winter may be coming, but I can’t wait for it. It’s dark outside now, but I’m not dreading it. I’m ready to wrap my work day up. I can’t wait to go home, light some candles, and share my day with my partner over a slow dinner. Because this, too, feels like living.

As some of you might already have seen… Sweden loves recycling! 🔃

They love it so much that the trash bins are covered in a cupboard and look very modern. I sometimes struggled at the beginning of staying here with finding the bins, as they looked too modern and just like the normal furniture 😅.

Even though sorting seems like a lot of work, as there is a different bin for every kind of material, the Swedes have made it very easy!
There are 6 big sorting groups:

Paper & cardboard (tidningar & kartong)
It is the place for paper packaging, like paper cups, toilet roll tubes, shoe boxes, paper bags, milk and juice packs, and so on.

 Plastic (plastförpackningar)
You can throw plastic packaging containers, plastic bags, tubes,.. and similar items

Glass (coloured & clear)
Empty jars, bottles,.. Please think about removing metal caps, corks,…

Metal (metall)
Cans, tubes, aluminium foil, empty paint tins,…

• Food waste (matavfall)
Everything that you throw away from food, eggshells, kitchen paper tea-bags and wooden spoons, forks..

General waste (restavfall/brändbar)
All the rest like envelopes, toothbrushes,..

Of course, do not throw your batteries, curtains and materials that are too big into the bins. You can drop them at the recycling centres (ÅVC). 🪫

Most of the time, there are separate bins in your student accommodations, so it is very easily accessible. 🙌🏼
They are signed with big pictures, so even as a foreigner, you can’t miss them! 🥳

Swedes are finding sorting so important that you can even get money for bringing back bottles and cans! 💸 They have a deposit-refund system for it. If you return it to a ‘Pantamera’ machine, you can get 1- 2 kr back per bottle/can! It is mentioned very clearly on the bottles and cans. You find them close to the supermarket and can spend the money there. 🤩

To end up, here are some fun facts about sorting:

1. Recycling is kinda the most popular sport in Sweden, since 99% of household waste is either recycled or used in generating energy! So next time, throw your food waste in the right bin so the buses can run on biogas. And when it’s cold, be grateful that Sweden uses this system, as some houses are heated by energy produced from waste incineration.

2. There are not always many bins in the street, but still, there is no trash found on it.

3. Talking about bins.. There is a bin for literally everything!

4. There is strong government support, including public campaigns. Many Swedes feel a personal responsibility to sort waste correctly

5. Children are getting educated about waste and sorting from a very young age!