Having survived two Swedish winters in a row (I’m still surprised all my fingers are on my hands, especially when the temperature hits -15°C),  gave me the exciting insight that it is actually better weather when the sun is shining while having -10°C than to brave the cold wind and rain at -2 degrees.

Staying warm is the key to survival, and yes, you can turn into a 100-layer fashion icon, but there’s another way: doing sports.
And I kid you not, I’ve learned so many new sports during the Swedish winter!

Spoiler alert: no need to buy new sports materials! Sweden has you covered, and you can rent out sooo many sports gear (like everything you might need and can imagine) at Fritidsbanken for 14 days.

I’ve made a list with all my favourite activities (and more!), so we won’t fall into a dark spot when winter is over!

Sledging

This might be the cheapest sport (even though materials can be rented out for free anyway), but just some fresh snow and trasbags, and you are ready to go!

Even though Uppsala is kinda flat, there are many hills where you can try this out!
The best spots are also very easy to recognise; just look for car tyres at the end of the hill, they prevent you from sledging on the road haha!

Just be prepared to look like a snow(wo)man afterwards! Thermals are recommended!!

– sledging with the most beautiful sunset
– really felt like a pinch-me moment,
and looking into the future: this is how I look with white hair!

Bandy

This is a new personal favourite, and after trying it during the first winter, I genuinely counted down the days to do it again!

Imagine football combined with hockey on ice, that is bandy!

The reason why I looked forward so much is that our university offers free(!) bandy classes, where we even have classes from the actual pros! One day, you are supporting them together with the hardcore fans, and the other moment, they are teaching you how not to fall on the ice!

After 4 very fun but chaotic classes, it is time for a game that, believe me or not, is even more chaotic but also more fun!

Ice hockey

Of course, this sport couldn’t miss a spot in this list! 
I haven’t tried it myself, but supporting our own Uppsala team is a must.
There’s a lot of atmosphere during the game, perfect for hanging out with friends, and lucky us, the tickets from the university games are really affordable too!

Skating

We’ve already talked about sport on skates, so ice skating is also a must-do!
When it is cold enough, Uppsala is an open-air ice rink!
There are many lakes where you can skate, but also a public free ice rink at Studenternas IP and the indoor ice rink at Gränby, so the possibilities are endless!
If you want to skate in nature, you can best check this link to see where it is possible. You can find more information about it here!

I promised you there’s a lot to do, so of course there are other sports too that don’t include ice skates;

Cross-country skiing

During summer, you use the bike, during winter, langlauf skies are the new vehicles!

I was so surprised to see people doing cross-skiing instead of walking, and honestly, it was one of my favourite things to see.

There are many paths where you can do this sport. You can find more information here!

Skiing

And of course, skiing is also a fun activity!
I haven’t tried it myself, because breaking my bones once during bandy was enough for me, haha.

But there are places outside Uppsala where you can ski, as Uppsala itself is too flat for it.

No worries tho! There are places close by that are easy to reach where you can try it out!

Also, sometimes ESN Uppsala and some nations are organising little ski-trips, so keep an eye on their Facebook and Instagram accounts to stay up to date!

Snow angel

Lastly, not really a sport but a must-do: making snow angels and building a snowman (including a snowball fight). It is amazing to find the child in yourself when seeing snow, and the best recommendation I can give is to follow you inner-child!

Just make sure to wear warm clothes 😉

If you’re reading this, then you probably want to learn Swedish. Whether it’s to increase your chances of landing a job in the country after your studies, to read signs in Swedish on campus or in the city, or to better connect with people who speak the language, having some degree of proficiency in Swedish can be beneficial for an international student in Sweden. It takes a lot of time and effort especially if your native language is linguistically far from the North Germanic group, so you might as well have fun while learning it! I still have a long way to go before I reach fluency, but after a year and a half of learning the language, I can now at least hold a basic conversation in Swedish, understand announcements on the pendeltåg, and put elementary Swedish as one of my skills in my CV! Here are the top 5 ways I learned (and continue to learn) Swedish as an international student at Uppsala University:

1. Attend Swedish classes at the university or SFI

When it comes to learning a new language, a good starting point is to receive structured, formal education on the basics of grammar, sentence structure, and phonetics of the language you are learning. It’s also a good way to make new friends in a new country since you meet a lot of people with whom you already share at least one common interest – learning Swedish.

Uppsala University (UU) offers Basic Swedish classes to exchange and international students enrolled at the university as well as Swedish for Academics courses for those employed at UU. Students from the EU and UU employees can participate in said courses for free, while international students who are not from the EU have to pay tuition to attend the class and be given the corresponding credits for it. It is, however, also an option for non-EU students to audit the course without paying fees. Although this means that they won’t receive credits for taking the Basic Swedish course, I still think that auditing the course to be able to actively learn the language is worth it, especially if your main objective at the end of the day is to achieve some degree of understanding of the basics. For more information, you can check out this page or contact basic@nordiska.uu.se if you have specific questions.

Swedish for Immigrants (SFI) is another option if you were not able to secure a spot at any of the courses offered by UU. For more information on SFI, you can check these pages for those living in Uppsala and Gotland.

2. Use Duolingo and maintain friend streaks

I’ve heard a lot of people say that language learning apps are not effective ways to learn a new language. On their own, yes, it can be difficult to pick up the necessary concepts and you can’t expect to be fluent in a language solely by reaching a 100-day streak on Duolingo. However, if you use these apps not just as a daily habit, but alongside attending formal classes and using the language in your daily life, they actually help a lot with vocabulary retention and with working on your pronunciation. It’s important to also take your time while completing the lessons to properly take in new words and figure out unstated grammar rules instead of just breezing through the lessons for the sake of extending your streak (I’m sorry if you feel called out by this; I am also calling myself out!). If you have friends who are also learning a new language, you can even start friend streaks with each other to keep you motivated!

3. Watch TV shows in Swedish

I ironically started watching Love is Blind Sweden last summer when all my Swedish labmates would talk about it over lunch. After one season, I actually do think it helped me learn the language faster. Think about it: watching with subtitles (and of course, audio), you get to efficiently train your Swedish reading and listening comprehension, and you do all this while getting entertained by interesting plot lines! Additionally, you also familiarize yourself more with Swedish slang or its use in informal contexts, which is equally important as learning the academic/professional form of the language. Another alternative is to watch series or movies you’ve seen before with Swedish subtitles. It’s also a great way to familiarize yourself with everyday expressions.

4. Listen to Swedish music

Listening to songs in Swedish (and eventually singing along to them) is a good way to practice your listening skills and pronunciation. Music is also always a good conversation starter, so you can ask new Swedish friends for song/artist recommendations if you don’t know where to start. For me, these are some Swedish songs I currently have on repeat:

• Gå för Glory (Axel Boman remix) – Håkan Hellström
• Skriker Mitt Namn – Victor Leksell
• Blåser Min Rök – Näääk, Nimo

5. Use the language in daily life

A big part of accelerating the learning curve of developing proficiency in a language is integrating it into your daily life. A lot of people (myself included!) are scared of making grammar mistakes or pronouncing foreign words weirdly, but over time, I’ve found that it really isn’t as big of a deal as it seems if you mess up. After all, the best way to learn is to make mistakes and learn from them. Since then, I’ve started saying restaurant orders, asking questions, and texting a friend in Swedish. You could also join språkcafes (language cafes), which nations, university departments, and other institutions organize around the city. It’s a chill way to practice your Swedish skills while enjoying a fika!

It can take a lot to learn a new language, but it doesn’t mean you can’t have fun while doing so. I hope these tips help you on your Swedish journey. If you have any other fun and effective ways to improve your Swedish skills, I’d love to read them in the comments or through messages in the @studyatuu Instagram page!

A practical guide for students at Uppsala University

Hello everyone, I’m Patrick, or some people know me as Longwei. I am currently in my last semester of my master’s program in Information Systems at Uppsala University. After more than a year of struggling find an internship. I finally got one in Stockholm. So today I would like to share my experience about how to find an internship in Sweden as an international student.

Finding an internship in Sweden as an international student can feel both exciting and confusing. Unlike some countries where internships are posted everywhere, Sweden often works a bit differently — networking, initiative, and timing matter a lot.

1. Start Early (Sweden Loves Planning)

One thing you’ll quickly notice in Sweden is that companies plan ahead.
Many internships, especially at larger companies, are recruited months in advance. A good rule is:

• Autumn internships → apply in spring

• Spring internships → apply in autumn

• Summer internships → apply in winter

So don’t wait until the last minute — starting early gives you a huge advantage.

2. Understand the Swedish Internship Culture

In Sweden, internships are not always advertised openly.

Many companies expect students to:

• Reach out directly

• Show initiative

Ask about opportunities even if no position is posted

This is normal, and sending a polite email is often appreciated.

3. Use University Resources (They’re Better Than You Think)

As a student at Uppsala University, you already have access to great support like Career Services. They can help with:

• CV feedback

• Interview training

• Career fairs

• Internship guidance

• Department Networks

Many internship opportunities are shared informally through professors, program coordinators, or alumni.

Don’t be afraid to ask: “Do you know companies that have hosted interns before?”

4. LinkedIn is Essential in Sweden

In Sweden, LinkedIn is one of the main tools for internship searching.

Make sure your profile is updated with:

• A clear headline

• Your program and skills

• What kind of internship you’re looking for

Swedes appreciate direct but polite communication.

5. Network (Even if It Feels Uncomfortable)

Many internships in Sweden come through connections rather than job boards.

Networking doesn’t mean being “salesy.” It can be as simple as:

• Attending events

• Talking to guest lecturers

• Joining student organizations

• Asking alumni for advice

A coffee chat (fika ☕) is often the first step toward an opportunity.

6. Apply Broadly — Not Only to Big Companies

Large companies like Spotify, Volvo, or IKEA are popular, but competition is extremely high.

Smaller companies and startups often:

• Have fewer applicants

• Offer more hands-on experience

• Are more flexible with international students

Look beyond the big names.

7. Learn Some Swedish (But Don’t Panic)

Good news: many internships are available in English, especially in tech, business, and research.

But learning basic Swedish helps with:

• Workplace integration

• Social life

• Showing motivation

Even simple phrases like “Tack så mycket” make a positive impression.

8. Know Your Work Rights as a Student

International students in Sweden are allowed to work while studying.

After graduation, you can also apply for a job-seeking residence permit, which allows you to stay and look for work or internships. Always check the latest rules from the Swedish Migration Agency.

9. Don’t Get Discouraged (It Takes Time)

Many international students apply to dozens of positions before landing one. For example, I applied for more than 100 positions (the data I tracked in the Sankey diagram is not complete) and only got 5 interviews. I got many rejections, but I never gave up! Rejection is normal — it’s not about your worth, but often about timing, language, or internal company needs.

Keep improving your approach, and don’t hesitate to ask for feedback.

Final Advice

Finding an internship in Sweden is absolutely possible — but it requires patience, planning, and initiative.

If you start early, use university support, build connections, and stay persistent, you will increase your chances greatly.

Good luck — and welcome to the Swedish internship journey!

Introduction

Moving to a different country is exciting. You will have the opportunity to experience a new culture, meet new people, and see new places. However, when I moved to Sweden, I quickly realized how lonely it can get as well. Being far from home can feel overwhelming.

Homesickness is a common experience among international students. It is the feeling of missing family, friends, and the comfort of our home country. While it is completely normal, it can also be challenging. Fortunately, there are many ways to ease these blues. The key to overcoming homesickness is staying connected to your roots while building a new sense of home abroad.

Create a community

One of the best things you can do is find friends before even arriving. Many universities provide platforms where future students can get to know each other. For example, some Swedish universities use apps like Goin’, where students can message each other before the semester begins. Senior students from student unions often reach out as well.

Before moving to Sweden, I had studied at a university with a weaker student community. That’s why I knew how isolating it could feel. During the summer before my move, I messaged many students who were also starting that year or were already studying there. I even met one of them in person before arriving.

By the time I moved, I already had people to meet and spend time with. Although not all relationships lasted, some turned into long-lasting friendships. All because of one simple text! It can feel uncomfortable to text strangers, but remember, many of them feel just as nervous and are hoping to find friends too.

Participate in Social Activities

Another piece of advice would be to join study social events. In Sweden, student unions play a huge role in university life. They are active, welcoming, and full of opportunities.

When I first came here, a senior student told me, “You should join some of our student union clubs, that is where the social life thrives”. I did, and I am so happy I followed that advice.

Some of the things I did were going to all the events for first-years, joining several clubs, and now I am in one of the sections. Even on days when I do not have plans with friends, helping decorate a venue, baking for a café, or volunteering at events gives me energy.

Some students worry that social activities will take time away from studies. That concern is valid. However, most student unions don’t have any strict contracts. You can go to different clubs and events simply just to try out the activities and meet the people there. You are welcome to leave if you don’t think you fit there.

You can try different clubs, attend events occasionally, and leave if it does not suit you. Many events are free and designed simply for socializing. So look into student activities on your campus and see/try something new!

Keep in Touch with People Back Home

While building a new life, do not forget the people back home. We are very lucky to live in a time when we can stay in touch using technology. Video calls and texts help to maintain relationships. It may seem like a small effort, but reaching out regularly means more than you might think — both for you and the people who care about you.

Not only should you use technology but meet the people if you can as well. Once I left, I did not even notice how many important relationships I want to maintain. The holiday schedule is always full of meeting family, your friends, your family’s friends, teachers, etc. These moments remind you of where you come from and the support system you have.

So don’t forget to text from time to time or give a call. I am sure that the people close to you are really interested in hearing about your journey. Being in contact helps you feel connected to your home, even when you are far away.

Talk about your feelings

Lastly, do not keep your struggles to yourself. Many students experience homesickness, even if they do not show it. Sharing your emotions not only helps you process them but can also create stronger relationships when doing so. You may even discover that others are going through the same things.

If you do not feel comfortable opening up to your new international friends right away, consider talking to people back home. Most of them will understand, and simply talking things through can bring a sense of relief.

If you find yourself unable to talk to anyone in your circle, remember that most universities offer mental health support as well. The psychology professionals are familiar with the struggles of international students and can provide guidance.

Conclusion

Moving abroad is a thrilling adventure, but it is not easy. Homesickness is a natural part of stepping into a new chapter of life. The most effective way to overcome it is by balancing two life aspects: staying connected to your roots while actively building a new home in the new country.

Create connections early, participate in social activities, keep in touch with loved ones, and speak about your feelings. Over time, the unfamiliar place will start to feel like home, and your loved ones will be there to help you feel connected to where you come from.

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!