Information and tips for international and Erasmus students in Uppsala
Erasmus in Uppsala
| Private rooms Uppsala | 7 | 731/month |
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Could you imagine doing your Erasmus in Uppsala? This Swedish city’s one of the best options for international students. It’s known for its university atmosphere, its history and its proximity to Stockholm. Uppsala University is one of the oldest and most prestigious in Europe, attracting thousands of students every year. What's more, its natural surroundings and numerous activities make for an unforgettable experience!
The cost of living in Uppsala is high compared to other European cities, although more affordable than Stockholm. Despite this, there are many ways to save money, from cheap accommodation options to student discounts. The city has an excellent transport system, but it’s also perfect for getting around by bicycle. Discover everything Uppsala has to offer!
Cost of living in Uppsala, Sweden
The cost of living in Uppsala is high, but with good planning, you can lead a more affordable lifestyle. Accommodation is your biggest expense, with rooms in shared flats costing between SEK 4,000 and SEK 6,120 (approx. €360-550) per month. University residences are usually cheaper, with prices ranging from SEK 3,000-4,000 (approx. €270-360) per month.
Transport in Uppsala is efficient, consisting mainly of buses within the city and trains to connect with other cities. Keep in mind that there are discounts for students on transport passes: instead of 1100 SEK (approx. €99), a monthly bus pass costs around 830 SEK (approx. €75) for students with valid ID.
For transport within the city, many locals and students choose to walk or use a bicycle due to the small size of the city.
Adding transport, food and leisure expenses, a student's monthly expenditure is usually between SEK 9,500 and 11,600 (around €860-1,050).
Student life, Erasmus parties and leisure in Uppsala
Uppsala is a city with a very active student life, but its nightlife is not comparable to that of large cities. However, the "nations" (student clubs linked to Uppsala University) constantly organise events, parties, and activities. Some of the most popular ones you can join are Västgöta Nation, Snerikes Nation, and Stockholms Nation.
The city centre is where you’ll find the places that are most frequented by students. Some pubs and nightclubs where you can have a drink are: Puben Uppsala, O'Neill's Traditional Irish Pub, or O'Connor's.
If you’re in the mood for more peaceful activities, Uppsala offers many options. You can take a stroll through the Uppsala Botanical Garden (Botaniska trädgården), visit the Stadsträdgården park or relax by the Fyrisån river. In winter, the parks are ideal places for ice skating, and in summer they’re perfect for picnics and barbecues.
Culture and gastronomy in Uppsala, Sweden
Uppsala is a city with a rich history and plenty of cultural activities. Some points of interest include:
- Uppsala Cathedral (Uppsala domkyrka): the largest in Scandinavia.
- The Gustavianum Museum: with exhibitions on the history of Uppsala University, Egyptian and Viking artefacts, and a 17th-century anatomical theatre.
- The Carl Linnaeus Museum (Linnémuseet): dedicated to the famous Swedish botanist.
- Uppsala Castle (Uppsala slott): offering a great view of the city and home to three museums.
- Gamla Uppsala: translated as "Old Uppsala", is a historical site with Viking graves and a museum about Nordic history.
As for the local gastronomy, in Uppsala you can try typical Swedish dishes such as "kanelbullar" (cinnamon buns), "köttbullar" (meatballs with mashed potatoes and lingonberry jam) or "smörgåstårta" (sandwich cake filled with seafood or cold cuts).
Some affordable restaurants and bars for students are Hornstenen Kök & Matsal, Restaurang Jalla, or Heat Boländerna.
Advantages and Disadvantages of doing Erasmus in Uppsala
The experience in this Swedish city has pros and cons that are worth knowing about.
Advantages
- Uppsala University has a very active and diverse community.
- It’s close to Stockholm, so you can enjoy everything the Swedish capital has to offer. It’s only about 40 minutes away by train!
- Outdoor leisure options: you can enjoy lots of parks, hiking trails and nature activities.
- Its educational quality is one of the best in Europe.
- Several student clubs to choose from: the university's "nations" organise many events and parties.
Disadvantages
- It has a high cost of living. Prices are very high compared to other Erasmus destinations.
- It has cold, dark winters, with short and quite cold days.
- Due to taxes, alcohol in bars and nightclubs is very expensive.
Cheap student accommodation Uppsala, Sweden
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Advantages and Disadvantages of doing Erasmus in Uppsala
How much does it cost to live in Uppsala as a student?
The cost of living is around SEK 9,500-11,600 (approximately €860-1,050) per month, depending on accommodation and personal expenses.
What’s student life like in Uppsala?
It’s a city with a lively university scene thanks to Uppsala University and its "nations", which organise events and parties on a regular basis. For example, Valborg on April 30th is Uppsala's most iconic student celebration. The city’s transformed into a party with events such as rafting on the River Fyrisån, choral singing at Carolinabacken, herring lunches and folk festivals. It attracts visitors from all over Sweden and is an unmissable experience!
How much does student accommodation cost in Uppsala?
Prices range from SEK 3,000-4,000 (approx. €270-360) in university residences and SEK 4,000-5,000 (approx. €360-450) in shared flats.
How much is the Erasmus scholarship to study in Uppsala?
It depends on your country of origin and your university’s rules, therefore it’s recommended that you consult with your institution.
What’s transport like in Uppsala for students?
A monthly pass costs around SEK 830 (approx. €75), but many students prefer to get around by bicycle due to the size of the city.
