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Nestled amidst charming waterways, Uppsala is a haven for students seeking higher education and a captivating cultural experience. Known for its prestigious Uppsala University, the city attracts international students with its top-ranked programs, world-class research facilities, and enchanting medieval atmosphere. But before packing your bags, understanding the cost of living in Uppsala Sweden is necessary. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate through student expenses, helping you plan a financially savvy study abroad adventure. Let’s go!
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Why Study in Uppsala?
Compared to other European cities, the average monthly cost of living in Uppsala Sweden is relatively low (SEK 10,590) for a single person. Here are some other reasons that make Upssala a popular option to study abroad for international students:
- Uppsala University consistently ranked among the world’s top 100 universities, boasting globally recognized programs in various fields.
- You get to explore Uppsala’s captivating Old Town, dotted with ancient cathedrals and cobbled streets. Unwind in serene parks, delve into museums brimming with Viking history, and witness contemporary art at cutting-edge galleries.
- Uppsala buzzes with student energy. You can join one of the over 200 student associations, catch a concert at the renowned Grand Castle, or cheer on the university’s renowned sports teams.
- Escape the city’s embrace and explore Uppsala’s surrounding lakes, forests, and picturesque archipelagos. Hike through scenic trails, kayak on shimmering waters, and discover the beauty of Sweden’s natural grandeur.
Also Read: Cost of Living in Stockholm
Cost of Living in Uppsala Sweden
As mentioned above, the average cost of living in Uppsala is around SEK 10,590/month for a single student. This cost covers many other essential living expenses under it. Here’s a general overview:
| Living Costs | Monthly Cost (in SEK) |
| Accommodation | 10,804 |
| Food | 2,455 |
| Entertainment | 1,278 |
| Utilities and Bills | 1,330 |
| Transportation | 870 |
Let’s explore these costs in further detail.
Housing/Accommodation
Given below is the monthly rent for different types of student accommodation for international students in Uppsala:
| Type of Accommodation | Monthly Rent |
| Student corridor room | SEK 3,000 – 4,000 |
| Studio apartment | SEK 6,000 – 7,000 |
| Shared apartment (room) | SEK 4,000 – 5,000 |
| 45 m2 (480 sqft) furnished studio in an expensive area | SEK 9,274 |
| 45 m2 (480 sqft) furnished studio in a normal area | SEK 6,178 |
| 85 m2 (900 sqft) furnished accommodation in an expensive area | SEK 13,998 |
| 85 m2 (900 sqft) furnished accommodation in a normal area | SEK 8,904 |
Food/Restaurants
Since the cost of living in Uppsala Sweden can soar quite high, here’s a list of groceries and their prices available in the city’s supermarkets:
| Grocery | Price |
| Boneless chicken breast (500 g) | SEK 63 |
| Whole fat milk (1 lt) | SEK 14 |
| Eggs (1 dozen) | SEK 30 |
| Tomatoes (1 kg) | SEK 29 |
| Local cheese (500 g) | SEK 43 |
| Apples (1 kg) | SEK 26 |
| Potatoes (1 kg) | SEK 11 |
| Domestic beer in the supermarket (0.5 lt) | SEK 18 |
| Red table wine, good quality (1 bottle) | SEK 107 |
| 2 litres of Coca-Cola | SEK 21 |
| Bread for 2 people for 1 day | SEK 15 |
Given below is the cost of eating out in Uppsala:
| Expense | Monthly Cost |
| Basic lunchtime menu (including a drink) in the business district | SEK 120 |
| Combo meal in fast food restaurant (Big Mac meal or similar) | SEK 78 |
Entertainment
Who doesn’t like to take a break from studies now and then? Here’s how much entertainment will cost you in Uppsala:
| Mode of Entertainment | Cost |
| A basic dinner out for two in a neighborhood pub | SEK 372 |
| 2 tickets to the movies | SEK 249 |
| Dinner for two at an Italian restaurant in the expat area including appetisers, main course, wine and dessert | SEK 761 |
| 1 cocktail drink in a downtown club | SEK 131 |
| Cappuccino in the expat area of the city | SEK 39 |
| 1 beer in a neighbourhood pub (500ml or 1pt.) | SEK 56 |
| Museum entry | SEK 100 – 150 |
Utilities
Given below is the monthly cost of utilities in Uppsala:
| Utility | Monthly Cost |
| Utilities 1 month (heating, electricity, gas etc) for 2 people in an 85m2 flat | SEK 1,230 |
| 40” flat screen TV | SEK 4,247 |
| Microwave 800/900 watt (Bosch, Panasonic, LG, sharp, or equivalent brands) | SEK 798 |
| Laundry detergent (3 l. ~ 100 oz.) | SEK 100 |
| Hourly rate for cleaning help | SEK 217 |
Transportation
Here’s how much various means of transportation contribute to your monthly cost of living in Uppsala Sweden:
| Mode of Transport | Monthly Cost |
| Public transport ticket | SEK 921 |
| Taxi trip on a business day, basic tariff, 8 km. (5 miles) | SEK 308 |
| 1 litre (1/4 gallon) of gas | SEK 17 |
Also Read: Cost of Living in Gothenburg, Sweden: A Guide
Average Tuition Fees in Uppsala
The tuition fees in Uppsala depend on the course and level of study. However, expect to pay between SEK 30,000 and SEK 180,000 per academic year (10 months). Scholarships and financial aid options are available, especially for international students, so be sure to research these opportunities.
| University | Bachelor’s Annual Tuition Fee | Masters Annual Tuition Fee |
| Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences | SEK 140,000 | SEK 113,000 – 186,000 |
| Uppsala University | SEK 110,000 – 130,000 | SEK 100,000 – 145,000 |
Also Read: Uppsala University Acceptance Rate
Things to Consider Before Moving to Uppsala
Apart from managing your cost of living in Uppsala Sweden, Before moving to Uppsala, international students must keep the following points in mind:
- Weather: Prepare for cold winters with average temperatures below freezing (-5°C to -10°C). Invest in warm clothing and boots!
- Language: While English is widely spoken in Uppsala, learning some basic Swedish phrases will go a long way in integrating into the local community.
- Bureaucracy: Be prepared for some administrative paperwork when opening a bank account, registering with the authorities, and obtaining student discounts. Patience and research will be your allies.
- Cultural norms: Swedes value personal space and punctuality. Respecting these norms will ensure a smooth cultural transition.
- Social etiquette: Swedes tend to be reserved initially, but warm up quickly once you strike up a conversation. Don’t be afraid to introduce yourself and initiate interactions.
- Visa Requirements: Since the application process for a student visa in Sweden can take several weeks, it’s important to start the process early. The chances of Sweden visa rejection depend on your application, so better be prepared!
- Accommodation: Finding accommodation in Uppsala can be challenging, especially during peak season. Start looking for accommodation early and explore different options.
FAQs
Ans. Absolutely! Uppsala is known for its peaceful and safe atmosphere. Crime rates are very low, and you can feel secure walking around the city even at night.
Ans. International students are allowed to work part-time (up to 20 hours per week) while studying in restaurants, cafes, shops, and even research projects. However, speaking Swedish will significantly increase your chances of finding employment.
Ans. Spring (March to May) offers pleasant weather and cultural events. Summer (June to August) boasts long days and sunshine, perfect for outdoor activities. Autumn (September to November) showcases stunning fall foliage and cosy cafes. Winter (December to February) can be magical, with festive lights and snowy landscapes, but be prepared for the cold!
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We hope that you got all the information regarding the cost of living in Uppsala Sweden for international students. For more updates on studying abroad, keep following Leverage Edu. Thank you for reading!
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