Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about studying at Umeå University

Is Umeå University tuition-free for EU/EEA students?

Yes. As an EU/EEA or Swiss citizen, you can study at Umeå University without paying tuition fees - the same as Swedish students. You'll still need to cover living costs and, if required, show proof of funds.

How many students attend Umeå University?

Umeå University has around 37,000 students, of whom about 12% are international.

How many English-taught programmes does Umeå University offer?

Umeå University offers 60+ programmes taught fully in English, alongside its Swedish-taught programmes.

How much does it cost to live in Umeå as a student?

Budget roughly SEK 7,500–10,000 per month for accommodation, food, and daily costs. Northern Sweden, lower rents than Stockholm or Lund. This covers essentials but not travel or big one-off purchases.

Does Umeå University guarantee housing for international students?

No, Umeå University does not guarantee housing. Register with student housing providers as early as possible - queues in Swedish university cities can run for months.

What is student life like at Umeå University?

Umeå University doesn't have traditional student nations, but student life is organised through student unions such as Umeå Student Union (US) and Umeå Medical Sciences Student Union, which run social events, career fairs, and student services.

What are the most popular programmes at Umeå University?

Based on applicant demand, the most popular programmes at Umeå University are Medicine, Healthcare Administration, Business Economics.

How does Umeå University rank on the Swedish University Index?

Umeå University is ranked #8 in ODIN's Swedish University Index, a composite ranking built specifically for students choosing a university in Sweden (see /methodology for how it's calculated).