Clean air, an active lifestyle (Swedes can’t imagine a day without some kind of sport!), and high-quality food have contributed to this country's exceptional reputation around the world. A few years ago, the well-known British newspaper The Telegraph published an article listing the most beautiful nations in the world — and Sweden was among the top three!

Interesting facts

• Sweden is the third largest country in the European Union by area.
• Sweden is a kingdom! To the east, it borders Finland; to the west – Norway; and to the south, it connects with Denmark via the Øresund Bridge.
• Sweden's territory spans 450,295 km² — similar in size to California, Cameroon, Iraq, Spain, or Thailand.
• Half of Sweden is covered in forests, and less than 10% of the land is used for agriculture.
• An impressive fact: Sweden is home to around 100,000 lakes!
• In winter, temperatures typically drop slightly below zero, and snowfall is moderate. Northern Sweden experiences long, cold winters and bright, cool summers.
• In June and July, the sun doesn't set at all in parts of Sweden — it stays light around the clock!

People

Swedes are punctual, respect the law, and follow established rules. At first glance, they may seem unfriendly and reserved, but once you get to know them, it's easy to make good friends. Living in a student dormitory and participating in various student events is a great way to expand your social circle.

Religion

Although Sweden is officially a Lutheran (Protestant/Christian) country, Swedes are not particularly religious. It is not common for them to attend church regularly or take part in church activities. However, traditions such as weddings or funerals still bring people back to church. Also, many people still have their children baptized in church.

Language

The Swedish language belongs to the North Germanic branch of the Germanic language family. Along with Danish, Norwegian, and Icelandic, it originates from a common Proto-Scandinavian language spoken across Scandinavia in the early centuries of the Common Era. The history of Swedish as an independent language dates back to the Viking Age. Although Sweden has a population of 8.8 million, 85% of its people live in the southern part of the country. In the far north, two national minority groups reside: a Finnish-speaking community in the northeast and the Sámi people (also known as Lapps).

Leisure time

In Sweden, sports are one of the most popular activities among young people. Students enjoy participating in various sports competitions organized by universities. Taking part in these events is one of the easiest ways to meet new people and expand your circle of friends. Around universities, there are many youth clubs that become the main gathering places for students on weekends. Most nightclubs admit people from the age of 18, but in the biggest Swedish cities, entry to clubs is usually allowed from age 20–23. Alcoholic beverages in Sweden can be purchased from the age of 18. It’s also worth noting that smoking is prohibited in public places. In this guide, you can find lots of useful information about the favorite entertainment spots of Swedes and various events happening across the country.

Food

Traditionally, Swedes have used food products in their cuisine that can withstand long winters—this includes salted goods, pickles, smoked products, fats, and sugar. Traditional Swedish cuisine is not known for great variety and remains relatively unfamiliar outside the country. Like the cuisines of other Scandinavian nations (Denmark and Norway), it tends to be quite rich, as most dishes are made from meat and fish. Some national dishes include smoked salmon with dill (Gravad Lax), creamy mushroom soup (Svampsoppa), potato dumplings with pork (Kroppkakor), potato casserole (Janssons Frestelse), honey cake (Honungskaka), and Swedish sticky cake (Kladdkaka). The Swedish buffet (smorgasbord) is a long-standing tradition that has spread across the world.

Transport

The public transportation system in the country is well developed. Buses and trams are available everywhere, and in Stockholm — also the metro. Public transport is convenient and fast. A monthly transport pass is valid on all modes of public transportation and can be used without limits. This pass costs 690 SEK in Stockholm, while in smaller cities it is usually cheaper.

Work

European Union citizens studying at higher education institutions in Sweden can work and live in the country without any restrictions. You only need to register with the Swedish Migration Board as soon as you are accepted into a university. If you receive a job offer after your studies in Sweden, you are allowed to stay in the country without requiring a special permit. More information about working in Sweden can be found at www.workinginsweden.se.