Is student accommodation furnished or do I need to buy my own items?

Most accommodation is furnished with basic items like a bed, desk, and wardrobe.

Can I change courses?

Under normal circumstances, no, because Uppsala University does not have an "add-and-drop" period. Exceptions are made for courses that overlap significantly or negatively impact your studies, which requires confirmation from your home university's coordinator.

Can international students join volunteering or community activities?

Yes, the university and student union offer various volunteering and community engagement opportunities.

How many times can I retake an exam?

You will be given additional opportunities, such as a re-examination and a catch-up opportunity, in addition to regular exams. In principle, there is no limit on the number of attempts, but if a course is discontinued, the department must provide three final exams before they stop being offered.

Where can I find my class schedule?

Schedules are available under "schedules" on the course page in Studium or by searching the central schedule database, TimeEdit (requires a login).

University Details

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Uppsala University

Uppsala, Sweden

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Establishment Year

1477

National Students

52,599

International Students

9,870

Acceptance Rate

69%

Distance From City

5-20 minutes

QS World University Ranking

#93

Times Higher Education Ranking

#128

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Overview!

Uppsala University, founded in 1477, is the oldest and most prestigious university in the Nordic region, consistently ranking among the world's top institutions. It is a major research university known for academic excellence across its three domains: Humanities and Social Sciences, Medicine and Pharmacy, and Science and Technology. The university boasts a rich history, including eight Nobel Prize laureates among its alumni and faculty. Student life is uniquely characterized by the historic "nation" system, which acts as the social and cultural heart of the university. Uppsala combines profound tradition with cutting-edge, international research, attracting students globally.

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History

(1477) Origins and Establishment

The establishment of Uppsala University dates back to 1477, making it the oldest university in Sweden and all of the Nordic countries. Its founding was initiated by Archbishop Jakob Ulvsson, who sought and received written authorization from Pope Sixtus IV (a papal bull). This charter granted the university the rights and freedoms of the renowned University of Bologna, allowing it to establish the four traditional faculties: Theology, Law, Medicine, and Philosophy. The university entered a period of dormancy around 1515 due to the Reformation, but it was re-launched in 1593 at the Uppsala Meeting, cementing its identity as a Lutheran institution. Its long-term financial stability was secured in the 17th century by large donations from King Gustavus Adolphus.

Modern Day Development

Uppsala focuses its modern development on solving global challenges through strategic, cross-disciplinary research, notably in Life Sciences (SciLifeLab) and e-Science/AI. The university is heavily investing in the digitalization of its infrastructure and strengthening its research in cutting-edge computational and data analysis. A major focus is integrating sustainable development principles across its education, research, and campus operations (Development Plan 2050). It actively promotes physical integration, creating high level clusters like the Biomedical Centre, and enhancing efficiency through co-location. Finally, Uppsala maintains its global leadership by fostering deep, structured international collaboration through networks like the Guild of European Research-Intensive Universities.

What Do We Stand For?

Our Mission!

Uppsala University’s mission is to gain and disseminate knowledge for the benefit of humankind and for a better world, combining top-quality research and education with active societal engagement and sustainable development

Our Values!

•Academic integrity
•Diversity
•Openness
•Respect

Rankings & Achievements!

Rankings:

Country Rank

Ranked #2

QS World University Ranking

Ranked #93

Times Higher Education Ranking

Ranked #128

Excellence Rank

Ranked #147

Notable Alumni:

Carl Linnaeus

Botanist, Physician, Zoologist

Anders Celsius

Astronomer, Physicist

Campus Life at Uppsala University

Sports & Recreation

The Upsala Simsallskap, "Uppsala Swimming Society," which is the oldest swimming club in the world, was founded in 1796 by the mathematician Jons Svanberg. It had no formal connection to the university, but all its earliest members came from academic life. Svanberg even arranged a mock graduation ceremony, a simpromotion, in a parody of the university ceremonies, where those who had graduated from its swimming training were awarded "degrees" of master (magister) and bachelor (kandidat). These degrees stuck, and Swedish swimming schools still use these degrees for different levels of swimming skills.

Campus Life at Uppsala University

Accommodation

Uppsala University in Sweden offers a variety of student accommodations, including dormitories, shared apartments, and private housing. The university collaborates with organizations like UKK (Uppsala Student Housing) to provide affordable and conveniently located options close to campus. Most accommodations are fully furnished and include basic utilities. Students are advised to apply early, as demand is high, especially for international students. On-campus and nearby housing fosters a vibrant student community, making it easier for newcomers to integrate socially and academically.

ABOUT CITY

History and Heritage

Uppsala has a deep historical background with many famous landmarks. Uppsala Cathedral is one of the tallest and most important churches in Sweden. Uppsala Castle offers a great view and shows the city’s royal past. Gamla Uppsala, with its ancient burial mounds, reflects early Nordic history. These places help visitors understand the city’s long and rich heritage.

Food and Cafe

Uppsala has a wide range of Swedish and international foods. Local restaurants often serve fresh and simple dishes. Cafes around the city are perfect for fika, where people enjoy coffee with pastries. Sweet buns, cakes, and sandwiches are popular treats. The food scene feels relaxed and friendly.

Famous Places to Visit

Uppsala Cathedral
Uppsala University Library
Gustavianum Museum

Cultures

Uppsala has a lively cultural life shaped by education, history, and art. The city hosts festivals, concerts, and student events throughout the year. Museums and galleries share Swedish culture and scientific achievements. The presence of Uppsala University adds a strong academic atmosphere. People enjoy a good mix of modern and traditional culture.

Transportation

Uppsala has an easy and reliable transport system. Local buses connect all the main parts of the city. Cycling is very common because the city has many safe bike paths. Walking is simple too, especially in the city center. Trains link Uppsala to Stockholm and other major cities.

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