Student Housing: Tips for Students Looking for an Apartment in Sweden

Are you looking for a student accommodation in Sweden? Whether you're studying in Stockholm, Gothenburg or Lund, there's fierce competition for available apartments. This guide will help you quickly and safely find a cheap and secure student housing option.

Start your search for student housing

To improve your chances, you should start your housing search on reliable platforms. Here are some tips:

  • Hyrenbostad.se – with daily updated student apartments and a free housing agent that monitors the market for you.
  • Student housing foundations and municipal waiting lists – often offer lower rent and more secure contracts.
  • Facebook groups and forums where students share available rooms or look for roommates.

Create a housing profile that attracts landlords

A well-written housing profile makes you more appealing to landlords. Consider:

  • How much you can pay per month (including electricity, water, and heating)
  • Which city or area you want to live in – close to campus or public transport?
  • The size of the accommodation, number of rooms, private apartment or shared housing?
  • If you're open to living with other students

How to write an effective housing application

To succeed in a competitive housing market, you need an application that stands out. Here's what to include:

  • A short introduction about yourself and your studies
  • Why you are applying for this particular accommodation
  • What makes you a good tenant – e.g. responsible, non-smoker, calm

Example:

"Hi! My name is Inga, I’m 22 years old and studying psychology at Lund University. I’m looking for a quiet and secure place to live near campus. I don’t smoke, I’m tidy and respectful of shared spaces. Looking forward to hearing from you!"

How to avoid rental scams

Fraud in student rentals is becoming more common. Follow our advice (also read "Always use common sense!") and be alert if:

  • The landlord demands payment before a viewing
  • The rent is unreasonably low
  • No physical viewing is offered

Never pay anything before you have seen the accommodation and signed a contract.

Tips before the viewing

  • Be on time and show interest
  • Ask about rent, neighbors, maintenance, internet, and building rules
  • Photograph any defects or damages

Checklist when moving in

  • Read the rental contract carefully before signing
  • Note electricity, water, and heating meter readings
  • Make a joint damage report with the landlord
  • Get home insurance as soon as you move in

Common questions about student housing in Sweden

Can I get housing allowance as a student?

Yes, many students in Sweden are eligible for housing allowance. You apply through Försäkringskassan, and how much you can get depends on your income, rent, size of the accommodation, and whether you live alone or have children.

If you are under 29 years old, you can apply for housing allowance for young people. Students with children may be entitled to housing allowance for families with children.

You can read more and apply directly at forsakringskassan.se.

Can I live with roommates?

Usually yes, but check your rental agreement and get written permission from the landlord if you're unsure.

How do I find affordable student housing?

Be open to different neighborhoods, start searching early, check out student dorms and shared housing, and register with several housing queues simultaneously.

Published / updated: April 7, 2025