Record number of exchange students choosing Örebro University

In the autumn term of 2025, Örebro University welcomed 186 exchange students, a new record at the time. Ahead of autumn 2026, figures point to a further increase. The university currently expects around 200 exchange students to arrive this week.

“It’s great that so many students are choosing Örebro. It’s a sign that we have an attractive programme that is appreciated by students from all over the world,” says Katrin Wieder, international coordinator at Örebro University.

Increased international collaboration

One possible explanation for the increased interest is the growing student mobility within the NEOLAiA, the European university alliance.

In recent years, Örebro University has also been working more actively with international partner universities and on exchange agreements, including through participation in international conferences and by inviting partners to campus.

The global situation may also affect students’ choices.

“Some traditionally popular study destinations, such as the US, may now be perceived as less attractive to some students. At the same time, Sweden may be seen as a safe and attractive alternative,” says Katrin Wieder.

Students from 27 countries

The largest group of exchange students comes from Europe, particularly Germany and France. Many also come from outside Europe, with Japan and South Korea among the largest groups. In total, the university expects students from 27 countries.

Exchange students can choose from 129 courses across 26 subjects. The range spans from business administration, law, and psychology to biology, media and communication studies.

The most popular course is Swedish Culture and Language I.

Malin Maajaakkola, international student assistant at Örebro University: “It’s lovely that so many want to learn the basics of Swedish, while also gaining a deeper understanding of Swedish culture and society.”

International perspectives – for Swedish students

More international students on campus also benefit Swedish students.

Since studying abroad is rare in some study programmes, meeting exchange students brings global perspectives to campus life.

“When Swedish and international students meet in the classroom and on campus, it creates opportunities for new perspectives and greater intercultural understanding. We also hope that meeting exchange students will inspire more of our Swedish students to study abroad as part of their programme,” says Katrin Wieder.

Malin Maajaakkola, international student assistant at the Info Centre, welcomes Milo Schuddinck to Örebro University, where he receives the keys and other information he needs to start his studies.

More international students on campus also benefit Swedish students.

Since studying abroad is rare in some study programmes, meeting exchange students brings global perspectives to campus life.

“When Swedish and international students meet in the classroom and on campus, it creates opportunities for new perspectives and greater intercultural understanding. We also hope that meeting exchange students will inspire more of our Swedish students to study abroad as part of their programme,” says Katrin Wieder.

 

Five-week orientation

International students arrive on three designated days. During this period, they move into their on-campus accommodation and meet their mentors in Nexus, the student union's international section.

This is followed by almost five weeks of orientation activities, with a group trip to Ikea being one of the regular events. Nexus is responsible for the social aspect of the programme, as well as helping students settle into both their studies and life in Sweden.

“The aim is for them to feel welcome from day one and to quickly feel that Örebro is their new home while studying here. For many, the Swedish education system is new – for example, it often involves taking one course at a time and addressing lecturers by their first names,” says Malin Maajaakkola.