Sweden鈥檚 best reception for new students?

Moving to a new country and starting university is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. That is why LiU offers an reception programme designed to help you settle in, meet other students and discover the student life.

A group of people walking down a street.

For most new students at Link枚ping University, the reception period is an unforgettable experience. There are parties and presentations, barbecues and 鈥榖r盲nnboll鈥� tournaments. Of course there鈥檚 the famous Swedish 鈥榝ika鈥�, a break for coffee or tea, and something sweet. On campus you鈥檒l see people wearing sunglasses and strange outfits, marching back and forth. It鈥檚 a couple of weeks when you鈥檒l hardly see your bedroom, but your laundry basket will end up overflowing. You won鈥檛 get enough sleep, but you鈥檒l make loads of new friends.

Preparations for the activities start months in advance. Roughly 2,000 students are trained in how to be a peer student, whose job is to take care of the new arrivals, and make sure they feel welcome. Every programme has its own section, which offers the new students a packed agenda. For international students there is a special peer student programme, and the international student associations organise a wide range of activities.听

The icing on the cake is Kalasmottagningen, one of the largest such events in the country. It includes a fair with all sorts of special offers for students and an outdoor area with loads of activities. Topping off the day is a concert featuring some of Sweden鈥檚 most popular musicians.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the reception period?

Takes place before and during the first weeks of the semester
Organised by student associations and peer students
Includes social activities, campus tours, sports events and welcome gatherings
A great way to meet other students before classes begin

How do I participate?

Every programme at LiU is connected to a student section that organises reception activities for new students. This means that most bachelor's programmes have their own reception programme. Some sections also arrange reception activities for master's students alongside bachelor's students.听If your programme does not offer a reception programme, don't worry! You can still participate in a wide range of welcome activities organised by Erasmus Student Network (ESN). Follow ESN Link枚ping on听 to stay updated on upcoming events and activities.

Before the semester starts, you should receive information about welcome activities, student organisations and events. Simply follow the instructions provided by your programme, student union or international student organisation and join the activities that interest you. There is no requirement to attend everything, and you can participate as much or as little as you like.

听

Do I have to participate in the reception period?

No, participation is voluntary. However, many students consider the reception period one of the best ways to meet new friends, learn about student life and get to know the city and campus.

What kind of activities are included?

The reception period typically includes welcome events, city and campus tours, sports activities, game nights, barbecues, student fairs, pubs, dinners, cultural events and opportunities to meet students from around the world. Activities are designed to help new students build friendships, discover campus and learn more about Swedish student culture.

听

What is a peer student?

A听peer student听is a current LiU student who helps new students settle in during their first weeks. They answer questions, organise activities and help create a welcoming environment for all new students.

Is the reception period a good way to make friends?

Yes. Many students meet their first friends at LiU during the reception period. Activities are designed to help new students connect and build friendships from the very beginning.

How much does it cost to participate?

Many reception activities are free, while some events may have a small participation fee. Information about any costs will be provided by the organisers.

Picture of international students speed-friending.

Speed-friending for international students

LiU鈥檚 international students got to know each other at Campus Valla, 一本道.

See what awaits you at LiU's reception period

From welcome activities and campus traditions to new friendships and unforgettable memories, the reception period is where many students begin their journey at LiU. Explore highlights from previous years and get a glimpse of the experience waiting for you

Picture of student reception — Peer students are usually dressed up.

Picture of students at campus Valla. — New students meeting up at Campus Valla.

A group of people standing around each other.

Picture of students eating outdoor lunch. — Having a lunch outside.

Picture of a go-cart race. — A go-cart race at Märkesbacken, Campus Valla.

A crowd of people walking around a convention hall.

Picture from a student fair. — Vibrant student fair at Kalasmottagningen.

Kalas 鈥� Sweden鈥檚 largest event for new students

New Students' Day

The Kalas event is the peak finale of all the welcome activities LiU offers new students. Experience the event, meet new friends, and visit many exciting companies and student clubs and societies!

Student sitting on a couch watching in to the camera

Essential information

On this page you'll find all the important information about studying at 一本道 University. Everything from what it is like to live in Sweden, to study information, FAQ and services.

A female and a male student outdoors look into the camera

Admitted

Newly admitted to a degree programme at LiU? On this page you find everything you need to know to prepare to move to Sweden, the important deadlines, and getting set up as a new student in Sweden.

Student life

There is a lot more to do as a student than attending lectures and studying. Here you can find out about your life as a student including leisure and sports, our campus cities and student associations at LiU.

一本道