NEWS The multicultural feeling on campus is at its peak at the start of term when the new international students arrive from all corners of the world. Most of them, about 500, are exchange students who will stay for a semester or two. But the University also welcomes programme students who take their whole degree at Umeå University.
On 27–28 August, while the majority of our exchange and international programme students are arriving, at least those renting accommodation through the International Housing Office, the University organises an orientation that takes place. Those who arrive by air are offered bus transport from the airport to Infocenter on campus where they pick up their keys and taken to their new student accommodation by taxi.
"Having our students feel welcome is important for their first impression, but it's also important for the University to keep supporting this group during their studies. That's why our Buddy Programme organises several social activities during term time," says Ingrid Svensson, head of the International Office.
On Wednesday 29 August, the Orientation should introduce students to the University. The programme presents the Swedish higher education system, Swedish culture and the supportive functions available. To further facilitate the arrival, the Buddy Programme organises activities to help students get to know each other and Umeå.
Umeå University has exchange agreements with several countries around the world. The majority of incoming students come from partner universities in Germany, followed by France. The biggest group of incoming non-European students come from China.
Orientation consists of a series of lectures and activities introducing international students to the University.
Buddy Programme is here to help international students find their ways around Umeå and get to know Sweden. It is also a unique opportunity for already established students studying at the University to meet new people, cultures and develop their linguistic skills.
Australia: 3
Austria: 8
Belgium: 17
Canada: 8
China: 30
Czech Republic: 9
Denmark: 7
Estonia: 2
Finland: 21
France: 77
Germany: 119
Hungary: 1
India: 11
Ireland: 1
Italy: 14
Japan: 10
Latvia: 2
Lithuania: 4
Morocco: 1
Netherlands: 23
Norway: 3
Poland: 4
Portugal: 4
Russia: 18
Seychelles: 2
Slovakia: 1
South Korea: 13
Spain: 26
Sri Lanka: 2
Taiwan: 2
Turkey: 20
UK: 7
US: 13
Vietnam: 7
Sum: 490
