We have three student unions
The student unions at Umeå University work to make sure that the students have an influence over their studies and their study situation. As a member of a student union, you can also influence your study situation.
What the student unions do:
- Represent the interests of the students in university bodies and groups relevant for education or being a student.
- Help students who experience difficulties in their studies or their study environment.
- Provide arenas where businesses and students can network to simplify the transition to working life.
- Offer welcome and onboarding activities for new students.
- Host and run local student pubs on campus.
- Organise activities on campus.
At Umeå University, there are three student unions:
- Umeå Student Union (Umeå studentkår) – If you are studying humanities, social sciences or teacher training, this is the student union for you.
- Umeå Student Union of Science and Technology (Umeå naturvetar- och teknologkår) – the student union for students studying engineering, science, architecture or design.
- Umeå Medical Sciences Student Union (Umeå medicinska studentkår)
– the student union for students at Umeå University's Faculty of Medicine.
Frequently asked questions about student unions
What are the benefits of being a member of a student union?
A membership in a student union benefits you in several ways. You can find new friends and being engaged in a student union can also be a valuable qualification when applying for a job in the future. By being a member of a student union, you also access certain discounts. These are examples of benefits:
- discount on gym cards at IKSU sport facilities;
- help with any educational issues (anonymously if you like);
- admission to Umeå's student pubs; and
- discounts on cinema tickets.
To get some student discounts, you need to give the companies your consent to check that you are a student and student union member. Give your consent to access discounts.
Is membership in a student union mandatory?
No, it is voluntary to be a member of a student union, but there are many benefits of being a member.
How do I become a member of a student union?
You can register online or you can register by visiting the student union's office. Read above which student union is relevant for your studies and go to their website for more information on how to become a member.
Is there a deadline for becoming a member of a student union?
You can register whenever you want throughout your studies, but we recommend that you register as soon as possible to be able to take part in the student union's activities and get the most out of your membership.
Do I need a Swedish personal identity number to become a member of a student union?
No, you do not need a Swedish personal identity number to become a member. If you struggle to register, please visit your student union’s office in person.
Can I be a member of more than one student union?
Yes, you can be a member of more than one student union.
How much does it cost to be a member of a student union?
The cost varies depending on the student union, but is around SEK 200–300 per semester.
I want to make a difference. How can I get involved?
You can always contact your relevant student union to see how you can get involved. There are non-profit and remunerated roles.
Student associations
Umeå University's student unions have all sorts of student associations with various special interests. They base their activities on what their members wish to do. Joining a student association is a good way of meeting new friends.
See a list of student associations linked to Umeå University
