The fact that getting acquainted with new and different set of cultural values in day to day life should be regarded more as responsibility when you are in a different country.
To settle comfortably and overcome the initial hiccups it is always advisable for students to go through the guidebook or tips before leaving for Sweden. Here we have few important tips for overseas students to make their life more compatible and easy in Sweden.
1. Learn swedish
Learning local language may help you in a long way. Majority of Swedish speak to you in English, this could be an another advantage for you to learn flawless Swedish. You can also join language learning courses to gain proficiency while speaking.
2. Dumping plastic bag: May need to pay the price
In an effort to get rid of waste and encourage recycling Swedish prefer to reuse the plastic bag instead of dumping it into the dustbin. Grocery store in Sweden charge you for the plastic bags. Hence, think before you dump it in the waste.
Also Read: Why Study in Sweden
3. Working hours of shop/banks
During weekends shops are generally open between 9 a.m and 6 p.m. On saturdays shops are closed between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. While department stores remain open until 8-9 p.m. and some of them are kept opened on Sundays too.
It is important for international students to note that shops in Sweden are usually close early on the day before a public holiday. Restaurants and stores shut down in the month of July (usually the entire month)
Banks in Sweden work from Monday to Friday, between 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. Various bank have extended working works once in a week (until 6:00 p.m. in larger cities). Banks decalre closed closed holidays during weekends.
4. Punctuality preferred
Time is most respected in Sweden. Not a matter you're going for an interview or meeting a friend. Meetings never wait for you, rather expected you to be on time. Hence, being an international student it is essential for you to realise the value of time.
5. Offer tips for the service
Restaurants and taxis charge you for the service they provide. Despite of the charged levied, it is common courtesy in Sweden to offer a small tip (around 10 per cent) for the good service you received.
Also Read: How to Apply for Sweden Universities