A Student Housing Guide for the University of Gothenburg

Finding a cozy corner in a new city can be quite the challenge, especially in a bustling student hub like Gothenburg. With over 50,000 students enrolled at the University of Gothenburg and Chalmers University of Technology, securing a spot that feels like home is no small feat.

Whether you’re looking for a quiet studio close to campus or a lively shared apartment in the heart of the city, we’ve got the insights to help you make the best choice for your student life here.

If you're still looking for accommodation in Gothenburg, check out our listings on Hemavi – where you'll be matched with compatible roommates for a seamless living experience.

Student Housing at the University of Gothenburg

The University of Gothenburg provides several housing options specifically tailored for international students, making the transition to living in Sweden smoother and more comfortable. The university offers guaranteed housing to fee-paying students and scholarship holders, which is a significant relief for those moving internationally. This guarantee ensures that newly arrived students have one less thing to worry about as they start their academic journey.

Types of Student Accommodation

The University of Gothenburg, in collaboration with the SGS Student Housing Foundation, offers a variety of student accommodations, catering to different needs and preferences. They are furnished for convenience, with rental agreements typically favoring individual lease signees even in shared settings. The housing is spread across various locations in Gothenburg, with some properties closer to the university campuses and others offering a more immersive city-living experience. This variety allows students to choose based on their lifestyle preferences and study locations. Here's a detailed look at the types of student accommodations available:

• Kviberg Area - Located in eastern Gothenburg, Kviberg offers one-room flats with kitchenettes and bathrooms. The flats, approximately 27 square meters in size, are designed for either single occupancy or can be shared between two students. These apartments are furnished, typically including two beds, allowing students the option to choose a roommate if desired.
• Rosendal Area - Also in eastern Gothenburg, Rosendal provides several types of one-room accommodations:
  • Studiegången 4 - Offers rooms with a kitchen section and bathroom, sized around 19 square meters, strictly for one person.
  • Studiegången 5 B - Features slightly larger one-room apartments ranging from 28 to 35 square meters, which can accommodate one or two students. These units are also typically furnished with two beds.
• Central Gothenburg (Olofshöjd and Helmutsrogatan) - Central locations like Olofshöjd offer single rooms with private bathrooms and shared kitchen facilities within the building. The rooms are about 18.5 square meters. Helmutsrogatan provides one-room flats with kitchenettes and bathrooms, around 25 square meters in size, suitable for single occupancy.
• Rosendal Area - Also in eastern Gothenburg, Rosendal provides several types of one-room accommodations:
  • Birger Jarl - Features one-room apartments with kitchenettes and bathrooms, each about 30-31 square meters. These are furnished with two beds, offering the flexibility to live alone or with a roommate.
  • Fridhemsgatan - Similar to Birger Jarl, it offers one-room apartments approximately 25 square meters in size with kitchenettes and bathrooms.

Application Process for University Housing

You can begin your housing application process by registering with the SGS Student Housing as soon as you consider applying to the University of Gothenburg. This is crucial because the waiting time for housing can be extensive, typically around one and a half years, though faster allocation isn't impossible with frequent check-ins​. The application for housing has specific deadlines which are typically on the 15th of May for the autumn semester and the 15th of November for the spring semester. Ensure your application is submitted by these dates.

After applying, you will receive an email approximately two weeks after the application deadline, informing you of the outcome. If successful, you will receive further instructions on how to proceed, including details about the rental agreement and payment instructions​.

Alternative Housing Options

Finding alternative housing in Gothenburg, especially given the high demand for student accommodations, can be quite challenging. Here are some options for students who might not be able to secure housing through the University of Gothenburg:

• Private Rentals: Many students opt for the private rental market. Websites like Hemavi are popular platforms where private listings are posted. These sites offer a range of options from shared apartments to studio apartments.
• Sublets: Often, students or locals who are traveling for an extended period may sublet their apartments. This can be a temporary solution while searching for more permanent housing. Sublets can also be found on websites like Blocket.se.
• Student Housing Cooperatives: Beyond university-provided housing, there are housing cooperatives, such as SGS Studentbostäder or Chalmers Studentbostäder, which offer housing primarily to students in Gothenburg. While these are still competitive, they provide additional options.
• Social Media and Forums: Joining local Facebook groups or forums dedicated to housing in Gothenburg can be beneficial. Members often post available apartments or rooms, and it’s also a place to network and possibly find roommates.
• Hostels and Short-term Rentals: For students who need an immediate place to stay, hostels or hotels sometimes offer long-term rates. This can be a viable short-term option while continuing to look for something more stable.
• Living with a Host Family: Some students choose to live with Swedish families, which can also help in immersively learning the language and culture.

Each option comes with its own set of challenges, such as higher costs or longer commutes, so it’s advisable to start the search early and consider what compromises you are willing to make.

Our recommendation?

Private rentals offer several advantages that make them an appealing option for many students. One of the primary advantages of private rentals is flexibility. Tenants often have a wider range of choices in terms of location, type of accommodation, and lease terms. This flexibility allows students to choose properties that best fit their personal and academic needs.

Private rentals typically offer more privacy than university dorms or shared student housing. Having an entire place to oneself or sharing with fewer people can significantly enhance comfort and provide a quiet environment that is conducive to studying. Plus, living in a non-student-specific environment can provide deeper cultural immersion, offering a more authentic experience of living in a foreign country. This can be especially beneficial for international students looking to improve language skills and understand local customs and practices.

The process of finding and securing a private rental can be more challenging and competitive, particularly in a city with a high demand for accommodations. If you're looking for shared accommodation in Gothenburg, make sure you sign up on Hemavi – our match-making algorithm will connect you with compatible roommates.