The Orientation consists of a series of lectures and activities that are designed to help you become acquainted with life in Umeå and studies at our university. It also offers a great opportunity to meet new people and make new friends. We highly recommend you to take part in the Orientation programme.
Orientation Programme Spring semester 2026
Pre-arrival webinar - Wednesday, 14 January
A digital event (in Zoom) that focuses on preparing for your arrival and getting to know more about the Swedish study system and good-to-know about studies here at Umeå University.
When? Wednesday, 14th January, 15:00–16:45.
The pre-arrival webinar will cover topics such as:
- Student services
- UMU ID and UMU card
- Introduction to the Swedish study system
- Tips to prepare for your arrival
- Upcoming social activities
- Arriving in Umeå
- Housing related questions, and more.
Welcome/Orientation day, Tuesday 20 January
Welcome to an afternoon in Aula Nordica on Campus Umeå, together with other new international students. No need to sign up, just come and meet us!
When? Wednesday 20th January, 15:00–17:00.
The programme for Spring semester will be published here no later than December. You can find the autumn semester programme below.
Programme Autumn semester 2025:
- Welcome from the University and the International Office
- Welcome to the City of Umeå, by Visit Umeå
- The Student Health Services and the University Chaplaincy
- Safety and security on campus
- The University Library
- The student unions
- IKSU Sport
- Break
- Insights into Swedish culture
- Good to know for incoming exchange students and tuition-fee paying students
- The Buddy Programme
- How to recycle in Sweden
- Upcoming events and frequently asked questions.
Social activities (several dates)
Social activities during Orientation, for all new international students, is organised by the Buddy Programme coordinator.
Programme for the start of the Spring semester will be published here in December. It will normally include activities such as:
- Campus Race
- City Challenge
- Buddy Programme Opening
- International pub.
More information sent by email to everyone who signed up for the Buddy Programme.
Study in Umea (including Buddy Programme) on Instagram.
Departmental meetings
Some departments organise meetings with students ahead of or in the beginning of the semester. If your department holds such a meeting, you will receive information from them.
