Erasmus Experience in Borås, Sweden by Olga

Why did you choose to go to Borås, Sweden?

Since it was the only location where my professional specialization is taught.

How long is the scholarship? How much money do you receive to help you with living costs?

I was there for a semester. Unfortunately, I don't remember the exact amount of money. But I had additional funding, otherwise it was impossible.

What is the student lifestyle like in Borås?

Well... I am not particularly social, but as far as I could see, the people are very friendly. And since there are so many nationalities, it is a very multicultural and at times exotic experience. I shared my dorms with Indian, Pakistan and Korean students, so it was like having cultures from across the globe in your own backyard.

Would you recommend the city and the University of Borås to other students?

Deffinitely. It's very cozy and practically designed.

What is the food like?

Well, the food is okay I guess. I am rather specific about my food, so it was not particularly comfortable for me, but for a healthy person the variety is very good. Common, there are watermelons all year round!

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Borås?

No, the university provided with contacts where to find accommodation, but the fight for rooms were fierce.

How much does it cost to live in Borås?

I think I paid 200 euros only for my room, which was 12 m2. I saved on everything.

Is the language easy to get to grips with? Are there language courses available at the University?

Since I knew english and a bit of german, the language was not particularly difficult. Yes, there are courses if one is interested in them, but everybody speaks english, so there is no problem.

What's the easiest or most economical way to travel to Borås from your city?

A flight to Götheborg and then by bus.

And for eating? Can you recommend some good restaurants in Borås?

Unfortunately, I don't remember, but there was a really nice pizza places. For all who like cakes and such, forget about it. There are just no chocolate,cream or water cakes anywhere. Mostly pies, which are good of course, but when you want a tiramisu cake, that would be hard to find.

Is there any other advice that you could give to students going to Borås in the future?

Visit the city webpage, there is a lot of information about everything. And prepare for a lot of self-service machines.