Details

• Sweden
• MACEMS-17
• Graduate
• WS 2025
• Time spent at the partner university: 5 months

1. Preparation

The preparation for my exchange semester started with attending the Erasmus grant information session at WU, which provided an overview of the administrative steps to receive the Erasmus grant. Additionally, the Stockholm School of Economics (SSE) offered an online information session, which I highly recommend attending, as it covered all necessary details regarding the semester and practical matters. The course selection already took place about two months before the semester started, but the process was very straightforward and clearly structured.

2. Accommodation

I started looking for accommodation around three months before the semester began. For me, Unity Kista turned out to be a very good option. Although it is located about 30 minutes from the university and not directly in the city center, it was very convenient with a large shopping mall and a subway station within a four-minute walking distance. Additionally, several other SSE students were living there, which made it easier to connect with others. The overall process was very uncomplicated, and the apartments were modern and comfortable, making it a good place to live during the exchange semester. Just make sure to l

3. Academic life at host university

SSE is a beautiful university building, although it is smaller compared to WU Vienna. Art is also very present throughout the whole university building. During my semester, the main library was closed due to renovation, so there were not as many quiet study spaces available on campus. However, the SSE House of Innovation is a great alternative for studying. As the university is smaller than WU, it makes it easy to connect with students from different master’s programs. Academically, I found SSE slightly more challenging than WU, especially when aiming for top grades, as only about the top 25% of students in a course can receive the highest grade. The teaching style is very personal and professors make a strong effort to engage with students.

5. Every day life in the host country

Public transport in Stockholm is very efficient and comparable to Vienna, making it easy to get around the city. The overall safety situation is good, especially in central areas. In more outer districts such as Kista, it is advisable to be a bit more attentive, particularly at night, but I never experienced any serious issues. Stockholm offers many social and leisure activities depending on the season. During warmer months, there are many opportunities for walks, outdoor activities and hikes in nature. In autumn and winter, museums and indoor sports become more popular. The student association SASSE offers a variety of sports activities that students can join. The National Museum also hosts free art workshops on Thursday evenings. Additionally, SSE organizes many corporate events and lunch lectures, which one should definitely join.

6. Testimonial

Overall, my exchange semester at SSE was a very nice experience. Academically, it was slightly more challenging than WU Vienna, but this made it even more valuable and motivating. SSE offers a very personal and inspiring academic environment, and I learned a lot both academically and personally. I would choose SSE again anytime and can highly recommend it as an exchange destination.