Student culture at Lund University
Lund is Sweden’s top student city, where nearly half the population are students. As an international student, you’ll join a vibrant, welcoming community shaped by centuries-old traditions and student-led activities. It’s easy to get involved, make friends and feel at home – both on and off campus.
Lund: Sweden’s top student city
Lund is a historic city with a youthful spirit, shaped by its large student population. Nearly half the residents are students, creating an active, welcoming atmosphere.
Student life goes far beyond studies. Through student nations, the Academic Society and student unions, you can take part in a wide range of activities, from lunches and debates to formal balls. It’s easy to get involved and feel part of the community.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua.
Namn Namnsson, student
The pillars of student life: Nations, the Academic Society and student unions
Student life in Lund is built on three key foundations – the student nations, the Academic Society (AF) and the student unions. These are all brought together through the joint membership organisation Studentlund. Together, they form the heart of the Lund student experience:
Student nations
The student nations are large, student-run social clubs that are unique to Sweden. The tradition of student nations at Lund University date back to the late 1600s, each nation is named after a Swedish city or region. Joining a nation is one of the easiest ways to meet new people, settle into life in Lund, and experience Swedish culture first-hand.
Example of activities arranged by student nations:
- Pubs, cafés and nightclubs
- Formal dinners, lunches and brunches
- Sports, choirs and creative projects
- Scholarships and even student housing
Read more about the different nations on their websites:
Find more detailed information about student nations on our page for current students:
Academic Society (AF)
The Academic Society is a non-profit student organisation and the cultural hub of student life. It is run by and for students with the purpose to support and enrich the cultural life of students at Lund University. Its historic AF Building (AF-borgen) is a central meeting place for students.
Academic Society groups include, among others:
- Radio AF – Scandinavia’s largest student radio station
- Ordkonst – publishes a literary magazine and hosts writing circles and other literary activities
- Studentafton – a student forum featuring politicians, authors, scientists, and more
- LUST – Lund’s student theatre group.
Student unions
Each faculty has its own student union, and all are part of the Studentlund network. The unions represent students on academic matters, working to ensure high-quality education. They also organise:
- Welcome weeks and introduction activities
- Career fairs and networking events
- Social and academic projects
There are nine student unions at Lund University, seven of which are affiliated with the organisation Studentlund. The union you will belong to depends on your field of study.
Student unions – Studentlund.se
Find more details on student unions on our page for current students:
Joining a student association
Discover student-run groups in sports, sustainability, politics, arts, and more. Once you arrive in Lund as an admitted student, Orientation Week and Student Association Fair is the best moment to discover associations.
A vibrant student life beyond the classroom
At Lund University, student life is active, varied and easy to join. Every week brings new ways to connect, contribute and explore your interests. Whether you are looking for a quiet cultural moment, a fun night out, or a chance to make a difference, there is always something happening.
What you can do next:
Chat with international students
Our international student ambassadors are ready to share their real experiences of studying and living in Lund. Start a conversation today and discover what it’s like to be part of our community.
Connect with us
Join one of our webinars, attend a virtual Q&A session, or meet us at an education fair or event in your region.
Discover student culture in Sweden
On the Study in Sweden website, you can learn more about what it’s like to live and study in Sweden, and what makes the Swedish experience unique.