Record number of international students

This August, Jönköping University (JU) welcomed about 3 800 new students to campus. Among them, approximately 1145 international students arrived from around the world, the highest number ever for JU. The university’s commitment to internationalization and academic excellence ensures that JU remains a top choice for students seeking a global education experience.

Among the 1145 new international students, 825 new international degree-seeking students have arrived and enrolled, setting an all-time high for both EU and non-EU international degree-seeking students. This year's numbers mark a 35 percent increase in enrolments compared to the previous year and a rise of 60 percent from 2022. Among the new international degree-seeking students, 434 come from countries outside the EU/EEA, while 391 are from EU/EEA countries.

In addition, 320 new incoming exchange students from JU’s partner universities around the world have arrived at JU. Incoming exchange students represent nearly one-third of all new international students on campus.

“The mix of excitement and anticipation is palpable”

“It’s inspiring to see the campus buzzing with excitement as a record number of international degree-seeking students from all corners of the globe arrive for the new academic year. The mixture of excitement and anticipation is palpable. In addition to the upward trajectory of international students at JU, we’re particularly pleased to see an increase in the number of admitted students enrolling. Students have a lot of choices these days and it’s great to see so many students choosing JU,” says Eric Freid, Team Leader for International Recruitment.

JU focuses a lot on reinforcement in the later stages of the student journey, allowing admitted students to interact with staff, faculty, and current students, which helps them in their decision-making. Another reason for the significant increase this year, in addition to the recruitment efforts, is the Swedish Migration Agency’s improved handling of residence permit applications.

“It’s encouraging to see these improvements and we hope to continue to see a constructive, collaborative approach by the agency”, says Eric Freid.

One of the largest exchange networks in Sweden

Having so many exchange students at Jönköping University enriches the academic environment, fostering cultural diversity and global perspectives. JU’s extensive network of over 320 partner universities worldwide is a cornerstone of the commitment to internationalization, offering the students invaluable experience studying abroad. Students from JU’s partner institutions bring unique insights and experiences that enhance classroom discussions and broaden the horizons of all students. Additionally, exchange programs help build international networks, which are invaluable for personal and professional growth. Welcoming this group of international students to JU not only promotes cross-cultural understanding but also prepares the students to thrive in a globalized world.

A warm welcome for all new students

Introduction Week and the Kickoff, organized by JU and the Student Union, welcomed all arriving students to their new academic home. This intensive period has been packed with activities, information sessions related to life and studies, and services aimed at helping students settle in, integrate, make friends, and prepare for their studies. From social activities to academic programs, the week provided many opportunities for students to gain a sense of community at JU while learning about the resources and support services available on campus.

Chose JU over several American universities

Alessandra Lopez is one of JU’s new programme students. She is from Mexico and has just started her bachelor’s studies in Sustainable Enterprise Development at Jönköping International Business School.

“Despite receiving many scholarships and offers from US schools, I chose to study at JIBS. I believe sustainability is crucial in the world and I really liked what I heard about JIBS and its programmes. In Mexico, I experienced firsthand the impact of droughts, and I wanted to study in a country that was already living in a sustainable way, rather than just reading about it in textbooks as I would have done in the US,” she says

So far, Alexandra has a positive impression of JU. She loved the kick-off and the opportunities to get to know the city and other students better. She is happy that many international students chose to come to JU this year and is convinced that they have made a good choice.