LGBTQIA+ student
Do you want to socialise in a safe environment outside the hetero- and cis- norm? There are student associations working in Sweden’s higher education institutions to create spaces where LGBTQIA+ students can feel welcome and safe. These spaces provide the opportunity to meet like-minded people and hang out or to get involved in LGBTQIA+ issues at their institution.
Many social events are held both digitally and physically by student associations at the country’s higher education institutions. These include picnics, movie nights and coffee and study hangouts where you can meet new friends, have interesting discussions and share your experiences. So be sure to explore and engage with the LGBTQIA+ community on your campus, it can be an invaluable resource during your studies.
Local associations for student engagement
In addition to the above, student associations often work to improve the situation of LGBTQIA+ students. Some of them are affiliated to SFQ (a national federation for LGBTQIA+ student associations), which works to create inclusive and norm critical higher education institutions. Find out which student associations are available at your higher education institution here (link to higher education institutions). Does your higher education institution not have such an association? Take the opportunity to start one!
Remember that self-care is important during your studies
Being a student at a higher education institution can be demanding, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed at times. Try to find a balance between study, social life and self-time. And don’t forget that it’s okay to ask for help when you need it. If you ever feel insecure or need extra support, don’t hesitate to contact the student health service at your higher education institution.
A good study environment free from discrimination
The following information is based on the Equality Ombudsman’s (DO) e‑guide on students’ rights in higher education.
A study environment free from discrimination is essential for learning and for enabling you to reach your full potential. Higher education institutions are required to actively promote equal rights and opportunities for students regardless of gender, ethnicity, religion or other belief, disability, or sexual orientation. This also includes ensuring accessibility for students with disabilities and recognising that some students may face multiple forms of marginalisation.
Institutions must continuously document the measures they take to prevent discrimination. These “active measures” may include regular reviews of policies, training for staff and students, and work to identify and remove discriminatory structures. Student representatives often collaborate with the institutions at both central and local levels in this work.
If you experience discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression, you can contact your institution’s equal opportunities coordinator or your student union (link to higher education institutions in Sweden). Higher education institutions must have clear procedures for reporting discrimination or harassment, and they are required to investigate all reports. You can also reach out to the student health service for advice.
Requirements of the Discrimination Act
The Discrimination Act stipulates that an education provider who carries out education under the Higher Education Act (1992:1434) or education that can lead to a qualification under the Award of Certain Degrees Licensing Act (1993:792) must carry out prevention and promotion measures aimed at preventing discrimination and serving in other ways to promote equal rights and opportunities regardless of gender, transgender identity or expression, ethnicity, religion or other belief, disability, sexual orientation or age within a given establishment.
Last updated: 2026-03-10