Life in Linköping
Q: What is the main mode of transport?
A: The majority of students travel around Linköping using a bike. You can buy themsecond-hand through from other students through our WhatsApp or Telegram group, or at one of the many bike shops in the city. There are also E-Scooters and busses (check out Östgötatrafiken in the app store.)
Q: Can I bike during the winter?
A: That really depends on you. Bike lanes in Linköping are heated and get covered in gravel, so they don’t get as icy as you might think. Only when it gets really cold, or there is a lot of new snow we would advise against biking. The limiting factor typically are your clothes, or your tolerance for the cold.
Student Life
Q: What is this “Ovve” thing I keep hearing about?
A: Overalls, or as we call them “Ovves” are your best friend during your studies. The color of your overall indicates what you study (or that you are an international) and also features your name.
You get to decorate your Ovve with all sorts of patches that you get from different parties, trips or events and it tells the story of your time in Sweden. Ovves are an easy conversation starter and become one of your main souvenirs of your studies abroad.
ESNCard
Q: What is the ESNCard?
A: The ESNCard is a paid membership in ESN available to all Erasmus students, international students, or local students who are engaged in the organization. It grants you discounts on parties, events and trips organized by us and also comes with extra perks like discounts on RyanAir flights.
Q: How much does the ESNCard cost?
A: The price for the ESN Card is SEK 145, but if you participate in our events, buy an overall, or go on one of our trips, these will be the best 145 kronor you will ever spend.
Q: Where do I purchase the ESNCard?
You purchase the ESNCard through an app called Orbi, which is also were you buy all the tickets for parties and events at LiU. We will manually approve your purchase, and then you can pick up the card either at one of the events during our welcome period, or at one of our office hours.
(Yes, the physical card is still required for discounts such as RyanAir and online registration.)
Q: How long is my ESNCard valid?
The ESNCard is valid for 12 months from the date of your acquisition, regardless of whether you are staying one semester, or longer.
Q: Do I have any additional benefits in Linköping?
Yes, we have cooperations with two local companies
- Pizzabakeren (Storgatan 54) – 30% off all medium Pizzas and 20% of all other Pizzas
- Jeansfabriken (Västra Svedengatan 18) – Get 25% off on all items!
The Organization & The Buddy Program
Q: I want to become a part of ESN, how do I do that?
A: Committee recruitment happens at the beginning of each semester. To see if it’s open, check our Instagram.
The recruitment for most of the board positions happens during the summer term for the following year.
However, there might be extraordinary openings. You can always check our linktr.ee, or contact us on Instagram to inquire about this.
Q: When does The Buddy Program start?
A: Since international students arrive in Linköping at different times, and local students often apply after the semester has already begun, Buddy Groups are formed at the end of the Welcome Period. That means early September in the autumn, and late January in the spring. Unfortunately, it is not possible to create fair groups before this. In the meantime, incoming students can enjoy Welcome Period, and see the Buddy Program as a continuation of it.
A: You are expected to actively participate and be able to show proof of your involvement. This means:
- Answering questions and engaging in your group chat.
- Attending exclusive Buddy Events.
- Attending and/or arranging at least three activities for your group during the semester and taking pictures (with consent).
- If your group is not interested in participating, you can provide proof of your efforts (e.g., chat logs) instead.