Stipends Covered by DIS

Food Stipend Purchase Cards

The Food Stipend is meant to assist students living in Residential Community, Living & Learning Community, and Studentboende with food and living expenses, but not intended to cover them fully. You will not be reimbursed for any unused balance at the end of the semester, so we recommend you use the card from day one of your semester.

Note. Homestay students receive a lunch stipend and this information does not pertain to that. Read about what each housing option includes here 

How do I receive the Purchase Cards if I live in the above housing options?

The food stipend is distributed to you in the form of three different cards. Once you have used up the funds on a card, the card can be discarded as you will pick up a new card from the Hub for each stipend. You will receive the first card during Arrival Week and the subsequent cards at later points throughout the semester.

Where can the Purchase Cards be used?

The cards can be used at any ICA store (a grocery store chain) in Sweden. Tip: The larger the store, the cheaper the groceries. Smaller ICA stores are more expensive due to their convenience.

How do I use the Stipend Card?

  1. Give the card to the cashier upon checkout
  2. Two receipts will be printed: one for you, and one for the cashier
  3. The amount paid is automatically deducted from your stipend card

How do I keep track of the balance on my Stipend Card?

Ask the cashier at ICA (or read your receipt) to find out the balance remaining.

Your card will be rejected at checkout when there are insufficient funds to make the purchase, and you will then have to pay for the purchase.

What happens if I lose my Stipend Card?

This card is essentially cash. It cannot be replaced, and if lost, DIS, unfortunately, cannot buy you a new one.

Because there is no identity check on the stipend card, it can be used by anyone. Be sure to know where it is at all times; keep it with other debit and/or credit cards.