Thinking about studying in Sweden? With beautiful landscapes, a high quality of life, and an innovative education system, Sweden is an exciting choice for international students.
Studying abroad can be expensive, but plenty of scholarships are available to help you study in Sweden. Here’s a handy guide on scholarships to make your dream of studying in Sweden a reality.
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Benefits of Studying in Sweden
Wondering why Sweden should be on your list? Let’s dive into what makes it a fantastic study destination.
Top-Notch Education System
Sweden’s universities are world-renowned and consistently rank among the best globally. Adding a Swedish university to your academic record can boost your career.
Consider Uppsala University, the oldest in the Nordic countries, or choose Stockholm University in Sweden’s bustling capital.
No Language Worries
Swedish is the official language, but nearly everyone speaks English well. In fact, Swedes rank second globally for English skills among non-native speakers.
You’ll be able to study comfortably in English, but it’s also a great chance to pick up some Swedish. Learning a bit of Swedish can help you enjoy the culture even more.
Global Business Hub
Sweden is home to major international businesses, making it a great place for internships. Companies like H&M, Spotify, and Volvo have their headquarters here.
Also, Sweden doesn’t restrict student work hours, so you can gain experience and even start building a long-term career.
Top Scholarships for International Students in Sweden
Ready to fund your studies? Check out these scholarship options in Sweden!
Lund University Global Scholarship
Lund University offers a merit-based scholarship for students from outside the EU/EEA. This scholarship doesn’t cover living costs, and the award percentage depends on the faculty’s budget.
To qualify, you need a strong desire to study at Lund and have this program as your first choice.
Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals
This scholarship is funded by the Swedish Ministry of Foreign Affairs and is popular among master’s students.
Covering both tuition and living costs, it supports over 700 master’s programs across Sweden.
Applicants must show how their studies will contribute to the sustainable development goals, and students from specific countries are prioritized.
To be eligible, you need relevant work experience and leadership experience, and must be applying for an eligible master’s program.
Stockholm School of Economics Scholarships
Known as the best business school in the Nordic region, the Stockholm School of Economics offers both full and half-tuition scholarships.
Selection is based on merit and need, considering motivation, academic performance, and diversity.
The school’s location in Stockholm also provides a fantastic cultural experience and networking opportunities.
Umeå University Scholarships
Umeå University awards scholarships based on academic excellence.
If you’re pursuing a master’s in public health, check out the Erling-Persson Scholarship, which covers tuition and includes a monthly allowance.
For design students, the Design by Umeå Scholarships offer partial or full tuition waivers.
Top Universities in Sweden for International Students
Let’s explore some top Swedish universities popular among international students!
Stockholm University
Stockholm University is ideal for students interested in arts, humanities, and social sciences.
It offers over 75 programs taught in English, including a Sustainability Forum for environmental science students.
With about 3,800 international students, Stockholm University provides a multicultural learning environment.
University of Gothenburg
The University of Gothenburg, located near global companies like Volvo and AstraZeneca, offers diverse programs and strong job prospects.
It has eight faculties and 38 departments with options in business, international relations, and engineering.
Collaboration with Chalmers University of Technology adds even more study opportunities.
KTH, Royal Institute of Technology
KTH is Sweden’s largest technical university, perfect for science and engineering students.
Known for excellent research, it has exchange programs worldwide and offers leadership and job opportunities in Stockholm.
KTH also provides a well-rounded student experience through extracurricular activities.
Karolinska Institutet
Karolinska Institutet is a top medical research university, located in Solna, near Stockholm.
It ranks sixth globally for medical studies, offering programs in health sciences, dentistry, and nursing. EU and EEA students studying here enjoy free tuition and guaranteed housing.
Uppsala University
One of the oldest Nordic universities, Uppsala University offers programs in medicine, social sciences, and technology.
Students can gain hands-on experience at the University Hospital and join a vibrant international summer session.
Uppsala University’s strong student community adds to its appeal.
Requirements to Study in Sweden
Ready to apply? Here’s a quick look at the requirements for different study levels in Sweden.
Bachelor’s Requirements
For the bachelor’s program, you’ll need:
- A high school diploma with 60% marks.
- Proof of English skills, like an IELTS or TOEFL score.
- Math courses equivalent to Swedish university-level math.
Master’s Requirements
To apply for a master’s, you must have:
- A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
- A high IELTS or TOEFL score to meet English language standards.
PhD Requirements
For a PhD, the requirements include:
- A degree in the same field of study.
- Your previous degree thesis.
- Language skills in English and sometimes Swedish, as some seminars may be in Swedish.
Application Process and Deadlines for Scholarships in Sweden
Applying might seem stressful, but don’t worry! Scholarship applications open from October 16 to January 15 each year. Here’s a quick checklist to guide you through the process:
- Prepare Your Documents: Check the admission requirements on the university’s site and prepare all documents.
- Academic Transcript: Your previous school needs to send this directly to your Swedish university. Contact them early to avoid delays.
- Proof of English: If you’ve studied in English, you might not need IELTS or TOEFL. Upload any English proficiency proof, like a WASSCE certificate.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): Sweden requires a specific CV format. Highlight your academic and professional achievements to show why you’re deserving of a scholarship.
- Work and Leadership Experience: Scholarships often require 3,000 hours of work and leadership experience. Make sure you have verified proof.
- Reference Letters: Some programs may require reference letters. Avoid generic references and aim for specific letters from supervisors or professors.
- Motivation Letter: Answer the question, “Why should we offer you this scholarship?” Follow any guidelines given, or write a persuasive letter showing your commitment.
Sweden Scholarships for International Students FAQs
Does Sweden offer scholarships for international students?
Yes, Sweden has over 50 scholarships for international students, covering partial or full tuition.
Can international students study for free in Sweden?
Only EU nationals can study for free. However, PhD programs are free for all students.
What are the work opportunities for students in Sweden?
Sweden allows students to work without time limits, making it easier to find jobs.
Conclusion
Studying in Sweden offers an excellent opportunity for international students to receive a world-class education in a welcoming and innovative environment.
With the numerous scholarships available, financial barriers can be significantly reduced, allowing you to focus on your academic and personal growth.
Start researching and preparing your applications early to increase your chances of securing a scholarship to study in Sweden.