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Seven Steps to Studying in Sweden




If you’re curious about studying in Sweden next autumn but don’t know where to start, look no further: here’s your guide to the process.

1. Read up on programmes and universities

Your first step is to get acquainted with the Swedish university system and the different options you have available. See Higher education in Sweden – the basics for a basic overview of what it’s like to study here and Degree programmes for a more in-depth look at your options. Once you have an idea of the basics, read up on the different universities in Sweden and consider what type of school would suit you the best. And make sure to check out the student blog to find what current international students think of living and studying in Sweden.

2. Choose a programme

Visit Universityadmissions.se to search the over 1,000 programmes at bachelor’s and master’s level that are offered in English in Sweden.You can also find programme listings at universities’ own websites. You can choose up to four master’s programmes or eight bachelor’s programmes to apply for in each application round.


(Each year, most universities start publishing their programmes from October onwards. The full list of programmes that start during the autumn tends to be available in early December.)

3. Prepare your documents

Once you’ve chosen a few programmes that you’d like to apply for, it’s time to start preparing your application. At Universityadmissions.se you’ll find full application guidelines, including information on all of the documents you’ll need to include with your application.

If you’ll be proving your English proficiency with a TOEFL or IELTS test and haven’t yet taken the test, make sure to book a time well in advance of the application deadline so that you receive your results in time.See How to apply – bachelor’s level and How to apply – master’s level for general information on the type of documents required, and visit Universityadmissions.se for specific details.

4. Read about scholarships

Many organisations offer scholarships for international students, as do most Swedish universities. If you’re looking for a way to fund your studies, it’s a good idea to start investigating options before you turn in your application so that you can be sure to meet any application deadlines. Some scholarships may only be offered for specific programmes – another reason to read about what applies before you turn in your application.


See Scholarships for a listing of scholarship options.

5. Apply online by 15 January

The application deadline for programmes starting autumn 2019 was 15 January. Supporting documents and your application fee (or proof of exemption) are due by 1 February. It’s always a good idea to upload those documents and pay that fee a few days early to avoid last-minute stress!

6. Apply for Swedish Institute scholarships

There is a two-step application process for the Swedish Institute Study Scholarships, which are available for master’s students from developing countries.  If you’re planning on applying for a Swedish Institute scholarship, make sure to apply in time. The application period is 4-14 February 2019. Keep in mind you will need to have sent in your programme application by the 15 January deadline.


7. Hold your thumbs!

Håll tummarna is the Swedish way of saying cross your fingers. If you applied by the 15 January deadline, you’ll receive your notification of selection results in April 2019. Then comes the fun part: accepting your offer and getting ready to move to Sweden!

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