Study in Sweden
Study in Sweden . Sweden is a popular destination for international students seeking to pursue higher education. The country is known for its high standard of living, social welfare system, and excellent universities.
There are over 40 universities in Sweden, both public and private, offering a wide range of courses in fields such as engineering, natural sciences, social sciences, humanities, and medicine. Swedish universities are known for their innovative teaching methods, strong research focus, and emphasis on critical thinking and problem-solving.
Swedish universities offer Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD programs in English, which makes it easier for international students to study in the country. In addition, tuition fees for international students are relatively low compared to other European countries, and many universities offer scholarships and grants to support students financially.
International students are also eligible to work part-time while studying in Sweden, for up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during university holidays. Working part-time can provide students with valuable work experience and help them finance their studies.
Sweden is also known for its beautiful landscapes, clean environment, and progressive society. International students can enjoy a range of cultural and recreational activities, such as visiting museums, exploring nature reserves, and participating in various festivals and events.
In order to study in Sweden, international students will need to apply for a student visa or a residence permit. The application process can be quite lengthy, so it is recommended that students start the process well in advance of their planned arrival in Sweden.
Why study in Sweden?
1. It’s free for most European students
That’s right! If you come from the European Union (EU) or the European Economic Area (EEA), you don’t have to pay any tuition fees to study at public universities in Sweden. And this is great news because you can use the money you save to cover living costs, which are above the European average.
2. Freedom, equality, and sustainability
These are the three core values of the Swedish society and citizens. These values are reflected in all aspects of life, including work, education, the natural environment, and so on.
Swedes will do as much they can to provide you with the support and resources you need to achieve your academic, professional, personal, or any other goal.
3. Sweden is the best example of eco-friendliness
If you’re environmentally conscious, you’ll love living here. Sweden has been investing in the wellbeing and preservation of nature for a long time now.
It represents an example of what any nation can do through involvement and commitment. For instance, by 2040, Sweden aims to achieve 100% renewable energy production.
4. Open and progressive mentality
Sweden is one of those wonderful places where you don’t have to worry about being different or not fitting it. They embrace everybody regardless of their personal choices or background. Stockholm, for example, is often considered as one of the most open cities in the world.
5. English is widely spoken
Over 80% of Swedes speak English, which makes it super easy to interact with them whenever you need help or simply want to enjoy a small chit-chat.
Still, we recommend learning at least the basics of Swedish, the most common words, for those rare cases when you meet someone who doesn’t speak the English language.
How to Apply in Sweden
If you’ve decided to study a Master’s degree at a university in Sweden, you will have to gather the right documents to prove that you fit the university requirements. Provide complete personal information, previous qualifications, financial information, and a personal statement.
What documents do I need to provide to apply in Sweden?
To apply to a university in Sweden you will likely be asked to provide some of the following documents:
- birth certificate;
- recent photos;
- your passport or national identity card;
- one or more reference letters from past employers or teachers;
- copies of past diplomas or certificates, including your graduated Bachelor’s degree;
- academic transcripts;
- letter of intent;
- Curriculum Vitae;
- Some form of proof that you can support your stay in the country during your studies.
Depending on the subject or specialization of your chosen Master’s, you might also be asked to provide scores for additional tests like the GRE, GMAT or LSAT. Check if your programme requires any of these, or others.
The list of documents depends on the specific requirements of universities in Sweden so you might be asked to include additional documents. It’s also likely you’ll have to provide official English translations of your documents, or translations in the local language.
Prove your English skills
Because you’ll study an international degree in English, you’ll have to present a language certificate. Some popular options for international students are IELTS, TOEFL or C1 Advanced language certificates. You’ll have to meet a minimum language score set by the university, and your test scores shouldn’t be older than 1-2 years. If you don’t meet the minimum language requirements, you will have to improve your skills and scores by taking an English preparation course.
Application deadlines for Sweden
The deadlines for applying to a Master’s in Sweden are usually during summer (June-July), or in winter (January-February). Keep in mind that some universities don’t have application deadlines, which means you can apply whenever you are ready.
To avoid delays or missed deadlines send your required documents with plenty of time in advance.
Living in Sweden
Let’s take a closer look at tuition and living expenses in Sweden:
Tuition fees for Study in Sweden
In Sweden, students from the EU/EEA, Switzerland, or other Nordic countries do not have to pay tuition, but only an application fee of around 100 EUR.
Students from non-EU/EEA countries pay tuition fees of 7,500–25,500 EUR per year. Some Business degrees can cost over 30,000 EUR per year.
Naturally, fees vary depending programme and degree type, so be sure to check them when looking for study options in Sweden.
Accommodation, housing, food and other expenses
Living costs in Sweden are not exactly a bargain, but in this country, paying more really means getting more in return, in terms of quality of life. The monthly student budget here is around 700–1,200 EUR/month, out of which some of the most common expenses are:
- Monthly rent: 250–700 EUR
- Utilities: 90–130 EUR
- Monthly shopping cart (groceries): 210 EUR
- A meal at an affordable restaurant: 10 EUR
- A beer: 6 EUR
- Monthly transport pass: 80 EUR
Work while study in Sweden
International students who are studying in Sweden are allowed to work part-time, subject to certain conditions. Students who come from non-EU/EEA countries and have a residence permit for studies are allowed to work for up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during the summer break.
The Swedish government has introduced several initiatives to make it easier for international students to work in Sweden. International students are allowed to work in any industry or field, and there is no requirement for them to obtain a work permit. This means that students can easily find part-time work to support themselves during their studies.
The most common part-time jobs for international students in Sweden are in the service sector, such as working in cafes, restaurants, or shops. Other popular options include working as a tutor, research assistant, or administrative assistant on campus.
Working while studying in Sweden can provide students with valuable work experience, an opportunity to improve their language skills, and help them to finance their studies. However, it is important to balance work and studies, and to ensure that work does not interfere with academic performance.
International students who are considering working in Sweden should consult with their university’s international office or career services center for advice on finding part-time work and obtaining the necessary permits. They should also be aware of their rights and responsibilities as employees in Sweden, such as the minimum wage and employment laws.
Sweden At a Glance
| Course Duration | Intake | Application Fee | Requirements |
| 3 Years (Bachelors) 1/2 Years (Masters) | January, August | 80 To 90 (EUR) | IELTS Waiver possible Academics-Above 60% |
| Language Proficiency | Tution Fee (Yearly) | Living Cost (Yearly) | Visa Application |
| IELTS- 6+, TOEFL-80+, PTE-60+ (Waiver Possible) | 9000 To 26000 (EUR) | 8400 To 13000 (EUR) | 130 (EUR) |
| Air Ticket | Processing Time | Part Time Work | Post Study Work Permit |
| 270000 To 450000 (BDT) | 6-9 Months | No restriction | 12 Months |
