Are you interested in studying in Sweden? The student visa fee for international students in Sweden is €80. Sweden boasts over 40 universities, including top-ranked institutions such as Uppsala University, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Lund University, and more.
It is worth noting that studying in Sweden is free for EU/EEA citizens and Swedish permanent residents. In this blog, you will find intriguing information about studying in Sweden, including details about universities, costs, and scholarships available to international students. If you are considering studying in Europe in Sweden for the upcoming intake, this article will prove to be a valuable resource.
Contents
- 1 Facts about Sweden
- 2 Why Study in Sweden?
- 3 Popular intakes in Sweden
- 4 Top universities to study in Sweden
- 5 Popular Courses in Sweden
- 6 Requirements for international students to Study in Sweden
- 7 Cost of Studying in Sweden for International Students
- 8 Scholarships in Sweden for International Students
- 9 Swedish student visa requirements for international students
- 10 How to apply for a Sweden study visa?
- 11 Final Words
- 12 FAQ
Facts about Sweden
Before we discuss the details of the intakes, courses, universities, and deadlines, let’s first explore some intriguing facts about Sweden.
| Capital | Stockholm |
| Language | Swedish |
| Population | 10 million (approx) |
| Area Size | 450,000 km² |
| Students (International students) | 343,000 (39,000) (approx) |
| Academic Year | August – June |
| Currency | Swedish Kronor (SEK) |
| Calling Code | +46 |
| Time zone | CET (UTC+1) |
Why Study in Sweden?
Europe is an intriguing destination for studying abroad. Let’s explore the advantages of studying in Sweden for international students.
No Tuition Fees for Most European Students
Great news! If you are from the European Union (EU) or the European Economic Area (EEA), you do not have to pay tuition fees at public universities in Sweden. This means you can use the money saved to cover your living expenses, which can be higher than in many other European countries.
Core Values: Freedom, Equality, and Sustainability
Swedish society highly values freedom, equality, and sustainability. These principles have a significant influence on all aspects of life, including work, education, and the environment. Swedes are very supportive and will help you achieve your goals, whether they are academic, professional, or personal.
Leading in Eco-Friendliness
If you are passionate about the environment, you will love Sweden. The country has long been investing in nature and sustainability. Sweden has set a remarkable goal of producing 100% renewable energy by 2040, serving as a role model for other nations.
Open and Progressive Mindset
In Sweden, you can be yourself without worrying about being different or fitting in. The country welcomes everyone, regardless of their background or personal choices. For instance, Stockholm is renowned as one of the most open and inclusive cities in the world.
English is Widely Spoken
More than 80% of Swedes speak English, making communication and finding English-taught courses easy. However, learning some basic Swedish words can be helpful for those rare instances when you encounter someone who does not speak English.
Popular intakes in Sweden
The Autumn Semester and the Spring Semester. To apply for the Autumn Semester, you must submit your application by mid-January, while for the Spring Semester, the deadline is mid-August. The admissions process typically begins in October for the following academic year.
Top universities to study in Sweden
Sweden is home to over 40 top universities, all of which offer degree programs that adhere to European standards. Here is a list of universities in Sweden that are open to international students:
- 1. Uppsala University
- 2. KTH Royal Institute of Technology
- 3. Lund University
- 4. Stockholm University
- 5. Umea University
- 6. Chalmers University of Technology
- 7. University of Gothenburg
- 8. Karolinska Institute
- 9. Linköping University
- 10. Jönköping University, and more.
Popular Courses in Sweden
If you are searching for a safe and stunning country with affordable tuition fees, studying abroad in Sweden is the ideal choice for you. Below are some of the popular courses available for international students in Sweden:
- Engineering
- Computer Science
- Business Administration
- Environmental Studies
- Humanities
- Social Sciences
- International Education
- Law
- Mathematics, and more.
Requirements for international students to Study in Sweden
International students must meet the entry requirements to be admitted to any Swedish university. These entry requirements can vary for international students at both the undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
Undergraduate Requirements to Study in Sweden
To be eligible for bachelor’s studies, you must meet the following requirements:
1. Have completed high school after the age of 16.
2. Demonstrate proficiency in English. If you are from Sweden, you should have studied a course similar to the Swedish upper secondary course English 6. Please refer to the English Language Requirements for more information.
If you completed high school after December 31, 2009, an additional math requirement applies. You must have completed courses equivalent to Swedish courses Mathematics 1a, 1b, or 1c. However, courses such as Mathematics, Science, Social Sciences, etc. have specific requirements that need to be met.
Postgraduate Requirements to Study in Sweden
To meet the minimum admission requirements for master’s level studies, you will need to hold a bachelor’s degree (equivalent to a Swedish kandidatexamen) from a globally recognized university. Additionally, it is common for master’s programs to require applicants to have completed specific bachelor’s degrees or courses in relevant subjects. These prerequisites are typically aligned with the field of study that you intend to pursue at the master’s level.
English Language Requirements to Study in Sweden
To apply for a bachelor’s degree program, you must achieve a specific IELTS score. An IELTS score of 5.5, with no band below 5.0, is considered equivalent to English 5. If you aim for an English 6 equivalent, you will need an IELTS score of 6.5, with no band below 5.5.
For master’s level programs, a minimum of English 6 equivalent is generally required. This means you must obtain an IELTS score of 6.5, with no band below 5.5. However, some universities may demand an English 7 equivalent, which would require an IELTS score of 7.0, with no band below 6.0.
Cost of Studying in Sweden for International Students
The overall cost of studying in Sweden for international students includes tuition fees, visa application fees, bank statement requirements, and living expenses in Sweden.
Tuition fees in Sweden
Education in Sweden is provided free of charge for EU/EEA citizens and permanent residence permit holders. The average tuition fee at Swedish universities is SEK 129,000 per academic year. However, the cost of one year’s tuition can vary between SEK 80,000 and SEK 295,000, depending on the university and the program you decide to pursue.
Living costs in Sweden
Sweden is known for being expensive, so it’s important to be aware that your monthly expenses may be higher than what you’re used to. To cover your living expenses, you should budget around SEK 10,314 per month. Keep in mind that housing will likely be your largest expense, but the exact amount you’ll need will vary depending on your lifestyle, habits, and location.
Student visa application fee in Sweden
As an international student, you must apply for a student visa to study in Sweden. The fee for the student visa application in Sweden is €80. There is no age limit for obtaining a Swedish student visa, but the amount of financial aid you are eligible for may decrease as you advance in age.
Financial requirement for a Swedish study visa
To obtain a Swedish study visa, it is necessary to demonstrate that you possess sufficient funds to sustain yourself throughout your stay. A minimum balance of $12,000 in your bank account is recommended, equivalent to approximately $860 per month or $10,320 per year. However, if you have been awarded a scholarship or grant, a bank statement is not required.
Scholarships in Sweden for International Students
A scholarship can help fulfill your dreams. Sweden provides various scholarships, some of which you may be eligible for. Here are popular scholarships available for the study abroad aspirants wishing to study in Sweden:
- BTH Scholarships
- Chalmers University of Technology scholarships
- Dalarna University scholarships
- Halmstad University scholarships
- KTH Royal Institute of Technology scholarships
- Jönköping University scholarships
- Karlstad University scholarships
- Linnaeus University scholarships
- Mid-Sweden University scholarships
Swedish student visa requirements for international students
The requirements for a student visa in Sweden can vary depending on your home country. In general, you will need the following:
- Acceptance Letter: Before applying for a student visa, you must first be accepted into a university or college in Sweden. You will need to provide proof of this acceptance when submitting your visa application.
- Financial Support: You are required to demonstrate that you have the financial means to support yourself while studying in Sweden. This can be done by providing bank statements, scholarship letters, or other relevant financial documents.
- Health Insurance: It is necessary to have health insurance that covers your entire duration of study in Sweden.
- Application Fee: An application fee must be paid when submitting your visa application.
- English Language Proficiency: If your course is conducted in English, you may need to provide proof of your English language proficiency.
- Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay in Sweden.
- Passport Photos: You will need to provide passport-sized photographs.
- Completed Application Form: Fill out the student visa application form and include any additional documents requested by the Swedish embassy or consulate.
How to apply for a Sweden study visa?
To apply for a student visa and residence permit in Sweden, there are two options available: apply online through the Swedish Migration Agency website or visit a Swedish embassy in your home country. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to navigate the application process:
1. Schedule an Appointment: Contact the Swedish embassy to schedule a meeting.
2. Fill Out the Application: Complete the application form thoroughly and accurately.
3. Gather Documents: Collect all the necessary documents required for the application.
4. Pay the Fee: Make the payment for the application fee.
5. Attend an Interview: Attend an interview with the Swedish authorities, if required.
6. Wait for a Decision: Patience is key as it may take anywhere from two to six months for your application to be processed. This duration depends on factors such as the workload of the authorities and whether they need additional documents from you.
Final Words
Sweden is not only home to renowned companies such as Volvo, IKEA, and H&M, but it is also the birthplace of several exciting new businesses. Choosing to study in Sweden will provide you with remarkable advantages for your future career.
FAQ
How much does it cost to study in Sweden?
Answer: The average tuition fee at Swedish universities is SEK 129,000 per academic year. Tuition for one year can range from SEK 80,000 to SEK 295,000.
Do I need IELTS to study in Sweden?
Answer: Yes, the minimum IELTS score requirement for international students studying in Sweden is 5.5, with no band score below 5.0.
How can I obtain permanent residence in Sweden after studying?
Answer: To obtain a permanent residence permit in Sweden, you must meet certain requirements, such as having a steady income and living a stable life. Additionally, you need to have lived in Sweden with a residence permit for a specific time.
Is studying in Sweden worthwhile?
Answer: Higher education in Sweden is among the best in the world. The country’s educational system emphasizes group work and independent study, rather than solely relying on lectures.
Is university free in Sweden?
Answer: Education in Sweden is free for EU/EEA citizens and permanent residence permit holders.
What is the proof of funds required for studying in Sweden?
Answer: To obtain a Swedish study visa, you must demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover your living expenses during your stay. You should have a minimum of $12,000 in your bank account, which equates to approximately $860 per month or $10,320 per year.
