Scholarships for International Students in Sweden – Funding Your Studies

Studying in Sweden can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but for many international students, tuition fees and living expenses can be a challenge. Fortunately, Sweden offers various scholarships to help international students finance their studies.

This guide covers the most important scholarship opportunities, eligibility criteria, and how to apply.

Types of Scholarships Available

There are three main types of scholarships for international students in Sweden:

1. Swedish Government Scholarships – Funded by the Swedish Institute (SI).
2. University-Specific Scholarships – Offered by individual Swedish universities.
3. Private and External Scholarships – Provided by organizations, companies, and foundations.

1. Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals (SISGP)

The Swedish Institute (SI) offers scholarships for highly qualified students from certain countries who wish to pursue a master's degree in Sweden.

Eligibility:

• Must be from an eligible country (see SI’s official list).
• Must apply for a master’s program at a Swedish university.
• Should have leadership experience or work experience in relevant fields.

What It Covers:

• Full tuition fee (paid directly to the university).
• Living expenses of 12,000 SEK per month.
• Travel grant (varies by country).
• Insurance and SI Network Membership.

How to Apply:

1. Apply for a master's program via University Admissions Sweden.
2. Submit a separate scholarship application via the Swedish Institute.
3. Provide required documents: CV, motivation letter, proof of leadership experience, and references.

📅 Deadline: Usually in February each year.

2. University-Specific Scholarships

Many Swedish universities offer scholarships for international students, which can cover tuition fees partially or fully. Some also offer additional living expense grants.

Here are some of the top universities in Sweden that offer scholarships:

Lund University Global Scholarship

• Covers 25%, 50%, 75%, or 100% of the tuition fee.
• Merit-based (academic excellence required).
• Website: www.lu.se

Uppsala University Global Scholarship

• For fee-paying international students.
• Covers full tuition fees (no living costs).
• Website: www.uu.se

KTH Royal Institute of Technology Scholarship

• Covers full tuition fees for top master's applicants.
• Based on academic excellence.
• Website: www.kth.se

Chalmers IPOET Scholarship

• Covers 75% of tuition fees for master’s students.
• Merit-based.
• Website: www.chalmers.se

Stockholm University Scholarship

• Covers tuition fees for master's students.
• Awarded based on academic performance.
• Website: www.su.se

📅 Deadlines: Vary by university, usually January – March.

3. Private and External Scholarships

Apart from government and university scholarships, several private organizations and foundations offer funding for international students:

Erasmus+ Scholarships

• Available for EU/EEA students.
• Covers part of tuition and living expenses.
• Supports exchange students studying in Sweden.
• Website: www.ec.europa.eu/programmes/erasmus-plus

SI Scholarships for South Africa, Turkey & Western Balkans

• Special scholarships for students from South Africa, Turkey, and the Western Balkans.
• Covers tuition fees and living expenses.
• Website: www.si.se

The Visby Programme (for Eastern Europe)

• Scholarships for students from Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Moldova, Russia, and Ukraine.
• Covers tuition, living costs, and travel grants.
• Website: www.si.se

How to Apply for Scholarships in Sweden

Step 1: Apply for a Degree Program

• You must first apply for a bachelor’s or master’s program at a Swedish university through University Admissions Sweden.
• Application period: October – January for autumn intake.

Step 2: Research Scholarship Opportunities

• Check if you are eligible for government, university, or private scholarships.
• Visit university websites for specific scholarship information.

Step 3: Submit Scholarship Applications

• Some scholarships require separate applications, while others consider you automatically when applying for admission.
• Prepare motivation letters, CVs, and recommendation letters if required.

Step 4: Wait for Results

• Most scholarship results are announced between March and May.
• If awarded a scholarship, follow the next steps for visa and residence permit applications.

Tips for Increasing Your Chances of Getting a Scholarship

1. Apply Early – Many scholarships have limited spots and early deadlines.
2. Maintain High Academic Performance – Most scholarships are merit-based.
3. Write a Strong Motivation Letter – Explain why you deserve the scholarship.
4. Highlight Leadership & Work Experience – Many scholarships prioritize leadership and professional background.
5. Apply for Multiple Scholarships – Increase your chances by applying to different funding options.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I get a fully funded scholarship in Sweden?

Yes! The Swedish Institute Scholarship for Global Professionals (SISGP) covers full tuition, living costs, and travel expenses for selected master's students.

2. Do Swedish universities offer scholarships for bachelor's students?

Most scholarships in Sweden are for master’s programs, but some universities offer limited scholarships for bachelor’s students.

3. Can I apply for multiple scholarships?

Yes! You can apply for multiple scholarships at different universities and funding organizations.

4. When should I apply for a scholarship?

Most scholarship applications open between December and February, but deadlines vary by university.

5. Can I work while studying if I don’t get a scholarship?

Yes! Sweden allows international students to work while studying. Learn more in our guide on Working While Studying in Sweden.

Final Thoughts

Sweden offers various scholarships to help international students cover tuition and living expenses. Whether you apply for government-funded, university-specific, or private scholarships, early preparation is key to securing financial aid.

If you're planning to study in Sweden, check out our guide on Student Visas and Residence Permits and Swedish Universities for more information.