Scholarships in Sweden for International Students 2027: Complete Guide

Introduction

Have you ever dreamed of earning a degree abroad but worried that the cost of international education might be beyond your reach? You are not alone. Thousands of students around the world want to study in Europe, but tuition fees, accommodation, transportation, and everyday living expenses can make that dream seem impossible.

Fortunately, scholarships in Sweden for international students provide opportunities to pursue higher education without necessarily paying the full cost yourself.

Sweden is an attractive destination for international students because of its respected universities, research-driven education system, innovative industries, and emphasis on independent thinking. Students can explore programmes in technology, business, engineering, public health, environmental science, social sciences, and many other disciplines.

More importantly, several Swedish universities offer scholarships to talented international students, while government-funded initiatives provide financial support to eligible applicants from selected countries.

Some scholarships cover the entire tuition fee. Others provide both tuition coverage and a monthly living allowance, making them particularly attractive to students who cannot afford to finance their education independently.

However, not every scholarship advertised as an opportunity to study in Sweden is fully funded. Understanding the differences between available awards is essential before beginning your application.

In this complete guide, you will discover the major scholarships in Sweden for international students, their benefits, eligibility requirements, application procedures, important deadlines, and practical tips for improving your chances of success.

Whether you are planning your first university degree or looking for a master’s programme in 2027, this guide will help you understand where to begin.

Why Study in Sweden as an International Student?

Before exploring individual scholarships, it helps to understand what makes Sweden an appealing destination for higher education.

1. Access to internationally recognized universities

Sweden has several universities offering programmes in English, particularly at the master’s level. Many institutions have strong research facilities and connections with businesses, government agencies, and international organizations.

This can give students opportunities to develop practical knowledge alongside their academic qualifications.

2. Opportunities to study in English

You do not necessarily need to speak Swedish to study in Sweden.

Many master’s programmes are taught entirely in English, allowing international students to pursue advanced education without first becoming fluent in Swedish.

However, bachelor’s programmes taught in English are less common, so undergraduate applicants should research their options carefully.

English-language programmes also have specific language requirements. Depending on your previous education and the programme you select, you may need IELTS, TOEFL, or another accepted form of English-language proof.

3. A strong focus on innovation and research

Swedish universities are known for encouraging students to question assumptions, solve problems, and work independently.

Depending on your chosen field, you may have opportunities to participate in research projects, collaborate with other students, and explore practical applications of what you learn.

This can be especially valuable for students interested in technology, sustainability, engineering, healthcare, and business.

4. Scholarships that reduce the cost of education

One of the biggest advantages of considering Sweden is the availability of funding opportunities.

Eligible international students can investigate:

• Government-funded scholarships.
• University-specific scholarships.
• Tuition fee waivers.
• Scholarships for students from selected countries.
• Subject-specific funding opportunities.
• Research funding and doctoral positions.

The amount of support varies considerably. Some awards cover tuition fees only, while others also provide financial support for living expenses.

The key is to identify scholarships that match your qualifications and financial needs rather than applying indiscriminately.

Scholarships in Sweden for International Students: What Funding Is Available?

Scholarships in Sweden generally fall into two main categories: government-funded awards and university-specific scholarships.

Understanding the difference can help you decide where to focus your efforts.

Government-funded scholarships

Government-funded scholarships are designed to attract talented international students and support particular educational or development objectives.

One important example is the Swedish Institute Scholarship for Global Professionals.

Such programmes may have nationality restrictions, work-experience requirements, leadership criteria, and approved-course lists.

They can be especially attractive because some provide financial support beyond tuition fees.

University-specific scholarships

Individual universities also offer scholarships to attract academically talented international students.

These awards are often based on academic merit and may require you to apply for an eligible degree programme before submitting a scholarship application.

Examples include scholarships offered by Uppsala University, Umeå University, Linköping University, and other Swedish institutions.

Many university scholarships cover all or part of tuition fees rather than providing a monthly living allowance.

Comparing the main scholarship opportunities

The following table highlights scholarships worth investigating for the 2027 intake. Benefits and eligibility are subject to the applicable scholarship rules.

Note: This table describes established scholarship schemes, not a guarantee that every award will be available on identical terms in 2027. The Swedish Institute’s 2027/2028 call and each university’s current scholarship announcement should be checked before applying. Uppsala University

1. Swedish Institute Scholarship for Global Professionals

The Swedish Institute Scholarship for Global Professionals, commonly known as SISGP, is one of the most important opportunities for international students seeking a master’s degree in Sweden.

The scholarship is designed to support talented professionals who want to develop their expertise and contribute to sustainable development in their home countries and internationally.

Unlike many university scholarships that cover tuition alone, this programme has traditionally provided a broader funding package.

What does the Swedish Institute Scholarship cover?

Under the previously published scholarship terms, benefits have included:

• Full tuition fee coverage.
• A monthly living allowance of SEK 12,000.
• A one-time travel grant, subject to the applicable terms.
• Access to professional networks and activities for scholarship recipients.

These benefits make the scholarship particularly attractive to applicants who would otherwise struggle to cover both tuition and living expenses.

However, the precise benefits for the 2027/2028 academic year must be confirmed when the new scholarship call is published.

Who can apply?

The scholarship is not open to every international student automatically.

Applicants generally need to meet requirements relating to:

• Citizenship of an eligible country.
• Admission to an eligible, full-time master’s programme.
• Relevant work experience.
• Demonstrated leadership experience.
• Academic qualifications and programme entry requirements.

The precise work-experience criteria, eligible countries, approved programmes, and documentation requirements depend on the relevant application cycle.

Nigeria has been included among the eligible countries in previous scholarship cycles. Applicants from other countries should check the eligibility list rather than assuming that their nationality qualifies.

What subjects can you study?

The eligible programme list may include subjects such as:

• Business administration and management.
• Economics.
• Engineering and technology.
• Environmental science and sustainability.
• Public health.
• Social sciences.
• Development-related studies.
• Other approved disciplines.

Not every programme in these fields necessarily qualifies year in, year out. Applicants must check the official list for their application year.

How competitive is the scholarship?

The Swedish Institute Scholarship for Global Professionals is highly competitive because it attracts applicants from several countries.

A strong application should demonstrate more than good academic results. You need to explain how your professional background, leadership experience, and proposed studies fit the scholarship’s objectives.

For example, someone applying for a master’s in sustainable development might demonstrate how their previous professional experience relates to environmental challenges, community development, or institutional improvement.

Important: Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee selection. The quality of your application and the scholarship’s selection criteria matter.

For the official eligibility rules, scholarship benefits, and future announcements, visit the Swedish Institute’s official scholarship information page.

2. Swedish Institute Pioneering Women in STEM Scholarship

Women interested in science and technology should also investigate the Swedish Institute’s Pioneering Women in STEM scholarship initiative.

STEM stands for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. These fields include disciplines that are central to scientific research, digital innovation, engineering development, and technological progress.

The scholarship initiative has been designed to help eligible women pursue master’s education in selected STEM-related programmes in Sweden.

What are the scholarship benefits?

Under the previously published programme terms, the award has included:

• Full tuition fee coverage.
• A monthly living allowance of SEK 12,000.
• A one-time travel grant of SEK 15,000.

The benefits and selection criteria for the next intake must be confirmed when the Swedish Institute publishes its new call.

Who is eligible?

Eligibility is restricted by nationality and the approved list of master’s programmes.

Women from countries designated by the Swedish Institute may be eligible, provided they meet the academic and other programme requirements.

Nigeria has been among the countries represented in previous scholarship awards. This makes the initiative particularly relevant to eligible Nigerian women, although applicants must verify the conditions for the year they intend to apply.

Which courses are covered?

Eligible programmes have included selected courses in areas such as:

• Artificial intelligence and machine learning.
• Computer science.
• Engineering.
• Mathematics.
• Environmental and sustainability sciences.
• Other approved scientific and technical disciplines.

The eligible-course list is important because studying a STEM subject does not automatically make you eligible for the scholarship.

How can you improve your chances?

Start by identifying a master’s programme that fits your previous education and career goals.

Then prepare an application that clearly explains your academic interests, relevant experience, and reasons for choosing the programme.

Your application should be specific. Rather than simply saying that you want to study technology, explain the problem you want to understand or the skills you hope to develop.

Remember that the scholarship’s eligibility rules and approved programmes can change between application cycles.

3. Uppsala University Global Scholarship

Uppsala University is one of Sweden’s established universities and offers scholarships to outstanding international students applying for eligible master’s programmes.

The Uppsala University Global Scholarship is particularly relevant to students who are required to pay tuition fees and have strong academic records.

What does the scholarship cover?

The Global Scholarship covers the full tuition fee for an eligible master’s programme.

However, it does not cover living expenses.

This distinction is important. Even if you receive the scholarship, you must still have a realistic plan for accommodation, food, transportation, insurance where applicable, and other personal expenses.

Who can apply?

The published criteria for the Global Scholarship include:

• Citizenship of a country outside the EU/EEA and Switzerland.
• Application to an eligible international master’s programme.
• Strong academic potential.
• Meeting the programme’s admission requirements.
• Ranking an eligible Uppsala University programme as your first choice in the national admissions system.

You must also submit your programme application and supporting documents within the relevant deadlines.

What about undergraduate students?

Uppsala University also offers the Anders Wall’s Scholarship for Studies at Uppsala University.

This scholarship is available to eligible citizens of African countries applying for qualifying bachelor’s or master’s programmes.

It covers tuition fees, but not living expenses. Academic merit and the programme’s other eligibility requirements are important.

This means students from eligible African countries should not assume that all Uppsala University funding is restricted to postgraduate study.

How competitive is the scholarship?

The university describes its scholarships as highly competitive. It has reported that approximately 2% of applicants receive a scholarship.

A good academic record is therefore important, but you must also ensure that your programme application is complete and that you follow the scholarship instructions carefully. Uppsala University

4. Umeå University Scholarships for International Students

Umeå University offers scholarships to selected academically talented students from outside the EU/EEA and Switzerland who apply for eligible English-language degree programmes.

The university awards scholarships on academic merit, and selected applicants receive either full or partial tuition fee waivers.

Who can apply?

The university’s published eligibility criteria include:

• Citizenship of a country outside the EU/EEA and Switzerland.
• An application for an eligible full degree programme.
• Submission of the programme application before the deadline.
• Payment of the application fee where required.
• Ranking an eligible Umeå University programme as the first choice in the national admissions system.

Scholarship registration is generally by invitation for eligible applicants, so it is important to monitor your admissions email and spam folder.

What can the scholarship cover?

Depending on the award, you may receive a full or partial tuition fee waiver.

A full tuition waiver can significantly reduce the cost of studying abroad, but it does not necessarily pay for accommodation or everyday living expenses.

What are the deadlines for autumn 2027?

Umeå University’s published timeline for autumn 2027 includes:

• 15 January 2027: Deadline to rank an eligible Umeå University programme as your first choice.
• 1 February 2027: Deadline for supporting documents and the application fee, where applicable.
• 2–5 February 2027: Expected period for scholarship invitations.
• 5 March 2027: Deadline to register interest in a scholarship.
• Late April 2027: Expected scholarship results.

Always recheck the university’s official timetable before submitting your application because dates and procedures can change.

5. Linköping University International Scholarship

Linköping University is another institution worth considering if you want to study in Sweden with financial support.

Its International Scholarship is intended for eligible international students applying for qualifying master’s programmes.

The published scholarship scheme has offered selected students a 50% reduction in tuition fees.

This can make a significant difference to the overall cost of a degree, although students must still budget for any remaining tuition fees and living expenses.

Who should consider this scholarship?

It may be worth investigating if:

• You have a strong academic record.
• You want to pursue an eligible master’s programme.
• You are required to pay tuition fees.
• You can finance the remaining costs if the scholarship does not cover everything.

Do not assume that every master’s programme qualifies or that the scholarship percentage will remain unchanged for the next intake. Confirm the current terms before applying.

6. Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences Scholarships

Students interested in agriculture, forestry, food production, environmental management, and sustainability should explore opportunities at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, commonly known as SLU.

The university offers scholarships to selected international students enrolled in eligible programmes.

Areas of study to explore

Depending on the available degree programmes, relevant subject areas may include:

• Agricultural science.
• Environmental science.
• Forestry.
• Plant science.
• Sustainable food systems.
• Natural resource management.

What does the scholarship cover?

The university’s scholarship scheme provides tuition fee support to selected applicants.

It does not cover living expenses or travel costs.

This means you should compare the scholarship with the total cost of your intended programme before accepting an offer.

7. Karolinska Institutet Global Master’s Scholarship

Students interested in health and biomedical sciences should investigate Karolinska Institutet, a university recognised for medical and health-related education and research.

Its Global Master’s Scholarship is available to a limited number of outstanding students admitted to eligible global master’s programmes.

The scholarship covers tuition fees for selected recipients, rather than providing comprehensive funding for all living expenses.

Who should consider it?

This opportunity may be relevant if you are interested in fields such as:

• Public health.
• Biomedicine.
• Global health.
• Health sciences.
• Other eligible medical or biomedical master’s programmes.

The precise list of eligible programmes and selection conditions should be checked for the relevant intake.

As with other competitive scholarships, meeting the academic requirements does not guarantee that you will receive funding.

Can You Get Fully Funded Undergraduate Scholarships in Sweden?

Yes, there are undergraduate funding opportunities, but fully funded bachelor’s scholarships are more limited than some applicants expect.

One important distinction is that the Swedish Institute’s major scholarships discussed in this guide focus on master’s studies. They should not be treated as a general funding route for bachelor’s degrees.

Students who have completed secondary school should therefore investigate university-specific scholarships and other eligible funding sources.

The Anders Wall’s Scholarship at Uppsala University is one opportunity for eligible citizens of African countries applying to qualifying bachelor’s or master’s programmes. It covers tuition fees but does not pay living expenses.

Umeå University also offers tuition fee scholarships for selected eligible bachelor’s and master’s applicants.

What should undergraduate applicants prepare?

Depending on the programme, you may need:

• Secondary school certificates.
• Academic transcripts.
• Proof of English-language proficiency.
• A valid passport.
• Programme-specific supporting documents.
• Evidence of funding for expenses not covered by a scholarship.

You should also confirm whether your secondary school qualifications meet the Swedish university’s entry requirements.

If you want to pursue a bachelor’s degree, do not spend all your time applying for master’s scholarships. Identify funding opportunities specifically designed for undergraduate applicants.

Are There Scholarships in Sweden Without IELTS?

Some students can satisfy a university’s English-language requirements without submitting IELTS results, but this depends on the institution, programme, and qualifications they already hold.

Swedish universities may accept different forms of English-language evidence under specified conditions.

For example, certain previous university studies may satisfy an English requirement, but the rules are not identical for every applicant or programme.

Before paying for an English test, check the requirements for your intended degree and determine whether your previous education qualifies for an exemption.

Important: A scholarship being available to international students does not mean that applicants are automatically exempt from English-language requirements.

How to Apply for Scholarships in Sweden for International Students

Applying for a scholarship involves more than completing a form. You must first identify a suitable programme, meet its admission requirements, and understand how its scholarship process works.

The following steps will help you organise your application.

Step 1: Choose your degree level and subject

Begin by deciding what you want to study.

Are you applying for a bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, or PhD position?

Your answer will determine which scholarships are relevant.

For example, the Swedish Institute Scholarship for Global Professionals is designed for master’s students, while certain university-specific awards may also support undergraduate study.

Once you know your preferred subject, shortlist programmes that match your previous qualifications and future career plans.

Step 2: Confirm your eligibility

Read the scholarship requirements carefully before applying.

Check:

• Nationality restrictions.
• Required academic qualifications.
• Minimum admission requirements.
• Work-experience requirements.
• Leadership criteria.
• Approved degree programmes.
• English-language requirements.
• Application deadlines.

If a scholarship requires professional experience and you do not meet that requirement, it may be more sensible to concentrate on university awards that assess academic merit.

Step 3: Apply for admission to the university

For most degree programmes, international applications are submitted through Sweden’s central admissions system.

The application process generally involves creating an account, selecting programmes, submitting the required information, and providing supporting documents.

You must follow the published deadline for your chosen intake.

For autumn 2027, the main international application round opened on 16 October 2026, with a general application deadline of 15 January 2027. Supporting documents and application fees, where required, have separate deadlines.

Some programmes or universities may have different arrangements, so verify the dates that apply to your application.

Step 4: Prepare your scholarship documents

Commonly requested documents include:

• Academic certificates and transcripts.
• A valid passport or other accepted identity documentation.
• A CV or résumé.
• A motivation letter.
• Proof of English proficiency, where required.
• Letters of recommendation, where requested.
• Evidence of employment or work experience, if applicable.
• Evidence of leadership experience, where required.

Not every scholarship requires every document.

Read the instructions carefully and make sure your documents are accurate, complete, and consistent with the information in your application.

Step 5: Submit the scholarship application

Admission and scholarship applications are not always the same process.

Some universities require you to submit a separate scholarship form after applying for a degree. Others invite eligible applicants to register their interest.

The Swedish Institute also has its own scholarship application procedure.

Follow the correct process for each award and submit every required document before the deadline.

Step 6: Monitor your application

After submitting your application, check your email and admissions account regularly.

You may receive requests for additional documents, updates about your admission status, or instructions for the next stage of the scholarship process.

Keep copies of your application confirmations and submitted documents.

Step 7: Prepare for your move if successful

If you receive an offer, review the scholarship conditions carefully.

Confirm exactly what is covered, when payments begin, and whether you must meet any additional requirements.

If your award covers tuition only, you will need to arrange funding for living expenses.

You may also need to apply for a residence permit, arrange accommodation, and organize travel.

Important Deadlines for Sweden Scholarships in 2027

Students targeting autumn 2027 should begin preparing early.

The following table provides a planning guide based on published university admissions and scholarship timelines.

A note about Swedish Institute scholarships: The Swedish Institute has its own annual application calendar. Do not assume that its application deadline is identical to the university admissions deadline. Confirm the 2027/2028 scholarship dates when they are officially announced.

How to Write a Strong Scholarship Motivation Letter

A motivation letter can help the selection committee understand why you are a suitable candidate.

A weak letter often contains broad statements about wanting to study abroad or describing a university as prestigious. A stronger letter connects your academic background, relevant experience, programme choice, and future plans.

What should your motivation letter include?

1. Your academic background

Briefly explain what you studied and how it relates to your intended programme.

2. Your reasons for choosing Sweden

Explain why Sweden is a suitable place for your particular academic or professional goals.

Avoid relying only on general statements about the country.

3. Your reasons for choosing the programme

Identify the knowledge, skills, or research opportunities you want to gain.

4. Your relevant experience

Discuss professional responsibilities, academic projects, volunteering, or other experiences that demonstrate your readiness.

5. Your future plans

Explain how the degree will help you contribute to your profession, community, organisation, or wider society.

6. Your suitability for the scholarship

Connect your experience and ambitions to the scholarship’s actual selection criteria.

Before submitting the letter, check the word limit and required format. Some scholarships impose strict instructions, and failing to follow them can weaken an otherwise strong application.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for Sweden Scholarships

Even qualified students can undermine their applications by overlooking important requirements.

Here are mistakes to avoid.

1. Applying for scholarships you are not eligible for

Always check nationality, degree level, subject, and experience requirements before investing time in an application.

2. Confusing tuition-free with fully funded

A tuition waiver does not necessarily cover rent, food, transport, or travel.

Calculate the full cost of studying abroad before accepting an offer.

3. Missing application deadlines

A late application may be rejected even if your academic qualifications are excellent.

Create a calendar with separate deadlines for university admission, scholarship forms, supporting documents, and payments.

4. Submitting generic motivation letters

A letter that could be sent to any university may fail to explain why you are a strong candidate for a specific programme.

Tailor your application to the actual scholarship criteria.

5. Ignoring programme requirements

Two master’s programmes at the same university may have different admission requirements.

Check each programme individually rather than assuming that eligibility for one automatically qualifies you for another.

Frequently Asked Questions About Scholarships in Sweden for International Students

1. Are there fully funded scholarships in Sweden for international students in 2027?

Yes, Sweden has established scholarship programmes that have covered tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs for eligible master’s students.

The Swedish Institute Scholarship for Global Professionals and Pioneering Women in STEM are two important examples.

However, the benefits, eligible countries, approved programmes, and deadlines for the 2027/2028 intake must be confirmed through the official announcements.

2. Can international students get 100% scholarships in Sweden?

Yes. Selected students can receive scholarships covering 100% of tuition fees.

Some government-funded awards have also included living allowances and travel grants.

However, a 100% tuition scholarship is not the same as a fully funded scholarship covering all major expenses.

3. Can students from African countries apply for scholarships in Sweden?

Yes. Several Swedish scholarship schemes accept eligible applicants from African countries.

For example, Nigeria has been included in previous Swedish Institute scholarship cycles, while the Anders Wall’s Scholarship at Uppsala University is available to eligible African citizens.

Applicants must still meet the academic, programme, and other applicable requirements.

4. Can I study in Sweden without paying tuition fees?

You may be able to study without paying tuition yourself if you receive a full tuition scholarship or qualify for an applicable exemption.

However, international students from outside the EU/EEA are generally required to pay tuition fees unless an exemption applies.

Even if tuition is covered, you may still need to finance your living expenses.

5. Is IELTS compulsory for Sweden scholarships?

Not in every case. The English-language evidence accepted depends on the university, programme, and your previous qualifications.

Some applicants may qualify through other accepted forms of evidence.

Always check the requirements for your chosen programme before deciding whether to take an English test.

6. Can I apply for more than one scholarship in Sweden?

You can investigate and apply for multiple scholarships where their rules permit it.

However, each scholarship may have different eligibility conditions, deadlines, and application procedures.

You should also check whether receiving one award affects your eligibility for another.

7. Do I need work experience to get a scholarship in Sweden?

Not always.

The Swedish Institute Scholarship for Global Professionals has work-experience and leadership requirements, but some university scholarships focus primarily on academic merit.

Choose awards that match your qualifications and experience.

8. Are there scholarships in Sweden for bachelor’s degrees?

Yes, some universities offer undergraduate scholarships.

For example, Uppsala University has the Anders Wall’s Scholarship for eligible African citizens applying for qualifying bachelor’s programmes. Umeå University also offers scholarships for selected eligible undergraduate applicants.

These awards may cover tuition fees without covering living expenses.

9. When should I apply for Sweden scholarships for autumn 2027?

Begin preparing as early as possible.

The main international admissions round for autumn 2027 opened in October 2026, and the general application deadline is 15 January 2027.

University scholarship deadlines may fall later, while the Swedish Institute has its own annual schedule.

Check the specific deadlines for your chosen university and scholarship.

10. What GPA do I need to get a scholarship in Sweden?

There is no single GPA requirement that applies to every scholarship.

Universities set admission requirements for individual programmes, and scholarship committees may consider academic performance alongside other criteria.

The Swedish Institute’s Global Professionals scholarship also considers factors such as work experience, leadership, and programme eligibility.

A strong academic record can help, but it does not guarantee a scholarship.

11. Can I work while studying in Sweden?

International students should check the current rules governing their residence status and work.

Even where working is permitted, you should not assume that a part-time job will cover all your expenses or replace the financial planning required for a residence permit.

It is safer to arrange a realistic funding plan before travelling.

12. Are Sweden scholarships available to students from countries outside Africa?

Yes. Several Swedish university scholarships are open to eligible international students from countries around the world.

The Uppsala University Global Scholarship, for example, is open to citizens of countries outside the EU/EEA and Switzerland, subject to its other requirements.

Government-funded scholarships may have narrower nationality requirements, so check each programme separately.

Final Thoughts: Start Preparing for Sweden Scholarships Now

Studying in Sweden can be an achievable goal for international students who research their options carefully and prepare strong applications.

The most suitable scholarship will depend on your academic background, nationality, intended degree, subject area, work experience, and financial needs.

If you have relevant professional experience and leadership skills, investigate the Swedish Institute Scholarship for Global Professionals. Also, if you are a woman interested in an eligible STEM master’s programme, look into Pioneering Women in STEM. If your priority is tuition support, explore university scholarships at institutions such as Uppsala University, Umeå University, and Linköping University.

Remember that not all scholarships cover living expenses, and a tuition waiver alone may not be enough to finance your entire stay.

Start by identifying suitable programmes, checking the entry requirements, preparing your documents, and recording every relevant deadline.

For the general application process, consult University Admissions in Sweden, which explains how international admissions and scholarship opportunities work.

Most importantly, do not wait until the last minute. A carefully prepared application gives you time to correct errors, strengthen your motivation letter, and make informed decisions about funding.

Your next step is simple: choose a programme that fits your goals, identify the scholarships for which you qualify, and begin preparing your application.