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Study in Sweden. 22 best institutions in Sweden
This content was developed and approved with active participation of Dr. Samuel De León.
In the process of preparing the material, we referenced the following sources:
- https://sweden.se/life/society/the-swedish-school-system
- https://borgenproject.org/8-facts-about-education-in-sweden/
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The Business Administration programmes have been classified as best in Sweden
SwedenKristianstadCurrently watching: 6from 5500.00 € / semester -
from 5500.00 € / semester -
from 1700.00 € / 15 lessons -
from 6000.00 € / 5 weeks -
ranked #146 in Best Global Universities
SwedenGothenburgCurrently watching: 2 -
from 27000.00 $ / year -
#3 in Best Global Universities in Sweden
SwedenStockholmCurrently watching: 2from 4200.00 € / semester -
from 23000.00 $ / year -
from 15000.00 $ / year -
from 1000.00 $ / year
Studying in Sweden in the best, prestigious educational institutions of children, schoolchildren, teenagers, as well as foreign students: you will find a description of international programs, their tuition fees, ratings and reviews for each course, and our specialist will help you choose the most suitable program for study from the list. FREE services and assistance in enrolling and applying to partner schools and universities in Sweden for children and students of foreigners, the number of places is limited.
The education system in Sweden differs from the European or CIS countries. The key "three pillars" of studying in this northern country are equality, quality, and informality:
- equality of all students, regardless of financial situation;
- strict adherence to the principles of quality of teaching
- the establishment of partnership, friendly relations between the teacher and the student, who is an inviolable person, on an equal basis with adults, from kindergarten.
Studying in Sweden is prestigious: with diplomas and certificates from local schools and universities, it is possible to obtain a highly paid specialty, enrollment in any European university. Many Swedish universities consistently fall into the TOP-100 of the world's best universities.
Pedagogical courage in relation to the learning process in Sweden is world-famous. Not every country will dare to cross out the old academic teaching methods and include non-traditional, innovative programs in the process, but this is precisely the educational principle of the northern state.
Education in schools and universities is absolutely free for those living in Sweden and immigrants from EU countries. Children of emigrants who have obtained citizenship also receive this right. Foreigners who come to study in Sweden have to pay for each year, but the cost is low compared to other countries.
Alternative destinations
Study in Sweden: A Guide for International Students
Studying abroad in Sweden offers a unique opportunity for foreign students to experience a world-class education system.
Understanding the Education System in Sweden Sweden's compulsory education, known as "grundskola", spans 9 years. After this, students can proceed to the second stage known as the "gymnasieskola" or gymnasium. This stage lasts for 3 years and is designed for students who aim to further their education at university level.
Choosing the Best Programs to Study in Sweden All schools in Sweden follow a consistent academic program. This ensures that international students get a standardized quality of education regardless of where they study in Sweden. However, foreign students should choose a school based on their academic preferences and financial capacities.
Academic Year in Sweden
The academic year in Sweden is bifurcated into two semesters or half-years. By considering the best programs to study in Sweden, understanding the cost of study, and knowing how to apply for the required permits, international students can make the most of their educational journey in this Nordic country.
In the table you can find out about the types of schools, the stages of the educational process and the subjects studied in high school.
|
Type of a school |
Stages of education |
Items |
|
State municipal Folk (Independent) (friskola) Private (privatskola) |
Beginner (lgstadiet) - 1-3 grade |
|
|
Middle / intermediate (mellandstadiet) - Grades 4-6 Senior (hgstadient) - Grades 7-9 |
+ foreign language of choice (2-required), economics, family life, social studies, drawing |
|
|
Optional gymnasium - from 16-20 years old |
Career guidance - directions to choose from:
+ preparation for entering universities Some gymnasiums have a narrow profile - for example, agriculture. |
Introduction to Sweden's Education System
Sweden boasts a high-quality education system that caters to both domestic and international students. In 2007, Sweden adopted the Bologna education system, streamlining its academic structure into distinct stages:
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Bachelor's Degree: This involves 3 years of study, culminating in the defense of a bachelor's thesis.
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Master's Program: An additional 2 years of academic study followed by the defense of a master's thesis.
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Doctoral Studies: This is a comprehensive 6-year program. The first 2 years involve academic studies leading to the defense of a dissertation, followed by 4 years of dedicated research. Successful candidates are awarded a doctorate.
Students can pursue their higher education either in colleges or universities in Sweden. While colleges primarily offer professional education up to the Master's level, universities provide a comprehensive curriculum spanning the arts, sciences, technology, economics, and law. It's important to note that only universities award doctoral degrees.
Popular Programs to Study in Sweden
Swedish colleges and universities offer a diverse range of specialties including:
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Engineering and computer science
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Natural sciences
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Humanities
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Agriculture
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Economics, business, and law
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Medicine and theology
How to apply to Sweden's Education Institutions
For Swedish and EU residents, university education is primarily free, though students may have to bear additional personal expenses like accommodation, books, etc. Financially challenged students can seek assistance from specific committees that provide loans, credits, and even some free financial support.
However, international students typically need to finance their study in Sweden fees. They can apply to charitable educational foundations in Sweden for scholarships and grants. Many of the best programs to study in Sweden, especially at prestigious universities, welcome international students, with foreigners constituting about 30% of the student population. Most universities have a straightforward admission process, foregoing entrance tests. Yet, high academic standards mean that they have stringent requirements.
Generally, international students need to provide:
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Language proficiency certificates like TOEFL, IELTS for English, and TISUS for Swedish.
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A motivation letter explaining why they want to study abroad in Sweden.
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Letters of recommendation, typically from teachers or mentors.
What's the best time to apply to schools, and what should applicants prepare for?
It's best to start early, showing interest and getting in touch with the admissions office. Plan a visit, talk to current students and teachers, and make sure you feel comfortable with the surroundings.
Unique Aspects of Studying in Sweden
Swedish educational institutions employ a student-friendly grading system. There's no "failure" grade; instead, students receive a non-threatening "F". The Ministry of Education is continually innovating to find grading systems that reflect students' capabilities accurately.
Top-performing university students can earn a scholarship of around 160€. Exceptional students have the opportunity to compete for state-sponsored grants. Notably, both international and local students can complete their higher education in just two years, though this fast-track option doesn't award a Bachelor's degree.
For immigrant students, special mixed-age classes are available, offering individualized programs tailored to their educational background and abilities. Regardless of their origins, all these students study Swedish since the medium of instruction is predominantly in that language.
Conclusion
Studying in Sweden provides a world-class educational experience, especially for those looking to study abroad in Sweden. By understanding the cost of study in Sweden, the best programs, and the application processes, international students can ensure a rewarding academic adventure.
General educational statistics in Sweden
Sweden - General information
| Region | Nordic Countries |
|---|---|
| Capital | Stockholm |
| Language | Swedish |
| Currency | Swedish Krona |
| Population | 9,633,490 |
| Phone code | +46 |
Statistics - Rankings
| Arts and Humanities | 22 |
|---|---|
| Engineering and Technology | 18 |
| Life Sciences and Medicine | 15 |
| Natural Science | 17 |
| Social Sciences and Management | 13 |
| Mathematics | 16 |
| Physics | 12 |
| Chemistry | 16 |
| Computer Science | 27 |
| Economics & Business | 8 |
Cost of living in Sweden
| Expenses - USD/Month. | Min. | Med. |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | 246 | 359 |
| Food | 227 | 442 |
| Transportation | 67 | 194 |
| Communications and utilities | 51 | 57 |
| Clothing | 29 | 109 |
| Sports and leisure | 26 | 113 |
| Total | 646 | 1,274 |
Accommodation in Sweden per month
| Shared room outside of centre | 248$ |
|---|---|
| Shared room in city centre | 363$ |
| 1 bedroom apartment outside of centre | 447$ |
| 1 bedroom apartment in city centre | 654$ |
Literature and references
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Study in Sweden — QS Top Universities
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QS World University Rankings — Sweden Universities
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Study in Sweden — THE
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The grading scale in the Swedish educational system
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Study in Sweden: Tuition Fees and Living Costs in 2022
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Why Study in Sweden?
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8 facts about education in Sweden
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The Swedish school system
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Education in Sweden — Wiki