Studying in Sweden
Studying in Sweden is a valuable opportunity for Iranian students. The country’s prestigious universities, English-language education, and the possibility of receiving various scholarships are the main advantages of studying in Sweden. Of course, the cost of living is higher than the European average, but the quality of education and job opportunities after graduation make this country an ideal destination.
Financial assistance for non-European researchers
The Swedish Research Council has set aside a grant of 2 million kronor to support researchers from outside the EU. This includes basic coverage of living expenses, travel and support for family members.
Significant increase in international students in master’s courses
At the Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm (KTH), the number of non-European students paying tuition and taking master’s courses has increased by 40% , and this group has played a significant role in the 22% increase in total master’s students.
Bachelor's degree
Master's degree
School
Doctorate
Application Period: Mid-October to mid-January (for fall start)
Studying in Swedish schools
Children in Sweden must start school at the age of six. Of course, it is possible for children to start preschool at the age of one. After compulsory education until the age of 16, there is upper secondary school. Upper secondary school in Sweden is voluntary, but most students complete upper secondary school in order to gain suitable job opportunities in the future.
International students who wish to study in Sweden must enroll in an international school. Annual tuition fees at international schools usually start at 30,000 Swedish kronor (2,900 euros) and can go up to 300,000 Swedish kronor (30,000 euros).
Bachelor's degree in Sweden
The annual cost of higher education in Sweden varies depending on the university and study program. The cost of studying at a bachelor's degree in Sweden ranges from around 80,000 Swedish kronor per year (approximately 7,915 euros) to 295,000 Swedish kronor (approximately 29,188 euros).
Master's degree study in Sweden
A one-year master's degree (in Swedish, magisterexamen). This degree is equivalent to 60 higher education credits and requires the completion of a thesis. A one-year master's degree can be a stepping stone to completing a two-year master's degree, but is more often used for the purpose of completing a bachelor's degree and advancing one's career.
A two-year master's degree (in Swedish, masterexamen). This degree is equivalent to 120 higher education credits and requires the completion of a thesis. A two-year master's degree is intended to help you in your professional field, but it also allows you to continue your studies at a doctoral level if you are interested.
The cost of studying a master's degree in Sweden, depending on the field and university, usually ranges from 8,000 to 29,490 euros per academic year. The average cost of studying a master's degree in Sweden is 12,900 euros. Keep in mind that medical, architecture and art fields usually cost more.
Studying a PhD in Sweden
There are two types of PhD programs in Sweden, each of which offers its own specific degree to graduates. Some Swedish universities award only one of these degrees, while others award both.
A degree (in Swedish, licentiatexamen).
This takes two years to complete and is similar to a professional degree, such as one you need for law or medicine.
Doctoral degree (in Swedish, PhD or doktorsexamen). This degree takes four years to complete and is worth 240 higher education credits. To earn this degree, you need to submit a thesis, which is similar to a master's thesis, except that it requires much more research and involvement on your part to complete it properly.
Swedish PhDs are recognized worldwide. PhD students receive a monthly stipend and PhD studies in Sweden are free for all nationalities.
Once you earn your PhD, you are considered an expert in your field. This can open up many opportunities in your field of expertise, such as teaching courses at universities around the world.
Keep in mind that admission to Swedish universities for master's and doctoral degrees is much easier and faster than admission to undergraduate degrees.
Cost of studying in Sweden
The cost of studying in Sweden includes tuition fees and living expenses. Your tuition fees in Sweden depend on the university, field of study and level of study. These costs can range from 80,000 Swedish kronor ($10,000) to 295,000 Swedish kronor ($30,000) for a bachelor’s and master’s degree. As mentioned, studying for a doctorate in Sweden is free. In addition, receiving various Swedish scholarships is very effective in reducing your educational costs. Some of these scholarships can even cover students’ living expenses.
You will need around 8,568 Swedish kronor per month to cover all your living expenses.
Sweden is an expensive country, and housing will take up the largest portion of your expenses. But exactly how much you spend each month depends on your lifestyle, habits, and where you live. As for study-related expenses, you may need to spend an average of 750 Swedish kronor per month on your textbooks. Law or natural sciences may require you to pay more. But don’t worry, you can reduce your costs by using the library or buying second-hand books. On the other hand, students often put up flyers on campus and sell their old textbooks for a lower price.
Some common costs for students in Sweden are listed in the table below:
Scholarships in Sweden
There are two main sources of funding for students in Sweden. Swedish scholarships are provided through Swedish institutions or universities. Swedish universities offer a wide range of scholarship programs for international students to help them cover the costs of studying or living in Sweden . Some of these scholarships include:
Top universities in Sweden
Sweden is a fantastic destination for international students looking to pursue a bachelor’s or master’s degree. Sweden has 8 universities ranked below 500 in the QS World University Rankings . Some of the top universities in Sweden that are popular with students include Uppsala University (in Uppsala), KTH Royal Institute of Technology (in Stockholm), University of Gothenburg (in Gothenburg), and Chalmers University of Technology (in Gothenburg).
Steps to immigrate to Sweden through education
Requirements and documents required to study in Sweden
The documents required for admission to study in Sweden vary depending on your university, field of study, and level of study. Therefore, we provide the general documents required for admission to Swedish universities:
- Previous academic qualifications (translated)
- Transcripts
- Identification documents such as passports
- Two pieces of photos
- A resume that reflects any professional work or research experience related to your field of study.
- Motivation letter
- Recommendation letter (if needed)
- Swedish or English language certificate depending on the university and program (IELTS score 6 to 6.5 or higher / minimum TOEFL score 90 )
- Interview (if needed)
- Certificate of financial means
- The requirements for Swedish study immigration for international students may vary depending on the level, field of study, university of study, and country of origin. However, in general, the main requirements for study immigration to Sweden are:
Language certificate
Age requirement
Grade point average requirement
Master's degree: Usually requires a minimum GPA of 15–16 out of 20 or a GPA of around 3.0 out of 4. Some programs also consider work experience, projects, and letters of recommendation in addition to GPA.
Student visa
Completed application form
Passport photos (at least 2 or 3)
Valid passport and two copies of the passport
University registration documents (acceptance letter from the university/high school you have been accepted to, with a copy of each)
Health insurance certificate
Proof of financial means
Proof of residence in Swede
Insurance
The application process may take some time. You will be fully covered by insurance if you need professional medical assistance while your application is being processed. Also, be aware that health care insurance will not be available outside Sweden or in the time between your arrival and the city where you will be staying.
Cities suitable for studying in Sweden
In Sweden, choosing a city to study in depends on your personal preferences; however, according to reliable sources, some cities stand out for their quality of education, job opportunities, and quality of life for international students:
- Stockholm: The capital of Sweden, with prestigious universities such as KTH Royal Institute of Technology and Stockholm University, cutting-edge research centers, and extensive career opportunities in technology and business. The city is characterized by a high cost of living and fierce competition for admission.
- Lund: A university city with Lund University, one of Sweden’s oldest and most prestigious universities. An active student life, rich culture, and close ties to industry are some of the city’s features.
- Gothenburg: Sweden’s second largest city with universities such as Chalmers University of Technology and the University of Gothenburg. A city with a relatively lower cost of living, diverse culture, and job opportunities in various industries.
- Uppsala: A historic city with Uppsala University, one of the oldest in Europe. The city offers a vibrant student life, good amenities, and proximity to Stockholm.
Student dormitories and residences in Sweden
International students have a variety of options for accommodation in Sweden. They can stay in university dormitories, rent apartments or shared houses with other students in various Swedish cities, or live with a host family in Sweden.
Student work in Sweden
You can work while you study in Sweden. There are various part-time jobs available for students in Sweden, and there are consultants who can help you find these jobs. It is interesting to note that there is no limit to the number of hours an international student can work in Sweden. However, your work should not affect the hours you need to study and do your homework.
Conditions for residence in Sweden through study
Sweden residency through studying in Sweden is such that international students receive a study visa (Residence Permit for Studies) after receiving admission, which is usually valid for the duration of the study period. After completing their studies, it is possible to apply for a 6-month residence permit to look for work or start a business in Sweden. If they find a full-time job related to their field, the student can convert their residence permit into a work permit. After 4 years of work residence in Sweden (within a 7-year period), the individual can apply for permanent residence. Usually, after 5 years of continuous living in this country, it is possible to apply for citizenship.
Comparing Sweden with other countries
Sweden is one of the world’s leading countries in terms of education, which is based on equality, free access and a focus on creativity. In contrast to many countries such as the United States or the United Kingdom, which have high university fees, Sweden offers higher education to EU citizens and even international students free of charge. Also, unlike the highly competitive systems in East Asia such as South Korea or Japan, which place a heavy emphasis on entrance exams, studying in Sweden emphasizes practical learning, independent research and work-life balance, and global rankings such as PISA often place it at the top.
In contrast to developing countries like India or Brazil, which face challenges such as resource scarcity and inequality of access, Sweden benefits from advanced infrastructure, trained teachers, and supportive policies. These differences reflect Sweden’s holistic approach to education, which fosters not only knowledge but also social skills and innovation, while many countries still focus on more basic stages.
