Many foreign students share a dream of studying in Sweden. Few countries receive as many accolades for their reputation in the world of academia. An outstanding educational network allows students to pursue education in any field they wish.
Still, the benefits of Sweden go way beyond its academic supremacy. A good job market and an economically stable environment make Sweden one of the best countries to start a career in after graduation. Besides career prospects, people get to immerse themselves in the unique Scandinavian culture. The so-called “Nordic exceptionalism” propels autonomy and freedom to express who you are and choose how you live.
Below is the list of factors that encompass the joys of living and studying in Sweden!
What’s Great About Studying in Sweden?
Sweden is a dream-come-true for international students. Swedish universities are prepared and qualified to host, guide, and uplift foreign students in every sense possible.
Best Non-Native English Speakers
Swedish universities welcome over twenty thousand international students yearly.
Therefore, everyone is acclimated to the daily usage of English. As a foreign student, you’ll be able to study in English, regardless of your field of interest. In many other countries, people won’t make the effort to adapt to you, but Sweden is not one of them. You don’t have to worry about any language barriers between you and your colleagues or professors. That is not to say that you shouldn’t devote your time and energy to learning Swedish because it can unlock many additional possibilities.
Student Organizations
A common worry of many potential international students is that they would have trouble meeting new people. This doesn’t apply to Sweden! Student organizations like ‘the Nations’ at Uppsala University are great when it comes to networking and meeting new people.
Malin, a student of Uppsala University says: “If you come here and you don’t know anyone, the Nations are a really good way to get to know other people.”
A Wide Variety Of Programs
Swedish universities offer a diverse range of programs and many of them include internships. Additionally, there are a number of ways to study tuition-free in Sweden.
Aside from being able to study just about any field of interest, students gain real-world experience, as the programs focus on applying their knowledge. Basically, they get everything they need to establish themselves as professionals in the field.
In addition to that, the academic diversity does not apply only to the undergraduate portfolio. Students can expand their academic prospects into doing a master’s or a Ph.D.
Future Employment
Sustaining many of the world-famous corporations makes Sweden an excellent ground for establishing your career after completing your studies. Companies like H&M, IKEA, and Ericsson – to name a few – are always in search of young, talented, and ambitious people.
Completing your studies in Sweden offers you an array of life paths and choices. But don’t waste too much of your precious time worrying about the end goal – make sure to enjoy the journey, too.
Building Your Life & Future In Sweden
Obtaining a degree from a Swedish university sets a firm foundation for your future and opens many doors for you career-wise. Knowing that a Swedish education is one of the best you can get in the world, it is also a great country to settle down in.
With an abundance of professional opportunities, as a future Swede-in-the-making, you should be aware of your residency prospects. Also, you should consider the possibilities that family life in Sweden brings along.
Professional Opportunities
After you have completed your studies, the next logical step is job hunting. For international students who come from non-EU/EEA countries, extending your residence permit while you search for a job is the first step that you want to take.
Job opportunities in Sweden are abundant, but the market is quite competitive. It’s a courtesy of high living standards and great salaries. Studying in Sweden is an excellent first step to take. A basic understanding and knowledge of the Swedish language can boost your chances even more!
Residency Prospects
As a non-EU/EEA resident who wants to continue living in Sweden, you need to obtain a residency permit. For starters, you can stay up to a year in Sweden after you graduate in order to search for a job. Next, you should consider your prospects in terms of permanent living.
In order to obtain permanent residence in Sweden, you must have been living in the country seamlessly for five years. In addition to your living situation, you also must have held a work permit for four years and be able to financially support yourself.
Happiness Index
Although happiness is a difficult thing to measure, it can be said that the World Happiness Report (WHR) is a testimony to citizen happiness and fulfillment.
Constantly ranking high on the WHR lists, Sweden offers mutual benefits to its current and prospective citizens. Work-life balance, responsible social support, and economic security are just some of the factors that contribute to its high index of happiness.
Family Possibilities
Sweden has been continuously nominated as one of the best countries in the world for family rearing.
As a family-friendly country, Sweden offers parental leave for both parents. There exists an equilibrium between the parents and their duties. Free public education in addition to great public healthcare make Sweden one of the best places to start your family and your future.
Ready To Set Yourself Up For Happiness?
As a country that can kickstart your academic education, you’ll enjoy every step of your academic engagements in Sweden.
Education is not only theory-based in Swedish universities. Students learn how to use their voice, vocalize their opinions and apply their knowledge.
Once you’ve achieved academic brilliance, you’ll find that you want more. Sweden can offer you stability, and a great, family-friendly future.