Sweden has long been considered as one of the most attractive destinations in Europe for international students. Known for its high quality of life, progressive values, and strong emphasis on innovation and equality, it’s a country that consistently ranks among the best for education.
At the heart of this academic excellence is Stockholm University, a world-class institution located in Sweden’s dynamic capital city. It offers a wide range of English-taught programmes, a strong research focus, and a welcoming atmosphere for students from all over the world.
If you’re dreaming of studying in Sweden without worrying about tuition, this guide will show you exactly how to get a full scholarship to Stockholm University.
How to apply for admission
Before applying for a scholarship, you must first gain admission to a programme at Stockholm University. Applications for most programmes are submitted through Universityadmissions.se, Sweden’s national application portal for higher education.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying:
1. Choose your programme
Visit Stockholm University’s course catalogue and browse available Bachelor’s and Master’s programmes taught in English. Take note of the programme code and admission requirements for your desired course.
2. Check eligibility
Each programme has specific academic requirements. For Bachelor’s degrees, you typically need to have completed secondary school with qualifications that meet the Swedish equivalent. For Master’s programmes, you need a relevant undergraduate degree. Make sure you also meet the English language proficiency requirements, usually proven through TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent exams.
You can verify the eligibility requirements on the University Admissions site.
3. Prepare your documents
Common documents include:
- Academic transcripts
- Degree certificates
- Proof of English proficiency
- Passport copy
- Statement of purpose or motivation letter (for some programmes)
- Reference letters (if required)
All documents should be officially translated into English or Swedish if they are in another language.
4. Submit your application online
Create an account and submit your application via universityadmissions.se. You can apply for up to four programmes in the same admission round. Ranking is important—Stockholm University recommends placing their programme as your first choice to increase your chances of receiving a scholarship.
5. Pay the application fee
Non-EU/EEA students are required to pay a 900 SEK application fee unless they are eligible for a waiver.
6. Wait for results
Once your application is submitted and documents are verified, admission results are usually announced in March (for autumn intake). You’ll receive a notification via your University Admissions account.
Entry Requirements
Understanding the entry requirements is a critical step in securing both admission and a scholarship to Stockholm University. Requirements vary depending on the level of study—bachelor’s or master’s—and also include general and programme-specific conditions. Below is a clear breakdown to guide your application process.
Entry requirements for bachelor’s level studies
To apply for a bachelor’s degree at Stockholm University, you must meet both general and programme-specific requirements.
General Requirements:
- Completion of upper secondary education that qualifies you for university studies in your home country.
- Documentation that your studies are equivalent to the Swedish upper secondary school system.
Sweden recognizes a wide range of international qualifications, but it’s essential to verify yours on the official University Admissions qualification guidelines.
Programme-Specific Requirements:
Each programme may require specific coursework from your high school diploma—such as mathematics or social sciences. Always review the programme page for details. For example, the Bachelor’s Programme in International Business and Politics may require advanced studies in mathematics.
Find a list of Bachelor’s programmes at Stockholm University here.
Entry requirements for master’s programmes
Applying for a master’s degree also requires meeting general and programme-specific criteria.
General Requirements:
- A completed bachelor’s degree equivalent to a Swedish kandidatexamen (typically 3 years of full-time study).
- The degree must be awarded by an internationally recognized university.
You can verify your country-specific degree requirements on this University Admissions page.
Programme-Specific Requirements:
Most programmes require your undergraduate degree to be in a field related to the master’s programme you’re applying for. For example, to apply for the Master’s in Computer and Systems Sciences, you need prior studies in computer science or a closely related discipline.
Full programme descriptions and specific requirements are listed on Stockholm University’s Master’s programme page.
English language requirements
Whether you’re applying for a bachelor’s or master’s programme, you’ll need to demonstrate proficiency in English, since most courses for international students are taught in English.
Stockholm University accepts several forms of proof:
- IELTS Academic: Overall score of 6.5 (no section below 5.5)
- TOEFL iBT: Total score of 90 (with 20 in written test)
- Cambridge English: CAE or CPE, with at least grade C
If you studied in English or hold certain qualifications (such as the International Baccalaureate), you might be exempt. Check full exemption rules on the official English requirements page.
Tuition Fees and Scholarships
For many international students, especially those from outside the EU/EEA, the cost of tuition is a major consideration. Stockholm University offers a transparent fee structure along with several financial aid options—including full scholarships. Understanding both is essential when applying for a scholarship to Stockholm University.
Tuition Fees
If you are a citizen of a non-EU/EEA country, you are generally required to pay tuition fees for higher education studies in Sweden. Stockholm University’s tuition fees vary by programme but typically range between 90,000 and 140,000 SEK per academic year.
Some examples:
- Master’s in Environmental Science: 140,000 SEK/year
- Master’s in Public Health: 115,000 SEK/year
- Bachelor’s in Earth Science: 100,000 SEK/year
In addition to tuition, all students are required to pay a student union fee, which is around 350 SEK per semester. You can view the complete list of tuition fees by programme on the Stockholm University Tuition Fees page.
Scholarships
Stockholm University offers scholarships for master’s level students from non-EU/EEA countries who are required to pay tuition fees. These scholarships are awarded on the basis of academic merit and motivation, and they typically cover 100% of the tuition cost.
Important: There are currently no scholarships available for bachelor’s level students offered directly by Stockholm University. However, students can explore external funding options such as those provided by the Swedish Institute.
How to apply
To be considered for a scholarship to Stockholm University, you must first apply for admission to an eligible master’s programme through universityadmissions.se.
Once your application is submitted and you’ve paid the application fee, you can apply for the university scholarship during the designated window, which usually opens in late January.
Here’s how:
- Apply for a master’s programme at Stockholm University as your first priority on University Admissions.
- Wait for the Stockholm University scholarship application form, which will be available on the university’s official scholarship page.
- Submit the completed form, including your motivation letter and application number, by the deadline (typically early February).
- Scholarship results are announced in April, prior to the payment deadline.
Selection is highly competitive. The university evaluates academic excellence, the motivation statement, and the applicant’s relevance to the programme.
Important Dates
Timing is everything, especially when applying for a competitive scholarship to Stockholm University. Stockholm University follows Sweden’s national admission timetable, which means all international students must plan ahead and submit their applications on time. Below is a breakdown of the key dates you need to know for both bachelor’s and master’s programmes.
Master’s Programme Deadlines (Autumn Intake)
For most international students applying to a master’s programme starting in the autumn semester (August), the application timeline opens a year in advance:
- 16 October – Online application opens on universityadmissions.se.
- 15 January – Last date to apply for courses and programmes.
- 1 February – Final day to pay the application fee and submit all supporting documents.
- Late January to Early February – Deadline to apply for a scholarship to Stockholm University.
- 21 March – Admission results are published.
- April – Scholarship decisions are released.
- August – Semester begins.
Bachelor’s Programme Deadlines (Autumn Intake)
Bachelor’s programmes for international students follow the same general schedule:
- 16 October – Application portal opens.
- 15 January – Deadline to apply.
- 1 February – Final day to submit documents and pay the fee.
- 21 March – Notification of selection results.
- August – Autumn semester begins.
📌 Note: Sweden typically offers only one intake per year for most programmes—starting in August. There is no major spring semester intake for bachelor’s or master’s level studies at Stockholm University.
To stay on top of future deadlines, always consult the official Stockholm University admissions calendar or bookmark the centralized application platform: universityadmissions.se.
Living Costs in Sweden
Even with a full scholarship to Stockholm University, international students need to plan for their everyday living expenses. Sweden offers a high standard of living, but that also comes with relatively high costs—especially in cities like Stockholm. Below is an overview of what you can expect to spend monthly as a student.
Monthly Budget Estimate (in Swedish Krona – SEK)
Here’s a breakdown of average monthly costs for one student living in Stockholm:
| Category | Estimated Monthly Cost (SEK) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | 4,500 – 7,000 |
| Food and groceries | 2,000 – 3,000 |
| Public transport | 650 |
| Study materials | 500 – 1,000 |
| Internet & phone | 300 |
| Leisure & personal | 1,000 – 2,000 |
| Total | 9,000 – 13,000 SEK |
According to Swedish Migration Agency guidelines, students are required to show proof of at least 10,314 SEK per month for 10 months of the year in order to get a residence permit.
Tips for Reducing Costs
Even in Stockholm, you can manage your budget wisely with a few smart choices:
- Apply for student housing early. Stockholm University helps international students find housing via SUSBO.
- Use your student card. It provides discounts on public transport, restaurants, and entertainment.
- Cook at home. Eating out regularly will quickly drain your budget.
- Buy second-hand books. Many courses offer online versions or used copies.
Living in Sweden may seem expensive, but thanks to the country’s strong infrastructure, generous student support, and the possibility of working part-time, many students find the lifestyle manageable and rewarding.
Admissions FAQ and Contact
To help you navigate the application process smoothly, here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions by international students seeking a scholarship to Stockholm University.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I apply for more than one programme at Stockholm University?
Yes. You can apply for up to four master’s programmes or eight bachelor’s programmes in total across all Swedish universities on universityadmissions.se, including multiple at Stockholm University.
2. Do I need to submit hard copies of documents?
In most cases, documents can be uploaded digitally. However, if your country is listed under those that require certified hard copies, you must mail them. Check your country-specific rules.
3. Is work allowed on a student visa in Sweden?
Yes. There is no official limit to how many hours international students can work, but keep in mind your studies should remain your primary focus.
4. Can I bring my family while studying on a scholarship?
Yes. You can apply for a residence permit for family members, but you’ll need to show additional financial proof. More info is available on the Migration Agency’s page.
5. What happens if I don’t get the scholarship?
If you don’t receive the scholarship to Stockholm University, you’ll still be considered for admission. You’ll need to either fund your tuition independently or explore other external scholarships.
Browse the latest study in Sweden scholarships listed on SEG Abroad to find additional opportunities.
Contact Stockholm University
Have a question specific to your case? The university’s admissions office can help.
- Email (Bachelor’s & Master’s): [email protected]
- International Office: [email protected]
- Official Website: www.su.se/english
- Admissions Portal: Universityadmissions.se
Ready to apply to Stockholm University? Follow the steps, mark the dates, and give yourself the best chance of studying at one of Sweden’s top institutions.