Introduction
Sweden stands out as a top destination for international students, offering world-class education, innovative learning environments, and a progressive society. The Swedish government, universities, and various foundations provide generous scholarships that allow students from around the world to study tuition-free and even cover living expenses. In this guide, we explore the Top 20 Scholarships in Sweden for International Students in 2025, covering eligibility, benefits, and how to apply for each opportunity. Whether you’re pursuing a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree, this list will help you navigate the best options to fund your studies in Sweden.
Why Study in Sweden?
Sweden is globally recognized for its high-quality education system, sustainability-driven curriculum, and strong focus on research and innovation. English-taught programs are available across all major universities, and many institutions rank among the top globally. International students enjoy a diverse cultural environment, outstanding student support services, and access to cutting-edge technologies. In addition, Sweden promotes gender equality, critical thinking, and entrepreneurship—making it an ideal place for future leaders and innovators.
The Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals (SISGP)
Funded by the Swedish government, SISGP is one of the most prestigious scholarships for non-EU students pursuing a full-time master’s degree in Sweden. It covers full tuition fees, a monthly stipend of SEK 12,000, insurance, and travel grants. Applicants must demonstrate leadership experience, professional work background, and a clear vision for how they plan to contribute to sustainable development in their home country.
University of Gothenburg International Scholarships
The University of Gothenburg offers scholarships to fee-paying master’s students from outside the EU/EEA. The scholarship covers the full tuition fee for the entire program. Priority is given to students with excellent academic performance and those who choose programs with a global development focus.
Uppsala University Global Scholarships
Uppsala University provides a wide range of scholarships for master’s students from outside the EU/EEA. These scholarships cover tuition fees and are awarded based on academic merit and motivation. The university prioritizes students who demonstrate leadership, community service, and a commitment to development in their home countries.
Lund University Global Scholarship Program
Lund University offers partial to full tuition scholarships for high-achieving non-EU students pursuing undergraduate or master’s degrees. Awards are based on academic excellence, and candidates must have a strong record of achievement in previous studies.
Stockholm University Scholarship Scheme
Stockholm University provides scholarships for qualified master’s students from outside the EU/EEA. These scholarships cover full tuition fees and are based on academic excellence. Applicants must first be admitted to a master’s program before being considered.
Karolinska Institute Global Master’s Scholarships
Karolinska Institute, one of the world’s leading medical universities, offers a limited number of tuition fee scholarships to excellent students who are admitted to one of the Global Master’s Programs. The scholarship only covers tuition and does not include living expenses.
Chalmers University of Technology Scholarships
Chalmers offers a wide range of scholarships to international students, such as the IPOET scholarship funded by the Swedish Council for Higher Education. Scholarships may cover 75% of tuition fees and are based on academic merit and relevant experience.
KTH Royal Institute of Technology Scholarships
KTH offers scholarships for master’s students from non-EU/EEA countries. These scholarships usually cover the full tuition fee and are awarded based on academic excellence. Special scholarships are also available for students applying from targeted regions and partner countries.
Malmö University Master’s Scholarships
Malmö University offers scholarships that cover the full tuition fee for master’s programs. The award is competitive and based on academic excellence, leadership potential, and the student’s motivation to study in Sweden.
Blekinge Institute of Technology Scholarships
The Blekinge Institute of Technology offers partial tuition scholarships for international students from non-EU countries. These scholarships reduce tuition by 50% and are granted based on academic excellence and program relevance.
Linköping University International Scholarships
Linköping University provides scholarships for non-EU/EEA students who apply for master’s programs. The scholarship covers 25%, 50%, or 100% of tuition fees and is awarded based on academic qualifications and the student’s motivation.
Örebro University Scholarship Programme
This scholarship is open to non-EU/EEA master’s applicants and covers full or partial tuition fees. It is awarded on the basis of academic merit, motivation to study, and potential contribution to the program and university community.
Halmstad University Scholarships
Halmstad University offers scholarships to international students from outside the EU/EEA who are required to pay tuition fees. These scholarships offer a reduction of 25% or 50% in tuition fees depending on academic performance.
Dalarna University Scholarships
Dalarna University offers tuition waivers that range from 10% to 50% of total tuition fees. These are open to international students who demonstrate academic excellence, strong motivation, and community involvement.
Kristianstad University Scholarships
Kristianstad University provides scholarships to top international students applying for master’s degree programs. The scholarship covers part of the tuition fees and is awarded based on merit and academic background.
Linnaeus University Scholarships
Linnaeus University offers scholarships for students from outside the EU/EEA and Switzerland who have applied to master’s programs. Scholarships may cover 75% of the tuition fee and are awarded based on academic merit.
Mid Sweden University Tuition Fee Scholarships
International students applying for master’s programs at Mid Sweden University may be eligible for tuition waivers. These scholarships are highly competitive and cover up to 75% of the tuition fee.
Mälardalen University Scholarships
Mälardalen University offers scholarships for master’s programs to non-EU/EEA students. The scholarship covers 100% of tuition fees but does not include living expenses.
Jönköping University Scholarships
Jönköping University provides partial tuition fee scholarships to students who pay tuition fees and who show academic excellence, especially those applying for master’s programs in business, engineering, or social sciences.
Swedish Defence University Scholarships
This university offers limited scholarships for international students applying to its specialized master’s programs. These are merit-based and may cover part or all of the tuition fees.
Other Opportunities to Explore
In addition to university-specific scholarships, international students in Sweden can also explore external funding options such as Erasmus+, bilateral agreements between governments, or home country sponsorships. Some foundations and companies offer targeted scholarships to specific fields like sustainability, innovation, or public health.
What Do Most Sweden Scholarships Cover?
- Tuition fees (fully or partially)
- Monthly stipend (in a few government-funded schemes)
- Travel allowance (in some fully funded programs)
- Health insurance (if applicable)
- Some universities offer housing assistance or mentorship
Eligibility Criteria for Sweden Scholarships
Though each scholarship has its own requirements, general eligibility often includes:
- Admission to a Swedish university program
- Citizenship outside the EU/EEA
- A bachelor’s degree (for master’s programs)
- Strong academic record
- Proficiency in English (IELTS or TOEFL)
- Leadership potential or community service (for government scholarships)
Application Timeline for Sweden Scholarships 2025
Most scholarships follow the admission calendar set by Swedish universities:
- October–January: Application period for master’s programs
- February: Scholarship application deadlines
- March–April: Selection and evaluation
- April–May: Results are released
- August–September: Semester begins
Documents Required
- University admission proof
- Academic transcripts and diplomas
- Proof of English proficiency
- Motivation letter or personal statement
- Letters of recommendation
- CV/Resume
- Passport copy
- Research proposal (for PhD programs)
How to Improve Your Scholarship Chances
- Apply early and meet all deadlines
- Craft a tailored motivation letter for each scholarship
- Demonstrate leadership and community involvement
- Highlight your academic achievements
- Get strong letters of recommendation
- Maintain clarity and consistency in your documents
Mistakes to Avoid When Applying
- Missing deadlines
- Uploading incorrect or incomplete documents
- Using a generic or weak motivation letter
- Not meeting basic eligibility
- Ignoring program-specific criteria
Benefits of Studying in Sweden with a Scholarship
- Reduction or elimination of financial burden
- Access to globally ranked universities
- Immersive cultural experience in a progressive country
- Networking with global peers
- Opportunities for internships and research
- Possibility to stay and work in Sweden post-graduation
Can Scholarship Students Work in Sweden?
Yes, international students in Sweden can work while studying without a specific work permit. However, managing both studies and work can be challenging. Scholarships typically allow you to focus fully on your academic journey without financial distractions.
Is It Possible to Stay in Sweden After Studies?
Graduates can apply for a one-year residence permit extension to seek employment or start a business. If you secure a job related to your field, you may transition to a work permit, and eventually, permanent residency.
Conclusion
Sweden offers a rich landscape of scholarship opportunities in 2025 for international students who are academically motivated and globally minded. From government-sponsored initiatives to university-based awards, there are multiple avenues to secure funding and achieve your educational goals. Applying may require effort and preparation, but the rewards—academically, professionally, and personally—are immense. If you’re considering Sweden as your study destination, don’t miss the opportunity to apply for these top 20 scholarships and begin a transformational academic journey.