Studying in Sweden

Studying in Sweden requires careful financial planning, as tuition and living costs are relatively high compared to many other European countries.

Tuition fees

EU/EEA: No tuition fees

Non-EU/EEA:

• Average tuition fee: SEK 129,000 per academic year (≈ €11,730)
• Range: SEK 80,000 – 295,0000 per year (≈ €7,270 - €26,820)
• The exact amount depends on the programme and the university

Application fee: SEK 900 (≈ €82)

Monthly living costs

Students need approximately SEK 10,656 per month (≈ €970) to cover living expenses.

More details on fees and living costs

EU/EEA students

No visa required but you must register in the Swedish Population Register after arrival and receive a personal identity number (personnummer).

Non-EU/EEA students

You must apply for a student residence permit before arrival.

Key requirements

• admission letter
• proof of tuition fee payment
• valid passport
• proof of sufficient financial means
• health insurance

Processing time can take several weeks, so make sure you apply well in advance.

Sweden offers over 1,000 English-taught bachelor's and master’s programmes at 39 universities, with a strong focus on innovation, sustainability, and independent thinking.

Degree structure

• Bachelor's degree: 3 years
• Master's degree: 1-2 years
• PhD: 4 years

The main types of institutions are universities and university colleges.

Search a list of universities

Sweden uses a centralised application system. The steps you'll need to follow are:

1. find a programme
2. apply online
3. upload required documents
4. pay the application fee (if required)
5. receive your admission results

Get more detailed application guidance

Sweden offers university-based scholarships and private and foundation-funded scholarships. The scholarships available offer tuition waivers or partial funding for international students.

Students can also apply for Erasmus+ mobility grants through their home universities. Check each institution’s website for available funding opportunities. Some scholarships are also listed on the Study in Sweden website.

Sweden is known for a high quality of life, a strong focus on equality and sustainability, and close access to nature, even in major cities.

Read about the Swedish way of living

Do I have to pay tuition fees in Sweden?

EU/EEA students do not pay tuition fees in Sweden. Non-EU/EEA students are required to pay tuition.

Are there English-taught programmes in Sweden?

Many bachelor's and master's programmes are taught entirely in English. However, learning Swedish can help with daily life and job opportunities.

Can I work while studying?

Yes. International students are allowed to work alongside their studies, but academic work should remain the priority. Students are expected to spend around 40 hours a week on academic work when studying a full-time programme. If you are enrolled in a university/college, you do not need a work permit as long as your student residence permit is valid.

Is health insurance required?

Yes, health insurance is required, but the type depends on your citizenship and length of stay:

• EU/EEA students should bring a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)
• Non-EU/EEA students staying for less than one year must arrange private health insurance
• Students staying longer than one year can register in the Swedish Population Register, receive a personal identity number and access public healthcare under the same conditions as Swedish citizens.

More information on health insurance in Sweden

How can I find housing in Sweden?

Finding housing can be challenging, especially in larger cities. Students are advised to start their housing search early. Check with your university first whether they offer student housing for international students. If student housing isn’t available, private rentals can be found via housing platforms, local housing companies, or student-focused Facebook groups.

More advice on finding housing