Sweden is known for its high-quality education system, innovation-driven economy, and picturesque landscapes. However, many people think studying in Sweden is expensive due to the high cost of living in Nordic countries. While tuition fees for non-EU/EEA students can be high, there are several ways to study in Sweden for free, especially if you’re strategic about your finances and explore available scholarships.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the best ways to study in Sweden without breaking the bank.

Study in Sweden for Free: Grab the Opportunity Now

1. Apply for Fully Funded Scholarships

One of the easiest ways to study in Sweden for free is by securing a fully funded scholarship. Sweden offers various scholarships that cover tuition fees, and some also provide living expenses. Below are a few prominent scholarships to consider:

a. Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals (SISGP)

This is one of the most prestigious scholarships available to international students. The Swedish Institute (SI) offers scholarships to students from select countries. These scholarships cover:

• Full tuition fees.
• A monthly stipend of SEK 10,000.
• Travel grants and health insurance.

Eligibility:
Students from specific countries who have work experience and leadership potential.

b. University-Specific Scholarships

Many universities in Sweden offer their own scholarships to international students. These scholarships may cover partial or full tuition fees, with some offering stipends for living expenses. Popular universities with scholarships include:

• Lund University Global Scholarship.
• Uppsala University Global Scholarship.
• KTH Royal Institute of Technology scholarships.

Tip: Research each university’s scholarship options and their application deadlines, as these can vary.

2. Study in Swedish for Free (No Tuition Fees for EU/EEA Students)

If you’re from an EU/EEA country or Switzerland, Sweden offers free education at public universities. You can study for free even at top-tier institutions. However, to take full advantage of this, you may want to consider learning Swedish, as many free undergraduate programs are offered in the Swedish language.

How to Learn Swedish for Free:

• Duolingo and other free language apps: You can begin learning Swedish using free language-learning platforms like Duolingo.
• Swedish Language Courses: Many Swedish universities offer intensive language courses for international students.

If you are willing to put in the effort to learn the language, studying in Swedish opens up more options for free programs.

3. Work While Studying

Although working while studying may not technically make your education free, it can significantly reduce your financial burden. In Sweden, international students are allowed to work while studying without any restrictions on working hours. Many students find part-time jobs in areas such as retail, cafes, or as student assistants.

• Job boards: Check out local job boards or university career services for part-time job openings.
• Research positions: Some universities offer paid research positions to students, which can be a great way to gain work experience and earn money.

Working part-time can help you cover living expenses like accommodation, food, and transportation, allowing you to focus your savings or scholarship money on tuition fees.

4. Explore Tuition-Free PhD Programs

In Sweden, PhD programs are generally fully funded for both domestic and international students. This means that instead of paying tuition fees, PhD students receive a monthly salary to support their research. These positions are often highly competitive but offer a great opportunity to pursue advanced education without incurring student debt.

• Research Universities: Look into PhD opportunities at universities like Uppsala University, Lund University, or Stockholm University.
• Check Open Positions: Positions are usually advertised on university websites or portals like Euraxess and Academic Positions.

5. Take Advantage of Free Public Services

Sweden offers a wide array of free or heavily subsidized public services for residents, which can make living more affordable even in expensive cities like Stockholm or Gothenburg.

Free Healthcare for Students

While tuition may be your primary concern, healthcare costs can add up. Sweden offers free or low-cost healthcare to students through their personal number (social security number). Ensure that you register for this once you arrive to avoid any out-of-pocket medical expenses.

Public Libraries

Swedish public libraries are a great resource for students. You can borrow textbooks, research materials, and even take free language courses. Libraries often provide quiet study spaces, reducing the need to spend on study materials and tools.

6. Look for Free or Affordable Housing Options

Housing can be one of the largest expenses when studying abroad, but there are ways to reduce these costs in Sweden. Although university housing is often limited, there are several affordable housing options for students.

Student Accommodation

Many universities have student housing that is more affordable than private rentals. Some universities provide subsidized housing for international students, though availability is often limited. Apply early to secure a spot.

Shared Housing

Sharing an apartment or house with other students is one of the most affordable ways to live in Sweden. Websites like Blocket or Bostad Direkt can help you find roommates or shared housing.

Housing Scholarships

Some scholarships offered by Swedish universities may include a housing stipend or provide reduced-cost accommodation. Be sure to check with your university’s international office to see if any of these options are available.

7. Leverage Online Courses Before Arrival

Studying online before arriving in Sweden can save you time and money. Some universities offer free online courses (MOOCs) that can count toward your degree, reducing the number of in-person classes you need to take.

Popular Online Learning Platforms:

• EdX and Coursera offer courses from Swedish universities like Karolinska Institute or Lund University. Some of these courses may be free or low-cost.
• FutureLearn often partners with Swedish institutions to offer free or affordable online courses.

By completing some coursework online before your arrival, you can reduce the time spent studying on campus and thereby reduce accommodation and living expenses.

Is it easy to get a job in Sweden as a student?

Yes, it can be relatively easy for international students to find part-time jobs in Sweden. The Swedish government encourages students to work part-time while studying, and there are several programs and resources available to help you find a job.

Here are some key factors that make it easier for international students to find jobs in Sweden:

• Flexible work hours: Swedish employers are generally flexible when it comes to scheduling work hours for students, making it easier to balance your studies with a part-time job.
• Language support: Many employers in Sweden are willing to hire international students with limited Swedish language skills, as long as you can communicate effectively in English.
• Government programs: The Swedish government offers several programs and initiatives to help international students find part-time jobs, such as the “Jobbcoach” program and the “Studentjobb” program.
• University career services: Your university’s career services office can provide you with valuable resources and support in your job search.

However, it’s important to note that the job market can vary depending on the time of year and the specific location where you are studying. It’s also recommended to start your job search early and be prepared to apply for multiple positions.

Here are some tips for finding a part-time job in Sweden as an international student:

• Start early: Begin your job search as soon as you arrive in Sweden to give yourself plenty of time to find a suitable position.
• Network: Attend networking events, join student organizations, and connect with other students to expand your professional network.
• Utilize online job boards: There are several online job boards in Sweden where you can search for part-time job opportunities.
• Be flexible: Be open to considering different types of jobs and industries.
• Practice your Swedish: While many employers are willing to hire international students with limited Swedish language skills, improving your Swedish language skills can increase your job prospects.

How many hours are allowed to work in Sweden for international students?