Master’s scholarships in Sweden for international students 2025 present a golden opportunity to study at world-class universities in one of Europe’s most progressive, tech-forward, and socially inclusive nations — all without worrying about tuition fees or living costs.
As part of its global development and innovation agenda, Sweden offers generous scholarship opportunities to highly qualified students from around the world.
These scholarships are either funded by the Swedish government (via the Swedish Institute) or offered directly by universities, foundations, or collaborative programs with the EU.
This comprehensive guide explores the top fully funded and partially funded master’s scholarships available for the 2025 intake, including eligibility criteria, application processes, deadlines, required documents, and smart strategies to increase your chances of success.
Why Study in Sweden?
Sweden consistently ranks among the best countries in the world for education, innovation, quality of life, and environmental sustainability.
Top Reasons to Study in Sweden:
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Innovative and research-oriented education system
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Over 1,000 English-taught degree programs
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Friendly, open, and international learning environment
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Strong job market in tech, sustainability, life sciences, and design
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Post-study work opportunities and migration pathways
Do Swedish Universities Offer Scholarships for International Students in 2025?
Yes. Sweden offers two primary scholarship pathways for international master’s students in 2025:
1. Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals (SISGP)
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Fully funded
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Targeted at outstanding professionals from specific countries
2. University-Specific Scholarships
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Offered by individual universities
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Can cover partial or full tuition
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Competitive and based on academic merit
1. Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals (SISGP)
This is Sweden’s flagship international scholarship program for master’s students.
Who Can Apply?
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Citizens of selected countries in Africa, Asia, Latin America, Eastern Europe, and the Middle East
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Applicants with demonstrated leadership experience and professional background
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Students applying for eligible master’s programs in Swedish universities
What Does It Cover?
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100% tuition fee coverage paid directly to the university
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Monthly living allowance of SEK 12,000 (~USD 1,100)
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One-time travel grant (SEK 15,000–SEK 20,000)
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Health and accident insurance
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SI Network for Future Global Professionals (mentoring and leadership training)
Duration: 1–2 years (depending on program length)
Eligible Regions for 2025 SISGP
Includes (but not limited to):
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Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, South Africa, Ethiopia
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Pakistan, Bangladesh, India, Nepal
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Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand
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Ukraine, Belarus, Georgia
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Colombia, Bolivia, Guatemala, Peru
Full list published annually on the Swedish Institute website.
SISGP Application Timeline – 2025 Intake
| Activity | Estimated Dates |
|---|---|
| University admissions open | October 16, 2024 |
| SI scholarship application window | February 5 – February 28, 2025 |
| Admission results from universities | March 2025 |
| SI scholarship award announcement | April 2025 |
| Start of academic year | August – September 2025 |
SISGP Application Process (Step-by-Step)
1: Apply to a Master’s Program in Sweden
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Use UniversityAdmissions.se
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Apply for up to 4 programs from the SI eligible list
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Pay the application fee (SEK 900) by the deadline (typically February 1)
2: Prepare SISGP Documents
| Required Document | Description |
|---|---|
| Motivation Letter | Tailored to leadership goals and societal impact |
| CV (Europass format recommended) | Clearly outlining work experience, education, and roles |
| Proof of Work and Leadership | Valid, signed documents from employers/NGOs |
| Copy of Passport | For citizenship verification |
| Proof of University Admission | Required before SISGP selection (can be submitted later) |
3: Submit Online Application
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Applications are submitted via the Swedish Institute’s online portal
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All documents must be in PDF format and in English
2. University Scholarships in Sweden for Master’s Students
Almost every Swedish university offers its own scholarship schemes to international students, separate from SISGP.
Let’s explore the top options.
Lund University Global Scholarship
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Covers 25%, 50%, 75%, or 100% of tuition
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Based on academic merit
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No separate application — opt-in during admission process
Uppsala University Global Scholarships
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Full and partial tuition waivers
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For students outside EU/EEA
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Applied through a separate scholarship form
KTH Royal Institute of Technology Scholarship
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Full tuition fee coverage
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Very competitive (10% success rate)
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Must be applied for after program application
Chalmers IPOET Scholarships
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75% tuition reduction
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Focus on science, engineering, IT programs
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Open to all non-EU/EEA citizens
Linköping University International Scholarships
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25%–100% tuition coverage
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Applied automatically upon admission
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Selection based on GPA and motivation
Stockholm University Scholarship Scheme
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100% tuition coverage
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Competitive and reserved for top applicants
Cost of Living in Sweden (2025)
Even with a full tuition scholarship, you’ll need to budget for living expenses.
| Expense | Estimated Monthly Cost (SEK) | Equivalent (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (shared) | 3,500 – 6,000 | $330 – $570 |
| Food and groceries | 2,000 – 3,000 | $190 – $285 |
| Transportation | 600 – 800 | $57 – $76 |
| Internet and mobile | 300 – 400 | $28 – $38 |
| Personal expenses | 1,000 – 1,500 | $95 – $140 |
| Monthly Total | 7,500 – 11,000 SEK | $710 – $1,050 |
To obtain a residence permit, students must show financial proof of SEK 10,314 per month (≈ USD $950) for the duration of studies.
Who Is Eligible for Master’s Scholarships in Sweden for International Students in 2025?
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Non-EU/EEA citizenship | Most scholarships are for non-EU students |
| Academic merit | Strong GPA, research/project experience preferred |
| Leadership or work experience | Especially for Swedish Institute scholarships |
| Motivation and alignment | Program choice must match your career goals |
| Admission to an eligible program | Required before being awarded the scholarship |
Tips to Maximize Your Chances
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Apply early and pay the application fee by the deadline
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Focus your motivation letter on impact, leadership, and sustainability
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Use the Europass CV format with clear achievements
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Choose programs aligned with your past academic or work experience
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Target universities with strong scholarship records
Post-Graduation Work Opportunities
Sweden allows international graduates to apply for a 12-month residence permit to seek employment after completing their studies.
Job opportunities are strong in:
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Software development and AI
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Clean energy and sustainability
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Biomedical and health sciences
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Design and architecture
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Data science and finance
Many graduates transition into permanent employment or even residency pathways.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I get a full scholarship for a master’s degree in Sweden?
A: Yes. Both the Swedish Institute and several universities offer full scholarships covering tuition and, in some cases, living expenses.
Q: Do I need to apply separately for university and scholarship?
A: Yes. First apply to a master’s program via universityadmissions.se, then apply separately for the scholarship (SI or university-specific).
Q: Can I apply to multiple scholarships?
A: Yes. You can apply for both SI scholarships and individual university scholarships, but you may only accept one if awarded both.
Q: Do I need IELTS or TOEFL?
A: Yes, unless your previous degree was taught in English. Minimum IELTS is usually 6.5.
Q: Can I bring my family with me?
A: Yes. Sweden permits family reunification, but you’ll need to demonstrate financial resources.
Application Calendar – Master’s Scholarships in Sweden 2025
| Action | Date (Approximate) |
|---|---|
| Master’s Applications Open | October 16, 2024 |
| Master’s Application Deadline | January 15, 2025 |
| SI Scholarship Window Opens | February 5, 2025 |
| SI Scholarship Deadline | February 28, 2025 |
| Admission Results Released | March–April 2025 |
| Scholarship Awards Announced | April 2025 |
| Semester Begins | August–September 2025 |
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Master’s scholarships in Sweden for international students 2025 are more accessible than ever — provided you plan ahead, target the right programs, and submit a compelling, complete application.
Whether funded by the Swedish Institute or a top-tier university, these scholarships offer the chance to earn a globally respected degree while building your leadership capacity and professional network.
Start preparing your documents, craft a strong motivation letter, and position yourself for success. Sweden is ready to invest in your potential.
