Sweden is a top destination for international students, known for its innovative approach to education, high quality of life, and a strong focus on sustainability and equality. If you are an aspiring student looking to study in Sweden but are concerned about the costs, fully funded scholarships provide an excellent opportunity.
These scholarships cover tuition fees and may also include living expenses, making it possible for you to pursue your academic goals without financial burden. Here’s a guide to some of the best fully funded scholarships available for international students in Sweden.
Fully Funded Scholarships for International Students in Sweden
1. Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals (SISGP)
Overview: The Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals (SISGP) is one of the most prestigious scholarship programs available to international students. It is aimed at ambitious professionals who want to make a difference in their home countries and contribute to the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Eligibility:
- Applicants must be citizens of one of the SISGP eligible countries.
- You must have at least 3,000 hours of work experience.
- The scholarship is available for full-time master’s programs at Swedish universities.
What It Covers:
- Full tuition fees.
- Monthly living expenses of SEK 11,000.
- Travel grant of SEK 15,000.
- Health insurance and membership in the Swedish Institute Network for Future Global Leaders.
How to Apply:
- Applications open in February each year. The process involves submitting a motivation letter, CV, and documentation of your work experience and leadership potential.
2. University Scholarships
Many Swedish universities offer fully funded scholarships for international students based on academic excellence. These scholarships are highly competitive and are aimed at students who demonstrate outstanding academic achievements and potential.
Uppsala University Global Scholarships
Overview: Uppsala University, one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Sweden, offers several scholarships for international students, including the Uppsala University Global Scholarships.
Eligibility:
- Available to fee-paying international students applying for a master’s program at Uppsala University.
- Scholarships are awarded based on academic merit.
What It Covers:
- Full tuition fees for the duration of the master’s program.
How to Apply:
- Apply for the scholarship through Uppsala University’s online application system during the admission period. You’ll need to submit a motivation letter and documents proving your academic achievements.
Lund University Global Scholarship Program
Overview: Lund University, ranked among the top 100 universities in the world, offers the Lund University Global Scholarship Program for high-achieving students from outside the EU/EEA.
Eligibility:
- Available to non-EU/EEA students who have applied for a bachelor’s or master’s program at Lund University.
- Selection is based on academic performance and motivation.
What It Covers:
- Full or partial tuition fee waivers.
How to Apply:
- After applying to Lund University, you can apply for the scholarship through their online portal. A detailed motivational statement and proof of your academic excellence are required.
3. The Visby Program Scholarships
Overview: The Visby Program is part of the Swedish Institute’s scholarships and focuses on building networks between Sweden and countries in the Eastern Partnership and Russia. It supports master’s level studies and aims to contribute to the development of the applicant’s home country.
Eligibility:
- Open to citizens from Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Moldova, Russia, and Ukraine.
- You must have a strong academic background and be admitted to a master’s program at a Swedish university.
What It Covers:
- Full tuition fees.
- Monthly living expenses of SEK 10,000.
- Travel grant of SEK 5,000.
- Health insurance.
How to Apply:
- Applications are submitted online through the Swedish Institute’s application portal. The process includes submitting academic transcripts, a motivation letter, and proof of leadership experience.
4. Chalmers IPOET Scholarships
Overview: Chalmers University of Technology offers the IPOET scholarship to international students from non-EU/EEA countries. This scholarship is funded by the Swedish Council for Higher Education and is awarded to students with excellent academic records.
Eligibility:
- Non-EU/EEA students who have applied for a master’s program at Chalmers.
- Strong academic background and motivation to study at Chalmers.
What It Covers:
- 75% reduction of tuition fees. For students who excel during their first year, the scholarship can be extended to cover 85% in the second year.
How to Apply:
- After applying to Chalmers, you will automatically be considered for the IPOET scholarship based on your academic records and the strength of your application.
5. Karolinska Institutet Global Master’s Scholarships
Overview: Karolinska Institutet, one of the world’s leading medical universities, offers a limited number of scholarships to outstanding students who have been admitted to one of their Global Master’s Programs.
Eligibility:
- Non-EU/EEA students who have applied for a master’s program at Karolinska Institutet.
- Selection is based on academic excellence.
What It Covers:
How to Apply:
- After applying for a master’s program at Karolinska Institutet, eligible students can apply for the scholarship through the university’s online portal.
6. The Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree Scholarships
Overview: While not exclusive to Sweden, the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree (EMJMD) Scholarships are a fantastic opportunity for students looking to pursue a joint degree across multiple European universities, including Swedish institutions.
Eligibility:
- Open to students worldwide, depending on the specific program.
- Each program has its own set of eligibility criteria, generally focusing on academic excellence.
What It Covers:
- Full tuition fees.
- Monthly allowance.
- Travel and installation costs.
How to Apply:
- Applications are submitted through the specific EMJMD program websites. The application usually includes a motivation letter, academic transcripts, and recommendation letters.
7. The Rotary Peace Fellowships
Overview: Rotary Peace Fellowships are awarded to individuals pursuing a master’s degree in peace and conflict studies at select universities worldwide, including Uppsala University in Sweden. This program is ideal for students dedicated to promoting peace and resolving conflicts.
Eligibility:
- Strong commitment to international understanding and peace.
- At least three years of related work experience.
What It Covers:
- Full tuition fees.
- Living expenses.
- Round-trip transportation to and from Sweden.
- Internship and field-study expenses.
How to Apply:
- Applications are submitted through Rotary clubs, followed by interviews and selection by the Rotary Foundation.
Which country is easiest to get fully funded scholarship?
Several countries are known for offering relatively accessible fully-funded scholarships for international students. The ease of obtaining these scholarships often depends on the applicant’s academic achievements, research proposals, and other qualifications. Here are some countries that are considered more accessible for fully-funded scholarships:
1. Germany
- Why It’s Easier: Germany offers a wide range of scholarships through organizations like the DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service), which provides fully-funded scholarships to international students for both undergraduate and postgraduate studies. Many German universities also charge no tuition fees, even for international students, making it easier to study in Germany on a limited budget.
- Popular Scholarships: DAAD Scholarships, Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarships, Deutschlandstipendium.
2. Netherlands
- Why It’s Easier: The Netherlands has several scholarship programs targeting international students, such as the Orange Tulip Scholarship and Holland Scholarship, which are available for both undergraduate and postgraduate students. Many Dutch universities also offer additional scholarships for international students.
- Popular Scholarships: Orange Tulip Scholarship, Holland Scholarship, Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees.
3. Sweden
- Why It’s Easier: Sweden offers fully-funded scholarships like the Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals (SISGP), which is available to students from certain countries pursuing master’s programs. Additionally, many Swedish universities offer scholarships that cover tuition fees for international students.
- Popular Scholarships: Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals, Lund University Global Scholarship.
4. Canada
- Why It’s Easier: Canada has a reputation for being welcoming to international students and offers several fully-funded scholarships, particularly for postgraduate studies. The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships and the Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships are notable examples.
- Popular Scholarships: Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships, Lester B. Pearson International Scholarships, Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships.
5. New Zealand
- Why It’s Easier: New Zealand offers fully-funded scholarships through the New Zealand Government Scholarships for students from developing countries, targeting those who want to pursue higher education. These scholarships cover tuition fees, travel expenses, and living allowances.
- Popular Scholarships: New Zealand Government Scholarships, University of Auckland International Student Excellence Scholarship.
6. Australia
- Why It’s Easier: Australia provides numerous scholarship opportunities for international students, such as the Australia Awards Scholarships, which are fully funded and target students from developing countries. These scholarships are quite competitive but widely accessible.
- Popular Scholarships: Australia Awards Scholarships, Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarships, Destination Australia Scholarships.
7. China
- Why It’s Easier: China has become a significant destination for fully-funded scholarships through the Chinese Government Scholarships (CSC Scholarships). These scholarships are available to students from around the world and cover tuition, accommodation, and living expenses.
- Popular Scholarships: Chinese Government Scholarship, Confucius Institute Scholarship.
Conclusion:
Sweden is not only a leader in education but also a country that values diversity and global talent. The fully funded scholarships available for international students reflect this commitment, making it possible for talented individuals from around the world to study in Sweden without worrying about the financial burden. Whether you’re interested in science, technology, humanities, or medicine, there’s a scholarship program that can help you achieve your academic and professional goals in Sweden. Start by researching the scholarships that best align with your field of study and career aspirations, and take the first step towards an enriching educational experience in Sweden.
