Study abroad in Sweden for students
MBBS in Sweden:
Covid Updates for the Students who wants to study on campus at Sweden:
Temporary entry ban to Sweden
Students have different questions in their minds regarding Study in Sweden. Sweden is well known its high education standard and esteemed education colleges and universities. There is number of Pakistani students studying or staying in Sweden and they have guaranteed their bright future.
Study in Sweden , with the support of this guide you will catch out yourself in a country which has always punched well above its weight.
The outstanding repute in educational sector has made it in world’s top countries that are preferable for study abroad. Top Swedish universities have their own place in world’s top universities because of modernity in research and development programs. It has more than 60 higher education institutes/universities. Every year a large number of students come here to make their careers
Every Student wish to get good education and enter in global market to to seek the better opportuinity for their bright future.Study Abroad in Sweden may able to international students to keep their dreams alive.
Important Questions about Study in Sweden: A Guide for Students
Best universities to study in Sweden for international students?
Top ten universities in Sweden for international students to study in Sweden are under below:
QS World University Ranking list 2016/17
How much the Average tuition fee for undergraduate or post graduate courses in Sweden?
International students who want to study in Sweden, we share with you the average tuition fee for undergraduate and post graduate courses. This tuition fee for those students, who belong to non EU countries. The range of tuition fee of bachelor and masters level courses are based on SEK 80,000 to 140,000 annually.
Some degree program tuition fee are quite higher. Students can complete research on this and get knowledge from the university, which you select for study. The university application fee is based on the SEK 900 that will be pay through online system.
Will it be allowed to work while I am studying in Sweden?
There is no restriction for international students work in Sweden during their studies period. Students bear in mind that first priority is studies for them. Students must give extra 40 hour per week to their studies.
Where and what kind of accommodation are in Sweden for international student?
There are two types of accommodation in Sweden for International students. One is student residential halls and other one is private house and flats. Students can also contact with universities accommodation office for guidance. If students don’t find any accommodation, they can contact to any contractor or real estate person to get information. There are lots of websites for international students, they can find their accommodation through online websites.
What kind of financial help or grant in Sweden for International students?
There are multiple scholarships offered by the Sweden government and Sweden universities for international students. Every year these scholarship will open for candidates. Students must subscribed themselves to these scholarships.
Sweden Government Scholarships for Students
- Swedish Institute Study Scholarships
- Erasmus Mundus Scholarships in Swedish Universities
- The Visby Programme Scholarships
How can I find out, my educational background will be accepted by the Sweden University?
The assessment of their educational background will be done on when students apply for admission in university. International students can contact to the universities authorities to find out that, their educational background will be accepted by the Sweden University or not.
What’s the usual application process for Masters level courses in Sweden?
Step 1: students must find out the degree program, complete research require to apply for master level admission in Sweden University.
Step 2: students must check out the entry requirement and deadline of this program. Students check the official website of university, where they want to apply for master’s level course.
Step 3: students must some important documents for application submission in university such as online application from, general eligibility documents, certificate of English language proficiency, documentation that your program specific entry requirements and application fee which is based on SEK 900 for international students.
Step 4: wait to receive the letter of acceptance from the university.
Step 5: after received university acceptance letter students must apply for resident permit which is important to stay more than 3 of duration in Sweden.
What are the language requirements for international students to study in Sweden?
Students must have English proficiency skills to apply for any Sweden university. International students must have ILETS and TOEFL certificates for language requirement of Sweden university admission.
How much money will I need during my Masters level studies in Sweden?
International students will bear the cost of SEK 80,000 to 140,000 for postgraduate level courses in Sweden. The cost of study in Sweden will increase according to the courses, which has select by the students.
Living cost for students who want to study in Sweden for master level courses are based on 8,000 SEK per month. Accommodation, food items and expenses included in this monthly amount.
Where do I apply for my student visa?
Sweden embassy has open the application system in the autumn semesters for students. So, international students must have pre planning about the study in Sweden, because the whole process will takes much time. Students must have ready each and every documents and details before the time.
International students must apply for student’s visa as early as possible after received the acceptance letter from the university.
There are some important documents require to apply for Sweden student visa
- Application form
- 2 photographs/li>
- 2 copies of the passport
- University acceptance letter copy
- Educational degree 2 copies
- Bank statement 2 copies (10 Lacs Pakistani rupees)
- Confirmation form the sponsor 1 copy
- Health Insurance
- Visa processing fee 1000 SEK
Submit these document to your nearest Sweden embassy.
Health Insurance Sweden:
Third countries means the countries which are not european are required to have a health insurance. Students who have to stay in Sweden more then a year must be register by the Swedesh Tax Agency. Once you receive the ID number by the agency, your all medical services will be covered by the National Health Care System. But to get the student visa you must have the private health insurance. And it is also recomended to get the health insurance through out you live in Sweden.
When considering where to study abroad in Europe, Sweden emerges as substantially preferable choice for students because of top education quality and globally acclaimed higher education institutes. Apart from best academic facilities, Sweden has high standards of living, equal rights, gender equality, career opportunities and economical stability that attract foreign students from all over the world to study abroad in Sweden. Precisely, the best features of Sweden as a study abroad destination for students are being enumerated in the following article:
Top Ranking Universities and International Acclamation:
Sweden is home to a few of the world’s top ranking universities, known for innovation, remarkable in research based education and diversification of courses, providence of state of art facilities and advanced teaching methodologies. Karolinska Institutet ranks at top 40th position, Uppsala University at 80th and Lund University at 91st position at THE world universities 2019 rankings list.
English Taught Courses:
Although, the official language of Sweden is Swedish but English taught courses are available in abundance at every academic level and study stream in Sweden. Swedish universities offer over 860 study programmes in English language to international students with no requirement of having Swedish language skills for getting admissions.
Geographical Importance of Sweden:
Sweden is a Nordic country that borders Norway and Finland. It is a Schengen state allowing its residents and visa holders to travel other Schengen stars without requiring an additional visa. Students while studying abroad in Sweden can travel to other European countries by train/by air for visiting or job search after completion of studies and add value to their passport for future travelling.
Best Standards of Living:
The Swedish believe in peace, freedom and equal rights for men and women alike. In terms of human rights, Sweden is one of the best countries in the world. The work and social life balance is well managed, civilians have access to health care facilities, law and order situation is excellent, justice and freedom is in approach of everyone and above all there is no discrimination in salary packages as it is the government who decides the wages based on skills and qualification regardless of ethnicity and nationality of the employee.
Six Months Visa Extension After Completion of Studies:
Sweden is quite generous when it comes to foreign students. After completing a post graduation course in Sweden, Students can extend their visa for six months for job search. In this duration, students can search job according to their qualifications and skills by the means of local employment agencies. As soon as the students get an appointment letter from Swedish firm or company, they can apply for work permit of Sweden.
Career Exposure:
Sweden is an economically well heeled country, 16th richest in the world with booming IT, exports and industrial sector. Being an export oriented economy; Sweden is host to many international firms and multinational companies having there branch offices based in Sweden which a giant opportunities for employees to get their professional expertise recognized globally and level up their international CV’s.
Part Time Work Opportunities for Students and Minimum Wages:
The minimum wage per hour for full time or part time work in Sweden is set by the government itself based on person’s skills and qualification. Students can work 20 hours per week during their semesters and 40 hours a week during semester holidays in June, July and August. The minimum wage per hour in Sweden as per 2019 is 177.10 SEK/Hour.
Scenic Landscape and Cultural History:
While studying in abroad in Sweden you can expect to have rich historical and cultural experience that will broaden your prospective and enhance your personal traits. Sweden has a tolerant society that inhabits multiethnic culture with peaceful and secure atmosphere for all. In terms of landscape, Sweden is a joy to behold; there are many islands, mountains, waterfalls, thick forests and natural wonders to be explored by adventure enthusiasts.
Sweden’s prestigious and highly esteemed universities are immensely popular among study abroad aspirants. High ranking universities, comprehensive and research based curriculum, international exposure, innovative teaching techniques, worldwide degree acclamation and larger career opportunities are few of the many factors making Sweden an attractive choice to study abroad for students. The Swedish top institutes have rather demanding and tight admission requirements at under graduate and post graduate level in sweden colleges. If you have decided to study abroad in Sweden, the following article explains admissions requirements in detail for your complete information:
Choosing a Study Programme:
The much of your academic success depends upon the selection of your course. If you are studying a course of your interest and mental aptitude, you always complete it with flying colors. While choosing a course, consider its potential of career growth, demand in global professional sector, it must enhance your existing skills and it must include subjects of your interest. Universities in Sweden offer plethora of study courses in all streams, finding an apt and suitable programme of your choice will not be an issue for you. While submitting an application for study course in Swedish university, make sure you meet the admission requirements and language of instruction is preferable for you.
Choosing an Apt University in Sweden:
Swedish universities are globally renowned and recognized for their high quality of education and academic expertise. To take admission in Swedish university you must meet the admission eligibility of the study course you have selected and fulfill language proficiency requirement. The tuition fee must match your budget and university offered accommodation is another point to be considered. If you have excellent academic record, ensure the university you select in Sweden offers any scholarship or fee concession opportunity.
Academic Requirements:
The academic requirements for admission in sweeden international universities in each study course and level is different from the other. The Swedish Universities have also specific admission eligibility criteria which vary from the other. The Swedish University at which you apply for admission will have its own set of instructions for the applicants in regards of merit, subjects and language proficiency level. In general, the admission requirements at Swedish Universities for under graduate and post graduate applicants are as follows:
For Admissions in Undergraduate Study Programme:
The students must have completed higher secondary school degree or equivalent certificate. They must be able to prove their proficiency in English language. The students must have completed equivalent Swedish Mathematics Courses in their home country I-e 1a, 1b or 1c which means they have studied the subject of mathematics for 10 years. Except these each study programme has specific subject wise requirements which must be fulfilled by the students at the time of submitting application. Some study courses may require higher grades in mathematics and science subjects for admission acceptance and some might not.
For Students Admissions in Postgraduate (Masters) Study Programme:
For admission in postgraduate study programme at Masters Level at Swedish university, students must have done Bachelors honors degree (4 years study course) in their respective field from an internationally recognized university. Each study programme in Swedish university will have specific grade requirements for merit of admission and some requirements might include taking entry tests but not for all study courses. It is best to check study programme admission requirements if your selected Swedish university to assess their merit.
For Admissions in Postgraduate (PhD) Study Programme for Students:
For admissions in postgraduate PhD degree programme in Swedish University, students must have Bachelor’s honors (4 years degree programme) and Masters degree (2 years duration degree programme) from an internationally recognized university. The subjects you studied at your bachelors and Masters kevel must be related to the course you are applying for at PhD level in Sweden. Thesis and recommendation letters from your professors are required.
Language Proficiency Requirements for Admission in Swedish Universities for Students
IELTS, TOEFL or Cambridge English language proficiency tests are a mandatory requirement for admissions in Swedish universities for students.
For undergraduate level admissions:
- IELTS: an overall mark of 6.5 and no section below 5.5
- TOEFL (paper based): Score of 4.5 (scale 1-6) in written test, total score of 575
- TOEFL (internet based): Score of 20 (scale 0-30) in written test, total score of 90
For Postgraduate (Masters) level admission:
- IELTS: an overall mark of 7.0 and no section below 6
- TOEFL (paper based): an overall mark of 7.0 and no section below 6
- TOEFL (internet based): Score of 20 (scale 0-30) in written test, total score of 100
For Postgraduate (PhD) level admissions:
- IELTS: an overall mark of 5.5 and no section below 5.0
- TOEFL (paper based): Score of 4.0 (scale 1-6) in written test, total score of 530
- TOEFL (internet based): Score of 17 (scale 0-30) in written test, total score of 72
NOTE: Cambridge Michigan Language Assessments, Pearson PTE Academic and University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations (Cambridge ESOL) tests are also accepted for admissions.
Other methods of meeting English language requirements at Swedish universities for admissions are university education and entry tests.
Required Documents for Students:
- Admission application form (completely filled)
- Transcripts of academic records (degrees, certificates and diplomas)
- Language proficiency test certificates
- Recommendation letters (for research students)
- Updated CV (for research students)
- Motivation letter
- Admission application fee (SEK 900) non refundable
Application Procedure:
- Select a university in Sweden
- Select a study programme
- Fulfill admission requirements of your chosen study programme
- Submit required documents and admission application along with fee
- The application must be submitted under admission deadline of your selected university
- All Swedish universities accept admission application via online means of their website
- You will submit application and scanned copies if required documents at your selected university in Sweden’s website by creating account.
- After application submission the university will process your application
- If you meet their admission eligibility criterion, the university will send an offer letter/acceptance letter and ask you to submit tuition fee.
- After getting acceptance letter and tuition fee payment you will commence student visa process of Sweden.
Questions and answers about residence permit for studies
If you are a student with a tuition fee, you must pay the fee as soon as possible. You cannot be granted a residence permit until the tuition fee has been paid. This is because the Swedish Migration Agency does not consider you to be finally admitted before the tuition fee is paid.
If you are granted a leave of absence from your studies and have no reason other than studies to stay in Sweden, your residence permit for studies may be revoked.
If the Migration Agency does not revoke the residence permit, it is important to remember that this possible study break does not provide any relief in the requirements to obtain an extended residence permit for studies. This means that you – if you apply for an extended residence permit – have to show that you have completed enough credits.
As a general rule, you must study in Sweden corresponding to 30 credits per semester. There are some exceptions:
- Exceptions can be made in some cases for those who:
- have previously had a residence permit to study a preparatory course and then apply for a permit to continue studying at an education related to the preparatory course.
- have completed an education by the end of the spring term, and will continue to study on a new education at the beginning of the autumn term
- Exceptions to the requirement for full-time studies can also be made if you have had a residence permit for the ordinary study period and need to apply for an extended permit to complete your studies outside the ordinary study period.
For questions relating to which embassies or consulates-general can handle migration issues.
For a total stay of less than three months, you should not apply for a residence permit and instead apply for a visa. Citizens of some countries may stay in Sweden for up to three months without a residence permit or visa. During this period, it is permitted to study.
Countries whose citizens must have an entry visa for travel to Sweden (in Swedish)
There are no obstacles to leaving Sweden, but if the previous permit has expired and the new residence permit is not ready, you risk not being allowed to enter Sweden if you are outside the country’s borders. Therefore, if you are studying, you always need to strike a balance between the risk of not getting a decision in time against the necessity of the trip outside Sweden. It is also important to be aware that the Swedish Migration Agency no longer grants priority.
Information about how long it has taken to receive a decision from the Swedish Migration Agency in previous cases
If you travel abroad in connection with your permit expiring and you have applied for an extension, it can be difficult for you to return to Sweden before you have been granted your new permit. You may then need to wait for your new decision outside Sweden.
If you have to travel back to Sweden before that for urgent reasons, it is possible to apply for a national entry visa. With such a visa, you can travel back to Sweden and wait there for your decision on extension. You apply for an entry visa at a Swedish embassy or consulate-general in the country where you are located, provided that the authority issues entry visas. You must be aware that such an application requires that there are special grounds for issuing an entry visa and that the Swedish Migration Agency cannot control how the embassy or consulate decides in the application. It is therefore only in exceptional cases, and if you really have to, that you should leave Sweden during the processing time. Examples of special grounds can be sudden illness, death in the family or important job-related assignments. The embassy may require a certificate regarding the reason for the trip. You should also be aware that a decision on a national entry visa cannot be appealed.
A condition for a residence permit in Sweden is that the studies require the student’s presence here. If you are planning to go to another country for an exchange term, you should contact the authorities of that country to find out what is required for a stay in that country. You should also contact the unit at the Swedish Migration Agency that granted the residence permit.
If you go on an exchange during your ongoing permit period, you are no longer entitled to a residence permit, which may result in it being revoked. A revocation of a residence permit does not mean that it will be more difficult for you when you apply for a new permit to continue your studies in Sweden. However, it is important that you apply for a new permit in time before returning to Sweden. You must have the new permit before you enter Sweden.
There are a couple of exceptions. According to the Swedish Migration Agency’s practice, doctoral students can have an arrangement for stay abroad that can form the basis for studies abroad during certain periods. See Residence permit for doctoral studies under the box “You must be admitted to full-time studies”.
Mobility studies also enables you to obtain a permit for your entire study period even if you study in another EU country. See Studying in higher education under the heading “If you intend to conduct part of your studies in Sweden as a mobility student”.
Yes, absence from Sweden during the summer holidays does not affect your residence permit in Sweden. If, on the other hand, the planned leave is expected to occur during the spring or autumn semester when you are expected to participate in your education in Sweden, there is a risk that your permit will be revoked.
Questions and answers about doctoral studies
A doctoral student who is not admitted to studies in Sweden but is invited to study or do research in Sweden as part of an education in another country cannot be granted a residence permit for studies. You can instead apply for a residence permit for visitors. Please note that residence permits for visits are valid for up to one year at the most.
If you are qualified to be a part of a doctoral programme and are selected to conduct research in Sweden, you can apply for a residence permit as a guest researcher.
Questions and answers about maintenance
Yes, you can. There is no requirement for the bank statement to be from a specific country. The extract should be issued in English or Swedish, or be translated into one of these languages.
It is sufficient if the bank document shows the account balance in the form of cash and cash equivalents, balance date, name of account holder, currency and bank name. Account history is not required, but the Swedish Migration Agency may request account history if necessary in the handling of your case.
If you are applying for a first residence permit for studies and are planning to support yourself with your own bank assets, you must submit your application no earlier than four months before the date from which you are applying for a residence permit. This is so that you will be able to show that you can support yourself in close connection with the beginning of the period of study and so that your documents will not become too old. This does not apply if you will be receiving continuous income, such as a scholarship.
Own bank assets means that you have money in an account that belongs to you and that only you and your possible spouse can withdraw money from it. If you are under the age of 18, your guardians’ accounts may also apply as a basis for your maintenance. Credit, funds or shares do not count as own bank assets.
When you apply for an extension of your residence permit for studies and there is still time left on your current residence permit, you need to show that you are able to support yourself for the remaining period of your current permit as well as the new permit period that you apply for. So you must show that you have maintenance from the balance date up until the end date of the requested extension permit.