The land of the Vikings has experienced a huge boost in interest from prospective students in the past few years. The reason being—Swedish universities have been consistently ranked among the best in the world. Student nations—organizations responsible for organizing student events—are a great way to meet and socialize with students all across the globe. Sweden also offers plenty to do besides studying—the country is known for being a hub of outdoor adventure, ranging from skiing to fishing. The country also has great post-study prospects given that it has head offices of some of the biggest corporations in the world in its capital city. Some of the most famous universities in Switzerland are, Stockholm University, Lund University, Chalmers University of Technology, etc.

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1) Why should you study in Sweden?

In recent years, the land of the Vikings has seen a significant upsurge from incoming freshmen. The reason for this is that Swedish universities have consistently been ranked among the top in the world. Student nations—organizations in charge of arranging student events—are an excellent opportunity to connect and mingle with students from all around the world. Aside from academics, Sweden has lots to offer—the nation is recognized for being a hub of outdoor pursuits, with activities ranging from skiing to fishing. The country also boasts excellent post-study opportunities because its main city is home to the headquarters of some of the world's largest companies.

 

2)  What are the University Rankings in Sweden like?

Modern-Day Sweden reaching the top in field of Science and Technology, has 8 of its universities part of the QS World University Rankings of 2018 all of which are part of the top 350 in the world.

The top 5 are: Lund University being the oldest and one of the most prestigious universities in Europe ranks first. Followed by KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Uppsala University and Stockholm University.

 

3) How open is the country to international students?

Sweden, can be very closely compared to a Utopian Nation that the world has been striving to do for centuries. With wealth equality, the world’s lowest wage gap between genders, healthcare that is publicly funded. You can expect equal educational and Work Opportunities as an international student navigating your way through this new country.

 

4) What is the Higher Education System like in Sweden?

The higher education system in Sweden is divided into 3 cycles.

First cycle being Bachelors Degree for either 3-4 years. Professional Degrees like Engineering, Law and Medicine are up to 5 years though.

The second cycle is Masters for 1-2 years and the third cycle is Doctorate.

 

5) What are the standardized tests to be taken to study in Sweden?

Since 90% of the degrees in Sweden are taught in English, it is mandatory to be proficient in English, so clearing tests like IELTS, TOEFL or PTE is mandatory.

Each university and program has specific entry requirements apart from language proficiency so be sure to check out the websites of the universities while applying.

 

6) What are the Popular Courses in Sweden?

Being technology driven in the recent years, it is a great place to pursue Engineering, Data Science and Technology.

 

7) What are the Average Tuition Fees and Living Costs like?

The average tuition fees for undergraduate degrees varies depending on the university and the subject. However, the rough estimate for an undergraduate degree costs on average SEK 129,000 per year (INR 11,00,000).

Meanwhile the average cost for postgraduate students is between SEK 220,000 and SEK 295,000. (INR 18,80,000- 25,25,000). In comparison to many other European nations, studying in Sweden is less expensive.

To pay your living expenses, you'll need roughly SEK 8,568 each month. It also depends on your lifestyle but this is an average expected amount.

 

8) Are there scholarships available to study in Sweden?

Sweden was one of the few nations in Europe where people could study for free until 2010. The Swedish government then established a law requiring students from non-EU/EEA countries to pay tuition and application costs, which would be supported by Swedish scholarship programs. For overseas students, a large number of Swedish universities still provide scholarships in the form of tuition waivers.

 

9) What are the Part-Time Work Opportunities available and the rules regarding it?

In Sweden, there are working hour limits that one must adhere too, unlike other countries. He or she can work for how many hours ever that is feasible as long as a minimum of 40 hours of studies is carried out every week.

Part-Time jobs range from Dog-walking, being a Waiter at a restaurant. You may also get work at Start-ups if you’re fluent enough in the native language.

 Hourly Wages range over 750 to 1000 EUR/month.

 

10) What are the Post-graduation Work Rules and Visa Requirements in Sweden?

When you're a non-EU citizen and want to stay in Sweden after finishing your education, you can request to extend your residence visa for up to six months in order to hunt for work or establish your own business. To be eligible for an extension of your permit, you must have completed at least two full-time semesters of study and your program of study. You must also be in the position to financially support yourself during this period.

Non- EU Students who wish to work post-graduation in Sweden must first apply for a work permit through the Swedish Migration Board.

 

11) What kind of a Visa is required for International Students?

If you’re a non-EU student, you must apply for a Residence Permit from the Swedish Embassy to study in Sweden and must renew the Residence Permit annually.

 

12) How to obtain Permanent Residency in Sweden?

To obtain Permanent Residency:

You must have a valid passport

Submit the application before current permit expires,

Higher education studies must have been completed,

the last permit must be a resident permit for higher studies,

The next course of action should be for seeking employment,

Should be able to support yourself financially during this period

Insurance for healthcare must be applied for.