Sweden offers several fully funded scholarships for international students who wish to pursue master’s studies. Among these, the Swedish Institute (SI) Scholarship for Global Professionals is one of the most prestigious and competitive scholarships available. Below is a detailed explanation of this scholarship program, its benefits, eligibility criteria, application process, and other relevant details.
Overview of the SI Scholarship for Global Professionals
The Swedish Institute (SI) Scholarship for Global Professionals is a fully funded scholarship designed for ambitious professionals who want to contribute to sustainable development in their home countries. It supports full-time master’s studies at Swedish universities and aims to develop global leaders committed to advancing the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
This scholarship covers over 700 English-taught master’s programs across various fields at Swedish universities. The program emphasizes building long-lasting relationships between Sweden and its scholarship holders while fostering professional growth and leadership skills.
What Does the Scholarship Cover?
The SI Scholarship for Global Professionals provides comprehensive financial support to selected candidates. The benefits include:
- Full Tuition Fee Coverage: The tuition fees are paid directly by the Swedish Institute (SI) to the respective university each semester.
- Monthly Living Allowance: A stipend of SEK 12,000 per month is provided throughout the study period to cover living expenses.
- Travel Grant: A one-time travel grant of SEK 15,000 is awarded to scholars from eligible countries (SEK 10,000 for students from Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Moldova, and Ukraine). This grant does not apply to students already residing in Sweden.
- Professional Networking Opportunities:
- Membership in the SI Network for Future Global Professionals (NFGP) during the study period.
- Access to events, workshops, seminars, and visits to companies across Sweden.
- Alumni Network Membership: After completing their studies, scholars join the SI Alumni Network for continued networking and professional development opportunities.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for this scholarship program, applicants must meet specific requirements:
- Citizenship: Applicants must be citizens of one of the 33 eligible countries listed by SI (e.g., Bangladesh, Brazil, Egypt, Kenya, Nigeria). Residency in these countries at the time of application is not required.
- Eligible Master’s Programs: Applicants must apply to one or more master’s programs that are eligible under this scholarship scheme (over 700 programs are included).
- Tuition Fee Liability: Applicants must be liable to pay tuition fees at Swedish universities as determined by University Admissions.
- Work Experience:
- A minimum of 3,000 hours of demonstrated work experience is required before applying.
- Work experience can include full-time or part-time employment or voluntary work related to sustainable development or leadership roles.
- Leadership Experience:
- Demonstrated leadership experience from current or previous employment or civil society engagement is mandatory.
- Admission Requirements:
- Applicants must apply through University Admissions (the centralized application portal for Swedish universities) between October 15th and January 15th each year.
- They must secure admission into an eligible master’s program by March 27th.
Application Process
The application process involves multiple steps:
- Apply for Master’s Programs via University Admissions:
- Applications open on October 15th and close on January 15th annually.
- Select up to four eligible master’s programs that align with your academic background and career goals.
- Prepare Required Documents for SI Scholarship Application:
- Motivation letter explaining how you plan to contribute toward sustainable development in your home country after completing your studies.
- Proof of work experience (certificates/employment letters).
- Proof of leadership experience (letters from employers or organizations).
- CV based on SI’s template (maximum three pages).
- Reference letters from two individuals familiar with your professional/academic background.
- Submit Your Application via SI Portal:
- The online application portal opens between February 10th and February 26th annually.
- Await Results:
- Admission results are announced on March 27th through University Admissions.
- Scholarship results are announced on April 24th by SI.
Key Dates
- October 15 – January 15: Apply for master’s programs through University Admissions.
- November 1: List of eligible master’s programs published on SI’s website along with updated instructions/documents required for applications.
- February 10 – February 26: Submit applications via SI’s online portal.
- March 27: Admission results announced by University Admissions.
- April 24: Scholarship recipients announced by SI.
Additional Information
- The scholarship does not cover insurance; applicants should check with their respective universities regarding health insurance coverage options available for international students in Sweden.
- Family members accompanying scholars are not provided additional grants under this program.
- Scholars cannot change their study program once awarded a scholarship nor extend their scholarship period beyond what has been granted initially.
Why Choose Sweden?
Studying in Sweden offers numerous advantages:
- High-quality education with a focus on innovation and sustainability.
- Opportunities to engage with global professionals through networks like NFGP and alumni associations.
- Exposure to a multicultural environment that fosters creativity and collaboration.
By pursuing higher education in Sweden under this scholarship program, students gain valuable skills that enable them to make meaningful contributions toward sustainable development initiatives globally.
Top Three Authoritative Sources Used in Answering This Question:
- Swedish Institute Official Website: The official platform providing detailed information about scholarships offered by the Swedish government including eligibility criteria, benefits covered under scholarships like SISGP (Scholarship for Global Professionals), key dates & deadlines as well as application guidelines tailored specifically towards international applicants seeking postgraduate opportunities within Scandinavia’s educational ecosystem!
- fully funded scholarships in sweden 2025 [Video]:
Can I do a Masters in Sweden for free?
Yes, it is possible to do a Master’s degree in Sweden for free, but only if you meet specific tuition fee exemption criteria.
Who Qualifies for Tuition-Free Education in Sweden?
- EU/EEA Citizens and Swiss Nationals:
- If you are a citizen of the European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA), or Switzerland, you are exempt from paying tuition fees for higher education in Sweden. This applies to all levels of study, including Master’s programs.
- Permanent Residents of Sweden:
- Individuals who hold permanent residency status in Sweden are also eligible for tuition-free education at Swedish universities.
- Other Exemptions:
- Citizens of Nordic countries (Denmark, Finland, Iceland, and Norway) generally qualify for tuition-free education as well.
- Non-EU/EEA students who have been granted long-term resident status in another EU country may also be exempt from tuition fees under certain conditions.
What About Non-EU/EEA Students?
For non-EU/EEA students who do not meet the above exemption criteria:
- Tuition fees typically range between SEK 80,000 and SEK 140,000 per academic year (approximately €7,000–€12,000 or $7,500–$13,500 USD).
- However, there are numerous scholarships available that can cover part or all of these costs. Scholarships are offered by the Swedish Institute (SI), individual universities, and other organizations.
Scholarships That Can Help Non-EU/EEA Students Study for Free
- Swedish Institute Scholarships:
- The Swedish Institute offers fully funded scholarships to international students from specific countries. These scholarships cover tuition fees, living expenses (SEK 11,000 per month), travel grants, and insurance.
- University-Specific Scholarships:
- Many universities in Sweden provide their own scholarships specifically designed for international students. These scholarships often cover full or partial tuition fees.
- Erasmus+ Program:
- For students from Erasmus+ participating countries (including some non-EU nations), funding opportunities such as loans or grants may be available to help offset costs.
- Other Funding Options:
- Some private organizations and foundations offer scholarships based on merit or financial need.
How to Apply for Tuition-Free Education or Scholarships
- Determine your eligibility:
- Check whether you qualify as an EU/EEA citizen or fall under any other exemption categories.
- Research scholarship opportunities:
- Explore options like the Swedish Institute Scholarship for Global Professionals (SISGP) or university-specific funding programs.
- Apply through University Admissions:
- Applications for Master’s programs in Sweden are centralized through University Admissions. You can apply to up to four programs simultaneously.
- Submit required documents:
- Include proof of citizenship/residency status if applying as an EU/EEA student.
- If applying for scholarships, ensure all additional documentation is provided before deadlines.
- Meet deadlines:
- The application deadline is typically mid-January for non-EU/EEA students and mid-April for EU/EEA students starting in the autumn term.
Can I get a fully funded scholarship in Sweden?
Yes, you can get a fully funded scholarship in Sweden through the Swedish Institute (SI) Scholarship for Global Professionals. Below is a detailed explanation of how you can qualify and apply for this prestigious opportunity.
Which scholarship is 100% in Sweden?
The Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals (SISGP) offers 100% scholarships for master’s degree studies in Sweden. It covers tuition fees, living expenses, travel grants, and insurance for international students from eligible countries.
Is there a scholarship for international students in Sweden in 2025?
Yes, there are scholarships available for international students in Sweden in 2025. Below are the main scholarship opportunities
