Sweden
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The largest of the Scandinavian countries, Sweden is the third-largest country by area in the European Union. With a very low population density, 97% of the land area of the country is uninhabited, making for vast beautiful stretches of wilderness and pristine nature. Despite this, Sweden is also a lively modern place, ranking among the world’s most innovative nations, the birthplace of world famous brands such as Volvo, Spotify and IKEA.
The Swedes are a very liberal and cosmopolitan people, and most do not tolerate discrimination of any form. They practice everything in moderation, and tend to shy away from extremes. They are very humble, and prefer to listen to others’ thoughts and opinions.
Swedish people generally speak English well, so it should not be too difficult to get around. However, cost of living in Sweden can be quite expensive compared to the Philippines.
Studying in Sweden
How do I choose a school in Sweden?
There are over 40 universities located in Sweden, many of which receive top ranks globally, such as Lund University, Stockholm University, and Uppsala University. They also boast upwards of about 900 degrees for undergraduates and postgraduates. After deciding (1) What your career goals are and (2) What academic programs can help you achieve those goals, it's time to do some research on which school is best for you! There are schools in Sweden that are looking for Filipino students just like you! Explore them here.
Are there scholarships available for studying in Sweden? How can I finance my studies?
There are many scholarships offered by both the Swedish government and the schools themselves. Visit the Edukasyon profiles of the schools you are interested in to check if they are offering any scholarships.
There are also some international student loans available from different loan giving bodies. University representatives usually work in tandem with their financial aid department that focuses on helping students find options to finance their education. Explore our partner schools here, and click "Send Inquiry" to get connected with your university representative.
There are also some international student loans available from different loan giving bodies. University representatives usually work in tandem with their financial aid department that focuses on helping students find options to finance their education. Explore our partner schools here, and click "Send Inquiry" to get connected with your university representative.
Do I need a visa to study in Sweden? How do I get it?
If you’re a Philippine passport-holder, you may need to obtain a student visa. The process is as follows:
For the full list of details, please refer to the Swedish embassy website or contact the Swedish embassy in Manila.
- Secure an offer to your chosen university and pay for your first semester of university (this must be done before you can be approved for your permit).
- Complete any necessary online application forms
- Gather all necessary documents
- Submit documents and application forms to Swedish authorities
For the full list of details, please refer to the Swedish embassy website or contact the Swedish embassy in Manila.
Why should I study in Sweden?
As education providers, Swedes value sustainability, equality, and uphold creative processes, which is made evident by that fact that the beautiful Nordic country of Sweden is home to many successful corporations that stand at the forefront of innovation and technology such as IKEA, H&M, Spotify, Skype, and Volvo. Students are encouraged to embrace their creativity and ingenuity in a fast-paced and flourishing educational environment.
Sweden is very diverse, given the sheer number of multinational companies that operate within it, it’s easy to feel at home among a host of varied cultures. Swedes are also able to converse well in English, and the country is among the leading pioneers of English-taught education within Europe.
Sweden is very diverse, given the sheer number of multinational companies that operate within it, it’s easy to feel at home among a host of varied cultures. Swedes are also able to converse well in English, and the country is among the leading pioneers of English-taught education within Europe.
What are the required languages for studying in Sweden?
Swedish is the official language of Sweden, spoken by more than 10 million inhabitants of the country. Many programmes at Swedish universities are exclusively taught in English, and many universities require documents that serve as proof of English proficiency. We still highly advise students to master at least a basic understanding of the Swedish language.
If you’re worried about your English language proficiency, check out our partner language centers that can help you improve your skills!
If you’re worried about your English language proficiency, check out our partner language centers that can help you improve your skills!
What are the requirements for studying at a school in Sweden?
Generally, schools in Sweden will ask for your:
- Documentation of general eligibility
- Proof of English proficiency
Living in Sweden
How much is the cost of living in Sweden?
The currency used in Sweden is the Swedish krona (SEK). Sweden is a notoriously expensive to live in for international students, but it may be manageable if you plan your finances properly. Being smart about your budget will make living in Sweden relatively affordable.
Living costs in Sweden are subject to your personal lifestyle and where you live, but here is a rough estimate of a student’s average monthly budget:
Living costs in Sweden are subject to your personal lifestyle and where you live, but here is a rough estimate of a student’s average monthly budget:
- Food: SEK 2,000
- Accommodation: SEK 3,700
- Transportation: SEK 550
- Utilities: SEK 300
- Hobby/leisure, miscellaneous: SEK 1,450
Are there Filipinos living in Sweden?
As of February 2015, the population of Filipino citizens living in Sweden is estimated to be upwards of about 15,000.
What is the lifestyle like in Sweden?
Forests cover over 69% of Sweden, so most Swedes live active, outdoorsy lifestyles. Hiking, cross-country skiing, downhill skiing, and orienteering are popular outdoor sports in Sweden. Swedes also love their coffee. The fika, Swedish for “coffee break”, is an important part of Swedish culture. It is more than simply a coffee break but rather a social phenomenon where people set aside some time to enjoy genuine moments with their friends, colleagues, or family. The tradition is observed frequently, sometimes even several times a day as a way for people to bond with each other.
Working in Sweden
What are the benefits of graduating from a school in Sweden?
Graduating from a Swedish universities opens you up to a host of global careers and opportunities. Sweden is home to a host of innovative multinational companies such as Spotify, Skype, H&M, Volvo, and IKEA, and an education in Sweden will equip you with the skills that will allow you to solve problems creatively just like the minds behind these revolutionary companies. Sweden values creativity and ingenuity above all, thus it is the perfect environment for you to develop your critical thinking skills and imagination. The informal and non-hierarchal nature of Swedish society also allows everyone to contribute their own ideas and opinions.
Can I work while I’m studying in Sweden?
International students are allowed to work alongside their studies, and there is no official legal limit to the number of working hours for international students in Sweden. Most universities have career guidance services that may help students find a part-time job during the duration of their studies.