Fees in Public Universities of Sweden

Sweden is known for its high-quality education, progressive academic environment, and student-friendly policies. While public universities in Sweden offer tuition-free education to certain groups of students, others—particularly those from outside the European Union—are required to pay tuition fees. 

Tuition-Free Education for EU/EEA and Swiss Citizens

Citizens of the EU/EEA and Switzerland, along with individuals who hold permanent residency in Sweden, are eligible to study free of charge at public universities in Sweden. This applies to Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD programs, making Sweden an attractive destination for students from within the region.

Tuition Fees for Non-EU/EEA International Students

If you are a student from outside the EU/EEA or Switzerland, you will typically be required to pay tuition fees for Bachelor’s and Master’s programs. These fees generally range between:

• SEK 80,000 to SEK 140,000 per year

• Approximately EUR 7,900 to 13,750 or USD 9,500 to 16,500

The exact cost depends on the university and program of study.

PhD Programs: Free for All Students

Unlike undergraduate and Master's degrees, PhD programs in Sweden are usually tuition-free for all students, regardless of nationality. In addition, most PhD positions in Sweden are paid research jobs, meaning students often receive a monthly salary and are treated as employees rather than traditional students.

Application Fees for International Students

In addition to tuition fees, non-EU/EEA students must pay an application fee, which covers the processing of their university application. This fee is currently SEK 900 and is paid through Sweden's central admissions portal.

Variation by Field of Study

Tuition fees can vary depending on the discipline. For instance, programs in medicine, architecture, or the arts may have higher tuition due to specialized facilities and training requirements. It's essential to check the specific cost on each university's official website before applying.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Sweden offers a variety of scholarships to help international students cover tuition and living expenses. These may be offered by universities, government programs, or private organizations. Many scholarships are merit-based, but others consider financial need or country of origin.

Living Costs in Sweden

While tuition is a significant part of studying abroad, it’s also important to consider living expenses. These can include housing, food, transportation, study materials, and health insurance. On average, students in Sweden should budget approximately SEK 8,000 to 10,000 per month, though costs can be higher in cities like Stockholm and Gothenburg.

Swedish public universities offer a mix of tuition-free and fee-based education depending on your nationality and level of study. While EU/EEA and Swiss citizens benefit from free tuition, most non-EU/EEA students must pay for Bachelor’s and Master’s programs. However, the availability of tuition-free PhD programs, scholarships, and the overall quality of education makes Sweden a worthwhile destination for many international students.