Scholarships for Developing Countries in Sweden 2025

Sweden, a global leader in education, innovation, and sustainability, is offering an array of scholarships for students from developing countries in 2025.

Renowned for its progressive values and commitment to the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, Sweden provides an ideal environment for students aiming to make a global impact.

With over 700 English-taught master’s programs, the country attracts talent from across the world, particularly from developing nations in Africa, Asia, and Latin America.

These scholarships, primarily funded by the Swedish Institute (SI) and various universities, cover tuition fees, living expenses, travel grants, and insurance, making higher education in Sweden accessible to those who might otherwise face financial barriers. T

his comprehensive guide explores the top scholarship opportunities for 2025, eligibility criteria, application processes, living in Sweden, and practical tips to help students from developing countries succeed in their academic and professional journeys.

Why Study in Sweden with a Scholarship?

Sweden’s education system is globally recognized for its emphasis on innovation, research, and inclusivity, making it a top destination for international students.

Until 2010, higher education in Sweden was free for all students, regardless of nationality. However, changes in policy introduced tuition fees for non-EU/EEA students, which range from SEK 80,000 to SEK 140,000 per year (approximately USD 7,500–13,000).

To offset these costs, Sweden has established generous scholarship programs specifically targeting students from developing countries, aiming to foster future leaders who can contribute to sustainable development in their home nations.

Scholarships in Sweden offer more than just financial support. They provide a holistic experience, including access to the SI Network for Future Global Leaders, a platform that connects scholars with professionals and alumni worldwide.

This network facilitates mentorship, career development, and opportunities to collaborate on global challenges. Additionally, studying in Sweden exposes students to a culture that values equality, sustainability, and innovation—principles that align with the needs of developing countries.

Top Scholarships for Developing Countries in 2025

Sweden offers a range of scholarships for students from developing countries, with the Swedish Institute leading the charge alongside university-specific programs.

Below are the most prominent options for 2025, each designed to support talented individuals in achieving their academic and professional goals.

Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals (SISGP)

The Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals (SISGP) is the flagship program for students from developing countries. It aims to develop leaders who will contribute to the UN 2030 Agenda by supporting their education in Sweden.

Target Group: Citizens of 33 eligible developing countries, including Nigeria, Kenya, Ethiopia, Uganda, Rwanda, Bangladesh, Vietnam, Bolivia, and Indonesia.
Coverage: Full tuition fees, a monthly stipend of SEK 12,000 (approximately USD 1,100), a travel grant of SEK 15,000 (SEK 10,000 for some regions like Armenia and Georgia), and insurance covering health, accident, and liability.
Programs: Over 700 English-taught master’s programs in fields such as sustainable development, engineering, human rights, and public health, starting in Autumn 2025.
Duration: 1–2 years, depending on the program.
Eligibility:
- Citizenship in an eligible country.
- A bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
- At least 3,000 hours of work experience (part-time, full-time, or volunteer).
- Demonstrated leadership experience (e.g., community projects, professional roles).
- Admission to an eligible master’s program by March 2025.
Application Process:
1. Apply to up to four master’s programs via University Admissions (universityadmissions.se) by January 15, 2025.
2. Submit the scholarship application through the SI portal between February 10 and February 26, 2025, including a CV, motivation letter, and proof of work/leadership experience.
3. University admission results are announced on March 27, 2025, followed by scholarship decisions on April 24, 2025.
Key Note: Applicants with prior Swedish degrees or residency exceeding two years are ineligible. The program prioritizes candidates who demonstrate a commitment to sustainable development in their home countries.

Uppsala University Global Scholarships

Uppsala University, one of Sweden’s oldest and most prestigious institutions, offers scholarships for students from developing countries, focusing on academic excellence.

Target Group: Non-EU/EEA/Switzerland citizens from developing countries.
Coverage: Full tuition fee waiver (does not cover living expenses).
Programs: Various master’s programs, including international health, sustainable management, and peace and conflict studies.
Duration: 1–2 years.
Eligibility:
- Outstanding academic record (top 2% of applicants are selected).
- Admission to a master’s program at Uppsala University.
Application Process:
- Apply for a master’s program via University Admissions by January 15, 2025.
- Indicate interest in the scholarship during the application process; no separate form is required.
- Results are announced alongside program admission in March 2025.
Note: With a highly competitive acceptance rate, this scholarship suits students with exceptional grades who can self-fund living costs.

Malmö University Master’s Scholarship (MUMS)

Malmö University, known for its focus on diversity and social impact, offers scholarships for non-EU/EEA students from developing countries.

Target Group: Non-EU/EEA/Switzerland citizens from developing nations.
Coverage: Full tuition fee waiver (no living expenses).
Programs: English-taught master’s programs, such as leadership for sustainability and urban studies.
Duration: 1–2 years.
Eligibility:
- High academic merit.
- Admission to a Malmö University master’s program.
Application Process:
- Apply for a master’s program by January 15, 2025, via University Admissions.
- Submit a scholarship application through Malmö University’s portal by the same deadline.
- Results are announced in April 2025.
Note: This scholarship is ideal for students passionate about social change, though recipients must budget for living expenses.

Mid Sweden University Tuition Fee Scholarships

Mid Sweden University provides partial tuition support for students from developing countries, focusing on accessibility.

Target Group: Non-EU/EEA/Switzerland students from developing countries.
Coverage: 75% tuition fee reduction (remaining fees and living costs must be self-funded).
Programs: Master’s programs in fields like business administration, tourism, and electronics.
Duration: 1–2 years.
Eligibility:
- Admission to a Mid Sweden University master’s program.
- Fee-paying status (non-EU/EEA students).
Application Process:
- Apply for a program by January 15, 2025, via University Admissions.
- Indicate scholarship interest during the application; no separate form is needed.
- Decisions are announced with program admission in March 2025.
Note: This partial scholarship can be paired with personal funds or other grants to cover expenses.

Örebro University Scholarship Programme

Örebro University offers tuition-focused scholarships for academically gifted students from developing countries.

Target Group: Non-EU/EEA/Switzerland citizens from developing countries.
Coverage: Full or partial tuition fee waiver (no living expenses).
Programs: Master’s programs, including data science, global journalism, and public planning.
Duration: 1–2 years.
Eligibility:
- Top academic performance.
- Admission to an Örebro University master’s program.
Application Process:
- Apply for a program by January 15, 2025, via University Admissions.
- Submit a scholarship application with the program application.
- Results are announced in March 2025.
Note: Competition is fierce; a strong academic record is essential.

Eligibility Criteria for Scholarships

To qualify for these scholarships, students from developing countries must meet specific criteria, which vary slightly by program but generally include the following:

Citizenship: Applicants must be citizens of a developing country listed by the scholarship provider. For SISGP, this includes 33 countries such as Nigeria, Kenya, Ethiopia, Bangladesh, and Bolivia. University scholarships typically extend to all non-EU/EEA/Switzerland citizens, with a focus on developing nations.
Academic Background: A completed bachelor’s degree or equivalent from a recognized institution is required. Transcripts should reflect strong academic performance, often a minimum GPA equivalent to a Swedish 3.0.
Work and Leadership Experience: SISGP requires at least 3,000 hours of work experience, which can include part-time jobs, internships, or volunteer roles. Leadership experience, such as managing community projects or holding professional roles, is also crucial.
Program Admission: Candidates must secure admission to an eligible master’s program by March 2025. This involves applying through University Admissions and meeting program-specific requirements, such as English proficiency (IELTS 6.5+ or TOEFL 90+).
Residency Restrictions: Applicants with prior long-term residency in Sweden (over two years) or those who have completed a Swedish degree are typically ineligible for SISGP. University scholarships may have similar restrictions.
Additional Requirements: Some scholarships, like those at Uppsala and Örebro, prioritize academic excellence, while SISGP emphasizes commitment to sustainable development and leadership potential.

Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide

Securing a scholarship in Sweden requires careful planning and adherence to deadlines. Below is a detailed roadmap for the application process, ensuring students from developing countries are well-prepared.

1: Research Eligible Programs

Start by identifying master’s programs that align with your academic and career goals. The Swedish Institute publishes a list of over 700 eligible programs each November, covering fields like sustainable energy, global health, and human rights.
Visit university websites (e.g., Uppsala University, Malmö University) to explore program details, admission requirements, and scholarship opportunities.
Timeline: Begin research in September–October 2024 to allow ample time for preparation.

2: Apply to Master’s Programs

All applications for Swedish master’s programs are processed through University Admissions (universityadmissions.se), a centralized portal.
Create an account, select up to four programs, and upload required documents, including:
- Bachelor’s degree certificate and transcripts.
- Proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL).
- A CV detailing academic and professional experience.
- A motivation letter (program-specific).
- Letters of recommendation (if required).
Pay the application fee of SEK 900 (approximately USD 85) by January 15, 2025, unless exempt (check University Admissions for exemptions).
Deadline: January 15, 2025, for programs starting in Autumn 2025.

3: Apply for Scholarships

For SISGP:
- After submitting your university application, apply for the scholarship through the SI portal between February 10 and February 26, 2025.
- Prepare a CV (SI template), a motivation letter (500 words), proof of work experience (e.g., employer letters), and evidence of leadership (e.g., certificates, references).
- Highlight your commitment to sustainable development and how your studies will benefit your home country.
For University Scholarships:
- Indicate interest in scholarships during your program application (Uppsala, Mid Sweden) or submit a separate form (Malmö, Örebro) by January 15, 2025.
- Provide additional documents if required, such as a personal statement or academic references.
Tip: Tailor your application to each scholarship’s focus—e.g., emphasize academic excellence for Uppsala, sustainability for Malmö.

4: Await Results and Prepare for Next Steps

University admission results are announced on March 27, 2025, via University Admissions.
SISGP scholarship decisions are released on April 24, 2025, through the SI portal.
University scholarship results are typically announced alongside program admissions in March or April 2025.
If awarded a scholarship, accept the offer promptly and begin the student visa application process through the Swedish Migration Agency (migrationsverket.se).

5: Apply for a Student Visa

Non-EU/EEA students require a residence permit to study in Sweden.
Apply online via the Swedish Migration Agency with:
- A valid passport.
- Proof of scholarship or financial means (SEK 10,314/month for 10 months).
- Admission letter from the university.
- Health insurance (often covered by scholarships like SISGP).
Processing takes 1–3 months; apply as soon as you receive your admission letter.
Cost: SEK 1,500 (approximately USD 140) application fee.

Overall Timeline: Start 6–12 months in advance. Research takes 2–3 months, applications 1–2 months, and visa processing 1–3 months.

Living and Studying in Sweden: What to Expect

Cost of Living

Living in Sweden can be expensive, but scholarships like SISGP help cover costs. Estimated expenses include:

Housing: SEK 4,000–7,000/month (student dorms or shared apartments).
Food: SEK 2,500–3,500/month (cooking at home; eating out is pricier).
Transport: SEK 500–1,000/month (public transport with student discounts).
Miscellaneous: SEK 1,000–2,000/month (books, leisure).
Total: SEK 10,000–15,000/month (approximately USD 900–1,400).

SISGP’s SEK 12,000 monthly stipend covers most expenses, but students with partial scholarships (e.g., Mid Sweden) may need additional funds.

Work Rights

International students can work part-time (up to 20 hours/week) during studies, though academic commitments often take priority.

Common jobs include tutoring, café work, or research assistance, paying SEK 100–150/hour. Work experience can enhance your CV and help cover extra costs.

Cultural Adaptation

Sweden’s culture emphasizes equality, sustainability, and punctuality. Key tips for adapting:

Language: English is widely spoken, but learning basic Swedish (e.g., via Duolingo) helps with daily life and integration.
Sustainability: Embrace eco-friendly habits like recycling and biking, which are cultural norms.
Social Norms: Swedes value personal space and direct communication; be respectful and straightforward.

Support Systems

SI Network: SISGP scholars join the SI Network for Future Global Leaders, offering mentorship, workshops, and alumni events.
University Resources: Most universities provide academic advisors, career counseling, and student unions for support.
Expat Communities: Join groups like International Students in Sweden (Facebook) to connect with peers.

Overcoming Challenges in the Scholarship Process

High Competition

Scholarships like SISGP and Uppsala Global are highly competitive, with thousands of applicants for limited spots. To stand out:

Highlight unique leadership experiences, such as community projects or professional roles, in your application.
Write a compelling motivation letter linking your goals to sustainable development (e.g., “I aim to address water scarcity in Kenya through sustainable engineering”).
Secure strong letters of recommendation from professors or employers.

Funding Gaps

Partial scholarships (e.g., Mid Sweden, Örebro) cover tuition but not living expenses. Solutions include:

Combine scholarships with personal savings or family support.
Apply for additional grants, such as the SI travel grant, if eligible.
Work part-time to supplement income, ensuring it doesn’t affect your studies.

Visa Delays

Visa processing can take 1–3 months, and delays are common. To avoid issues:

Apply immediately after receiving your admission letter.
Ensure all documents are complete and accurate.
Track your application status via the Swedish Migration Agency and contact them if delays occur.

Homesickness and Cultural Adjustment

Moving to Sweden can be challenging for students from developing countries. To cope:

Join university clubs or SI events to build a support network.
Stay connected with family via video calls while embracing Swedish culture.
Explore Sweden’s natural beauty—hiking, skiing, or visiting the archipelago can lift your spirits.

Why Pursue a Scholarship in Sweden?

A scholarship in Sweden offers more than just an education—it’s a stepping stone to global leadership. A Nigerian student I know received an SISGP scholarship in 2023 to study public health at Lund University.

During her program, she developed a project on maternal healthcare, networked with global professionals through the SI Network, and returned to Nigeria to lead a community health initiative that has impacted over 5,000 women. Her story illustrates the transformative potential of a Swedish education for students from developing countries.

Sweden’s focus on sustainability aligns with the needs of developing nations, where issues like climate change, education, and healthcare are pressing.

By studying in fields like environmental science or global health, scholarship recipients gain skills to address these challenges.

Additionally, Sweden’s multicultural environment—Stockholm alone hosts over 200 nationalities—fosters cross-cultural understanding, preparing students to work in diverse global settings.

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Scholarships for developing countries in Sweden 2025 are a gateway to a world-class education and a global career. To secure one, take the following steps:

Research: Explore programs and scholarships on studyinsweden.se, si.se, and university websites starting in September 2024.
Prepare Documents: Gather transcripts, CV, motivation letters, and references by December 2024.
Apply Early: Submit university applications by January 15, 2025, and scholarship applications by February 2025.
Follow Up: Track your application status and prepare for visa processing after admission.

For more details, visit studyinsweden.se for program listings and si.se for scholarship updates. Your journey to becoming a global leader starts now—don’t miss this opportunity to study in Sweden and make a difference in your home country!

Sources:

Study in Sweden (2024): www.studyinsweden.se
Swedish Institute (2024): www.si.se
University Admissions (2024): www.universityadmissions.se