Top 5 Universities for a Master’s Degree in Sweden
Thinking of studying for a master’s overseas? Sweden offers high-ranked universities, excellent scholarships, and exciting post-study work opportunities. From insights into its progressive culture and exciting job opportunities to information on visas and the application process, here’s all you need to know about the master’s student experience in Sweden.
Happiness, Eco-Innovation, and World-Class Education
An increasingly popular place to study, Sweden offers academic excellence, an inclusive society, and stunning natural beauty. And as any local will tell you, happiness is key to Swedish life. There’s a strong sense of community and exceptional work-life balance. And it should come as no surprise to find the country at the top of the Quality of Life Index.
Sweden’s universities consistently rank among the world’s best. The country’s unique approach to sustainability, across industries and as a key part of public life, makes it the perfect place to launch a future-focused career.
Why Study in Sweden?
Swedish universities offer a variety of English-taught master’s degree programs, renowned for their high standards. You’ll find a wonderful blend of tradition and modernity. Think historic institutions dating back centuries that offer unconventional, world-class master’s programs. And with the country’s forward-thinking approach to innovation, research, and development, graduates have the perfect launchpad to an exciting career.
Top 5 Universities for a Master’s Degree in Sweden
1. Stockholm School of Economics
The Stockholm School of Economics (SSE) is Sweden’s top business school. Housed in a historic campus in the country’s capital city, it offers five distinct master’s programs. SSE leads the way in the fields of economics, business management, and accounting and finance studies.
The school is renowned for its academic rigor, entrepreneurial spirit, and strong ties to the local business community. A key focus is social responsibility and cultural connection, both of which are a cornerstone of its master’s program.
Students benefit from exciting art, sport, and tech initiatives, with field trips, exhibitions and seminars, designed to inspire students and cultivate curiosity.
2. KTH Royal Institute of Technology
One of Europe’s best technical and engineering universities, KTH offers over 60 master’s programs taught in English. It’s Sweden’s second-highest-ranked university, coming in at #78 in the QS World University Rankings 2026.
KTH takes pride in a diverse cohort of around 15,000 students across five campuses in Stockholm. Study focuses on practical, hands-on learning, with real-world experiences and strong connections to corporations and startups.
The university campus abounds in historic beauty. Colorful murals and epic paintings adorn campus walls, and a beautiful garden courtyard offers moments of serenity. Here you’ll find statues from Greek mythology, symbols of protection and good luck for students.
3. Lund University
Sweden’s highest-ranked university is known for its wide range of master’s programs and strong tradition. Lund University is one of the oldest universities in Sweden and Northern Europe. Founded in 1666, Lund ranks #1 in Sweden and #72 in the world by the QS World University Rankings 2026.
Lund University offers over 120 master’s programs. In addition, the university’s connection to several key research networks, including the League of European Research Universities (LERU) gives students unique opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Community is a key part of the Lund University student experience. Students are members of social clubs known as “nations.” Each of these organizes formal balls, vibrant parties, and social events throughout the year.
4. Uppsala University
Uppsala University is Sweden’s oldest university, known for its unique blend of tradition and academic freedom. Founded in 1477, it has a long history of excellence, with no less than eight Uppsala alumni receiving the Nobel Prize. The university’s connection to the Nobel Prize continues to this day, with Nobel Laureates invited to speak every December.
While rooted in history, Uppsala University looks to the future. It has a particular focus on bridging the gender gap. Of around 55,000 students at the university, 61% are women. There are also great initiatives such as WOMHER, which promotes research and development around women’s mental health.
5. EIT InnoEnergy Master School
EIT InnoEnergy’s Master School is one of Europe’s leading engineering and technical universities. Founded in 2013, it’s the educational arm of EIT InnoEnergy, Europe’s largest innovation ecosystem.
EIT InnoEnergy’s Master School offers master’s programs in collaboration with universities across Europe, including KTH in Stockholm, Sweden. These master’s programs focus on sustainability, with pathways that include renewable energy, smart cities, and nuclear energy.
EIT InnoEnergy Master School alumni feature regularly in the prestigious Forbes 30 Under 30 list. This is a testament to the strong entrepreneurial spirit within the school. There are also several alumni-created companies within the local community and beyond.
The Cost of Studying in Sweden
Sweden offers highly affordable tuition. Yet, living costs can be expensive compared to other European countries. Let’s take a look at the costs involved in living and studying in Sweden.
Tuition Fees
Master’s programs at private business schools in Sweden start at around €20,000. This can rise to around €50,000 at the highest-ranked schools.
However, Sweden also offers free university education for citizens of EU countries. That’s because, by Swedish law, state-funded higher education institutions can’t charge tuition fees.
If you’re from a country outside the EU, you will have to pay tuition fees. But these are normally in line with other European countries, if not slightly cheaper. There are also some generous scholarship schemes in Sweden, as you’ll find out below.
Cost of Living
Sweden is one of the more expensive countries in Europe. Day-to-day living costs are above the European average. Monthly expenses for students in Sweden typically range between SEK 7,000 and SEK 12,000 (€636 and €1,090). Compare the cost of living in Sweden to your home country using the Big Mac index.
Here’s a rough guide to monthly living costs in Sweden’s top university cities:
The Swedish Institute offers two major scholarship programs for those from outside the EU looking to study a master’s program.
The first is the SI Scholarship for Global Professionals. This is a fully-funded scholarship for master’s studies in Sweden. It’s open to citizens from 33 countries.
The other scholarship for studying for a master’s in Sweden is the SI Scholarship Pioneering Women in STEM. This scholarship is for women from 10 countries in Africa and Asia.
It’s also possible to pursue specific master’s scholarships at some of Sweden’s top universities. The likes of Lund University, KTH, and Uppsala all offer their own scholarships for international fee-paying students.
Application Process & Admission Requirements
All students wishing to study for a master’s in Sweden should apply through Sweden’s central portal, Universityadmissions.se. You’ll need to upload relevant supporting documents when applying. Check the specific requirements for your chosen master’s program on the portal.
You need a bachelor’s degree and a high level of English language proficiency to apply for a master’s in Sweden.
Student Visa & Work Opportunities
Students from EU and EEA countries aren’t required to have a visa to study in England. Still, if you plan on studying for more than a year, you’ll need to register for a Swedish personal identity number.
Non-EU citizens from select countries will need a visa to enter Sweden. Here’s a list of those countries. Citizens from countries that aren’t on this list (such as the U.S. and Australia) can enter Sweden without a visa. However, you’ll still need to apply for a residence permit to stay in the country for over three months.
You can apply for a Swedish student visa at the Swedish embassy or consulate in your country of residence. You can also apply online, which is a faster method. We recommend that you apply for your Swedish student visa or residence permit at least three months before you’re due to arrive in Sweden.
Career Prospects After a Master’s Degree in Sweden
Sweden has a high demand for skilled professionals across a range of industries. These include tech, especially cybersecurity and AI, as well as engineering and healthcare.
The country is also home to world-renowned companies such as Spotify, H&M, and IKEA, as well as a thriving startup scene. This provides graduates with exciting career opportunities.
Life in Sweden offers everything a student could ever wish for. The country’s top universities have long-established traditions that take pride in tolerance and diversity. Sweden values the plight of the individual, and you’ll find a deep sense of community, with well-being a priority. This extends beyond campus life to Swedish society in general.
The country is fiercely proud of its green spaces and abundance of wildlife. This gives every student the chance to explore Sweden’s incredible natural beauty between studies. And with a number of exciting cultural events and festivals, you’re sure to make unforgettable memories outside of the classroom.
Your Master’s Journey in Sweden Awaits
If you’re looking for a blend of academic excellence, culture, history, and natural beauty, a master’s program in Sweden might be the perfect choice for you. You have a wide selection of high-ranking universities and business schools to choose from, each with a diverse student population. And after graduating, you’ll be ready to launch a purposeful career in one of the world’s most forward-thinking countries.
Thinking about pursuing a master’s? Read inspiring stories from graduates and see if it’s the right next step for you.
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Ryan
Osborne
Ryan Osborne is a writer and content creator with a BA in English from the University of Southampton. Backed by over a decade of experience writing about education, lifestyle, travel, food, and more, Ryan has worked with leading companies and startups throughout the UK, the US, Spain, and Australia. Ryan is a copywriter for MBAGRADSCHOOLS and MASTERGRADSCHOOLS.
