# Study in Sweden from India

Country guide · For students from India. Checked 17 October 2026; next check January 2027. Researched by the UNIFER research team. Reviewed by Devjot Singh, founder, UNIFER. Rules change: always confirm with the official body before applying.

Page: https://uniferedu.com/study-in/sweden

## In short

- **15 Jan** 2027: the master’s application deadline on universityadmissions.se, up to 4 ranked choices (tuition about SEK 80,000–320,000 a year)
- **12 months** to look for work after graduating, on a job-search permit
- **15 hours** a week of work at most in term; unlimited in June–August
- **Yes** spouse, partner and children under 18 can come, with extra funds (SEK 4,440 a month for a partner)

## What changed recently

- 11 June 2026: work while studying is limited to at most 15 hours a week in term, for permits granted from that date.
- 16 Jun 2026: a work permit needs a salary of at least SEK 34,470 a month (90% of the median).
- 1 Oct 2026: insurance is needed for family members staying up to a year; no change to the funds amounts.
- 2027/28: Chalmers tuition rises from SEK 80,000 to SEK 95,000 a semester.

## Studying in Sweden from India: 8 things to know

Sweden suits Indian students with a 4-year bachelor’s or a 3-year bachelor’s with honours who apply early: one national portal, one round closing 15 January 2027, and up to 12 months to look for work after graduating.

1. **India degree rule for a master's (University Admissions):** "the minimum requirement is a 3-year Bachelor's degree with honours, 4-year Bachelor's degree, or a Bachelor's degree followed by a Master's degree (4 years of study in total)". BAMS, BUMS, BSMS, BHMS, B.Pharm (Ayurveda) and BNYS do not satisfy the requirement.
2. **One national portal, one early round.** universityadmissions.se, up to **4 ranked master's**, **first admissions round**: opens 16 Oct 2026, closes **15 Jan 2027**; fee and documents by **1 Feb**; results **1 Apr**. Application fee **SEK 900** per semester, not refundable.
3. **Tuition applies to Indian students:** about **SEK 80,000–320,000 a year** (average about 160,000). KTH most two-year master's SEK 385,000 in total; Chalmers SEK 80,000 a semester (2026/27), **SEK 95,000 from 2027/28**. The first semester is paid before the permit application.
4. **Funds: SEK 10,656 a month (2026)** for the whole permit period (12 months: SEK 127,872), in the student's own account, a scholarship, an institutional sponsor or a home-country student loan. Relatives cannot be sponsors; frozen deposits, shares and funds do not count.
5. **SI Scholarship for Global Professionals:** India was not in the 2026/27 list; the 2027/28 list is published 19 Oct 2026: check it. KTH India Scholarship: one award in 2027.
6. **Work: at most 15 hours a week in term** (permits granted from 11 June 2026); unlimited in June–August, for work that is part of the programme or at the university, and after completing a programme of at least two semesters.
7. **Progress is checked at each extension:** 37.5 credits in year 1, 45 credits a year after (full-time).
8. **After graduating:** a permit to **look for work for up to 12 months**. A work permit needs **90% of the median salary (SEK 34,470 a month)**; a person holding a student permit is exempt on the first application but must earn at least 75% of the median.

## How do Swedish universities and master’s degrees work?

A Swedish master’s takes 1 year (60 credits) or 2 years (120 credits), with the main intake from late August. Over 1,000 master’s are taught entirely in English, but most employers require Swedish.

- **Institutions:** universities and university colleges (39 on Study in Sweden's list), mostly state; **Chalmers, Jönköping University and Stockholm School of Economics** are independent. UHR lists Swedish providers **without** degree-awarding powers. Permits are for up to 2 years at 34 named institutions (e.g. KTH, Chalmers, Lund, Uppsala, Stockholm, Gothenburg, Karolinska, Linköping), otherwise 1 year at a time, renewable.
- **Degrees:** bachelor's 3 years (180 credits); master's **1 year (60 credits) or 2 years (120 credits)**; doctoral positions are salaried and fee-free. 30 credits a semester. Courses are often taken one at a time, each with an exam.
- **Year:** autumn semester from late August (main intake); spring from mid-January (few programmes).
- **Selection:** a merit rating set by each university (grades, previous credits, motivation, other documents); no published cut-offs (Lund: no official GPA requirement). An offer deletes all lower-ranked choices. KTH's 2026 acceptance rate averaged 31%.
- **Language:** over 1,000 master's and over 100 bachelor's taught entirely in English. Medicine, nursing, dentistry, veterinary and teaching are not offered in English. Most employers require Swedish.
- **Courses that do not qualify:** **distance and part-time courses** (no study permit); **higher vocational (yrkeshögskola) and folk high school courses**, and programmes shorter than two semesters (no post-study job-search permit).

Official sources:

- [Migrationsverket, Apply for a residence permit for studies at higher education (all tabs; amounts for 2026)](https://www.migrationsverket.se/en/you-want-to-apply/study/higher-education.html) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Study in Sweden, Universities (39 listed)](https://studyinsweden.se/universities/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [UHR, Higher education institutions in Sweden (upd. 28 Apr 2023; via r.jina.ai)](https://www.uhr.se/en/start/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/enic-naric-sweden/higher-education-institutions-in-sweden/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Swedish Higher Education Authority (UKÄ), start page (quality evaluation, official statistics)](https://www.uka.se/swedish-higher-education-authority) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Study in Sweden, Degree programmes](https://studyinsweden.se/plan-your-studies/degree-programmes/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [University Admissions, The Swedish higher education system (upd. 14 Oct 2025)](https://www.universityadmissions.se/en/find-out-more/the-swedish-higher-education-system/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [University Admissions, Who is required to pay fees? (upd. 13 Oct 2026)](https://www.universityadmissions.se/en/fees-scholarships-residence-permit/who-is-required-to-pay-fees/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Study in Sweden, Higher education in Sweden](https://studyinsweden.se/plan-your-studies/higher-education-in-sweden/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Migrationsverket, Look for work after completing your studies in Sweden](https://www.migrationsverket.se/en/you-want-to-extend/study/look-for-work-after-completing-your-studies-in-sweden.html) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Study in Sweden, How to apply](https://studyinsweden.se/plan-your-studies/how-to-apply/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [University Admissions, Admissions rounds and spring semester availability (upd. 28 Oct 2025)](https://www.universityadmissions.se/en/key-dates-and-deadlines/admission-rounds-and-spring-semester-availability/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Study in Sweden, After your studies / Prepare for your career in Sweden](https://studyinsweden.se/after-your-studies/prepare-for-your-career-in-sweden/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Study in Sweden, Work & internships](https://studyinsweden.se/moving-to-sweden/work-internships/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [University Admissions, Scholarships (upd. 29 May 2026)](https://www.universityadmissions.se/en/fees-scholarships-residence-permit/scholarships/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [University Admissions in Sweden, Autumn semester dates (upd. 31 Aug 2026)](https://www.universityadmissions.se/en/key-dates-and-deadlines/autumn-semester-dates/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [KTH, Entry requirements for master's studies (last changed 9 Jun 2026) and Admissions](https://www.kth.se/en/studies/master/admissions/entry-requirements-for-master-s-studies-1.6915) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [University Admissions, Spring semester dates (upd. 21 May 2026)](https://www.universityadmissions.se/en/key-dates-and-deadlines/spring-semester-dates/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [University Admissions, Selection process master's (upd. 14 Oct 2025)](https://www.universityadmissions.se/en/selection-and-admissions-results/selection-process-masters/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [University Admissions, Rank your selections (upd. 18 Oct 2022)](https://www.universityadmissions.se/en/apply-to-masters/rank-your-selections-masters/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Study in Sweden, Accommodation & budget](https://studyinsweden.se/moving-to-sweden/accommodation-budget/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Study in Sweden (Swedish Institute), Fees & costs](https://studyinsweden.se/plan-your-studies/fees-costs/) (checked 2026-10-17)

## Can I apply with an Indian degree, and is a 3-year bachelor’s accepted?

Only with honours: the minimum is a 3-year bachelor’s with honours, a 4-year bachelor’s, or a bachelor’s followed by a master’s (4 years in total). BAMS, BUMS, BSMS, BHMS, B.Pharm (Ayurveda) and BNYS do not satisfy the requirement.

- **Master's:** a bachelor's equivalent to a Swedish kandidatexamen; for India, the rule in Key fact 1. No published grade conversion; each programme sets its own merit criteria.
- **UHR (ENIC-NARIC Sweden)** compares Indian qualifications as guidance only (e.g. B.E./B.Tech to a Swedish engineering bachelor's); the **university decides eligibility**, and no UHR statement is needed to apply.
- **Documents:** transcripts for all semesters and the degree from the **university's** Registrar or Examinations Office. **College mark sheets are not accepted** (unless the college is autonomous). **DigiLocker documents are not accepted.** Names and birthdates must match the passport; **affidavits are not accepted**. Documents are verified with the issuing institution.
- **Final-year students** can apply with transcripts to date and a university letter; admission may be conditional on the final documents.
- **English (usually "English 6"):** met by English grades on the **CBSE (2008 onwards) or ISC Class XII** certificate, or English plus three subjects taught in English (certificate must say so). An Indian degree taught in English does not count by itself. Otherwise **IELTS Academic 6.5 (no part below 5.5)**; TOEFL iBT 4.5 on the new 1–6 scale (from 21 Jan 2026) or 90 with 20 in writing; PTE Academic 62 (writing 61).
- **Tests:** GMAT/GRE not part of the general rules; Lund requires none; Stockholm School of Economics MSc uses GMAT or GRE.
- **Bachelor's from Class XII:** CBSE, ISC, state Higher Secondary and other national-board certificates are accepted (board-issued, not school-issued); a pass in Mathematics is needed.

Official sources:

- [University Admissions, India, bachelor's admission (upd. 6 Oct 2026)](https://www.universityadmissions.se/en/apply-to-bachelors/provide-application-documents-bachelors/country-instructions/india/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [University Admissions, Bachelor's requirements (upd. 8 Oct 2025)](https://www.universityadmissions.se/en/entry-requirements/bachelors-requirements/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [University Admissions, Admissions rounds and spring semester availability (upd. 28 Oct 2025)](https://www.universityadmissions.se/en/key-dates-and-deadlines/admission-rounds-and-spring-semester-availability/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [University Admissions, Master's requirements (upd. 8 Oct 2025)](https://www.universityadmissions.se/en/entry-requirements/masters-requirements/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [University Admissions, The Swedish higher education system (upd. 14 Oct 2025)](https://www.universityadmissions.se/en/find-out-more/the-swedish-higher-education-system/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [University Admissions, India, master's admission (upd. 6 Oct 2026)](https://www.universityadmissions.se/en/apply-to-masters/provide-application-documents-masters/country-instructions/india/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [UHR, Qualifications Assessment Tool: India (17 qualifications; each entry upd. 30 Nov 2024; via r.jina.ai)](https://www.uhr.se/en/start/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/qualifications-assessment-tool/india) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [UHR, If you plan to study in Sweden (via r.jina.ai)](https://www.uhr.se/en/start/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/how-to-use-the-assessment/if-you-plan-to-study-in-sweden/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [UHR (Swedish Council for Higher Education, ENIC-NARIC Sweden), Recognition of foreign qualifications / Find out what your education corresponds to in Sweden (upd. 11 Sep 2026; via r.jina.ai)](https://www.uhr.se/en/start/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/what-your-education-corresponds-to/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [UHR, How to apply for an evaluation; FAQ; The recognition process and statement (via r.jina.ai)](https://www.uhr.se/en/start/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/how-to-apply-for-an-evaluation/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [KTH, Entry requirements for master's studies (last changed 9 Jun 2026) and Admissions](https://www.kth.se/en/studies/master/admissions/entry-requirements-for-master-s-studies-1.6915) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [University Admissions, Selection process master's (upd. 14 Oct 2025)](https://www.universityadmissions.se/en/selection-and-admissions-results/selection-process-masters/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [KTH, KTH India Scholarship (last changed 13 Oct 2026)](https://www.kth.se/en/studies/master/admissions/scholarships/kth-india-scholarship-1.422144) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Lund University, FAQs: application and admission (upd. 27 Aug 2026)](https://www.lunduniversity.lu.se/study/admission-degree-studies/faqs-application-and-admission) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [University Admissions, English language requirements (upd. 13 Oct 2025)](https://www.universityadmissions.se/en/entry-requirements/english-language-requirements/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Study in Sweden, After your studies / Prepare for your career in Sweden](https://studyinsweden.se/after-your-studies/prepare-for-your-career-in-sweden/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Study in Sweden, Work & internships](https://studyinsweden.se/moving-to-sweden/work-internships/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Stockholm School of Economics, Accepted tests (MSc, PhD) (via Claude in Chrome)](https://www.hhs.se/education/information/tests-that-we-accept/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Migrationsverket, Apply for a residence permit for studies at higher education (all tabs; amounts for 2026)](https://www.migrationsverket.se/en/you-want-to-apply/study/higher-education.html) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Migrationsverket, 5 tips to increase your chances of a decision before the semester](https://www.migrationsverket.se/en/you-want-to-apply/study/higher-education/5-tips-to-increase-your-chances-of-a-decision-before-the-semester.html) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Swedish Institute, SI Scholarship for Global Professionals (2026/27 call; 2027/28 info due 19 Oct 2026; re-checked in Chrome 17 Oct 2026, not yet published; robots.txt unreadable, 403)](https://si.se/en/apply/scholarships/swedish-institute-scholarships-for-global-professionals/) (checked 2026-10-17)

## How do I apply to a Swedish university?

You apply on universityadmissions.se, ranking up to 4 master’s, by 15 January 2027, and pay the SEK 900 fee by 1 February. Results come on 1 April, and an offer deletes all lower-ranked choices.

- Apply on **universityadmissions.se**; pay **SEK 900** by 1 Feb (no waivers). Late applications are processed only if places remain.
- Programme-specific items (letter of intent, CV, references) only when the programme asks.
- Results 1 April; no reply needed in the first round on universityadmissions.se, but **follow the university's instructions** (Lund asks for a reply to Lund). Offers are **conditional until the first tuition instalment is paid**. Deferral only on special grounds (Lund: exceptional circumstances). Lund: pay by 20 May; Chalmers: no tuition refund if the permit is applied for after 15 June.
- Tuition is paid to the university only; University Admissions and UHR never send invoices.
- Approved agents: some universities list them (e.g. KTH, Lund, Uppsala, Chalmers); Karolinska, Stockholm University and Gothenburg have approved none.

Official sources:

- [University Admissions in Sweden, Autumn semester dates (upd. 31 Aug 2026)](https://www.universityadmissions.se/en/key-dates-and-deadlines/autumn-semester-dates/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [KTH, Entry requirements for master's studies (last changed 9 Jun 2026) and Admissions](https://www.kth.se/en/studies/master/admissions/entry-requirements-for-master-s-studies-1.6915) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [University Admissions, The Swedish higher education system (upd. 14 Oct 2025)](https://www.universityadmissions.se/en/find-out-more/the-swedish-higher-education-system/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [University Admissions, Pay your application fee (upd. 4 Sep 2026)](https://www.universityadmissions.se/en/fees-scholarships-residence-permit/pay-your-application-fee/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [KTH, Application and tuition fees for master's studies (last changed 2 Sep 2026)](https://www.kth.se/en/studies/master/admissions/application-and-tuition-fees-for-master-s-studies-1.65817) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Migrationsverket, Apply for a residence permit for studies at higher education (all tabs; amounts for 2026)](https://www.migrationsverket.se/en/you-want-to-apply/study/higher-education.html) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [University Admissions, Spring semester dates (upd. 21 May 2026)](https://www.universityadmissions.se/en/key-dates-and-deadlines/spring-semester-dates/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [University Admissions, India, master's admission (upd. 6 Oct 2026)](https://www.universityadmissions.se/en/apply-to-masters/provide-application-documents-masters/country-instructions/india/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [University Admissions, India, bachelor's admission (upd. 6 Oct 2026)](https://www.universityadmissions.se/en/apply-to-bachelors/provide-application-documents-bachelors/country-instructions/india/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [University Admissions, Final year of bachelor's studies (upd. 1 Jun 2023)](https://www.universityadmissions.se/en/apply-to-masters/provide-application-documents-masters/final-year-of-bachelors-studies/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Study in Sweden, How to apply](https://studyinsweden.se/plan-your-studies/how-to-apply/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [University Admissions, Selection process master's (upd. 14 Oct 2025)](https://www.universityadmissions.se/en/selection-and-admissions-results/selection-process-masters/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [University Admissions, Admissions results (upd. 14 Oct 2025)](https://www.universityadmissions.se/en/selection-and-admissions-results/admissions-results/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [University Admissions, Paying your tuition fees (upd. 13 Oct 2025)](https://www.universityadmissions.se/en/fees-scholarships-residence-permit/paying-your-tuition-fees/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Lund University, Tuition fees](https://www.lunduniversity.lu.se/study/admission-degree-studies/applying-studies-when-apply/tuition-fees) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Chalmers, Tuition fees (upd. 13 Oct 2026)](https://www.chalmers.se/en/education/application-and-admission/tuition-fees/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Migrationsverket, Changes to your studies](https://www.migrationsverket.se/en/you-have-a-permit-in-sweden/study/changes-to-your-studies.html) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [UHR, The Higher Education Ordinance (English translation; ch. 6 ss. 18–22, ch. 7 s. 33; via r.jina.ai)](https://www.uhr.se/en/start/laws-and-regulations/Laws-and-regulations/The-Higher-Education-Ordinance/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Lund University, FAQs: application and admission (upd. 27 Aug 2026)](https://www.lunduniversity.lu.se/study/admission-degree-studies/faqs-application-and-admission) (checked 2026-10-17)

## How much does it cost, and how much money must I show?

Tuition is about SEK 80,000–320,000 a year (average about 160,000), paid per semester in advance. You must show SEK 10,656 a month (2026) for the whole permit period, in your own account, a scholarship, an institutional sponsor or a home-country student loan.

- **Tuition by subject (a year):** social sciences/humanities about SEK 80,000–135,000; technical/natural sciences 140,000–185,000; architecture/design 210,000–320,000. Paid per semester in advance. Stockholm School of Economics: SEK 360,000 per MSc programme.
- **Funds:** SEK 10,656 a month; bank statement no older than **4 months** before the permit start, in the student's name (only the student and an accompanying partner may withdraw). A home-country education loan counts with a lender's certificate (amount, period, payment dates, living-cost share); once paid into the account it counts as bank assets.
- **Living costs:** Study in Sweden's minimum budget is SEK 10,656 a month (rent 4,900); rents about SEK 3,000–7,000, higher in Stockholm and Gothenburg. Student union SEK 50–350. **Public service fee** (taken with income tax, residents 18+): 1% of taxable income, at most SEK 1,184 a year (2026).
- **Scholarships:** autumn-start master's only. **KTH India Scholarship** (Indian citizen, Indian degree, KTH first choice): tuition for two years plus a living allowance; apply 1 Dec 2026–15 Jan 2027; one award; Mumbai and Pune applicants prioritised. University merit scholarships (KTH Scholarship, Lund Global Scholarship) are open to all non-EU applicants.

Official sources:

- [University Admissions, Who is required to pay fees? (upd. 13 Oct 2026)](https://www.universityadmissions.se/en/fees-scholarships-residence-permit/who-is-required-to-pay-fees/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Study in Sweden (Swedish Institute), Fees & costs](https://studyinsweden.se/plan-your-studies/fees-costs/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [University Admissions, Paying your tuition fees (upd. 13 Oct 2025)](https://www.universityadmissions.se/en/fees-scholarships-residence-permit/paying-your-tuition-fees/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [KTH, Application and tuition fees for master's studies (last changed 2 Sep 2026)](https://www.kth.se/en/studies/master/admissions/application-and-tuition-fees-for-master-s-studies-1.65817) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Chalmers, Tuition fees (upd. 13 Oct 2026)](https://www.chalmers.se/en/education/application-and-admission/tuition-fees/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Stockholm School of Economics, Tuition fees (via Claude in Chrome)](https://www.hhs.se/education/information/tuition-and-fees/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [UHR, Higher education institutions in Sweden (upd. 28 Apr 2023; via r.jina.ai)](https://www.uhr.se/en/start/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/enic-naric-sweden/higher-education-institutions-in-sweden/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Migrationsverket, Apply for a residence permit for studies at higher education (all tabs; amounts for 2026)](https://www.migrationsverket.se/en/you-want-to-apply/study/higher-education.html) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Study in Sweden, Accommodation & budget](https://studyinsweden.se/moving-to-sweden/accommodation-budget/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Swedish Institute, SI Scholarship for Global Professionals (2026/27 call; 2027/28 info due 19 Oct 2026; re-checked in Chrome 17 Oct 2026, not yet published; robots.txt unreadable, 403)](https://si.se/en/apply/scholarships/swedish-institute-scholarships-for-global-professionals/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [University Admissions, Scholarships (upd. 29 May 2026)](https://www.universityadmissions.se/en/fees-scholarships-residence-permit/scholarships/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [University Admissions, Admissions rounds and spring semester availability (upd. 28 Oct 2025)](https://www.universityadmissions.se/en/key-dates-and-deadlines/admission-rounds-and-spring-semester-availability/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [KTH, KTH India Scholarship (last changed 13 Oct 2026)](https://www.kth.se/en/studies/master/admissions/scholarships/kth-india-scholarship-1.422144) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [KTH, Scholarships](https://www.kth.se/en/studies/master/admissions/scholarships) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Lund University, Scholarships and awards](https://www.lunduniversity.lu.se/study/admission-degree-studies/scholarships-and-awards) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [University Admissions, Pay your application fee (upd. 4 Sep 2026)](https://www.universityadmissions.se/en/fees-scholarships-residence-permit/pay-your-application-fee/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Chalmers, Tuition fee terms and conditions](https://www.chalmers.se/en/education/application-and-admission/tuition-fees/tuition-fee-terms-and-conditions/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Lund University, Tuition fees](https://www.lunduniversity.lu.se/study/admission-degree-studies/applying-studies-when-apply/tuition-fees) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Skatteverket, Public service fee (2026 amounts)](https://www.skatteverket.se/servicelankar/otherlanguages/englishengelska/individualsandemployees/livinginsweden/publicservicefee.4.676f4884175c97df4193041.html) (checked 2026-10-17)

## How do I get a Swedish student visa from India?

You need a residence permit for studies: apply online for SEK 1,500 right after paying the first tuition instalment. 75% of cases are decided within 3 months, and biometrics are taken only at the Swedish Embassy in New Delhi.

- **Residence permit for studies**, issued before travel. Admission must be **final, full-time and on site** (first instalment paid; the university tells Migrationsverket).
- **Apply online** right after paying: **SEK 1,500**; 75% of cases decided within **3 months**; no priority processing.
- **Passport check:** usually digital via an app; otherwise at the embassy. **Biometrics only at the Swedish Embassy in New Delhi** (no appointment). The card reaches the embassy about **4 weeks** after approval and biometrics; collect in New Delhi or by paid courier to a Swedish consulate in India.
- **Insurance:** comprehensive health insurance only for studies under one year; for longer studies, registration in the population register gives access to care.
- No language test for the permit. The application is made from outside Sweden. A refusal can be appealed to a court within the deadline in the decision.
- **Spouse and children:** a spouse, registered or cohabiting partner and children under 18 can come, with the student or later. Extra funds **SEK 4,440 a month (partner)** and **SEK 2,664 (each child)**; fee SEK 1,500 / 750. From 1 Oct 2026: insurance for family staying up to a year; no change to the amounts. The family permit is described as a residence and work permit; whether any work-hour limit applies to a student's spouse is unconfirmed: **confirm with Migrationsverket before applying**. A new general rule (1 Oct 2026) that the person in Sweden must have lived there two years before family can join is not stated for students: **confirm with Migrationsverket before applying**.

Official sources:

- [Migrationsverket, Apply for a residence permit for studies at higher education (all tabs; amounts for 2026)](https://www.migrationsverket.se/en/you-want-to-apply/study/higher-education.html) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Migrationsverket, 5 tips to increase your chances of a decision before the semester](https://www.migrationsverket.se/en/you-want-to-apply/study/higher-education/5-tips-to-increase-your-chances-of-a-decision-before-the-semester.html) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Embassy of Sweden in India, Biometrics and passport checks](https://www.swedenabroad.se/en/about-sweden-non-swedish-citizens/india/going-to-sweden/biometrics-and-passport-checks/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Migrationsverket, Studier vid högre utbildning (Swedish version of S1; 15-hour rule confirmed)](https://www.migrationsverket.se/du-vill-ansoka/studera/studier-vid-hogre-utbildning.html) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Study in Sweden, Health insurance](https://studyinsweden.se/moving-to-sweden/health-insurance/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Migrationsverket, If your application has been approved – studies](https://www.migrationsverket.se/en/you-have-received-a-decision/study/your-application-has-been-approved.html) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Chalmers, Tuition fees (upd. 13 Oct 2026)](https://www.chalmers.se/en/education/application-and-admission/tuition-fees/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Migrationsverket, If your application has been rejected – studies](https://www.migrationsverket.se/en/you-have-received-a-decision/study/your-application-has-been-rejected.html) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Migrationsverket, Family who want to apply afterwards – study](https://www.migrationsverket.se/en/you-want-to-apply/study/family-who-want-to-apply-afterwards.html) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Migrationsverket, News: New rules for family members accompanying students (1 Oct 2026)](https://www.migrationsverket.se/nyheter/news-archive/2026-10-01-new-rules-for-family-members-accompanying-students.html) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Migrationsverket, Look for work after completing your studies in Sweden](https://www.migrationsverket.se/en/you-want-to-extend/study/look-for-work-after-completing-your-studies-in-sweden.html) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Migrationsverket, News: New rules on immigration due to family ties and young adults from 1 October (1 Oct 2026)](https://www.migrationsverket.se/nyheter/news-archive/2026-10-01-new-rules-on-immigration-due-to-family-ties-and-young-adults-from-1-october.html) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Migrationsverket, News: New rules for residence permits for studies in higher education (25 May 2026, upd. 21 Aug 2026)](https://www.migrationsverket.se/nyheter/news-archive/2026-05-25-new-rules-for-residence-permits-for-studies-in-higher-education.html) (checked 2026-10-17)

## When should I start preparing?

Start about 11 months before an autumn intake: applications open 16 October and close 15 January, and the residence permit is applied for straight after paying the first instalment in April–May.

| When | Step |
|---|---|
| Sep–Oct (11–10 months before) | Check the degree rule, programme requirements and fees; English test if CBSE/ISC English does not apply. Applications open 16 Oct. |
| 1 Dec – 15 Jan | KTH India Scholarship window. |
| By 15 Jan | Apply and rank up to 4 programmes. |
| By 1 Feb | SEK 900 fee; university-issued documents uploaded. |
| Feb | University scholarship applications (e.g. Lund). |
| 1 Apr | Master's results. |
| Apr–May | Pay the first instalment (Lund by 20 May); funds SEK 10,656 × months in own account. |
| Straight after paying | Residence permit online (SEK 1,500); digital passport check; biometrics in New Delhi; housing applications. |
| Jun–Aug | Permit card (about 4 weeks); insurance for any gap before registration. |
| On arrival | Register with Skatteverket (permit of a year or more) → personnummer; otherwise tell Migrationsverket the address within 30 days. |

## Can I work while studying, and what happens on arrival?

You can work 15 hours a week in term and full-time in June–August. If your permit is for a year or more, you register with Skatteverket on arrival to get a personnummer; housing is scarce in the big cities.

- **Housing** is scarce in Stockholm, Gothenburg, Lund and Uppsala. Student corridors and flats; housing queues can take years, so sublets are common. Never pay (or pay a deposit) before signing and getting access. **Buying a rental contract is illegal.** A sublet needs the landlord's approval and a written contract; the rent must be reasonable.
- **Population register:** stays of a year or more are registered with Skatteverket in person (residence permit card, enrolment proof, full address with name on the door, marriage certificate if married). Case assignment takes about 5 weeks. The **personnummer** is needed for care at resident rates, a bank account and an ID card.
- **Address:** students not in the register must notify Migrationsverket of their address within 30 days of arrival and of each move.
- **On arrival at the university:** registration by the department (often the first day; sometimes in advance); introduction meetings may be compulsory.
- **Health and safety:** doctor's visit about SEK 250–400 once registered; 1177 for advice; 112 for emergencies; 114 14 for the police otherwise. Discrimination complaints: the Equality Ombudsman (DO).
- **Work:** 15 hours a week in term (full-time June–August); internships in the programme and work at the university are not limited. Over the limit: the permit can be revoked or not extended. Most student jobs are customer-facing and often need Swedish. **No legal minimum wage**: collective agreements set the lowest pay. Income tax usually 29–35% (stay of six months or more); shorter stays: SINK 22.5%.
- **Exams:** grading scale set by each university; if attempts are limited, at least five; after two fails a student may ask for another examiner.
- **Keep the permit:** 37.5 credits in year 1, 45 a year after; extend up to 4 months before expiry. Changing programme or university at the same level is allowed if full-time. Dropping out can lead to revocation.

Official sources:

- [Study in Sweden, Accommodation & budget](https://studyinsweden.se/moving-to-sweden/accommodation-budget/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Study in Sweden (Swedish Institute), Fees & costs](https://studyinsweden.se/plan-your-studies/fees-costs/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Information Sweden, How people live (housing) (upd. 22 Jan 2024)](https://www.informationsverige.se/en/om-sverige/att-bo-i-sverige/hur-bor-manniskor.html) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Information Sweden, Rights and obligations in your housing (upd. 24 Jun 2026)](https://www.informationsverige.se/en/om-sverige/att-bo-i-sverige/rattigheter-och-skyldigheter-i-ditt-boende.html) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Skatteverket, Moving to Sweden: you are a citizen of a non-EU/EEA country](https://www.skatteverket.se/servicelankar/otherlanguages/inenglishengelska/individualsandemployees/movingtosweden/citizenofanoneueeacountry.4.5a85666214dbad743ffff54.html) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Study in Sweden, Permits & visas](https://studyinsweden.se/moving-to-sweden/permits-visas/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Migrationsverket, If your application has been approved – studies](https://www.migrationsverket.se/en/you-have-received-a-decision/study/your-application-has-been-approved.html) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Skatteverket, Processing times for population registration](https://www.skatteverket.se/servicelankar/otherlanguages/englishengelska/individualsandemployees/processingtimesforpopulationregistration.4.52140d4a192a01c3d48943.html) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Migrationsverket, News: New rules for residence permits for studies in higher education (25 May 2026, upd. 21 Aug 2026)](https://www.migrationsverket.se/nyheter/news-archive/2026-05-25-new-rules-for-residence-permits-for-studies-in-higher-education.html) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Migrationsverket, Apply for a residence permit for studies at higher education (all tabs; amounts for 2026)](https://www.migrationsverket.se/en/you-want-to-apply/study/higher-education.html) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Embassy of Sweden in India, Biometrics and passport checks](https://www.swedenabroad.se/en/about-sweden-non-swedish-citizens/india/going-to-sweden/biometrics-and-passport-checks/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Embassy of Sweden in India, Decision and residence permit card](https://www.swedenabroad.se/en/about-sweden-non-swedish-citizens/india/going-to-sweden/how-to-receive-your-decision-and-resident-permit-card/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Embassy of Sweden in New Delhi, News: Collection of residence permit cards (27 Feb 2025)](https://www.swedenabroad.se/en/embassies/india-new-delhi/current/news/collection-of-residence-permit-cards/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [VFS Global, Sweden in India, home (via Claude in Chrome; robots.txt unreadable, 403)](https://visa.vfsglobal.com/ind/en/swe/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Study in Sweden, Health insurance](https://studyinsweden.se/moving-to-sweden/health-insurance/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Chalmers, Tuition fees (upd. 13 Oct 2026)](https://www.chalmers.se/en/education/application-and-admission/tuition-fees/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Lund University, Newly admitted students (upd. 11 Sep 2026)](https://www.lunduniversity.lu.se/study/admission-degree-studies/applying-studies-when-apply/admission-results/newly-admitted-students) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [University Admissions, Admissions results (upd. 14 Oct 2025)](https://www.universityadmissions.se/en/selection-and-admissions-results/admissions-results/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Information Sweden, Your safety (upd. 22 Sep 2026)](https://www.informationsverige.se/en/om-sverige/att-bo-i-sverige/din-sakerhet.html) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Information Sweden, Discrimination (upd. 15 Dec 2025)](https://www.informationsverige.se/en/om-sverige/individens-rattigheter-och-skyldigheter/diskriminering.html) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Study in Sweden, Work & internships](https://studyinsweden.se/moving-to-sweden/work-internships/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Information Sweden (County Administrative Boards), Labour market (upd. 2 Feb 2023)](https://www.informationsverige.se/en/om-sverige/att-forsorja-sig-och-utvecklas-i-sverige/arbetsmarknad.html) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Information Sweden, Tax and tax returns (upd. 6 Aug 2024)](https://www.informationsverige.se/en/om-sverige/att-forsorja-sig-och-utvecklas-i-sverige/skatt-och-deklaration.html) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Skatteverket, New in Sweden and will be employed here (A-tax and SINK; robots.txt unreadable)](https://www.skatteverket.se/servicelankar/otherlanguages/englishengelska/individualsandemployees/newinswedenandwillbeemployedhere.4.2cf1b5cd163796a5c8bb087.html) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Study in Sweden, Higher education in Sweden](https://studyinsweden.se/plan-your-studies/higher-education-in-sweden/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [UHR, The Higher Education Ordinance (English translation; ch. 6 ss. 18–22, ch. 7 s. 33; via r.jina.ai)](https://www.uhr.se/en/start/laws-and-regulations/Laws-and-regulations/The-Higher-Education-Ordinance/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Migrationsverket, Changes to your studies](https://www.migrationsverket.se/en/you-have-a-permit-in-sweden/study/changes-to-your-studies.html) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Migrationsverket, Extend a residence permit for higher education](https://www.migrationsverket.se/en/you-want-to-extend/study/higher-education.html) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Study in Sweden, After your studies / Prepare for your career in Sweden](https://studyinsweden.se/after-your-studies/prepare-for-your-career-in-sweden/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Study in Sweden, Learn Swedish](https://studyinsweden.se/moving-to-sweden/learn-swedish/) (checked 2026-10-17)

## Can I stay and work in Sweden after graduating?

Yes: after completing a programme of at least two semesters, you can get a permit to look for work for up to one year. Apply before your study permit expires.

- **Job-search permit:** after completing the whole programme (at least two semesters, all courses passed), apply **before the study permit expires**; up to one year; SEK 10,656 a month; family on this permit may work.
- **Work permit:** salary at least **SEK 34,470 a month** (90% of the median, from 16 Jun 2026); former students on their first permit at least 75% of the median. Switching inside Sweden needs a completed programme of at least two semesters. **EU Blue Card:** SEK 53,625 a month, permits up to 4 years.
- **Coming back later:** master's graduates outside Sweden can apply for up to 9 months to look for work (SEK 13,000 a month in savings; fee SEK 2,200).
- **Permanent residence:** after four of the last seven years working with a work permit, with self-support.
- **Citizenship (from 6 Jun 2026):** eight years' residence, own income of about SEK 20,000 a month, and knowledge of Swedish and Swedish society. Sweden allows dual citizenship, but under Indian law taking another citizenship ends Indian citizenship.
- **Regulated professions** (health care via Socialstyrelsen; teachers via Skolverket; lawyers, auditors and others) need authorisation; UHR flags Indian MBBS, B.Pharm, nursing and B.Ed as regulated.
- **Back in India:** AIU issues equivalence certificates for foreign degrees.

Official sources:

- [Migrationsverket, Look for work after completing your studies in Sweden](https://www.migrationsverket.se/en/you-want-to-extend/study/look-for-work-after-completing-your-studies-in-sweden.html) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Study in Sweden, Permits & visas](https://studyinsweden.se/moving-to-sweden/permits-visas/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Study in Sweden, Work & internships](https://studyinsweden.se/moving-to-sweden/work-internships/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Migrationsverket, If your application has been approved – studies](https://www.migrationsverket.se/en/you-have-received-a-decision/study/your-application-has-been-approved.html) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Migrationsverket, Salary requirements for a work permit](https://www.migrationsverket.se/en/word-explanations/salary-requirements-for-a-work-permit.html) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Migrationsverket, News: New rules for work permits now apply (1 Jun 2026)](https://www.migrationsverket.se/nyheter/news-archive/2026-06-01-new-rules-for-work-permits-now-apply.html) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Migrationsverket, News: New median salary affects the salary requirement for work permits (16 Jun 2026)](https://www.migrationsverket.se/nyheter/news-archive/2026-06-16-new-median-salary-affects-the-salary-requirement-for-work-permits.html) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Migrationsverket, Students who have found work](https://www.migrationsverket.se/en/you-want-to-apply/work/employee-or-self-employed/students-who-have-found-work.html) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Migrationsverket, Apply for an EU Blue Card](https://www.migrationsverket.se/en/you-want-to-apply/work/employee-or-self-employed/eu-blue-cards.html) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Migrationsverket, Extend a work permit – employees (permanent residence section)](https://www.migrationsverket.se/en/you-want-to-extend/work/employee-or-self-employed/employees.html) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Migrationsverket, Apply for a permanent residence permit](https://www.migrationsverket.se/en/you-want-to-apply/permanent-residence-permit.html) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Migrationsverket, News: New rules for Swedish citizenship from 6 June 2026 (6 May 2026)](https://www.migrationsverket.se/nyheter/news-archive/2026-05-06-new-rules-for-swedish-citizenship-from-6-june-2026.html) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Migrationsverket, What Swedish citizenship means (dual citizenship)](https://www.migrationsverket.se/en/you-want-to-apply/swedish-citizenship/what-swedish-citizenship-means.html) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Migrationsverket, Swedish citizenship (news list: language test may be postponed, 30 Sep 2026)](https://www.migrationsverket.se/en/you-want-to-apply/swedish-citizenship.html) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Ministry of Home Affairs (India), The Citizenship Act, 1955 (consolidated PDF, s. 9)](https://indiancitizenshiponline.nic.in/Documents/UserGuide/Citizenship_Act_1955_16042019.pdf) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Migrationsverket, Look for work or start a business (highly qualified, from abroad)](https://www.migrationsverket.se/en/you-want-to-apply/work/look-for-work/look-for-work-or-start-a-business.html) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [UHR, Regulated professions (via r.jina.ai)](https://www.uhr.se/en/start/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/how-to-use-the-assessment/if-you--want-to-work-in-sweden/regulated-professions/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [UHR (Swedish Council for Higher Education, ENIC-NARIC Sweden), Recognition of foreign qualifications / Find out what your education corresponds to in Sweden (upd. 11 Sep 2026; via r.jina.ai)](https://www.uhr.se/en/start/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/what-your-education-corresponds-to/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Socialstyrelsen, Application for a licence in health care](https://legitimation.socialstyrelsen.se/en) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [UHR, Qualifications Assessment Tool: India (17 qualifications; each entry upd. 30 Nov 2024; via r.jina.ai)](https://www.uhr.se/en/start/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/qualifications-assessment-tool/india) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [AIU, Equivalence of degree](https://aiu.ac.in/frontpage/equivalence-of-degree/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Study in Sweden, After your studies / Prepare for your career in Sweden](https://studyinsweden.se/after-your-studies/prepare-for-your-career-in-sweden/) (checked 2026-10-17)

## Common mistakes Indian students make

The costliest mistakes: not checking the India degree rule before applying, uploading college mark sheets, DigiLocker copies or affidavits, and missing 15 January or 1 February.

1. Not checking the India degree rule (Honours / 4-year / bachelor's + master's) before applying for a master's.
2. Uploading college mark sheets, DigiLocker copies or affidavits.
3. Missing 15 January / 1 February, or applying in the second round.
4. Careless ranking (an offer deletes lower choices).
5. Counting on the SI scholarship.
6. Funds in a parent's name, a frozen FD, shares; statements older than 4 months.
7. Paying tuition or applying for the permit late.
8. Choosing a part-time, distance, yrkeshögskola or folk high school course.
9. Working over 15 hours in term; falling below 37.5 / 45 credits.
10. Arriving without housing; paying for a contract or a deposit before signing; letting the study permit expire before applying for the job-search permit.

Official sources:

- [University Admissions, India, master's admission (upd. 6 Oct 2026)](https://www.universityadmissions.se/en/apply-to-masters/provide-application-documents-masters/country-instructions/india/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [University Admissions, Paying your tuition fees (upd. 13 Oct 2025)](https://www.universityadmissions.se/en/fees-scholarships-residence-permit/paying-your-tuition-fees/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Lund University, Tuition fees](https://www.lunduniversity.lu.se/study/admission-degree-studies/applying-studies-when-apply/tuition-fees) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Chalmers, Tuition fees (upd. 13 Oct 2026)](https://www.chalmers.se/en/education/application-and-admission/tuition-fees/) (checked 2026-10-17)
- [Study in Sweden, Educational consultants](https://studyinsweden.se/plan-your-studies/how-to-apply/educational-consultants/) (checked 2026-10-17)

## Job market

- [Jobs in Sweden for international graduates](https://uniferedu.com/job-market-research/sweden): pay and visas, by field.