Grants and Loans in Sweden | EFG - European Funding Guide

The high quality education that Sweden has to offer, makes it a very popular country amongst those trying to obtain a Bachelor’s, Master’s or even a PhD. However, with costs such as tuition, housing and everyday expenses, the numbers can pile up pretty high, prompting students to search for a means of financing their studies. Loans and grants which are issued by the Swedish government are often the chosen means of financing.

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Grants and Loans

General situation in terms of grants and loans

Both international and Swedish students are able to take advantage of the loans and grants available through the Swedish National Board of Student Aid. This is the government agency that is responsible for the aforementioned. The loans and grants offered through this agency are not only available to students pursuing a Bachelor’s, Master’s or Doctorate Degree. In fact, those studying at a Swedish Folk High School or a National Adult Education Programme may also be eligible for a grant or loan. One of the main reasons why students opt for a loan through the Swedish National Board of Student Aid is due to the fact that the interest rate on these loans are generally significantly lower than those of other avenues.

Type of grants and loans and providing institutions

As the government agency responsible for student loans and grants, the Swedish National Board of Student Aid is the one who issues this means of financial support. Of course, there are cases where a candidate does not qualify to receive a loan or grant through this organization and thus, may look at other options. Typically, when the Swedish National Board of Student Aid does not prove to be a viable option, students turn to the banks for private loans. The amount that a student (full time) in Sweden receives on a monthly basis from the grant is 2492 SEK. This amount can be increased to 4764 SEK if needed. Students do not receive the money from grants or loans when on summer break. However, in the case that a student is enrolled in a summer course or programme, the funds will be available. The maximum duration in which a student is able to receive a loan or grant through the Swedish National Board of Student Aid is 240 weeks.

Availability and conditions for getting a grant or a loan

In order to be eligible to receive a loan or grant through the Swedish National Board of Student Aid, certain criteria need to be met. Viable candidates for a loan or grant (in full) through this Swedish government organization must be between the ages of 16 and 20 and must be studying fulltime at a Swedish University. Students who do not qualify for the entirety of the funds may receive partial funding for their studies. The terms under which a student may not be able to receive the grant and the loan or may not be able to get the maximum amount include: The income level, living with parents, studying part time.

Local grants and loans for foreign students

Foreign students may also be eligible to receive a loan and grant through the Swedish National Board of Student Aid. However, there are special terms that apply. Outside of meeting the general criteria, a non- Swedish student may need to provide proof of residence, have refugee status, be an EU citizen or have lived in Sweden and held an occupation there for a minimum of two years. Students who are married to a Swedish citizen or have been cohabiting with a Swedish citizen for more than two years may also qualify for the grant and loan. Additionally, foreign students with Swedish parents may be suitable to receive the loan as well.

Typical grants and loans in Sweden

Grants and loans are available through the Swedish National Board of Student Aid. This is the government organization in control of the distribution of such funds to students in Sweden, whether Swedish or foreign. These loans and grants are relatively easy for a student to obtain, meaning that there’s not much of a burden when it comes to financing studies in Sweden.