The Swedish Institute Scholarship 2027–28 offers international professionals from eligible countries an opportunity to pursue a fully funded master’s degree in Sweden. The scholarship supports talented applicants who have demonstrated work experience, leadership potential and a commitment to sustainable development.
The programme, officially known as the SI Scholarship for Global Professionals, is funded by the Swedish Institute, a Swedish public agency.
Selected scholars receive full tuition fee coverage, a monthly living allowance and a one-time travel grant. They also become part of an international professional network.
The scholarship supports eligible full-time master’s programmes lasting one or two years at Swedish universities.
For the 2027–28 academic year, applications for Swedish master’s programmes opened on October 16, 2026, and will close on January 15, 2027.
However, applicants must complete two separate processes: first, apply for an eligible master’s programme through University Admissions Sweden, and then submit a scholarship application to the SI.
The SI scholarship application window is scheduled for February 8–24, 2027.
Interested applicants should review the official Swedish Institute Scholarship website and begin preparing their university applications early.
Swedish Institute Scholarship 2027–28 Overview
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Scholarship | SI Scholarship for Global Professionals |
| Host Country | Sweden |
| Funding Organization | Swedish Institute |
| Study Level | Master’s degree |
| Academic Year | 2027–28 |
| Duration | One or two years |
| Scholarship Type | Fully funded |
| Tuition Fees | Fully covered |
| Monthly Allowance | SEK 12,000 |
| Travel Grant | SEK 10,000 or SEK 15,000, depending on eligibility |
| Eligible Countries | 34 countries |
| Work Experience | Required |
| Leadership Experience | Required |
| Study Language | English |
| University Applications Open | October 16, 2026 |
| University Application Deadline | January 15, 2027 |
| SI Scholarship Application | February 8–24, 2027 |
| Study Start | Autumn 2027 |
What Is the Swedish Institute Scholarship?
The SI Scholarship for Global Professionals is a competitive scholarship programme for international professionals who want to study in Sweden.
It supports eligible master’s degrees at Swedish universities and aims to develop future leaders who can contribute to sustainable development.
The programme is intended for applicants who already have relevant professional experience and can demonstrate leadership abilities.
Unlike scholarships designed primarily for recent graduates, the SI Scholarship places significant importance on professional achievements, leadership and future impact.
Selected students pursue their master’s degrees while participating in opportunities for networking and professional development.
After completing their studies, scholars can remain connected through the Sweden Alumni Network.
Who Funds the Scholarship?
The scholarship is funded by the SI.
The Swedish Institute is a public agency that promotes international cooperation and builds relationships between Sweden and other countries.
Its scholarship programmes support education, leadership and international collaboration.
The SI Scholarship for Global Professionals is one of its major international scholarship initiatives.
Applicants should use the Swedish Institute’s official scholarship page for the latest programme information.
Is the Swedish Institute Scholarship Fully Funded?
Yes. The scholarship covers full tuition fees and provides financial support for living and travel expenses.
However, it does not cover every possible expense.
1. Full Tuition Fee Coverage
The Swedish Institute pays the tuition fees directly to the university.
This means scholarship recipients do not need to pay tuition for their approved master’s programme during the awarded scholarship period.
2. Monthly Living Allowance
Scholars receive a monthly allowance of:
SEK 12,000 per month
This allowance is intended to help cover everyday living expenses during the study period.
Recipients must manage their budgets according to their accommodation, food, transport and other personal costs.
3. One-Time Travel Grant
Eligible scholarship recipients receive a one-time travel grant.
The standard amount is:
SEK 15,000
For eligible scholars from Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Moldova and Ukraine, the travel grant is:
SEK 10,000
The travel grant is subject to scholarship conditions and is generally not provided to scholars already living in Sweden.
4. Professional Networking
Recipients become members of the SI Network for Global Professionals.
This network provides opportunities for professional development, collaboration and international connections.
5. Alumni Network
After completing their studies, scholars can join the Sweden Alumni Network.
This allows former scholarship recipients to remain connected with other professionals and graduates.
What Does the Scholarship Not Cover?
Applicants should understand the limitations of the funding package.
The scholarship does not normally cover:
- Additional financial support for family members
- The University Admissions application fee
- Expenses beyond the scholarship’s published benefits
- Extensions beyond the approved scholarship period
- Changes to a different master’s programme after the scholarship has been awarded
- Separate comprehensive medical insurance provided directly by SI
International students should review the health insurance arrangements available through their university, residence status and applicable Swedish rules.
The monthly allowance and travel grant should not be treated as unlimited funding.
Eligible Countries for the Swedish Institute Scholarship
The SI Scholarship for Global Professionals is available to citizens of 34 eligible countries.
Europe and Eurasia
- Armenia
- Azerbaijan
- Belarus
- Georgia
- Moldova
- Ukraine
- Uzbekistan
Asia and the Middle East
- Bangladesh
- Indonesia
- Iraq
- Jordan
- Malaysia
- Philippines
- Thailand
- Vietnam
Africa
- Egypt
- Ethiopia
- Kenya
- Liberia
- Morocco
- Nigeria
- Rwanda
- Senegal
- South Africa
- Tanzania
- Uganda
- Zambia
Latin America
- Bolivia
- Brazil
- Colombia
- Ecuador
- Guatemala
- Mexico
- Peru
Applicants must hold citizenship from an eligible country.
However, they do not necessarily need to live in that country when applying.
The country list is specific to the SI Scholarship for Global Professionals and should not be confused with eligibility for other Swedish Institute scholarship programmes.
Who Can Apply?
The scholarship is intended for applicants who meet the nationality, university admission, professional experience and leadership requirements.
1. Eligible Citizenship
Applicants must be citizens of an eligible country.
2. Master’s Programme Application
Candidates must apply for an eligible master’s programme at a Swedish university.
3. Tuition Fee Liability
Applicants must be required to pay tuition fees in Sweden.
The scholarship is designed to cover tuition fees for students who would otherwise be responsible for them.
4. University Admission
Candidates must receive admission to an eligible master’s programme according to the scholarship rules.
5. Work Experience
Applicants must demonstrate relevant work experience.
For many eligible countries, the established requirement is at least 3,000 hours of documented work experience.
However, special conditions apply to certain countries.
Applicants from Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Moldova and Ukraine are subject to different work-experience requirements, including exceptions to the minimum-hours rule.
Candidates should check the official instructions for their country.
6. Leadership Experience
Applicants must demonstrate leadership experience.
This may come from professional employment, entrepreneurship or civil society involvement.
7. Commitment to Sustainable Development
Candidates should explain how their proposed studies will help them contribute to sustainable development in their home country or region.
8. University Entry Requirements
Applicants must meet the academic and English-language requirements of their selected master’s programme.
Work Experience Requirements
Work experience is an important part of the scholarship selection process.
The Swedish Institute evaluates whether applicants have developed relevant professional skills and can demonstrate meaningful experience.
For applicants subject to the 3,000-hour requirement, the work experience must be properly documented.
Applicants should follow the official rules about acceptable employment, employers, hours and supporting documents.
Work experience may come from professional employment and other activities recognized under the scholarship guidelines.
However, not every informal activity automatically qualifies.
Candidates should review the official work-experience instructions and prepare their evidence carefully.
Leadership Experience
The scholarship also requires applicants to demonstrate leadership potential.
Leadership experience does not necessarily mean holding a senior management position.
It may involve taking responsibility, coordinating activities, managing projects or helping an organization achieve its goals.
Examples include:
- Leading a professional project
- Managing a team
- Coordinating a community initiative
- Organizing educational activities
- Developing a business or social enterprise
- Participating in civil society leadership
- Introducing improvements within an organization
Applicants should explain their leadership responsibilities and achievements.
Specific examples are more useful than general claims.
Eligible Fields of Study
The SI Scholarship supports selected English-taught master’s programmes.
The programme emphasizes fields that contribute to sustainable development.
Major areas include:
Governance
Relevant programmes may address public policy, governance, international relations and institutional development.
Public Health
Eligible programmes may focus on health systems, public health and related challenges.
Entrepreneurship and Innovation
These programmes may explore business development, innovation and practical solutions to social or economic problems.
Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics
STEM programmes may include technology, engineering, environmental sciences and other relevant fields.
The final eligible programme list is determined by the Swedish Institute.
Not every master’s degree offered by a Swedish university is eligible for this scholarship.
Applicants must select a programme from the official SI-approved list for the relevant academic year.
The 2027–28 eligible programme list is scheduled for publication on November 13, 2026.
Which Swedish Universities Participate?
The scholarship can support eligible master’s programmes offered by participating Swedish universities.
Examples of universities that have offered SI-eligible programmes in previous cycles include:
- Lund University
- Uppsala University
- University of Gothenburg
- Stockholm University
- KTH Royal Institute of Technology
- Chalmers University of Technology
- Umeå University
- Linköping University
- Örebro University
- Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences
However, the inclusion of a university in a previous year does not mean every programme at that institution qualifies in 2027–28.
Applicants should consult the official list of eligible programmes before finalizing their choices.
Is IELTS Required?
The SI does not apply one universal IELTS requirement to every scholarship applicant.
Instead, applicants must satisfy the English-language requirements for admission to their selected master’s programme.
Swedish universities may accept approved English-language tests or other qualifying evidence.
The accepted tests, scores and exemptions depend on University Admissions rules and programme requirements.
Applicants should check the official English language requirements before applying.
Swedish Institute Scholarship 2027–28 Application Timeline
The application process includes separate university admission and scholarship stages.
| Stage | Date |
|---|---|
| Master’s applications open | October 16, 2026 |
| Eligible SI programme list published | November 13, 2026 |
| University application deadline | January 15, 2027 |
| University documents and fee deadline | February 1, 2027 |
| SI scholarship application opens | February 8, 2027 |
| SI scholarship application closes | February 24, 2027 |
| Master’s admission results | April 1, 2027 |
| SI scholarship results | April 22, 2027 |
| Academic year begins | August/September 2027 |
Applicants should verify scholarship-specific dates on the SI website before submission.
How to Apply for the Swedish Institute Scholarship 2027–28
Applicants must complete two separate applications.
The first is for admission to a Swedish university.
The second is for the SI scholarship.
Step 1: Check Your Citizenship
Confirm that your country is included in the scholarship’s eligible-country list.
Step 2: Review Eligible Master’s Programmes
Visit the official SI scholarship page.
Download the eligible programme list when it becomes available.
Step 3: Select Suitable Programmes
Choose master’s programmes that match your qualifications, experience and professional goals.
Applicants can normally apply for up to four master’s programmes through University Admissions.
Step 4: Apply Through University Admissions
Visit UniversityAdmissions.se.
Create an account and complete your application.
Step 5: Rank Your Programme Choices
Rank your selected programmes carefully.
The order matters because the admissions system considers applicants according to their preferences.
Step 6: Save Your Application Number
After submitting your university application, you will receive a personal application number.
Keep this number because it is required for the SI scholarship application.
Step 7: Submit University Documents
Upload the academic documents and English-language evidence required by University Admissions.
Step 8: Pay the Application Fee
Pay the university application fee if you are required to do so.
The Swedish Institute does not cover this fee.
Step 9: Prepare Scholarship Documents
Download the official SI application templates when they are released.
Prepare your CV, references, work-experience documents and leadership evidence.
Step 10: Apply Through the SI Scholarship Portal
Complete the separate SI scholarship application during the announced application window.
Step 11: Submit Your Motivation
Explain why you selected your master’s programme and how it relates to your professional goals.
Show how your education could contribute to sustainable development.
Step 12: Upload Required Documents
Attach all documents in the required format.
Check that signatures, stamps and other details meet the official instructions.
Step 13: Submit Before the Deadline
Complete the scholarship application before the portal closes.
Step 14: Check University Admission Results
The university admissions decision is expected on April 1, 2027.
Applicants must meet the scholarship’s admission conditions.
Step 15: Wait for the Scholarship Decision
The Swedish Institute is scheduled to announce scholarship recipients on April 22, 2027.
Selected candidates should follow the official instructions for accepting their awards.
Documents Required for the SI Scholarship
Applicants should prepare the following materials.
Curriculum Vitae
A CV prepared using the official Swedish Institute template.
The current scholarship instructions specify a maximum of three pages.
Proof of Work Experience
Applicants must document their professional experience using the required SI form.
Proof of Leadership Experience
Candidates must provide evidence of relevant leadership activities.
Reference Letters
The application requires two reference letters prepared according to the official instructions.
At least one should be based on professional experience.
Passport or National Identity Document
Applicants must provide acceptable identification showing their name, citizenship and photograph.
Motivation Statement
Candidates must explain their academic interests, professional experience and future goals.
University Application Number
Applicants must enter the correct personal application number from University Admissions.
Academic Documents
The university admission application requires relevant degrees, transcripts and proof of English proficiency.
The Swedish Institute may publish updated document templates or instructions for the 2027–28 cycle.
Applicants should use the current forms rather than documents from earlier years.
How Competitive Is the Scholarship?
The SI Scholarship for Global Professionals is highly competitive.
Applicants are evaluated on several factors, including academic background, professional experience, leadership and the potential to contribute to sustainable development.
Meeting the minimum eligibility requirements does not guarantee an award.
The scholarship receives applications from professionals across multiple countries.
Candidates should therefore focus on preparing a strong and well-documented application.
Tips for a Strong Scholarship Application
Choose the Right Master’s Programme
Select a programme that fits your previous education and professional goals.
Demonstrate Relevant Experience
Explain your work responsibilities and achievements clearly.
Provide Strong Leadership Examples
Describe situations in which you took initiative, solved problems or guided others.
Connect Your Goals to Sustainable Development
Explain how your chosen degree can help address real challenges.
Use Specific Evidence
Provide examples and measurable achievements where possible.
Select Suitable Referees
Choose people who understand your work and can describe your contributions.
Follow the Official Templates
Incorrect or incomplete documents may affect eligibility.
Check Every Deadline
Remember that the university application deadline comes before the SI scholarship application period.
Prepare Early
Gathering work certificates, references and academic documents can take time.
Can You Apply Without Work Experience?
The SI Scholarship for Global Professionals generally requires documented work experience.
For many eligible countries, applicants must meet the established minimum-hours requirement.
Special rules apply to certain countries.
Therefore, students without any relevant experience should carefully review the current eligibility criteria.
Recent graduates who do not meet the requirements may need to consider other scholarships.
Is There an Age Limit?
The scholarship does not specify a general maximum age limit in its main eligibility criteria.
However, applicants must meet the professional experience, leadership and university admission requirements.
Candidates should check the latest official instructions for any applicable restrictions.
Can You Bring Family Members to Sweden?
Scholarship recipients may have family circumstances that require separate planning.
However, the SI Scholarship does not provide additional allowances for accompanying family members.
Applicants should independently review Swedish residence permit rules and the financial requirements for dependants.
The scholarship award should not be assumed to cover a family’s full living expenses.
Does the Scholarship Cover Health Insurance?
The Swedish Institute’s scholarship benefits do not include a separate comprehensive health insurance package.
Insurance and healthcare arrangements may depend on the student’s university, length of stay, registration status and applicable Swedish rules.
Students should confirm their coverage with the university and relevant Swedish authorities before travelling.
Can Students Work While Studying?
International students may have opportunities to work during their studies, subject to applicable Swedish immigration and employment rules.
However, scholarship recipients must continue to meet the academic and other conditions of their award.
Applicants should not rely on part-time employment as a guaranteed source of income.
Other Fully Funded Master’s Scholarships
Students interested in studying abroad can also explore the Commonwealth Scholarship, which supports eligible applicants pursuing postgraduate studies in the United Kingdom.
Another option is the MEXT Scholarship, which provides funding for eligible international students to study in Japan.
Applicants interested in graduate study at leading universities can also explore the Gates Cambridge Scholarship, which supports selected postgraduate students at the University of Cambridge.
These scholarships have different eligibility requirements, funding packages and application procedures.
Students should compare the official conditions before applying.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Swedish Institute Scholarship?
It is a scholarship funded by the SI that supports eligible international professionals pursuing master’s degrees in Sweden.
Is the SI Scholarship fully funded?
Yes. It covers full tuition fees and provides a monthly living allowance and a travel grant.
How much is the monthly allowance?
SEK 12,000 per month under the published scholarship package.
Does the scholarship cover tuition fees?
Yes. The Swedish Institute pays the approved tuition fees directly to the university.
Is a travel grant included?
Yes. Eligible recipients receive a one-time travel grant according to the applicable conditions.
Which country hosts the scholarship?
Sweden.
What degree level is supported?
Master’s degrees.
Are bachelor’s degrees eligible?
No. This particular scholarship supports master’s studies.
Are PhD programmes eligible?
No. The SI Scholarship for Global Professionals is a master’s scholarship.
How long does the scholarship last?
It supports eligible one-year or two-year master’s programmes.
How many countries are eligible?
34 countries under the published 2027–28 criteria.
Can Pakistani students apply?
No. Pakistan is not included in the current eligible-country list for this particular scholarship.
Can Indian students apply?
No. India is also not included in the current list.
Is work experience required?
Yes. Applicants must meet the work-experience rules applicable to their country.
Is leadership experience required?
Yes.
Is IELTS mandatory?
Applicants must meet their university’s English-language requirements. IELTS is one possible method, but the accepted evidence depends on admission rules.
What is the university application deadline?
January 15, 2027.
When does the SI scholarship application open?
The announced window begins February 8, 2027.
What is the scholarship application deadline?
February 24, 2027.
When will admission results be announced?
April 1, 2027.
When will scholarship results be announced?
April 22, 2027.
Does the scholarship cover family members?
No additional family allowance is included.
Does SI pay the university application fee?
No.
Can I apply for more than one master’s programme?
Yes. University Admissions normally allows applicants to select up to four master’s programmes.
Can I change my master’s programme after receiving the scholarship?
The scholarship is awarded for an approved programme and does not generally permit changes.
Where can I apply?
First through University Admissions Sweden, then through the official SI scholarship portal.
Final Thoughts
The SI Scholarship 2027–28 offers eligible international professionals an opportunity to pursue a fully funded master’s degree in Sweden.
The scholarship covers full tuition fees and provides a monthly living allowance of SEK 12,000, a one-time travel grant and access to professional networks.
It is particularly suitable for applicants who have relevant work experience, leadership achievements and a clear plan to contribute to sustainable development.
However, the scholarship is restricted to citizens of eligible countries and applicants who meet the university admission requirements.
The application process involves two separate stages.
First, applicants must apply for an eligible Swedish master’s programme by January 15, 2027.
Next, they must submit their SI scholarship application during the announced February 2027 window.
Because the scholarship is competitive, interested candidates should begin preparing their academic documents, work-experience evidence and references well before the deadlines.
Official scholarship information: Swedish Institute Scholarship for Global Professionals
Master’s applications: University Admissions Sweden
Scholarships and study information: Study in Sweden
Last reviewed: October 23, 2026
Pathfinderly is an independent educational opportunities website and is not affiliated with the Swedish Institute or Swedish universities. Scholarship conditions, eligible programmes, funding and application dates may change. Applicants should always consult the official scholarship and university admission websites before applying.