Scholarships in Sweden for Indian Students in 2026

The financial truth about studying in Sweden is simple: Annual tuition can cost up to ₹13.1 lakh. While Sweden offers a world-class education and a strong career advantage in innovation, the high cost (ranging from SEK 80,000 – 140,000 per year) makes this financial reality makes scholarships in Sweden the most crucial step in your application journey. 

Many universities and government agencies in Sweden now offer fully funded and partial scholarships for international students, including those from India, to make higher education more accessible. These awards are the strategic bridge that eliminates your tuition debt and often provides a monthly stipend and insurance, turning a high-cost dream into a high-value, debt-free ROI (Return on Investment).

These scholarships not only cover tuition fees but may also provide a monthly stipend, travel grants, and insurance, helping you study in Sweden without worrying about finances.

Whether you’re planning to pursue a master’s, bachelor’s, or PhD program, this guide will walk you through every major scholarship available in 2026, eligibility criteria, and expert tips to boost your chances of winning one.

Swedish scholarships are categorised based on their funding source and target audience.

Government and university scholarships are the most sought-after because they directly reduce tuition costs. External or research-based scholarships add extra financial support for living or project-related expenses.

Sweden offers prestigious government-funded scholarships through the Swedish Institute (SI) for international students aiming to pursue full-time master’s programmes. These awards cover tuition, living stipend, travel support and connect you to a leadership network for the 2026 intake.

The Swedish Institute Scholarships for Indian students is one of the most prestigious awards for master’s students from developing countries, including India.

• Eligibility: Open to master’s students from eligible countries, including India. Applicants must have a minimum of 3,000 hours of work experience and demonstrate strong leadership skills.
• Coverage: Full tuition fee waiver, monthly living allowance of SEK 12,000 (₹1,13,068), travel grant of SEK 15,000 (₹1,41,335), and membership in the SI Network for Future Global Leaders.
• Insurance Coverage: Comprehensive health and accident insurance during the study period.
• Duration: Covers the entire duration of a 1-2 year master’s program.
• Deadline: Applications typically open in February 2026 for the autumn intake.
• Expert Tip: Highlight your professional achievements and leadership potential – SISGP focuses heavily on candidates who can contribute to sustainable global development after returning home.

The Visby Programme, funded by the Swedish Institute, aims to strengthen cooperation and knowledge exchange between Sweden and select countries, including India. It primarily supports students pursuing master’s or research degrees in areas tied to sustainability and innovation.

• Coverage: Tuition fee waiver, monthly living allowance of SEK 10,000 (₹94,224), travel grant, and full health and accident insurance.
• Eligibility: Open to academically outstanding students who demonstrate leadership potential, a commitment to sustainability, and clear academic goals related to global development.
• Insurance Coverage: Full health and accident insurance is provided for the scholarship period.
• Duration: Covers the complete length of a 1-2 year master’s or research program.
• Deadline: Applications generally open between January and March 2026 for programs starting in autumn 2026.
• Expert Tip for Indian Students: Focus your application on sustainability-driven research interests or environmental impact projects – Visby gives preference to candidates aligned with Sweden’s green innovation goals.

The Erasmus+ Scholarship is a flagship European Union initiative supporting international students enrolled in Joint Master’s programs across multiple European universities, including Swedish institutions. It promotes cultural exchange, research collaboration, and academic mobility.

• Coverage: 100% funding – includes tuition fees, travel costs, visa fees, and a monthly living allowance of up to €1,400 (₹1.44 lakh) depending on the study location.
• Eligibility: Open to students admitted into an Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Programme (EMJMD) that features at least one Swedish university. Applicants must hold a recognised bachelor’s degree and demonstrate academic excellence.
• Insurance Coverage: Comprehensive health and accident insurance provided by the Erasmus+ consortium for the duration of the program.
• Duration: Covers the full program length of 1–2 years, depending on the chosen EMJMD track.
• Deadline: Most Erasmus+ applications open in October 2025 and close between December 2025 and February 2026, depending on the consortium’s schedule.
• Expert Tip for Indian Students: Apply early and target programs offered by Swedish partner universities. Emphasise your adaptability and global mindset – Erasmus+ values students who thrive in multicultural academic environments.

Many universities in Sweden offer fully or partially funded scholarships to attract top international talent. These awards typically cover tuition fees and living costs for master’s or doctoral studies.

• Coverage: Up to 100% tuition fee waiver based on academic merit.
• Eligibility: Open to non-EU/EEA students, including Indians, applying for master’s programs at Lund University with outstanding academic records.
• Insurance Coverage: Includes health and accident insurance for the study duration.
• Duration: Covers the entire duration of the selected degree program.
• Deadline: Applications open in February 2026 after securing admission via University Admissions Sweden.
• Expert Tip: Focus on writing a compelling statement of purpose that reflects your leadership and academic excellence, as the selection is highly merit-driven.

• Coverage: Full tuition fee waiver for selected international master’s students.
• Eligibility: Open to students from non-EU/EEA countries who have shown academic excellence and applied to a program at Uppsala University.
• Insurance Coverage: Health and accident insurance, included during the study period.
• Duration: Valid for the normal study period of the program (1-2 years).
• Deadline: Applications usually open in January 2026.
• Expert Tip: Ensure your chosen course aligns with Uppsala’s sustainability and research-oriented goals, as these factors often strengthen applications.

• Coverage: Full tuition fees and a monthly living allowance of SEK 10,000 (₹94,224).
• Eligibility: Open exclusively to Indian students applying for master’s programs at KTH Royal Institute of Technology with strong academic backgrounds.
• Insurance Coverage: Includes medical and accident coverage during studies.
• Duration: Covers the full duration of a 2-year master’s program.
• Deadline: Application typically opens in December 2025 and closes by mid-January 2026.
• Expert Tip: Highlight your technical expertise and innovation potential. KTH gives preference to candidates contributing to engineering and sustainability fields.

• Coverage: 75% tuition fee reduction for master’s programs.
• Eligibility: Available to all fee-paying non-EU/EEA students who demonstrate excellent academic merit.
• Insurance Coverage: Health and accident insurance, included for the scholarship period.
• Duration: Valid for the full 2-year program.
• Deadline: Applications open in November 2025 and close in January 2026.
• Expert Tip: Emphasise your academic research or innovation experience, as Chalmers values applicants with practical and research exposure.

5. Stockholm University Scholarship Scheme

• Coverage: Full tuition coverage for master’s programs.
• Eligibility: Open to non-EU/EEA students applying for eligible postgraduate programs.
• Insurance Coverage: Comprehensive health and accident insurance.
• Duration: Covers the entire master’s program (1-2 years).
• Deadline: Opens in December 2025 and closes by February 2026.
• Expert Tip: Academic transcripts and motivation letters play a decisive role – ensure clarity on how your goals align with Stockholm University’s research strengths.

Several private organisations and foundations also provide substantial financial aid for international students pursuing higher studies or research in Sweden.

• Coverage: Research funding, living expenses, and project-based support.
• Eligibility: PhD and postdoctoral researchers in science, medicine, or technology affiliated with Swedish universities.
• Insurance Coverage: Health and accident coverage through host universities.
• Duration: Based on research project tenure, typically 1-3 years.
• Deadline: Rolling basis throughout the year.
• Expert Tip: Ensure your proposal demonstrates innovation and societal impact – the foundation prioritises projects contributing to global scientific advancement.

• Coverage: Partial or full funding covering tuition, living, and travel costs for graduate and PhD programs.
• Eligibility: Students pursuing studies in fields such as peace, development, and sustainability.
• Insurance Coverage: Often included under the grant terms.
• Duration: Varies between 1 and 2 years, depending on program length.
• Deadline: Applications accepted year-round through local Rotary clubs.
• Expert Tip: Demonstrate strong community involvement or leadership experience – Rotary looks for socially committed global citizens.

• Coverage: Full or partial funding for tuition, research, and travel expenses.
• Eligibility: Indian students in innovation, sustainable development, or engineering fields under bilateral academic cooperation schemes.
• Insurance Coverage: Health and travel insurance are typically included.
• Duration: Based on the terms of the specific bilateral program (usually 1-2 years).
• Deadline: Announced annually under India–Sweden research collaborations.
• Expert Tip: Focus your application on research that supports India–Sweden innovation goals – collaborative and industry-oriented projects are highly valued.

Sweden offers a wide range of scholarship opportunities for both master’s and PhD students, making it an attractive destination for Indian students who wish to pursue higher education abroad. These funding options are designed to reward academic excellence, leadership potential, and research capability, ensuring that deserving candidates can access world-class education without financial stress.

Most government and university-funded scholarships in Sweden are aimed at master’s students, particularly those who have demonstrated exceptional academic and professional achievements.
Key scholarships include:

• Swedish Institute (SI) Scholarship for Global Professionals: Fully funded, covering tuition fees, living expenses, travel, and insurance.
• Uppsala University Global Scholarship: Offers full tuition coverage for select master’s programs based on academic excellence.
• KTH India Scholarship: Provides full tuition along with a monthly living stipend for top-performing Indian students.

These scholarships are among the most competitive and prestigious, offering full or partial financial coverage, along with global networking opportunities and professional development support.

Unlike many countries, Sweden treats PhD positions as full-time paid employment, which means students receive a monthly salary instead of a traditional scholarship stipend. This model ensures that researchers can focus entirely on their studies without financial strain.

• Coverage: Monthly stipend of SEK 20,000-30,000 (approximately ₹1.88–₹2.82 lakh).
• Fields of Study: Engineering, natural sciences, medicine, social sciences, and technology are the most funded disciplines.
• Duration: Typically 4 years, depending on the research project and university.
• Expert Tip: Highlight your research publications, proposal quality, and supervisor match to strengthen your PhD application for Sweden.

Together, these master’s and PhD scholarships reflect Sweden’s commitment to supporting talented international students, ensuring that financial limitations do not restrict access to globally respected higher education.

Understanding the eligibility requirements and application steps early helps you prepare a strong application for the 2026 intake. This guide outlines typical academic, language and document criteria, as well as the step-by-step process to apply.

While each scholarship may have specific criteria, general eligibility includes:

• Citizenship from a non-EU/EEA country (including India).
• Completed undergraduate degree (for master’s applicants).
• Strong academic record and relevant professional experience.
• Proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL).
• Statement of Purpose (SOP) and Letters of Recommendation.

• Academic transcripts
• Copy of passport
• English test scores
• Motivation letter and CV
• Proof of work/leadership experience (for SI and similar scholarships)

1. Apply for admission at Universityadmissions.se before the January 2026 deadline.
2. Once admitted, apply for scholarships via the respective university or agency.
3. Submit all supporting documents before the scholarship deadline.
4. Await results (usually announced in April–May 2026).

Pro Tip: Apply early. Some scholarships require a valid offer letter before submission.

• Start early: Begin your research at least 8-10 months before the intake.
• Write a powerful SOP: Highlight your goals, leadership qualities, and how your education in Sweden aligns with your plans.
• Secure strong recommendations: Choose academic or professional referees who can vouch for your achievements.
• Focus on academic excellence: Maintain a GPA of 3.0 or above (equivalent to 80%+).
• Show social impact: Programs like the SI scholarship prefer candidates committed to social change.

Sweden’s scholarship ecosystem is built to attract high-potential students from around the world and empower them to drive global innovation, sustainability, and research excellence. For Indian students, these fully funded and merit-based scholarships represent more than just financial assistance – they’re a career-defining investment in global exposure and professional growth.

If you’re targeting the 2026 intake, start your preparation early: research eligibility, organise your documents, and focus on crafting a strong Statement of Purpose (SOP) that aligns with Sweden’s academic values. Consistency, clarity, and early planning can significantly improve your chances of success.

Still unsure where to begin? Connect with LeapScholar’s expert counsellors today – get personalised guidance to identify the right scholarships, apply strategically, and secure your place at top Swedish universities for 2026.