How does the semester system work at Swedish universities, and when will my semesters start?
25 Oct 2026 · Answered by Komal Yadav · 1 min read
Swedish universities generally use a semester system with two semesters in each academic year. Each one spans around 20 weeks, and the year typically starts in August.
Semester Timeline
| Semester | Typical period |
|---|---|
| First semester | August to January |
| Second semester | January to June |
| Length of each semester | Around 20 weeks |
Executive MBA Option
Other executive MBA programmes are available as part-time degrees spanning several months, typically with one intake per year in October. Exact intakes vary by university.
My Advice
Work backwards from the August start when you plan applications, tests and your visa. Confirm the exact semester dates on the official page of each programme you shortlist.
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