← All guidesApplications

Applying to Swedish Universities & Settling In: A Practical Guide


Almost all Swedish university applications go through one place: universityadmissions.se. You apply to up to four programmes in priority order in a single application.

Key dates for Autumn 2026

StepDate
Application opens16 October 2025
Application deadline15 January 2026
Pay application fee / docsby ~2 February 2026
Master's results26 March 2026
The first admission round is the one international students should target, its deadlines and results come earliest and it's designed for non-EU applicants.

English requirements

Most master's require English 6:

  • IELTS Academic: overall 6.5, no band below 5.5
  • TOEFL iBT: total 90, written 20

University Admissions does not accept IELTS General Training or IELTS Indicator.

Living in Sweden

  • Housing is the hard part, apply for student accommodation the moment you're admitted; it's scarce in big cities.
  • You'll get a personnummer for courses of 12+ months, which unlocks banking and services.
  • Daily life runs in English, but basic Swedish helps socially and for jobs.
  • Winters are dark and cold, budget for warm clothing and expect an adjustment.
Round one or round two?

Round one, its earlier timeline suits international students and gives more time to arrange the permit, funds and housing.

An Aurora mentor can review your programme shortlist and SOP before you submit.

Want this mapped to your situation?

Book a verified mentor who's already living it.

Find a mentor →

Related guides

Comments

Sign in to join the conversation.Sign in to comment