Sweden is famous for its excellent living standards and friendly policies for immigrants. Many Pakistanis want to move to Sweden on a student visa. In this article, I will guide you about academic programs, scholarships and visa procedures for Pakistanis in Sweden.
Why Choose Sweden for Higher Education?
| Advantage | Details |
| Top-Ranked Universities | Lund, Uppsala, KTH, and Stockholm University consistently rank globally |
| English-Taught Programs | Over 1,000 programs across Engineering, IT, Business, Science, Arts |
| Innovation & Research | Strong emphasis on hands-on learning and collaboration with industry |
| Post-Study Opportunities | Graduates get 12-month job-seeker visa after degree |
| Scholarships Available | Government and university-funded scholarships for international students |
| Quality of Life | Known for safety, cleanliness, green policies, and tech-friendly cities |
Study Programs in Sweden
- Bachelors – 3 years
- Masters – 1–2 years
- PhD – 4 years (often treated as salaried employment)
- Short Courses / Certifications – Available year round in various subjects
Scholarships for Pakistani Students
| Scholarship | Description |
| Swedish Institute (SI) Scholarships | Fully funded masters programs including tuition, living costs and travel |
| University Scholarships | Merit based funding from Lund, Uppsala, KTH and others |
| Erasmus+ Programs | Joint masters or exchange opportunities within Europe |
| Pakistan Government Scholarships (HEC) | HEC Merit or Need Based scholarships applicable to Swedish universities |
For details visit the Swedish Institute scholarships portal or respective university websites.
Documents Needed for Admission
- Valid Passport
- Academic transcripts & certificates (Matric onwards)
- Motivation Statement / SOP
- Recommendation Letters
- Proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL)
- CV/Portfolio (for art/design courses)
- University application forms
How to Apply for a Student Visa from Pakistan
- Apply to Swedish Universities
Use University Admissions in Sweden for centralized applications, or apply directly via institution portals. - Receive Admission Offer
Obtain your acceptance letter (usually by mid year for fall intake). - Pay Tuition & Get Visa Documents
Obtain official acceptance and proof of paid or waived tuition (if scholarship). - Apply for Residence Permit
Use Swedish Migration Agency portal for student residence permit. - Submit Biometric & Support Docs
Get a visa within 3–4 months submit passport, offer letter, financial proof, health insurance. - Receive Decision & Travel
If approved, book flights, arrange accommodation, and prepare for arrival.
Can You Work While Studying?
- Yes. Swedish student permit allows on campus or part time work without restrictions.
- After graduation, you are eligible for a 12 month job seeker visa.
- PhD candidates are often employed as university staff with full-time contracts.
Also read this: Study in Turkiye: Scholarships, Student Visa and Admission Guide for Pakistanis
