The 4 Best Universities in Sweden for International Students - Anthony Norman

With a plethora of great options, choosing the right university in Sweden to study abroad can be challenging. Here are the 4 best universities for international students ranked based on popular categories.

Sweden is a fantastic and often overlooked destination for international students studying abroad or getting a postgraduate degree. As a leader in technology and sustainability, Sweden is home to cutting-edge companies and an economy focused on a clean, environmentally conscious future. Combining industry-leading innovators and a world-class education system makes Sweden one of the best countries for career-minded international students. 

Another benefit of studying abroad in Sweden is the lack of a language barrier, as Swedes score among the top countries for English proficiency skills globally, according to the 2020 EF EPI. Along with being a northern European hub, this Scandinavian country is downright stunning geographically. Lake-filled rolling hills (bergkullterräng) meet mountains to the west as you approach Norway, and hundreds of thousands of islands spatter the surrounding seas. While beautiful, Sweden's climate can be unforgiving, especially in the northern part of the country, which falls within the Arctic Circle. Braving the cold nights in the north can pay off in an astronomical display you'll never forget, as the Northern Lights often dance throughout the sky during winter. 

Best University for Study Abroad: Lund University

Located within a 40-minute train ride of the major EU hub city of Copenhagen, Lund University combines a highly ranked education with historic social clubs known as student nations. Adding to the large social clubs, Lund itself is a proper college town where half of the citizens are students, making for a very young community where businesses cater to the student population. With around 20% of enrolled students being international, Lund University benefits from its cultural diversity and the varied perspectives and life experiences of its students. Lund University is an especially great option for English-speaking study abroad students, as approximately 90% of its students speak English, according to Lund University Admissions guide on Exchange and Study Abroad.

Lund University tops the list of the best universities to study abroad due to the broad range of courses and programs, access to culturally immersive social clubs, and an expansive network of partnerships with universities spanning the globe.

Best University for Postgraduate Students: Gothenburg University

 

Postgraduate students pursuing potential internships or job opportunities would benefit significantly from Gothenburg University’s location. Sharing a town with major offices from companies like AstraZeneca and Volvo, there is a strong pipeline for students to find employment and collaboration during or after their research and studies. With around 49,000 students, Gothenburg University is one of the largest universities in Northern Europe and is known for its cross-disciplinary partnerships.

According to the University of Gothenburg about us page, they "serve as a meeting point for students, researchers and representatives from the commercial, industrial, and public sectors." Gothenburg University prides itself on sustainable development, supporting its students and researchers' contributions to a "better future."

Best University for Studying Medicine: Karolinska Institutet

 

Medical students looking to study in Sweden should look no further than the Karolinska Institutet. Originally founded in 1810 as an academy for training army surgeons, Karolinska Institutet is now Sweden's largest center for medical academic research.

Adding to the historical significance of the Karolinska Institutet, they have the honor of rewarding the Nobel prize in Physiology or Medicine, which Alfred Nobel himself appointed them in his will.

With the most extensive range of medical programs, the Karolinska Institutet operates with a mission to "advance knowledge about life and site towards better health for all." According to the QS World University Rankings by subject for 2021, the Karolinska Institutet ranks sixth globally for Medicine.

Best University for Studying Business: Stockholm School of Economics (SSE)

With over 110 corporate partnerships, the Stockholm School of Economics is a fantastic option for business students. As a private university in central Stockholm (Vasastaden), SSE is conveniently located near a major business center, increasing student's ability to intern or work for world-renowned companies during their studies.

Through a focus on internationalization, SSE also has strong partnerships with universities around the world, through which they exchange and host over 180 students a year, respectively. SSE has also helped pioneer innovation and financial research in Sweden through its SSE Business lab and joint venture with Institute for Financial Research.

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