The race is on for one of Europe’s most prestigious and competitive government-funded scholarships! The Swedish Institute has officially announced the SI Scholarship for Global Professionals for the 2026–2027 academic year, offering over 200 fully funded master’s scholarships to outstanding professionals worldwide. If you’re a working professional with leadership experience and a drive to contribute to sustainable development, this is your chance to pursue a master’s degree in Sweden—with full tuition coverage, a monthly stipend, travel support, and lifelong global network access. The application portal opens on February 9, 2026, and closes quickly—so preparation starts now.
Swedish Institute Scholarships 2026 – Key Details
Here’s what you need to know at a glance:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Sponsor | Swedish Institute (SI) – Swedish Government |
| Scholarship Type | Fully Funded Master’s Degree |
| Number of Awards | 200+ scholarships available |
| Financial Coverage | Full tuition + monthly stipend + travel grant + insurance |
| Program Duration | Duration of the master’s programme (1–2 years) |
| Target Group | Mid-career professionals from eligible countries |
| Application Open Date | February 9, 2026 |
| Application Deadline | February 25, 2026 (short window – apply early!) |
About the Fully Funded SI Scholarship for Global Professionals
The SI Scholarship for Global Professionals isn’t just financial aid—it’s a transformative leadership investment. Funded by the Swedish government, this scholarship aims to develop future leaders who will contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and drive positive change in their home countries.
Since its launch, the scholarship has built a powerful global network of over 4,000 alumni across sectors like public administration, civil society, innovation, and sustainable business. Recipients don’t just earn a degree—they join a lifelong community of changemakers connected to Sweden’s commitment to global progress.
What Does the Scholarship Cover? (Full Benefits)
This is a completely funded scholarship—meaning nearly all your costs are covered:
- Full Tuition Fees: Paid directly to your Swedish university—no out-of-pocket costs.
- Monthly Stipend: SEK 12,000 per month to cover living expenses throughout your studies.
- Travel Grant: A one-time grant of up to SEK 15,000 for travel to and from Sweden.
- Insurance: Comprehensive health and accident insurance coverage in Sweden.
- Membership in the SI Network: Access to exclusive workshops, seminars, and networking events with professionals and leaders.
- Sweden Alumni Network: Lifelong membership and career support after graduation.
Who is Eligible to Apply?
This scholarship targets professionals with experience, not recent undergraduates. To qualify, you must:
- Be a citizen of an eligible country (check the official SI country list).
- Have at least 3,000 hours of demonstrated work experience (employment, entrepreneurship, or freelance).
- Show leadership experience from your professional or community roles.
- Have applied to an eligible, English-taught master’s programme in Sweden via University Admissions.
- Be required to pay tuition fees to Swedish universities (i.e., not have EU/EEA citizenship).
- Commit to returning to your home country after studies to contribute to its development.
How to Apply – Step-by-Step Guide
Important: You must apply for admission to a Swedish master’s programme first. The scholarship application depends on it.
Step 1: Apply to a Master’s Programme
- Go to University Admissions and select eligible English-taught master’s programmes starting in Autumn 2026.
- Complete your programme application before the scholarship deadline.
Step 2: Prepare Your Scholarship Documents
Gather:
- Proof of work and leadership experience (employment certificates, recommendation letters).
- CV in the SI template (available when the portal opens).
- Motivation letter and professional statements.
- Copy of your passport.
Step 3: Submit the SI Scholarship Application
- Once the SI portal opens on February 9, 2026, complete the online form.
- Upload all required documents before February 25, 2026.
Step 4: Wait for Results
- University admissions results come out first.
- SI scholarship winners are announced separately after a competitive selection process.
✅ Pro Tip:
Start now. Contact your employer for proof of work and leadership experience. Reach out to your network for strong recommendation letters. Draft your motivation letter early—highlight how your studies in Sweden will help you advance the SDGs in your home country.
Key Dates & Deadline
- February 9, 2026: SI scholarship application portal opens.
- February 25, 2026: Scholarship application deadline.
- April 2026: University admissions results announced.
- Late April 2026: SI scholarship results announced.
Note: University admissions have their own earlier deadline—usually mid-January 2026. Check University Admissions for exact dates.
Official Website & Application Portal
For the full list of eligible countries, eligible master’s programmes, and to apply when the portal opens:
👉 CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE OFFICIAL SWEDISH INSTITUTE SCHOLARSHIPS PAGE
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I apply for the scholarship before applying to a master’s programme?
A: No. You must first apply—and be admitted or conditionally admitted—to an eligible master’s programme via University Admissions. Your scholarship application will be linked to your programme application.
Q2: Is there an age limit for applicants?
A: No, there’s no strict age limit. However, the scholarship is designed for professionals with significant work and leadership experience, so most successful applicants are mid-career.
Q3: Which countries are eligible?
A: The SI publishes an official list of eligible countries each year. It includes many countries across Asia, Africa, Latin America, the Western Balkans, and Eastern Europe. Check the official SI website for the 2026 list.
Q4: Can I bring my family with me on this scholarship?
A: The scholarship is intended for the awardee only. It does not provide additional support for dependents or family members.
Q5: What makes a successful application?
A: Beyond meeting eligibility, successful applicants demonstrate:
- Clear alignment between their career goals and Sweden’s focus on sustainability and innovation.
- Tangible leadership impact in their professional or community roles.
- A compelling vision for how they’ll use their education to advance development in their home country.
