About Sweden

HISTORY

The History of Sweden can be traced back to the melting of the Northern Polar Ice Caps. From as early as 12,000 BC, humans have inhabited this area. Throughout the Stone Age, between 8,000 BC and 6,000 BC, early inhabitants used stone-crafting methods to make tools and weapons for hunting, gathering and fishing as means of survival. Written sources about Sweden before 1,000 AD are rare and short, usually written by outsiders. It was not until the 14th century that longer historical texts were produced in Sweden. It is therefore usually accepted that Swedish recorded history, in contrast with pre-history, starts around the 11th century, when sources are common enough that they can be contrasted with each other. The modern Swedish state was formed over a long period of unification and consolidation. Historians have set different standards for when it can be considered complete, resulting in dates from the 6th to 16th centuries. Some common laws were present from the second half of the 13th century. At this time, Sweden consisted of most of what is today the southern part of the country (except for Scania, Blekinge, Halland and Bohuslän), as well as parts of modern Finland. Over the following centuries, Swedish influence would expand into the North and East, even if borders were often ill-defined or nonexistent. In the late 14th Century, Sweden was becoming increasingly intertwined with Denmark and Norway, with the three eventually uniting in the Kalmar Union. During the following century, a series of rebellions lessened Sweden's ties to the union, sometimes even leading to the election of a separate Swedish king. The fighting reached a climax following the Stockholm Bloodbath in 1520, a mass execution of accused heretics orchestrated by Christian II of Denmark. One of the few members of the most powerful noble families not present, Gustav Vasa, was able to raise a new rebellion and eventually was crowned King in 1523. His reign proved lasting and marked the end of Sweden's participation in the Kalmar Union.

GEOGRAPHY

Sweden is a country in Northern Europe on the Scandinavian Peninsula. It borders Norway to the west; Finland to the northeast; and the Baltic Sea and Gulf of Bothnia to the south and east. At 450,295 km2 (173,860 sq mi), Sweden is the largest country in Northern Europe, the fifth largest in Europe, and the 55th largest country in the world. Sweden has a 3,218 km (2,000 mi) long coastline on its east, and the Scandinavian mountain chain (Scanderna) on its western border, separating it from Norway. It has maritime borders with Denmark, Germany, Poland, Russia, Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia, and it is also linked to Denmark (southwest) by the Öresund Bridge. It has an Exclusive Economic Zone of 160,885 km2 (62,118 sq mi).

CULTURE

The Culture of Sweden has long been known for the accomplishments of a wide variety of artists. Prehistoric Sweden was the source of Norse culture, dominant in all of Scandinavia for hundreds of years, and the Temple at Uppsala in Sweden was a site of pilgrimage for Scandinavian peoples takla the Aesir. Western culture mostly recalls Vikings of Norway and Denmark for invading France, England, Scotland and Ireland, but Swedish Vikings influenced Byzantine culture, where they were known as Varangians, and are also known for founding the Kievan state. Of the country's many monarchs, a few of the more powerful ones, such as King Gustav III and Queen Christina, have been exceptionally important to its cultural development. In modern times many Swedes have been internationally celebrated for their cultural work, among them Jenny Lind, PewDiePie, August Strindberg, Ingrid Bergman, Ingmar Bergman and ABBA. Automotive designs such as those of Volvo and Saab have also been widely known.

CLIMATE

Winter and summer temperature differences in Sweden are extreme, but generally the country enjoys a temperate climate, thanks to the Gulf Stream. Above the Arctic Circle, winter is severe with temperatures going below -30°C, while summer temperatures here, and in the rest of the country, regularly hit +20°C.

ECONOMY

The economy of Sweden is a developed export-oriented economy aided by timber, hydropower, and iron ore. These constitute the resource base of an economy oriented toward foreign trade. The main industries include motor vehicles, telecommunications, pharmaceuticals, industrial machines, precision equipment, chemical goods, home goods and appliances, forestry, iron, and steel. Traditionally a modern agricultural economy that employed over half the domestic workforce, today Sweden further develops engineering, mine, steel, and pulp industries that are competitive internationally, as evidenced by companies like Ericsson, ASEA/ABB, SKF, Alfa Laval, AGA, and Dyno Nobel. Sweden is a competitive and highly liberalized, open market economy. The vast majority of Swedish enterprises are privately owned and market-oriented, combined with a strong welfare state involving transfer payments involving up to three-fifths of GDP. In 2014 the percent of national wealth owned by the government was 24%.

GOVERNMENT

The Government of the Kingdom of is the national cabinet and the supreme executive authority of Sweden. The short-form name Regeringen ("the Government") is used both in the Basic Laws of Sweden and in the vernacular, while the long-form is only used in international treaties.

INNOVATION

Today, both the EU and WEF rank Sweden as Europe's leading country for innovation. Reasons for this include a historic tradition of inventors, a commitment to gender equality, and a strong belief in the individual.

INTERNATIONALLY RENOWNED EDUCATION SYSTEM

The quality and international standing of the Swedish education system needs no explanation, with Universities consistently ranked among the best in the world. The addition of one of its fine institutions would be an excellent addition to any student’s academic CV. Consider choosing Uppsala University, the oldest university in any of the Nordic countries. Or, if making it in the big city is your dream, study abroad in Sweden’s capital, Stockholm, at Stockholm’s University.

THRIVING STUDENT LIFE

Sweden has an interesting and unique student life that is steeped in centuries of tradition. Sweden’s largest student populations can be found in the cities of Uppsala and Lund, where student nations, organizations specifically responsible for organizing student events, are plentiful. Each nation has its own vibe and new international students get the opportunity to meet and socialize with Swedish and other international students alike. Furthermore, students in Sweden are presented with a plentiful and varied culture to immerse themselves. Do you know about the Flogsta scream? Every night at 10 p.m., students in Uppsala’s Flogsta neighborhood gather to let out a collective scream into the night. It may sound strange at first, but it’s just one of many examples of students coming together to support one another and have some fun while they’re at it.

NO LANGUAGE BARRIER

While the official language of Sweden is Swedish, a rich and beautiful language, in 2017 Swedes ranked second in the world for skills in English as a second language. As the world becomes increasingly connected and businesses seek to expand beyond national and linguistic boundaries, Sweden offers an excellent location to learn and develop your English language skills. However, a study abroad experience in Sweden would also be the best opportunity to learn some Swedish as well. Spoken by nearly ten million people, the Swedish language shares many similarities to English, and by knowing some, it will be that much easier to immerse into your new cultural surroundings.

PRIME LOCATION

While they are living abroad, most international students want to take the opportunity to travel as often as possible. Central to Scandinavia and close to central mainland Europe, Sweden is a prime location to act as a hub for a European adventure. There are various locations throughout Europe easily and cheaply reached through one of Sweden’s ten international airports or via a train system that connects with mainland continental Europe via the famed Øresund Bridge.

THE SWEDISH WAY OF LIFE

Lagom, the Swedish ethos of ‘just enough’ infiltrates all aspects of life, from their study life balance to their holidays and traditions. It’s no surprise then that Swedish design, made famous by the furniture retailer, IKEA, relies so heavily on minimalism and functionality. Together, these views on life go far in explaining Swedish society’s belief in consensus and equality. As an international student, you will find life in Sweden to be incredibly structured in some ways and very flexible in others. It’s all part of a work-life balance that values the individual’s right to live happily.

BEAUTIFUL NATURE

Sweden’s geographic location creates a perfect environment for natural aesthetic extremes. Combined with Sweden’s “freedom to roam,” the general public’s right to access almost all public land for recreational purposes, it’s no wonder Swedes are savvy outdoorsmen. Whether you enjoy camping, skiing, ice skating, hiking, or fishing, Sweden offers international students studying abroad limitless opportunities to explore all of the beautiful nature Sweden has to offer.

A RICH HISTORY

From the Vikings to Abba, Sweden has contributed a lot to the history books, and Swedes are not shy about celebrating them. Through numerous museums and festivals, the historical highlights of Sweden are accessible and championed throughout Sweden and a joy to behold. Furthermore, many museums offer free entrance on a regular basis or on specially marked days throughout the year. If there is a fee, there is typically a steep discount for students. Depending on your area of study, some students also get passes to enter many of the museums for free.By the time you leave Sweden; you will be amazed how the land of Vikings has become one of the most peaceful and fair societies in the modern world.

HOME TO INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS

For students who wish to seek internships or work experience, look no further than one of Sweden’s many internationally-renowned businesses. Students will find the head offices of companies like H&M and Specify in Stockholm. Or, if you find yourself studying on Sweden’s west coast, you may be interested in gaining experience at Volvo’s head office in Gothenburg. Unlike many other countries, Sweden does not impose any official limitations on how many hours a student can work. Therefore, it is much easier for students to find job prospects that turn into lifelong careers.

THE JOY OF FIKA

However, life in Sweden is hardly based on all work. Fika has become a social institution that pervades every Swede's personal and professional life, in which Swedes take a moment to enjoy some sweets over a cup of coffee and socialize. It’s much more than a coffee break, however. It’s a chance for you to relax and chat with the ones you’re closest too. No student can go too long without falling in love with the tradition, as many group get-togethers, meetings, and even dates are organized around taking a fika.

A CHALLENGE WORTH TAKING

No matter the destination, studying abroad can be difficult at times. However, the benefits of studying abroad in Sweden are guaranteed to make the challenge well worth your while. As an international student in Sweden, you can expect to be treated equally and with fairness. You will also find that the system is set up to help you succeed in accomplishing your dreams, as long as you’re willing to put in the effort. And although challenging at times, all of the aforementioned points go far to explain why your study abroad in Sweden will easily be one of the best experiences in your life.

Application Procedure

⦁ Select a Course and Institution
⦁ Apply for the course
⦁ Received your Letter of Offer
⦁ Pay First Installment of Tuition fees
⦁ Receive Confirmation of Enrolment
⦁ Apply for your Visa
⦁ Fly to Sweden

Undergraduate

⦁ Minimum SSC/ O level grade should be 3.0/5(B)
⦁ Minimum HSC/A Level/ Diploma grade should be 3.0/2(B)/2.5
⦁ Proof of English-language:IELTS/TOEFL/PTE level 6

Postgraduate:

⦁ Minimum SSC/ O level grade should be 3.0/5(B)
⦁ Minimum HSC/A Level/ Diploma grade should be 3.0/2(B)/2.5
⦁ Minimum Bachelor Degree CGPA 2.5
⦁ Proof of English-language proficiency: IELTS/TOEFL/PTE level 6 / Medium of Instruction Certificate accepted only for completing MBBS and Hon’s in English.

DURING STUDY

As an international student in Sweden, you’re allowed to work alongside your studies – there’s no official limitation for how many hours you can work. Most universities have careers services that can help you with finding a part-time job during your studies. Many also offer services like employer fairs, CV checks and special events with companies. Websites like Academic Work and Student Consulting can also be a good place to look for postings.

AFTER STUDY

Sweden is a great place to start your career, and innovative, international companies are found throughout the country. You can apply to extend your residence permit for up to 1 year to search for a job or start a company, and if you receive a job offer meeting certain conditions you can then apply for a work permit

Documents Required

For Admission

Undergraduate

⦁ SSC/ O level Certificates and Mark sheet.
⦁ Minimum HSC/A Level/ Diploma Certificates and Mark sheet.
⦁ Proof of English-language proficiency
⦁ Personal Statement
⦁ Passport Copy
⦁ CV

Postgraduate Programs:

⦁ SSC/ O level Certificates and Mark sheet.
⦁ Minimum HSC/A Level/ Diploma Certificates and Mark sheet.
⦁ Bachelor/ Master Degree Certificate and Mark sheet.
⦁ Proof of English-language proficiency
⦁ Passport copy
⦁ CV
⦁ Personal Statement
⦁ Work Experience(If any)
⦁ 2 Recommendation letters

For Visa

⦁ Valid passport
⦁ Notification of Selection Result.
⦁ All educational documents, including marks sheets (SSC, HSC, Bachelors, Masters or other post- secondary, college, vocational or university diploma, certificate or degree).
⦁ Bank Statement and solvency Certificate minimum for 15 days.
⦁ Confirmation of any scholarship, grant, teaching or research assistantship including name of the providing institution or organization, amount per semester or year and duration