Sweden · Various Swedish universities
Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals
IELTS Requirement & Application Guide
- IELTS
- 6.5
- Components
- L 5.5 / R 5.5 / W 5.5 / S 5.5
- Level
- PG
- Deadline
- December–February
Last verified: 2026-03
About Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals
The Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals fund master's studies in Sweden for professionals from eligible countries. The scholarship covers full tuition, a monthly living allowance, travel grants, and insurance. Applicants must have at least 3,000 hours of work or volunteer experience to qualify.
IELTS Required
| Overall | L | R | W | S |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6.5 | 5.5 | 5.5 | 5.5 | 5.5 |
Accepts: Academic ✓ / General ✗
Also accepted: TOEFL iBT 90
Tips for Meeting the Requirement
- 1The Swedish Institute requires IELTS 6.5 overall with 5.5 in each component. While the minimum per band is moderate, aim for a higher overall score to strengthen your competitive application.
- 2This scholarship values leadership and professional experience heavily. Your IELTS score needs to meet the threshold, but your application essay about your professional goals and how they align with Sweden's development agenda carries significant weight.
- 3Apply through the University Admissions portal (universityadmissions.se) for your programme first, then apply separately for the SI scholarship. Both processes have different timelines, so plan accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What IELTS score does the Swedish Institute Scholarship require?
The Swedish Institute Scholarship requires IELTS Academic 6.5 overall with a minimum of 5.5 in each component. Some master's programmes in Sweden may set higher English requirements, so verify with your chosen programme.
Does the Swedish Institute accept IELTS General Training?
No, only IELTS Academic is accepted. Swedish universities require the Academic format for all degree programmes. TOEFL iBT (90+) is also accepted as an alternative.
Can I apply for the Swedish Institute Scholarship without work experience?
No, the SI scholarship requires a minimum of 3,000 hours of demonstrated work, leadership, or volunteer experience. This is a strict eligibility criterion. Voluntary work and internships count toward the requirement.
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