Fully Funded Master’s Scholarship in Sweden for Global Professionals

Applications are now open for the Swedish Institute Scholarship for Global Professionals (SISGP) 2025/2026, one of Sweden’s most prestigious and fully funded opportunities for international students. This scholarship is designed for ambitious professionals who want to make a real impact in their home countries while earning a master’s degree at a top Swedish university.

Funded by the Swedish government, SISGP covers full tuition fees, living expenses, insurance, and travel grants for up to two years of study. Beyond funding, it connects scholars to a global leadership network that continues to support their professional growth long after graduation.

In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know, from eligibility and benefits to the step-by-step application process, required documents, deadlines, and practical tips to strengthen your chances of being selected.

What is SISGP?

The Swedish Institute Scholarship for Global Professionals (SISGP) is a government-funded program created to develop future leaders who can drive sustainable development in their home countries. It is awarded to outstanding students with strong academic and professional backgrounds who demonstrate a clear vision for contributing to positive change after their studies.

Administered by the Swedish Institute (SI), the scholarship supports international students who wish to pursue full-time master’s programs in Sweden. It’s not just a financial award, it’s an investment in individuals who show leadership potential, integrity, and a commitment to making a difference within their professions, communities, or nations. SISGP scholars become part of a global alumni network that continues to share ideas, partnerships, and opportunities long after graduation.

What the Scholarship Covers

SISGP is fully funded, meaning recipients pay no tuition or study-related costs. The scholarship includes:

• Full tuition coverage is paid directly to the university.
• A monthly living allowance of SEK 12,000 throughout the study period.
• A travel grant for relocation to and from Sweden (except for certain countries).
• Exclusive access to the SI Network for Future Global Professionals (NFGP)—a platform for professional development and lifelong connections.

Who Can Apply (Eligibility at a Glance)

The Swedish Institute Scholarship for Global Professionals (SISGP) is open to candidates who meet specific academic, professional, and citizenship criteria. Below is a clear breakdown of who can apply and what’s required.

Eligible Citizenship and Countries

• Open to citizens from 33 eligible countries across Africa, Asia, Latin America, and Eastern Europe.
• Applicants must not hold citizenship or permanent residency in Sweden or any EU/EEA country.
• Dual citizens, where one nationality is from an EU/EEA country, are not eligible.
• The full list of eligible countries is available on the official Swedish Institute website.

Academic Prerequisites

• Applicants must be admitted to a master’s program in Sweden that is eligible for SISGP funding.
• Programs must be full-time, English-taught, and begin in autumn 2025.
• Only candidates who are required to pay tuition fees to Swedish universities are eligible.
• You must apply to the master’s program through University Admissions Sweden before applying for SISGP.

Work & Leadership Experience Requirements

• A minimum of 3,000 hours of full-time work experience is required, gained before the scholarship application deadline.
• This can include professional employment, internships, or leadership roles in organisations.
• Applicants should demonstrate leadership experience such as project coordination, team supervision, or community initiatives (this shows your potential for influence and impact).

Fields of Study and Programme Eligibility

• SISGP supports a wide range of master’s programs in Sweden that align with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
• Eligible programs are listed on the Swedish Institute website each year.
• Candidates should verify that their chosen program is on the current SISGP list before applying.

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Key Dates & Deadlines for 2025/2026 Call

Timing is crucial when applying for SISGP. The process involves two separate but connected stages—applying for admission to a Swedish master’s program and then applying for the scholarship itself.

Here’s the timeline for the 2025/2026 academic year:

• University admissions application: Open from 16 October 2025 to 15 January 2026 via universityadmissions.se.
• Notification of selection results: Expected by 27 March 2026. You must be admitted (conditionally or fully) to an eligible program by this date to qualify for SISGP.
• SISGP application portal opens: 9 February 2026.
• SISGP application closes: 25 February 2026 (14:59 CET).
• Announcement of scholarship recipients: Expected in late April 2026.

Tip: Begin preparing your documents early; your master’s application must be submitted and paid for before you can apply for the scholarship.

Step-by-Step Application Guide

Applying for the Swedish Institute Scholarship for Global Professionals (SISGP) requires careful planning and attention to detail. The process is straightforward once you understand the sequence.

Follow these steps to ensure your application is complete and competitive.

Step 1: Choose Your Master’s and Apply via University Admissions Sweden

Start by researching eligible master’s programs in Sweden that align with your academic interests and career goals. Only programs listed on the Swedish Institute’s official SISGP page qualify.

1. Visit universityadmissions.se and create an account.
2. Apply to up to four master’s programs before 15 January 2026.
3. Pay the application fee (SEK 900) to validate your submission.
4. Upload all required academic documents (transcripts, degree certificates, and proof of English proficiency).

Once your application is complete, you’ll receive a confirmation from University Admissions Sweden. You must be admitted or conditionally admitted to an eligible program to qualify for SISGP.

Step 2: Prepare Documentation for SISGP Application

Gather all documents required for the SISGP application—each one must follow the Swedish Institute’s format and instructions. Prepare the following:

• Curriculum Vitae (CV): Using the Swedish Institute’s template (maximum three pages).
• Motivation Letter: Clearly outline your career goals, leadership experience, and how studying in Sweden supports your impact in your home country.
• Two Letters of Reference: From supervisors, employers, or project leaders who can attest to your leadership potential.
• Proof of Work and Leadership Experience: Must show a minimum of 3,000 hours of relevant experience.
• Valid Passport Copy: Showing your personal details and photograph.

Each document should be submitted in English, PDF format, and properly labelled.

Step 3: Submit Your SISGP Application in the Portal

When the application window opens on 9 February 2026, visit the Swedish Institute application portal.

• Log in and complete the online form.
• Upload your prepared documents in the required sections.
• Indicate the exact master’s programs you applied for (maximum of four).
• Review your submission carefully before clicking “Submit.”

Once submitted, you’ll receive a confirmation email—keep it for your records.

Step 4: After Submission: Selection and Next Steps

After you submit, the Swedish Institute reviews all applications carefully. Shortlisted candidates are evaluated based on academic merit, leadership experience, motivation, and alignment with sustainable development goals.

Results are typically announced in late April 2026. If selected, you’ll receive an official scholarship offer, which you must accept by the stated deadline.

Once confirmed, you can begin preparing for your relocation to Sweden—including residence permit processing, housing arrangements, and pre-departure orientation with the Swedish Institute.

How to Improve Your Chances

The Swedish Institute Scholarship for Global Professionals is highly competitive—thousands apply each year, but only a few hundred are selected. To stand out, you’ll need more than good grades; your application must show clear purpose, proven leadership, and a genuine connection between your goals and Sweden’s vision for sustainable global development.

Here are practical ways to strengthen your application:

1. Start early. Begin preparing your documents months in advance. Strong motivation letters and references take time to craft—don’t rush them.
2. Quantify your impact. When describing work or leadership experience, use numbers to give context. For example: “Led a 5-person team that trained 120 rural women entrepreneurs.”
3. Show leadership beyond your job title. Highlight community projects, initiatives, or mentorship roles that reflect your ability to influence and inspire others.
4. Connect your goals to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The SISGP values applicants whose plans align with sustainable development themes such as education, innovation, climate action, or equality.
5. Choose referees wisely. Select people who know your professional or leadership capacity well and can provide concrete examples of your achievements.
6. Tailor your motivation letter. Avoid generic statements. Clearly explain why Sweden, your chosen program, and how the knowledge gained will create an impact back home.
7. Follow instructions exactly. Use the Swedish Institute templates and naming formats. Missing details or formatting errors can disqualify even strong candidates.
8. Stay organised with deadlines. Mark all key dates—master’s application, scholarship window, and admission results. Also, set reminders.

Finally, keep your tone authentic and reflective. The selection panel values sincerity and clarity over exaggerated claims. A well-balanced application that tells your story with focus, honesty, and vision can make all the difference.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Here are clear answers to some of the most common questions about the Swedish Institute Scholarship for Global Professionals (SISGP):

• Can I apply if I have a third-class degree?

Unfortunately, no. Swedish universities typically require a minimum of a second-class upper (or equivalent) for admission to master’s programs. Since SISGP depends on university admission, applicants with lower grades are rarely considered.

• Do I need IELTS or TOEFL?

Yes—unless your previous degree was taught entirely in English and your university is recognised by Swedish admissions for language exemption. Otherwise, you must provide an IELTS, TOEFL, or another accepted English proficiency test result.

• Can I bring my family to Sweden?

SISGP does not cover family or dependents. However, you can apply for family residence permits at your own cost once you’ve secured your scholarship.

• What counts as work experience?

Eligible work includes full-time employment, internships, or volunteer leadership roles relevant to your field. You must prove at least 3,000 hours of documented experience.

• Do I need to apply for the scholarship before or after university admission?

You must first apply for admission to your chosen master’s program via University Admissions Sweden. After submitting and paying for that application, you can apply for SISGP when the portal opens.

• How many master’s programs can I apply for?

You can apply for up to four eligible master’s programs, but only the ones listed on the official SISGP page qualify.

• Can I apply if I’m already studying in Sweden?

No. The scholarship is for new master’s students beginning their studies in autumn 2025.

• Is the scholarship renewable or extendable?

SISGP covers the full duration of your master’s program (one or two years) but is not renewable beyond that.

• What if I miss the deadline?

Late applications are not accepted. The system closes automatically at 14:59 CET on 25 February 2026. Apply early to avoid last-minute issues.

• When will I know if I’ve been selected?

Final results are announced in late April 2026, after the release of university admission results. Successful applicants will receive official instructions on how to accept their awards.

Conclusion

The Swedish Institute Scholarship for Global Professionals isn’t just a ticket to Sweden; it’s an open door to fresh ideas, global friendships, and a world-class education that can change your career forever. Think of it as your chance to study, grow, and return home equipped to lead with confidence and purpose.

If you’ve been dreaming about taking your skills to a bigger stage, this is it. Sweden is waiting, but the first move is yours.

Apply For The Swedish Institute Scholarship for Global Professionals