Interested in studying a postgraduate course abroad?

It can be a game-changer 

Studying abroad expands your global network and boosts your employability. It is challenging, but the personal and professional growth makes you stand out in the global job market. And the international experience could be your key to a successful future.

Investment in your Future

The city of Malmö is part of a leading hub for research, entrepreneurship, and new technology – from gaming and foodtech to cleantech, life sciences, and digital innovation. Apply for studies at Malmö University, one of Europe’s most innovative cities.

How do I apply for a course in Sweden?

We put together a guide on how to apply for studies in Sweden, explaining the most important steps of the application process.

Step 1: choose a course

Malmö University offers a variety of postgraduate courses taught in English for you who wish to study an international master education. From Political Science to Media studies, Computer Science to Urban studies. Picking the right course can be tricky. You might want to advance in your current career or change directions completely? Take a look at our course offerings and get inspired.

English-taught postgraduate courses

I don't know what to study

If you are not sure which direction to go, you can always contact our study and career officers. They will help you to figure out which course is the best fit for you.

Study Guidance Center

Step 2: Am I qualified to study this course?

This is a valid question. And yes, it can be confusing at times to understand what the entry requirements are. Especially, what documents or certificates you have to submit. Let's untangle!

Course entry requirements

To study a postgraduate course you need to provide documentation of your undergraduate degree or bachelor's degree. Some courses can ask you to submit extra work documentation or a letter of intent. You find the specific details under entry requirements and selection listed on every programme page.

Country-specific requirements

You will need to provide certificates and diplomas of your completed degree(s) and English proficiency. Much of what you need to submit, and how is based on where you completed your studies. Check what applies to you and get it right from the start.

Country specific requirements 

Tip

Check out the University Admissions website. This platform is your best friend. It is Sweden's one stop shop for your application. It provides support during the whole process.

Go to University Admissions

Step 3: Do I need to pay tuition fees?

You need to pay tuition fees in Sweden if you are from outside the EU/EEA or Switzerland. To make sure you got the correct information about your citizenship and tuition fee status, look it up on the University Admissions platform.

Find out if you need to pay fees

Step 4: Do I need a residence permit for Sweden?

If you are a citizen of a country outside the EU/EEA or Switzerland, you will in most cases need a residence permit to study in Sweden. Find out what applies to you on the official Swedish Migration Agency website.

Swedish Migration Agency

 

 

Step 5: Is there financial aid to support my studies?

Scholarships and grants can be crucial to be able to study abroad. This is why Malmö University offers scholarships to qualified master students from outside the EU/EEA or Switzerland. Find out if you are eligible to apply.

Malmö University's scholarships

The Swedish Institute (SI) is a government agency that offers annual scholarships for international students. Find out if you are eligible for their SI scholarship.

Study in Sweden scholarship

Psssst!

There is also a scholarship available for current fee-paying students who are performing with excellence at their studies.

Malmö University Excellence Scholarship

Step 6: When do I have to apply?

Sweden has two application rounds, a First and a Second round. The First one is for international applicants. The Second one, also called the national round, is for Swedish and EU/EEA and Swiss applicants.

Why should I apply in the first Admissions round?

The deadlines and admissions announcements for this round take place much earlier. This in turn means that international applicants have more time to pay their tuition fees, apply for and most importantly receive their residence permit in time. As well as to apply for scholarships, find housing and plan their move to Sweden.

Application timeline

The First admissions round opens 16 October 2026 and closes 15 January 2027. This means you have three months to prepare and apply. The latest updates on important deadlines are published on University Admissions.

Key dates for application

Step 7: What happens after you get admitted?

You have to organise your move to Sweden. And you need to monitor your email inbox closely for updates and important information from the university and your programme.

Things you have to do (not in this particular order, and there might be some more):

  • Pay the application fee (if it applies to you, University Admissions)
  • Pay the tuition fee (if it applies to you)
  • Apply for a residence permit (if it applies to you)
  • Research and apply for scholarships
  • Find housing and a place to live in Malmö
  • Get familiar with the After Admissions webpage with important tips

Do I need to confirm my admission?

You don’t have to confirm your spot. The spot is yours until you decide that you do NOT want to study this programme. Then you can actively decline your spot through your University Admissions account.

Step 9: Estimated cost of living in Sweden

Sweden is a fairly expensive country to study in, but there are ways to cut the costs. How much you would spend each month as a student is of course individual. We would estimate the following as a monthly budget in Swedish crown (SEK).

  • Food: 2,500 SEK
  • Accommodation: around 6,200 SEK
  • Local transportation: 500 SEK
  • Telephone and internet: 400 SEK
  • Hobby, leisure: 1,900 SEK

This will take you to a total of around 11,500 SEK, which is about 885 GBP.

As a student, you can apply for a student card which will give you discounts in stores, cafes, travels and more.

Morgan, alumn, studied two-year master’s programme Education: Educational Theory

As an international student, Malmö University has provided an inclusive, supportive environment with a strong international community that has made the transition to living away from home much easier. - Morgan (US)

Morgan, alumn, studied two-year master’s programme Education: Educational Theory

As an international student, Malmö University has provided an inclusive, supportive environment with a strong international community that has made the transition to living away from home much easier. - Morgan (US)

What do you like most about living in Malmö and studying at Malmö University?

What I like most about living in Malmö is that it offers something for everyone, with easy access to nature, charming cafes, and welcoming communities. I’ve found that people are open to forming new friendships, especially through shared hobbies and interests.

As an international student, Malmö University has provided an inclusive, supportive environment with a strong international community that has made the transition to living away from home much easier. I also appreciate that the university’s buildings are spread throughout the city, making it fun to explore all that Malmö has to offer alongside my studies.

Why did you choose Malmö?

I chose Malmö University because I wanted to explore education beyond teaching and live in Scandinavia; this programme was the only one I found that offered a holistic understanding of education through critical, theoretical, and philosophical perspectives in a diverse, English-speaking environment.

Mays, studies bachelor's degree programmes International Relations

I really enjoy studying at Malmö is the friendly relationship between professors and students. I always felt comfortable enough to ask my professors any questions or share my concerns about my studies. - Mays (UAE, NO)

Mays, studies bachelor's degree programmes International Relations

I really enjoy studying at Malmö is the friendly relationship between professors and students. I always felt comfortable enough to ask my professors any questions or share my concerns about my studies. - Mays (UAE, NO)

What do you like most about living in Malmö and studying at Malmö University?

I’m really enjoying my time studying in Malmö for a few reasons. First, the Malmö and MaU campus is right by the beach, so I can easily watch the sunsets, take relaxing walks, or treat myself to some ice cream. Plus, the city is so diverse, with people from all over the world, which is a fantastic way to learn about different cultures and traditions. Another reason I really enjoy studying at Malmö is the friendly relationship between professors and students. I always felt comfortable enough to ask my professors any questions or share my concerns about my studies.

Why did you choose Malmö?

A city that offers a wonderful blend of diversity, exciting opportunities, and a location that perfectly suits my dreams for life and the future.

Amin, alumn, Education: Educational Theory

I wanted a place that prioritises innovation and creative thinking. The university is really supportive.,And the staff genuinely care about your well-being. So it doesn’t feel like just a place to study, but a place to grow as a person. - Amin (IR)

Amin, alumn, Education: Educational Theory

I wanted a place that prioritises innovation and creative thinking. The university is really supportive.,And the staff genuinely care about your well-being. So it doesn’t feel like just a place to study, but a place to grow as a person. - Amin (IR)

How is it to live in Malmö as a student?

It’s super easy to meet people from all over the world, and the vibe here is always friendly and open. The university is really supportive, and the staff genuinely care about your well-being, so it doesn’t feel like just a place to study, but a place to grow as a person. Plus, I can’t forget how bike-friendly this city is! If you don't have a bike, you’ll feel a little out of place. It’s like Malmö’s unofficial mascot. Plus, the affordability of Malmö compared to other Scandinavian cities made it an easy decision.

Why did you choose to study and live in Malmö?

I wanted a place that prioritizes innovation and creative thinking. But honestly, a big part of the reason was Malmö's vibe. It’s a city with a lot of heart, and it just felt like the right place to balance my studies with having a good time. The fact that Malmö is so close to Copenhagen was also a huge plus—I can hop on a train and be in a whole new city in 20 minutes!

What is your favorite thing about Malmö?

The city offers such a perfect mix of study and play. I’ve been able to dive into so many activities, from beach volleyball and picnics to hiking. There’s always something to do. Whether it’s a beach party with friends or even belting out some tunes at karaoke nights. The student community here is super welcoming, and I’ve met so many people while joining in on these fun events. Also, I absolutely love that the city is so walkable, and bikes are everywhere. And hey, there’s also the fact that the food scene is amazing. If you’re into food (which, let’s be honest, who isn’t?), you’ll be in heaven here!

Giovanna, studies two-year master’s programme Urban Studies

The university’s infrastructure is amazing and we, students, have many opportunities to focus on our personal interests and also to connect with the job market and the field of studies. - Giovanna (BR)

Giovanna, studies two-year master’s programme Urban Studies

The university’s infrastructure is amazing and we, students, have many opportunities to focus on our personal interests and also to connect with the job market and the field of studies. - Giovanna (BR)

What do you like most about living in Malmö and studying at Malmö University?

I love how Malmö is so international and multicultural. You don’t feel an outsider here. Another thing I absolutely love is how bikeable the city is. I wasn’t used to seeing so many people biking to work or to school and this is how I commute today. Studying at Malmö University broads my world’s perspective as I have so many international classmates and professors, it makes you understand different realities. The university’s infrastructure is amazing and we, students, have many opportunities to focus on our personal interests and also to connect with the job market and the field of studies.

Why did you choose Malmö?

I chose Malmö because I wanted a city and a university that could combine calmness, innovation and creativity, and I found exactly this here.

Contact us

To find out more, please contact us by emailing:

stuy@mau.se