Sweden is a major hub for the gaming industry, making it a top destination to study game design. You can find English-taught bachelor and master degrees at several public universities across the country.
Choosing your degree level
Deciding between a bachelor or master programme depends on your current education level. Sweden offers structured higher education aligned with the European Bologna system.
- Bachelor programmes typically take three years of full-time study and focus on foundational skills.
- Master programmes take one or two years and focus on advanced specialization like programming or art.
- Most programmes in game design use English as the primary language of instruction.
Entry requirements and portfolio
Getting into a Swedish game design programme requires specific academic qualifications and often a portfolio. Admission is competitive, so you must prepare your documents early.
- General eligibility requires a completed upper secondary education for bachelor courses.
- Specific prerequisites often include mathematics, art or basic programming skills.
- Master applications require a relevant undergraduate degree, such as computer science or digital media.
- Many courses require a portfolio showcasing your past projects, sketches, or game prototypes.
- You must prove your English proficiency through tests like IELTS or TOEFL unless your previous schooling exempts you.
Tuition fees and funding
The cost of studying in Sweden depends on your nationality and citizenship status. Plan your budget carefully before applying.
- Students who are citizens of the EU, EEA, or Switzerland do not pay tuition fees for public higher education in Sweden.
- Non-EU students pay tuition fees, which typically range from 80,000 to 140,000 SEK per semester depending on the specific programme.
- Check the official university admissions page for exact fee structures and payment deadlines.
- Look for scholarship options on the official Swedish Institute website or the scholarship page of your chosen university.
Living costs and student life
Beyond tuition, you need enough money to cover your daily expenses while living in Sweden. A realistic monthly budget is essential for your visa application if you are a non-EU student.
- Accommodation, food, public transport, and study materials typically cost between 8,000 and 11,000 SEK per month.
- The Swedish migration authority requires proof of sufficient funds to cover these living costs when you apply for your residence permit.
- Student housing offers the most affordable rent, but you must apply as soon as you receive your admission offer.
Application timeline
Sweden uses a centralized application portal for all universities. Missing a deadline means waiting another year to apply.
- The main autumn intake opens for applications in the autumn of the prior year.
- The final deadline for international students applying for the autumn semester is typically in mid-January.
- Admissions results are usually announced in spring before the semester starts in August or September.
- Check the national admissions portal and the university programme page for exact dates.
Common questions
Can I work while studying game design in Sweden?
Yes, international students can work alongside their studies without a separate work permit, but finding a job without speaking Swedish can be challenging.
Do I need to speak Swedish to study game design?
No, many bachelor and master programmes in game design are taught entirely in English.
How do I apply for a student residence permit?
Once you pay your tuition fee instalment and receive an admission offer, you apply online through the national migration authority.
How Eduuro helps
Create a free profile with your field, education, English level and documents, and admissions offices that search for exactly that can find you and write first.
Rules, fees and deadlines change. Check the university's own admissions page and the official immigration site of the country before you act on anything here.