Sweden is a popular choice for international relations because many programmes are taught in English and are open to students from many countries. You can usually start at bachelor’s level or continue with a master’s degree, but the exact entry rules and fees depend on the university and programme page.
What you can study
International relations is often part of a wider subject area, such as political science, global studies, peace and conflict studies, or development studies. Some universities offer a full degree with a clear IR focus, while others offer IR as a track, specialisation, or set of courses.
- Bachelor’s level - usually for students who have finished upper secondary school.
- Master’s level - usually for students who already have a relevant bachelor’s degree.
- Exchange or single courses - sometimes possible if you are already enrolled at another university.
Check the university’s admissions page to see whether the programme is fully in English and whether it is offered at bachelor’s or master’s level.
Typical entry requirements
For a bachelor’s programme, you usually need a completed secondary school diploma that gives access to higher education in your home country. Many Swedish universities also ask for proof of English.
- School qualification - your final secondary school certificate and transcripts.
- English language proof - often IELTS, TOEFL, or another accepted test, or previous study in English.
- Extra subject requirements - sometimes social sciences, maths, or history are recommended or required.
For a master’s programme, you usually need a relevant bachelor’s degree. Some programmes want a degree in political science, international relations, sociology, economics, law, or a related field.
- Academic background - your degree and transcript.
- English proof - unless you meet the exemption rules.
- Motivation or statement of purpose - often required for selection.
- CV and references - sometimes asked for, especially at master’s level.
The exact rules vary a lot. Always read the programme page and the national admissions site, University Admissions Sweden, for the official rules and document format.
English-taught options
Many Swedish universities offer international relations related degrees in English, especially at master’s level. Bachelor’s options in English exist too, but they are fewer.
When you compare programmes, look for:
- the language of instruction
- the degree level
- course content, such as diplomacy, security, EU politics, or development
- whether internships or fieldwork are included
- whether the degree is a general political science degree or a more focused IR degree
If you want to work in international organisations, NGOs, public policy, or diplomacy later, choose a programme with strong writing, research, and policy analysis parts.
Tuition and living costs
In Sweden, tuition depends on your citizenship and the university. Students from the EU, EEA, and Switzerland usually do not pay tuition for public universities, but you should always check the programme page because special rules can apply.
Students from outside the EU, EEA, and Switzerland usually pay tuition fees. For social science and humanities programmes like international relations, yearly tuition is often in the broad range of about SEK 80,000 to SEK 160,000, and sometimes more for some universities or programmes. Do not rely on this as a fixed price - always check the exact programme page.
Living costs also matter. Sweden is not cheap, and your budget should cover:
- rent and housing deposit
- food and local transport
- books, printing, and study materials
- phone, health insurance if needed, and personal spending
A common planning figure used by many students is around SEK 9,000 to SEK 12,000 per month, but real costs depend on the city and your housing situation. Stockholm and some other university cities can be more expensive.
For visa and residence permit checks, use the Swedish Migration Agency. For fee information, use the university and University Admissions Sweden.
Application timeline
Most international applicants apply through the national admissions system, not directly to the programme team. The main intake is usually for autumn start, and the application period often opens months before the programme begins.
- 6 to 12 months before start - research programmes and entry rules.
- Several months before the deadline - take any needed English test and request documents.
- By the application deadline - submit your online application and upload documents.
- After applying - follow up on document checks and ranking results.
- Before arrival - arrange housing, residence permit if needed, and travel.
The exact deadline can change by intake and level, so check the current dates on University Admissions Sweden and the university’s own website.
How universities find candidates
Swedish universities usually do not search the world one student at a time. Instead, they use the national admissions system and their own outreach channels.
- They publish programme pages with entry rules and documents.
- They review applications sent through the official admissions portal.
- They may search databases, student fairs, and partner networks for strong candidates.
- They may contact students who have created a visible profile on study platforms.
If you want to be easier to find, keep your profile clear and complete. List your study level, field, English level, and documents, and make sure your contact details are correct.
Common questions
Can I study international relations in Sweden without Swedish?
Yes, often you can. Many programmes are taught in English, especially at master’s level. Still, always check the programme page, because some courses may require Swedish or offer limited places.
Do I need a background in political science?
Not always. Some programmes want a related degree, while others accept applicants from wider social science fields. Read the exact entry rules carefully, because some programmes are strict about the subject area.
Can I work while studying?
Many international students work part time, but study time is usually the priority. Visa and residence rules can also affect your work rights, so check the Swedish Migration Agency before you plan on a job.
How Eduuro helps
Create a free profile with your field, education, English level and documents, so universities can see whether you match their programmes. 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.