Sweden offers bachelor and master studies in public health for international students. You can start with a three‑year bachelor or continue with a one‑ or two‑year master. The guide below shows the main steps, typical costs and where to look for official information.
Bachelor and master programmes
Swedish universities separate public health into two levels. The bachelor degree lasts three years and gives a broad foundation in health promotion, epidemiology and health policy. The master degree lasts one or two years and lets you specialise in topics such as global health, health economics or health management.
- Common bachelor providers: Lund University, Uppsala University, Karolinska Institutet.
- Common master providers: Stockholm University, Umeå University, Linköping University.
All programmes are listed on the university’s admissions page. Check the page for the exact name of the programme, study language and module structure.
Entry requirements
Requirements differ for EU/EEA and non‑EU/EEA students, but the core criteria are similar. You need a secondary school certificate for bachelor studies and a relevant bachelor degree for master studies. Most programmes also ask for proof of English proficiency.
- Secondary school certificate: Swedish upper secondary diploma or an equivalent foreign qualification.
- Bachelor degree: a three‑year degree in health, social science or a related field.
- English test: typically IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL iBT 80.
- Additional documents: CV, motivation letter, references.
Exact grade requirements vary by university. See the specific programme page for the latest thresholds.
English taught options
Most public health programmes are offered in English to attract international students. The language of instruction is clearly stated on the university’s admissions page. Look for the phrase "English taught" or "program taught in English".
- Bachelor: English programmes are fewer, but several universities have them.
- Master: Almost all master programmes in public health are available in English.
If you need extra language support, many universities run summer courses that help you meet the English level before the main start date.
Tuition fees
Sweden charges tuition only for non‑EU/EEA students. EU/EEA students usually study for free, but you still pay a small semester fee for student unions and campus services.
- EU/EEA: typically no tuition, check the university’s fee page for the exact student union fee.
- Non‑EU/EEA bachelor: typically €9,000‑€15,000 per year.
- Non‑EU/EEA master: typically €12,000‑€18,000 per year.
- Scholarships: many universities offer scholarships that cover part or all of the tuition. Check the scholarship section on the university website.
Always verify the current fee on the official programme page before you apply.
Living costs and budget
Living in Sweden is relatively expensive compared with many other European countries. The Swedish Migration Agency lists the minimum amount you must show to get a residence permit. This amount is a good reference for budgeting.
- Accommodation: typically €400‑€800 per month for a student room or shared flat.
- Food: around €200‑€300 per month if you cook yourself.
- Transport: a monthly public‑transport pass costs about €80‑€100 in most cities.
- Other costs: books, internet, leisure - roughly €150‑€200 per month.
Overall, plan for at least €800‑€1,200 per month in total expenses. Scholarships and part‑time student jobs can help cover part of the budget.
Application timeline
Swedish universities follow a fixed admission round each year. Most programmes use the national portal “University Admissions” (Uppsats). The typical schedule looks like this:
- Early January: application portal opens.
- Mid‑March: deadline for most bachelor and master programmes.
- Late March - early April: admission decisions sent.
- May: acceptance deadline for admitted students.
- July-August: start of the semester (autumn term).
If you are a non‑EU/EEA student, you also need to apply for a residence permit after you receive an admission letter. The Swedish Migration Agency’s website explains the required documents and processing time.
Common questions
Do I need a Swedish visa if I am accepted?
Yes, if you are a non‑EU/EEA citizen. After you get an admission letter, apply for a residence permit for studies on the Swedish Migration Agency’s site. The process can take several weeks, so start early.
Can I work while studying public health?
Non‑EU/EEA students may work up to 20 hours per week during the semester and full time during holidays. EU/EEA students have the same right to work as Swedish citizens. Check the Migration Agency’s work‑rights page for details.
Are scholarships available for non‑EU/EEA students?
Many universities offer scholarships that cover tuition and sometimes living costs. Look at the scholarship section of each programme page. The Swedish Institute also runs country‑specific scholarships that you can apply for directly.
How Eduuro helps
Create a free profile with your field of study, education level, English level and documents. 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.