Nordic education is known for its high level of quality, innovation, and equality, as well as for its strong support for international students. It is important to note that non-EU students, including those from Africa and Asia, have access to excellent scholarship opportunities, ranging from full tuition funding to monthly stipends and research support. Several Nordic countries have their own systems and benefits, as well as different eligibility requirements.
Here you will find a quick guide to the best scholarships available in each Nordic country and how to apply.
Student Scholarships in Sweden
It is a popular destination for international students seeking to study in English for their master’s degree. Scholarships are available here that are fully funded for tuition and provide additional support.
1. Scholarships awarded by the Swedish Institute (SI)
The scholarship is a prestigious, fully funded opportunity for students interested in global leadership and development.
Benefits include full tuition, a monthly stipend, a travel allowance, health insurance, and leadership training.
2. University Scholarships
Students from outside the European Union are offered scholarships by the majority of Swedish universities.
Examples include:
- Lund University’s Global Scholarship Program
- Global Scholarship at Uppsala University
- KTH Scholarships
- Stockholm University Scholarships
It is common for these programs to provide full or partial coverage of tuition fees.
3. Erasmus Mundus Programs
There are some joint master’s degrees that are partially offered in Sweden and are fully funded.
Norway Scholarships
In Norway, public universities do not charge tuition fees to students from outside the European Union. Scholarships are primarily intended to cover living expenses.
1. University Scholarships
The following are some examples:
- Norwegian Business School Scholarships
- University of Oslo International Grants
- NTNU Mobility Funding
Funds may be used to cover living expenses, travel expenses, or housing costs.
2. Scholarships for mobility and partnership
Students from developing countries are supported through NORPART and Erasmus partnerships.
Tip: Living costs in Norway are high, so securing a stipend is helpful even though tuition is free.
Scholarships offered by Denmark
Non-EU students are charged tuition fees in Denmark, but generous scholarships are available to reduce or eliminate these fees.
1. Scholarships provided by the Danish Government (via universities)
Among the benefits are:
- Full or partial tuition coverage
- Stipend for living expenses on a monthly basis
The following institutions offer university programs:
- University of Copenhagen
- Aarhus University
- Aalborg University
- Copenhagen Business School
- Technical University of Denmark
2. Erasmus Mundus Programs
Fully funded master’s programs offered jointly with Danish universities.
3. Scholarships offered by the industry and the private sector
The University is particularly strong in the areas of engineering, biotechnology, sustainability, and health.
The Finland Scholarship Program
There has been a significant expansion of Finland’s scholarship program, especially for students from outside the European Union.
1. Scholarships offered by the Finland Government
Designed primarily for researchers, teachers, and postgraduate students.
2. University Scholarships
The majority of Finnish universities offer merit-based awards, such as:
- University of Helsinki International Scholarship
- Aalto University Scholarship
- Tampere University Global Scholarships
- University of Oulu Scholarships
- LUT University Scholarships
Among them are:
- Full tuition waiver
- Partial tuition waiver
- Monthly allowance (some programs)
3. Fully funded positions for PhD students
Doctoral students are often awarded research contracts.
Scholarships offered by Iceland
While Iceland offers fewer programs than other Nordic nations, there are still a number of opportunities available.
1. Icelandic government scholarships
This program is dedicated to the study of Icelandic language and culture.
As part of the benefits package, stipends and housing assistance are provided.
2. University Scholarships
International students studying fields such as renewable energy, environmental science, and geology may receive support from some universities.
Eligibility requirements for the Nordic region
Typically, scholarships require the following:
- High-quality academic performance
- Strong motivational or personal statements
- Recommendation letters
- Test of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL)
- Participation in the community or leadership
- The study or research should have clearly defined objectives
Some, particularly in Sweden and Finland, may also value the following:
- Work experience
- Social impact projects
- Goals aligned with sustainable development
An overview of the typical scope of Nordic scholarships
Benefits include:
- Full tuition fees
- Partial tuition waivers
- Monthly stipends
- Health insurance
- Travel allowance
- Research funding
- Accommodation support (for some programs)
Note: Norway already offers free tuition at public universities, however living expenses are not covered unless a scholarship is obtained.
The best fields of study in the Nordic countries
Globally, the region is recognized for its excellence in the following areas:
- Engineering and technology
- Energy sustainability and renewable resources
- Environment-related sciences
- Public health
- Data science, AI, and ICT
- Social sciences and equality studies
- Innovating and entrepreneurship
- Arctic studies and climate research
Choosing a field aligned with Nordic strengths will increase your chances of obtaining funding and employment.
How to Boost Your Chances of Winning a Nordic Scholarship
- Make your preparations as early as possible
- Reflect Nordic values such as equality, sustainability, and innovation in your personal statement
- Demonstrate leadership and participation in the community
- It is important to emphasize academic excellence
- A strong and detailed letter of recommendation is required
- Ensure that the programs you choose are aligned with your long-term goals
- Apply to multiple universities and take advantage of multiple scholarship opportunities
In conclusion
Nordic countries offer excellent scholarship opportunities for students who are not EU citizens. These scholarships offer generous funding, a world-class education, and solid career prospects. The scholarships offered by Sweden are global, the tuition-free system in Norway is tuition-free, the government awards are provided by Denmark, Finland provides extensive university funding, and Iceland provides specialized programs. There is no doubt that you will find a scholarship that best suits your academic needs.