The Swedish government has opened applications for the 2026 SI Scholarship for Global Professionals, offering fully funded master’s degree opportunities for international students to study in Sweden.

The Swedish Institute announced that applications opened on February 9, 2026, with the deadline set for February 25, giving prospective candidates a limited window to apply. The scholarship is aimed at experienced professionals seeking advanced academic training and leadership development ahead of the 2026 academic year.

According to the institute, the programme targets individuals with proven professional and leadership experience who plan to contribute to development in their home countries after completing their studies.

The scholarship covers full tuition fees for eligible master’s programmes, paid directly to Swedish universities. Beneficiaries will also receive a monthly living allowance of SEK 12,000, a one-time travel grant of up to SEK 15,000, and access to the SI Network for Global Professionals, which provides leadership training, workshops, and global networking opportunities.

The award supports one- or two-year full-time master’s programmes taught in English across fields such as governance, public health, entrepreneurship, innovation, and STEM disciplines.

The Swedish Institute noted that the scholarship is strictly open to professionals with verified work and leadership experience. Eligible applicants must be citizens of one of 34 countries, including Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, Ghana, Bangladesh, Brazil, India, Indonesia, and others across Africa, Asia, Europe, and Latin America.

Additional requirements include documented work experience through employment, freelancing, or business activity, as well as evidence of leadership roles in professional or civil society organisations. Applicants must also secure admission or conditional admission to an eligible master’s programme for the autumn 2026 intake.

Prospective candidates are required to apply first for a master’s programme through Sweden’s official University Admissions platform, as scholarship applications without a valid programme application will not be considered. They are advised to prepare documents early, including proof of work and leadership experience, motivation letters, and official Swedish Institute templates.

The application process involves screening and evaluation, with university admission results released before the Swedish Institute announces final scholarship recipients. Successful applicants will then receive guidance on travel and study preparations.

The Swedish Institute confirmed that the application window closes on February 25, 2026, and all required scholarship documents must be submitted within this period. (Vanguard)

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