Language Schools in Sweden

Why Choose a Language School in Sweden?

Studying a language in Sweden offers the opportunity to learn Swedish in its natural environment while experiencing the Scandinavian way of life.

• Career opportunities: Although English is sufficient at many international companies in Sweden, Swedish skills make finding a job much easier, especially in the healthcare, education and public sectors.
• A gateway to Scandinavian languages: People who speak Swedish can also communicate to a large extent with speakers of Norwegian and Danish.
• High-quality approach to education: Sweden's student-centered and participatory approach to education is also reflected in language classes.
• High quality of life: With its safe cities, clean nature and emphasis on work-life balance, Sweden offers a peaceful lifestyle.

Learning Swedish in Sweden

In Sweden, Swedish can be studied in university Swedish courses for foreigners, at folk high schools, at adult education organizations such as Folkuniversitetet and at a limited number of private language schools. Courses are organized at levels aligned with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

Since Swedish is related to English and German, students who speak these languages usually progress quickly. Its relatively simple grammar also makes learning easier, although pronunciation and intonation may require some practice at first.

Students who want to apply to Swedish-taught programs at Swedish universities usually certify their Swedish proficiency with the TISUS (Test in Swedish for University Studies) exam. People who reside in Sweden and hold a personal identity number can benefit from the free Swedish for Immigrants (SFI) program offered by the state.

Language School Programs in Sweden

Sweden offers a variety of language programs to suit different goals:

• Intensive Swedish courses: Programs with many lesson hours per week for those who want to gain basic communication skills in a short time.
• Summer courses: Universities and folk high schools organize programs in the summer that combine Swedish lessons with cultural activities and trips.
• Evening and part-time courses: Offer flexible class times for those working in Sweden or attending another program.
• University preparation and TISUS courses: Prepare students who want to apply to Swedish-taught university programs for academic Swedish and the TISUS exam.
• Folk high school programs: Folkhögskola are education institutions unique to Sweden, some of them residential, that combine language studies with social and cultural life.
• Professional Swedish: Profession-specific language training for those aiming to work in fields such as healthcare and engineering.
• One-to-one lessons: Offer fast progress with personalized content and a flexible schedule.

Cities Where You Can Learn Swedish in Sweden

You can study languages in many Swedish cities, each offering a different atmosphere:

• Stockholm: The capital of Sweden; built on islands, with its design and technology sectors, it offers the widest choice of language courses.
• Gothenburg: Sweden's second-largest city; stands out for its friendly atmosphere, harbor and lively student life.
• Uppsala: A historic, academic student city home to the oldest university in Scandinavia.
• Lund and Malmö: These cities in southern Sweden are notable for their long-established universities, multicultural character and proximity to Copenhagen.
• Umeå: Located in northern Sweden, this university city offers a different experience with its proximity to the northern lights and its calm lifestyle.

Language School Prices in Sweden

Language course prices in Sweden vary depending on the type of institution, the length of the program and the number of lessons per week. Courses at folk high schools and adult education organizations are generally more affordable, while intensive private courses and one-to-one lessons cost more. The fee for some residential programs also includes accommodation and meals.

When planning your budget, you should account for accommodation, health insurance, transport and daily living expenses in addition to the course fee. Sweden is among the European countries with a high cost of living.

At NGGlobal, we share the current prices of language programs in Sweden with you and work with you to choose the program that best fits your budget.

Language School Accommodation in Sweden

Students studying a language in Sweden can choose from different accommodation options:

• Folk high school dormitories: Students in residential programs can stay in dormitories on the school campus and live in a social environment with other students.
• Student housing: Student apartments and corridor rooms are common in university cities.
• Shared apartment: Lets you live at a more affordable cost by sharing common areas with other students.
• Homestay: Although offered in limited numbers in Sweden, it is a valuable option for practicing Swedish.

Since finding rental housing can be difficult in cities such as Stockholm, Gothenburg and Uppsala, it is important to start looking for accommodation early and to be careful of fake listings.

Language School Visa for Sweden

Turkish citizens attending short language courses and summer programs in Sweden can apply for a Schengen visa. The application requires a course enrollment confirmation, proof of financial means, travel health insurance and proof of accommodation.

In Sweden, a student residence permit is generally granted for full-time studies at higher education institutions. Language courses and some other types of education generally do not form the basis for a long-term residence permit.

For this reason, if you are planning long-term language studies in Sweden, it is important to determine the right path for your goals in advance. At NGGlobal, we work with you to identify the right visa type and program for you.

Learning Swedish in Sweden and Work Permits

It is not possible to work on a Schengen visa issued for a short language course in Sweden. For this reason, when planning your language studies in Sweden, you need to prepare a budget that covers all your expenses.

Students holding a student residence permit for higher education in Sweden can work during their studies. Swedish skills significantly improve your chances of finding a job in Sweden during your studies and after graduation.

Cost of Living and Social Life in Sweden

The cost of living in Sweden is above the European average. Stockholm is the most expensive city, while Gothenburg, Malmö, Lund and Umeå offer relatively more affordable options. Accommodation is the largest expense, followed by food, transport and personal spending.

Social life in Sweden is shaped by nature and the seasons. In summer, you can spend time in the Stockholm archipelago and join Midsummer celebrations; in winter, you can watch the northern lights in the north. The principle of "allemansrätten," which lets everyone roam freely in nature, reflects Sweden's culture of living close to nature.

Sweden's "fika" culture, a break for conversation over coffee and pastries, is an essential part of daily life and also a great opportunity to practice Swedish. The Turkish communities in Stockholm and Gothenburg also make it easier for Turkish students to settle in.

Free Consultation for Language Schools in Sweden with NGGlobal

At NGGlobal, we offer free consultation to students who want to study a language in Sweden. By assessing your goals, language level and budget, we identify the program that suits you best.

• Selection of programs and institutions based on your goals
• Enrollment in summer courses and language programs
• Guidance in your search for accommodation
• Preparation of your visa application file
• Support with bachelor's and master's applications in Sweden

Contact us to build your plan for language studies in Sweden together.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there English language schools in Sweden?

Although English is widely spoken in Sweden, options for English language schools for international students are limited. Language studies in Sweden mainly focus on Swedish.

Is Swedish difficult to learn?

Since Swedish is related to English and German, students who speak these languages usually progress quickly. The grammar is relatively simple, while pronunciation and intonation require practice at first.

What is SFI?

SFI (Swedish for Immigrants) is a Swedish program offered free of charge to people who reside in Sweden and hold a personal identity number. Short-term visitors cannot benefit from this program.

Which visa do I need for a language school in Sweden?

A Schengen visa is sufficient for short courses and summer programs. A long-term residence permit is generally granted for full-time studies at higher education institutions.

What is a folkhögskola?

A folkhögskola (folk high school) is an adult education institution unique to Sweden. These schools offer Swedish courses as well as programs in art, music and other fields, and some provide residential education.