Lund University Scholarships Guide for International Students

A brief history of Lund University

Founded in 1666, Lund University is one of Northern Europe’s oldest and most prestigious institutions. Nestled in the charming city of Lund, Sweden, this university has centuries of academic excellence behind it. Over the years, it has transformed from a small regional school to a global hub for education and research. With its cobblestone streets and historic buildings, the campus feels like a blend of tradition and innovation.

Global ranking and reputation

Lund University consistently ranks among the top 100 universities worldwide. It’s renowned for its strong academic programs, research breakthroughs, and commitment to sustainability. International students are a vital part of the community, with more than 1,300 new arrivals each year from over 130 countries.

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Why Study at Lund University?

Quality education and research opportunities

Lund University offers world-class programs taught by leading experts in various fields. Whether you’re interested in engineering, medicine, humanities, or environmental sciences, you’ll find cutting-edge courses backed by real research opportunities.

Student life and cultural diversity

Studying here isn’t just about books and lectures. Lund has an active student union scene, cultural festivals, and a welcoming atmosphere for people from all walks of life. You’ll experience Swedish traditions while meeting students from around the globe.

Overview of Lund University Scholarships

Purpose of scholarships

Scholarships at Lund University aim to make education accessible to talented students, regardless of their financial background. They help cover tuition costs, living expenses, and sometimes travel costs, reducing the financial pressure of studying abroad.

Who can apply?

Most scholarships are targeted at students from outside the European Union (EU)/European Economic Area (EEA) who must pay tuition fees. Some, like the Swedish Institute Scholarships, are limited to certain countries.

Types of Lund University Scholarships

Lund University Global Scholarship

The Lund University Global Scholarship is one of the most competitive and prestigious awards offered by the university. Designed for exceptional academic performers from outside the EU/EEA and Switzerland, this scholarship recognizes students with outstanding grades and strong potential to contribute to the global community. Selection is purely merit-based, meaning applicants must demonstrate both academic excellence and a clear sense of purpose in their chosen field of study.

One of the biggest advantages of this scholarship is its flexibility in coverage. Depending on the applicant’s profile and funding availability, the award can cover 25%, 50%, 75%, or even 100% of the tuition fees. While it does not typically cover living expenses, winning the scholarship significantly reduces the financial burden of studying in Sweden. Many recipients combine it with other grants or part-time work opportunities to manage their costs.

The application process requires students to first apply for a full-time master’s program at Lund University via the official Swedish admissions portal. Once the degree application is complete, eligible students can submit a scholarship application through the university’s scholarship platform. Applicants must include a strong motivation letter, a detailed academic record, and any supporting documents that highlight leadership roles, community involvement, or research achievements.

Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals

The Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals (SISGP) is another major funding opportunity available to international students. This program is funded by the Government of Sweden and targets highly motivated individuals who want to drive positive change in their home countries after completing their studies.

One of the main advantages of this scholarship is its comprehensive coverage. It includes:

Full tuition fees paid directly to the university
A monthly living allowance to cover accommodation, food, and daily expenses
Travel grant for round-trip airfare to and from Sweden
Health and accident insurance
Exclusive membership in the Swedish Institute Alumni Network, which offers long-term career and collaboration opportunities

The application process is competitive and requires a separate submission through the Swedish Institute’s official website. Applicants must provide a detailed CV, two recommendation letters, a statement of purpose, and documented leadership experience. Because the SISGP focuses on leadership and societal impact, it’s not enough to simply have good grades—you must show that you’re already making a difference in your field and that your studies in Sweden will amplify that impact.

Faculty-Specific Scholarships

Apart from university-wide and government-funded programs, individual faculties at Lund University offer their own scholarships to attract talented students in specialized fields. These faculty-specific scholarships are designed to encourage excellence in areas where the university wants to develop future leaders, researchers, and innovators.

For example, the Faculty of Engineering (LTH) offers targeted awards for students pursuing advanced degrees in sustainable energy, artificial intelligence, robotics, environmental technology, and biomedical engineering. The School of Economics and Management has scholarships for top performers in business analytics, international marketing, and economic policy.

The Faculty of Science provides funding for students in physics, chemistry, biology, and environmental science, especially those engaged in research that addresses global challenges like climate change and biodiversity loss. Similarly, the Faculty of Humanities and Theology supports outstanding students in history, philosophy, linguistics, and cultural studies, emphasizing the preservation and understanding of human heritage.

External Funding Options

In addition to scholarships offered directly by Lund University and the Swedish government, there are numerous external funding sources available to international students. These can significantly enhance your ability to finance your studies, especially if you need coverage for both tuition and living expenses.

Many students secure funding from private foundations, charitable trusts, corporate sponsorships, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in their home countries. For example, organizations such as the Fulbright Program, the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission, and Rotary International have historically supported students attending universities like Lund.

Since external funding often has different timelines and requirements, students are advised to start their research at least 12 months before the intended start date of their program. Combining partial funding from multiple sources is a common strategy for covering all study-related costs, from tuition to housing and travel.

Lund University Global Scholarship Program

Eligibility Criteria – Lund University Global Scholarship

To be considered for the Lund University Global Scholarship, applicants must meet specific requirements designed to ensure the award goes to highly deserving candidates. First and foremost, you must be a citizen of a non-EU/EEA country or Switzerland. This scholarship is intended for students who are required to pay tuition fees in Sweden, as EU/EEA and Swiss citizens already benefit from free education in Swedish public universities.

Secondly, applicants must have applied to a full-time master’s program at Lund University through the official Swedish admissions portal (universityadmissions.se). The scholarship is only available for programs that begin in the autumn semester, and it cannot be deferred to future intakes.

Finally, a strong academic record and high motivation are essential. The selection committee looks at your grades, ranking in your class, previous academic achievements, and evidence of dedication to your chosen field. They also value students who can clearly articulate how their education at Lund will contribute to their future career and benefit society at large.

Scholarship Benefits – Lund University Global Scholarship

The Lund University Global Scholarship offers significant financial relief for international students. Depending on your academic profile and the availability of funds, it can cover 25%, 50%, 75%, or even 100% of your tuition fees. A full-tuition award is the most competitive, reserved for applicants with outstanding academic performance and a compelling application.

However, it’s important to note that this scholarship does not typically cover living costs such as housing, food, transportation, and personal expenses. Students should plan to finance these costs through personal savings, part-time work (if eligible under Swedish student visa rules), or additional scholarships. By significantly reducing or eliminating tuition costs, the Global Scholarship allows students to focus on their studies without the burden of high educational expenses.

Application Process – Lund University Global Scholarship

The application process for the Global Scholarship is straightforward but competitive. Here’s how it works:

Apply for a Degree Program – You must first apply to a full-time master’s program at Lund University via the University Admissions in Sweden portal before the specified deadline.
Receive an Application Invitation – Once you’ve submitted your degree application, eligible candidates will be invited to apply for the scholarship.
Submit the Scholarship Application – This involves filling out the online form on the Lund University website and uploading key documents such as a motivation letter and academic transcripts. Your motivation letter should clearly state why you deserve the award and how it aligns with your academic and career goals.
Wait for the Results – Scholarship decisions are typically announced after admission results, giving recipients enough time to prepare for their move to Sweden.

Eligibility and Target Countries – (SISGP)

The Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals target talented students from specific countries in Asia, Africa, Eastern Europe, and Latin America. The list of eligible countries is updated each year by the Swedish Institute, and it often prioritizes developing nations where future leaders can make the greatest impact after graduation.

Applicants must demonstrate relevant work experience, typically a minimum of 3,000 hours, in a field connected to sustainable development, leadership, or innovation. They must also show leadership qualities through prior projects, community engagement, or professional achievements.

Just like the Lund University Global Scholarship, the SISGP is only available for students admitted to eligible full-time master’s programs starting in the autumn semester.

Benefits Covered – (SISGP)

One of the main advantages of the SISGP is that it offers full financial support, making it one of the most generous scholarships for studying in Sweden. Recipients receive:

Full tuition fee coverage – Paid directly to the university.
Monthly living allowance – A fixed stipend to cover rent, food, and daily expenses in Sweden.
Health and accident insurance – Comprehensive coverage for the duration of your studies.
One-time travel grant – Financial support to cover round-trip airfare between your home country and Sweden.
Networking opportunities – Access to exclusive Swedish Institute events, workshops, and a global alumni network.

This level of coverage makes SISGP especially attractive to students who may not have the personal resources to fund their education abroad.

How to Apply – (SISGP)

The SISGP application process is separate from Lund University’s scholarship applications, which means you need to apply in two stages:

Apply to a Degree Program – Submit your application for a master’s program through the official Swedish admissions portal.
Apply to the SISGP – Once your program application is confirmed, submit your SISGP application via the Swedish Institute’s online portal.

The SISGP application requires a detailed CV, a motivation letter, and proof of leadership experience. You’ll also need two reference letters from employers, professors, or community leaders who can verify your achievements and potential. Since the SISGP places a strong emphasis on leadership and societal impact, your application should highlight measurable results from your previous work or community engagement projects.

Faculty and Departmental Scholarships

Engineering Scholarships

Lund University’s Faculty of Engineering (LTH) is known globally for its cutting-edge programs in sustainable energy, software development, robotics, and environmental technology. To attract the most talented students in these high-demand fields, the faculty offers merit-based scholarships for outstanding applicants from outside the EU/EEA.

These scholarships typically cover a percentage of the tuition fee and are awarded to students with excellent academic records, relevant work or research experience, and a clear vision for how they will apply their skills in real-world challenges. For instance, students working on renewable energy solutions or AI-driven innovations are highly valued.

Science and Business Scholarships

Students aiming for natural sciences, economics, or management degrees at Lund University can access dedicated funding options from their respective faculties. These science and business scholarships reward academic excellence and are often linked to research potential or professional leadership in the applicant’s chosen field.

For science programs, preference may be given to those working on topics like climate change solutions, biotechnology innovations, or advanced computing systems. In business and economics, applicants demonstrating entrepreneurial vision, policy impact potential, or strong analytical skills have an edge.

Arts and Humanities Scholarships

The Faculty of Humanities and Theology at Lund University supports international students who excel in literature, history, cultural studies, theology, and philosophy. These scholarships aim to encourage research and study in areas that deepen our understanding of societies, languages, and beliefs.

Students may receive tuition discounts based on academic achievements, research proposals, and the societal impact of their work. For example, a candidate researching historical preservation methods or cross-cultural communication strategies may be prioritized.

How to Apply for Scholarships at Lund University

Step-by-Step Application Guide

Choose Your Program – First, select your desired program and apply through Sweden’s centralized admissions portal, Universityadmissions.se.
Submit Your Scholarship Application – Once your program application is complete and you’ve paid the application fee, fill out the relevant scholarship application form on Lund University’s website.
Upload Required Documents – Provide a strong motivation letter, certified academic transcripts, proof of leadership experience (if applicable), and any other supporting documents.
Wait for the Decision – After reviewing all applications, the university notifies successful candidates via email.

Apply Now: Lund University Global Scholarship

Apply Now: Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals

Required Documents

Completed scholarship application form
Certified academic transcripts (with official translations if needed)
Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent)
Motivation letter tailored to Lund University’s programs
Reference letters (optional but highly recommended)

Application Deadlines

Most Lund University scholarships close in mid-February for programs starting in the autumn semester. Since deadlines are strict, it’s best to prepare your application several months in advance to avoid last-minute issues.

Tips to Increase Your Chances of Winning a Scholarship

Crafting a Strong Motivation Letter

Write a personal, focused statement explaining why you chose Lund University and how your chosen program aligns with your career goals. Avoid vague claims; instead, highlight specific courses, professors, or research labs at Lund that interest you.

Highlighting Academic Achievements

Emphasize GPA, awards, publications, or research projects that show your excellence. Where possible, include measurable achievements, such as “ranked top 5% of class” or “led a research project with published results.”

Getting Strong Recommendations

Choose referees—such as professors or employers—who can personally attest to your skills and potential. A detailed, heartfelt recommendation is far more impactful than a generic one.

Life as a Scholarship Student in Sweden

Cost of Living in Lund

While tuition may be covered, students still need to budget for living costs. Expect to spend 8,000–10,000 SEK per month on rent, food, transportation, and personal expenses. Housing in Lund can be competitive, so applying early for student accommodation is crucial.

Student Support Services

Lund University offers extensive support for international students, including:

Orientation programs to help you adapt to Swedish life
Academic advising to guide your studies
Career services that connect you with internships and employers
Language courses for learning Swedish alongside your main program

Living in Lund as a scholarship student means joining a vibrant, diverse community while enjoying the high quality of life Sweden is known for.

Common Mistakes to Avoid During Scholarship Application

Even highly qualified students can lose their chance at a scholarship due to simple, avoidable errors. Here are the most frequent pitfalls:

Missing Deadlines

No matter how strong your academic record or motivation letter, missing the application deadline means automatic rejection. Lund University enforces strict timelines, and late applications are not considered under any circumstances.
Tip: Set reminders weeks in advance and aim to submit at least five days before the deadline to avoid last-minute technical issues.

Incomplete Documentation

Submitting an application without all the required materials will immediately weaken your chances. This includes missing transcripts, proof of English proficiency, or incomplete forms.
Tip: Use a checklist to ensure you have:

The completed application form
Certified transcripts
Motivation letter
Proof of English language skills
Reference letters (if available)

A missing document can cost you the opportunity—so double-check before submitting.

Conclusion

Lund University offers a range of scholarships that open doors for talented students worldwide. Whether you aim for the prestigious Global Scholarship or the Swedish Institute program, careful preparation and a compelling application can make your dream of studying in Sweden a reality. With world-class education, a vibrant student life, and career opportunities, Lund is an investment in your future.

FAQs

1. Can I get a full scholarship at Lund University?
Yes, the Global Scholarship and Swedish Institute program can cover full tuition.

2. Are scholarships available for undergraduate students?
Most are for master’s programs, but some external funding options support bachelor’s studies.

3. Can I apply for more than one scholarship?
Yes, but you need to follow separate application processes for each.

4. Do I need to know Swedish to study at Lund University?
No, many programs are taught in English, but learning Swedish can enhance your experience.

5. When should I apply for scholarships?
Applications usually open in December and close in mid-February for autumn intake.