Can you study Swedish at university level even if I am not a university student? Actually yes. Exchange students are not the only ones who can take Swedish at a Swedish university. There are many Swedish courses at Swedish universities and the main requirement is mostly just to be eligible for higher studies in your home country.
Quick guide to Study Swedish at a Swedish university in Sweden (updated for 2025).
The courses cover pure language courses, preparations courses for TISUS and traditional university studies for people interested in Scandinavian Studies.
However, note that the admission requirements may differ from one university to another and depend on the type and level of studies. Always check the requirements on the university web page or at the University Admission before applying!
Study Swedish at Stockholms university
The university in Stockholm offers a preparation course for the TISUS. The course is called Svenska som främmande språk, förberedande kurs, 30 hp and lasts one semester. To be eligible for this course you need to have previous knowledge of Swedish- level B1 according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. This will be tested through the admission test.
They also offer a one semester course called Behörighetsgivande kurs i svenska, 30 hp which makes you eligible for higher studies just as TISUS does. It is possible to do the TISUS exam at Stockholm University.
TISUS
Svenska som främandespråk, förberedande kurs, 30 hp
Behörighetsgivande kur i svenska, 30 hp
(Information in Swedish)
Study Swedish at Uppsala university
The university in Uppsala has many Swedish courses. One – among many – is the course “Swedish for Academics”. The course is designed to give non-Nordic employees basic skills in the Swedish language and knowledge of Swedish culture and Swedish society. The course is only open for employees and Scholars.
Swedish for Academics
(Information in Swedish)
E-learning course: Your Swedish learning options
Are you feeling a bit overwhelmed about The Swedish stuff? Where can you learn? How does it work? Can you join the different options if you don’t have a Swedish personal number? We’ve got you covered. Over the years we’ve been repeatedly told just confusing this process can be so we created a digital course with all the information you need to make a good decision. Here you will learn about:
- The different study options to learn Swedish in Sweden.
- The differences between study alternatives.
- How much Swedish (and other things) you need for other educational paths in Sweden as well as to work in Swedish.
After finishing this course, you will be able to make an educated study choice and you will learn the most important key words and phrases for studying Swedish in Sweden. Hopefully, Swedish will start making sense!
Sign up to your course here
Swedish at Lunds University
The university in Lund also offer many Swedish courses and an interesting option for newbies is the “Study Abroad Swedish Language program”. This program is for non-EU students who want to dedicate a full-year study to the Swedish language.
Study Abroad Swedish Language Program
Swedish for academics at any university
Many universities offer Swedish for academics and international students. The study pace is high and you need a a lot of motivation. You will need a personnummer to participate in this courses.
If none of these courses are what you are looking for, check out University Admissions and type in “Swedish” in their search window. It will give you all available Swedish courses at a university level.
Miss something? Or does something feel unclear? Contact us and help us improve.
Further reading
FAQs
How do I apply for a personnummer?
Register with Skatteverket after moving to Sweden and meeting residence grounds. Bring ID and required documents.
What is a coordination number (samordningsnummer)?
A temporary identifier used when a personnummer cannot be issued yet.
How long do coordination numbers take?
Processing times vary; check Skatteverket’s current guidance.
2025 Tax Quick Facts
- State income tax: Applies only above the annual threshold; see Skatteverket for current breakpoints.
- Municipal & regional tax: Average rate varies by municipality/region; see SCB for 2025 overview.
Official sources
Need more on Study Swedish at a Swedish university? See the resources below.
Friday, November 14 | 2025
