Swedish Institute (SI) Scholarship for Global Professionals 2026 – Fully Funded Master’s Program in Sweden for Future Leaders

Swedish Institute (SI) Scholarship for Global Professionals 2026: Overview

The Swedish Institute (SI) Scholarship for Global Professionals is a prestigious, fully funded program designed for talented professionals from 33 eligible countries who wish to pursue one- or two-year master’s studies in Sweden. The goal is to develop future global leaders who will contribute to sustainable development and positive change in their home countries.

Scholarship holders study at top Swedish universities across various fields such as Governance, Public Health, STEM, Entrepreneurship, and Innovation, and become members of the SI Network for Global Professionals (NFGP) — a lifelong platform for leadership, collaboration, and global connection.

Swedish Institute (SI) Scholarship for Global Professionals 2026: Eligibility

To apply, you must:

• Be a citizen of one of the 33 eligible countries (including Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, South Africa, Ethiopia, and more).

• Apply for an eligible master’s program in Sweden through University Admissions.

• Be liable to pay tuition fees to Swedish universities.

• Have at least 3,000 hours of work experience (for most countries).

• Have demonstrated leadership experience from your workplace or community involvement.

• Be admitted (or conditionally admitted) to an eligible master’s program by the time of the admissions announcement.

You are not eligible if you:

• Already hold a degree from a Swedish institution.

• Have resided in Sweden for two years or more before August 2026.

• Have previously received a Swedish Institute scholarship.

• Hold EU/EEA or Swedish citizenship (with limited exceptions).

Benefits

The SI Scholarship for Global Professionals covers all major expenses for the duration of your master’s program, including:

• Full tuition fees (paid directly to your Swedish university).

• Monthly stipend: SEK 12,000 to cover living costs.

• Travel grant: SEK 15,000 (or SEK 10,000 for select countries).

• Membership in the SI Network for Global Professionals (NFGP) — a platform for professional growth, leadership development, and international networking.

• Alumni membership in the Sweden Alumni Network after graduation for continued engagement and opportunities.

Fellowship Components

• Academic excellence through a fully funded master’s degree.

• Leadership training and sustainability-focused learning.

• Access to an international network of emerging leaders.

• Ongoing career support and alumni engagement after program completion.

Application Requirements

Applicants must prepare and submit the following:

• Proof of work experience (using SI’s official templates).

• Evidence of leadership experience.

• Motivation letter showing how the chosen master’s program aligns with Sweden’s sustainable development goals.

• Proof of admission to an eligible program.

• Valid passport or national ID showing citizenship of an eligible country.

Selection Criteria

Candidates are selected based on:

• Academic and professional excellence.

• Relevant leadership and community experience.

• Motivation and potential to contribute to sustainable development.

• Alignment of the chosen study program with the applicant’s home country’s development needs.

Application Process

1. Apply for a master’s program in Sweden via University Admissions

   • Application period: 15 October 2025 – 15 January 2026

2. Apply for the SI Scholarship for Global Professionals

   • Application portal open: 9 February – 25 February 2026

3. SI Screening and Evaluation

   • 25 February – 25 March 2026

4. University Admissions Results Announced

   • 26 March 2026

5. Final Selection and Announcement of Scholarship Recipients

   • 23 April 2026

Important Dates

For more information and application: 

Visit the official website of the Swedish Institute (SI) Scholarship for Global Professionals 2026 – Fully Funded Master’s Program in Sweden for Future Leaders