Answering all FAQs about Stockholm School of Economics

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Nestled in the heart of Stockholm, the Stockholm School of Economics (SSE) stands as a pinnacle of academic achievement in business, economics, and finance, drawing students from across the globe. Stepping into a new country to study brings with it a multitude of questions and uncertainties. From understanding the application process to adapting to life in Stockholm, the journey to studying abroad is filled with inquiries that need answers.

Whether you're exploring the varied programs offered in English, curious about financial matters like scholarships and tuition fees, or figuring out the logistics of living in one of the world’s most innovative cities, this blog is your guide. Created to address the most common questions asked by international students, this blog hopes to smooth your path with detailed insights into applying to SSE, navigating accommodation and language needs, and giving you a sneak peek into the dynamic student life awaiting you in Stockholm.

Looking for housing for students in Stockholm? Check out our listings for shared accommodation on Hemavi!

What programs are offered in English at Stockholm School of Economics?

The Stockholm School of Economics (SSE) offers a range of programs in English, primarily focused on economics, finance, and business management. Here’s a brief overview of the types of programs you can find:

Bachelor's Programs

SSE provides a Bachelor of Science in Business and Economics, which is a comprehensive program covering areas such as finance, accounting, marketing, and management. There is also a Bachelor of Science in Retail Management designed to cater to the specific needs of the retail industry.

Master's Programs

The school offers several Master of Science degrees in fields such as Economics, Finance, Business & Management, Accounting & Financial Management, and International Business. These programs are designed to provide deep insights and advanced skills needed for professional success.

MBA Programs

SSE’s MBA program is an Executive format, tailored for professionals with significant work experience. This program is conducted in English and combines academic rigor with practical relevance, often including international elements like study trips abroad.

PhD Programs

For those interested in academic careers or in-depth research, SSE provides PhD programs in Economics, Finance, and Business Administration. These programs are research-oriented and conducted in English, drawing doctoral candidates from around the world.

Executive Education

Apart from degree programs, SSE also offers various executive education courses in English. These are designed for professionals looking to enhance their skills and stay updated with the latest in business theory and practice.

For more information about each of these programs, visit SSE's official website.

How can I apply to Stockholm School of Economics?

Applications for Bachelor’s programs are typically handled through the Swedish national university application portal, Universityadmissions.se – make sure you meet the application deadlines, usually in mid-January for the autumn semester. You'll need to submit your high school diploma, transcripts, proof of proficiency in English (such as TOEFL or IELTS scores), and other relevant documents. Additionally, some programs may require specific tests like the SSE Business and Economics Test.

For Master's programs, applications are also made through Universityadmissions.se. Deadlines are typically in January for international students. Along with the application, applicants must submit their undergraduate diploma and transcripts, a GMAT or GRE score (if required), proof of English proficiency, a statement of purpose, CV, and letters of recommendation. Some candidates may be called for interviews, either online or in person.

For PhD Programs, apply directly through SSE's website. You will need to provide your Master's degree and transcripts, research proposal, CV, letters of recommendation, and potentially a writing sample or published papers. Candidates might be invited for interviews to discuss their research interests and fit with the program. Deadlines for PhD programs vary, so check the specific details for your program of interest.

Are there scholarships available at Stockholm School of Economics for international students?

Yes, the Stockholm School of Economics (SSE) offers a variety of scholarships aimed at supporting international students. These scholarships can cover partial or full tuition fees and are typically awarded based on merit or financial need. Here's an overview of the types of scholarships available:

Scholarships for Bachelor's Programs

SSE Scholarships for Non-EU/EEA Students cover a significant portion of the tuition fees and are available for students from outside the EU/EEA and Switzerland.

Scholarships for Master's Programs

  • The SSE MBA Scholarship is available for students admitted to the Master's programs and covers the full tuition cost. It's primarily merit-based, targeting individuals who demonstrate strong leadership qualities and academic excellence.
  • The Swedish Institute Scholarships are for students from selected countries. The Swedish Institute offers scholarships that cover tuition, living expenses, and travel costs. These are highly competitive and require separate applications.
  • Corporate-Sponsored Scholarships: Various companies and foundations partner with SSE to offer scholarships to talented students. These scholarships may also include internship opportunities and can cover full or partial tuition.

Scholarships for PhD Programs

SSE provides fully funded PhD fellowships, meaning that selected candidates receive a monthly stipend or salary that covers living expenses while tuition fees are waived. These fellowships are available to all students regardless of nationality.

What are the tuition fees for international students at Stockholm School of Economics?

The tuition fees at the Stockholm School of Economics (SSE) for international students vary depending on the program:

  • Bachelor's Programs: SSE does not charge tuition fees for EU/EEA citizens. However, students from outside the EU/EEA are required to pay tuition fees. The fee for the Bachelor’s programs is approximately SEK 100,000 to SEK 120,000 per academic year.
  • Master's Programs: Similarly to the bachelor's programs, EU/EEA citizens do not pay tuition. For those from outside the EU/EEA, the tuition fees for Master's programs range from approximately SEK 120,000 to SEK 150,000 per academic year. The exact cost can vary depending on the specific program.
  • PhD Programs: PhD programs at SSE are fully funded, meaning that admitted students receive a monthly stipend or salary and do not pay tuition fees. This funding also covers living expenses.
  • MBA Program: The MBA program at SSE, aimed at professionals, generally has a higher tuition fee compared to other programs. It typically costs around SEK 495,000 for the entire program, which spans over 18 months. This fee applies to all students, regardless of nationality.

Additional costs such as application fees, student union fees, and material fees might apply. For the most accurate and updated information regarding tuition fees, potential applicants should refer to the Stockholm School of Economics' official website.

What is the cost of living in Stockholm for an international student?

Living in Stockholm as an international student can be quite expensive compared to many other cities globally. The cost of living varies depending on your lifestyle, housing choices, and personal spending habits. Here's a breakdown of the typical expenses you might encounter:

  • Accommodation: Rent in student accommodation ranges from approximately SEK 3,000 to SEK 6,500 per month. Availability and prices can vary widely.
  • Groceries: Monthly grocery expenses can range from SEK 2,000 to SEK 3,000, depending on dietary habits.
  • Eating Out: Dining out in Stockholm can be costly, with meals at inexpensive restaurants starting around SEK 100-150.
  • Public Transport: A monthly travel card for unlimited use of buses, trams, subways, and ferries within Stockholm costs about SEK 930 for adults. Students can often receive discounts.
  • Leisure and Entertainment: Activities like cinema tickets, sports, and other entertainments can add to your monthly expenses, usually costing about SEK 100-300 per event.
  • Books and Supplies: Academic books and other supplies might cost SEK 500-1,000 each semester, depending on your course requirements.
  • Non-EU/EEA Students: Students from outside the EU/EEA might need to arrange for private health insurance, which can vary in cost.

Considering all these expenses, a typical international student in Stockholm should budget for about SEK 8,000 to SEK 12,000 per month, excluding tuition fees. This is a basic budget and can increase with more discretionary spending on travel, dining, and entertainment.

What type of accommodation is available through Stockholm School of Economics?

The Stockholm School of Economics (SSE) provides assistance with housing through its Housing Office, mainly targeted at international students to help them find suitable accommodation during their studies. Here's an overview of the types of accommodation generally available through SSE:

  • Student Apartments: These are typically small, furnished apartments or studios located around Stockholm. They are specifically reserved for SSE students, providing a convenient and safe option for those new to the city.
  • Student Dormitories (Corridors): Dorm-style living is common, where students have private bedrooms but share kitchens and sometimes bathrooms with other students. These facilities often foster a communal and international environment.

One resource that can help you find housing in Stockholm is Hemavi – make sure you create a thorough user profile to get matched with compatible roommates!