Studying Abroad: Exchange Programs through Stockholm School of Economics

If you're considering expanding your academic and cultural horizons through an international study experience, the Stockholm School of Economics (SSE) might just be your perfect launching pad. Known for its high academic standards and vibrant student life, SSE offers a comprehensive range of study abroad and exchange programs that connect students to some of the top universities and business schools around the world.

As an international student, you'll find SSE's global network—bolstered by partnerships in major educational coalitions like the Partnership in International Management (PIM) and the Global Alliance in Management Education (CEMS)—invaluable for gaining diverse perspectives and expertise. Whether you're coming to SSE or heading from SSE to another country, the programs are designed to ensure a smooth and enriching academic journey. Plus, with about 180 students arriving each year and over 200 heading abroad, you’ll be part of a thriving community of global scholars.

From the moment you start planning your exchange to your academic studies and living in Stockholm, SSE is ready to assist you every step of the way. Ready to dive into this exciting phase of your educational journey?

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Incoming Exchange Students at SSE

The Stockholm School of Economics (SSE) offers a well-structured incoming exchange program, designed for students from partner universities around the globe. Some notable partner universities in Europe include Trinity College Dublin in Ireland, Bocconi University in Italy, ESADE in Spain, and the University of St. Gallen in Switzerland. Additionally, SSE maintains partnerships outside of Europe, including with the University of Sydney in Australia and the University of British Columbia in Canada. These partnerships facilitate a dynamic exchange of students annually, enriching the educational experiences of participants by exposing them to different academic and cultural environments.

SSE's academic year is divided into two main terms—Fall and Spring. Each term is further split into two study periods, ending with an exam week. A semester of full-time studies typically corresponds to 30 European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS) credits. Exchange students can choose courses from both Bachelor’s and Master’s levels depending on their current academic standing. For example, students enrolled in a 3-year Bachelor’s program at their home university are eligible to take advanced (3-digit) courses from the 3rd year of SSE’s Bachelor’s program. Master’s students have the flexibility to enroll in all courses with a 4-digit code and selected Bachelor’s level courses, pending approval from their home institution. Typically, students can register for two courses per period. An additional course can be added if it's a language course, although adding a third non-language course requires special approval.

SSE employs a blend of American and European educational methods. The approach can vary significantly between courses—some may focus on traditional lectures and written assignments while others might utilize case studies, requiring active participation and substantial preparatory reading. The educational environment at SSE is noted for its informal faculty-student relationships, encouraging direct communication and interaction. This approach supports a conducive learning atmosphere where students are motivated to engage actively in their educational journey.

SSE hosts approximately 180 exchange students each year, creating a vibrant and diverse academic community. The Education Office at SSE oversees the exchange programs, assisting students and coordinators from the planning stages through to the completion of the exchange period. This ensures a smooth transition and supportive environment throughout your stay.

More detailed information about these opportunities can be explored directly through SSE's official incoming exchange student page.

Outgoing Exchange Students from SSE

The Stockholm School of Economics (SSE) offers a comprehensive outgoing exchange program that sends over 200 students abroad each academic year, to around 100 partner universities worldwide. This program is bolstered by SSE's participation in prominent networks such as the Partnership in International Management (PIM), the Global Alliance in Management Education (CEMS), and the Erasmus+ program.

SSE's outgoing exchange students have the opportunity to study at top-ranked institutions across the globe. Some of the partner universities include prestigious schools like Bocconi University in Italy, ESADE in Spain, the University of St. Gallen in Switzerland, and the University of Sydney in Australia, among others. The partnerships ensure a broad geographical spread, offering students varied cultural and academic experiences.

Typically, these exchange programs are highly structured to support the academic and personal development of students. They are designed to enhance students' global perspectives and professional networks, significantly enriching their educational and career trajectories. Furthermore, the program encourages a diverse spread of students across its partner institutions, adhering to a policy that aims to avoid sending more than two students to the same university at a time, ensuring a personalized and immersive experience.

Applying for Outgoing Exchange Programs at SSE

The application process for outgoing student exchanges at the Stockholm School of Economics (SSE) begins by submitting the application through UniversityAdmissions.se, followed by providing additional information and documents on SSE's own application portal. Applicants are required to provide proof of academic qualifications (such as a high school diploma with a minimum GPA), university admission test scores (SAT or ACT), and a CV/resume. For non-native English speakers, proof of English proficiency through tests like IELTS or TOEFL is also necessary. Depending on the program and the number of applicants, an interview might be part of the selection process, typically conducted digitally.

Important documents such as test scores and transcripts must be submitted by specific deadlines, as follows:

  • Early bird applications close in mid-January.
  • Supporting documentation and application fee deadlines are also in early February.
  • Selection results are usually announced by mid-April.
  • Accepted students must reply to their offer by early May.

For more detailed information on SSE's outgoing exchange programs, you can visit their official exchange program page.

The Swedish Program at SSE

The Stockholm School of Economics (SSE) offers a distinctive study abroad program for international students, known as "The Swedish Program". This program is designed to provide an academically challenging and culturally enriching experience in liberal arts disciplines. The courses are taught in English and include a variety of subjects such as Psychology, Economics, Public Policy, Sociology, Politics, and Humanities.

The Swedish Program is notable for its small class sizes, which fosters a closer relationship between students and faculty, and for its integration into the broader SSE community. This setup allows participants to take part in SSE student events, clubs, and other activities, enhancing their experience of Swedish student life. The program also offers internship opportunities, which can provide valuable insights into Swedish professional culture and add practical experience to the academic learning.

Located in the heart of Stockholm, the program gives students the chance to explore one of Europe’s most vibrant cities, rich in culture and history. Students participating in The Swedish Program benefit not only from the educational opportunities but also from the cultural experiences available in Stockholm.

For more details about this program, including how to apply and the types of courses offered, you can visit the official Swedish Program website​.

Conclusion

For those ready to embark on a transformative educational journey, SSE represents a gateway to both academic excellence and cultural immersion, set in one of Europe’s most innovative cities. The Stockholm School of Economics (SSE) offers an enriching platform for international study, providing access to a global network through established academic partnerships and a range of study abroad options. Whether participating in incoming or outgoing exchange programs or enrolling in specialized offerings like The Swedish Program, SSE students are placed in an academically rigorous environment that is also supportive of personal and professional growth.

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