The Swedish Institute (SI) Scholarship for Global Professionals 2026 is one of the most prestigious and fully funded scholarships in Europe for international students who wish to pursue a master’s degree in Sweden.

This scholarship aims to develop future global leaders who will contribute to sustainable development in their home countries. It offers full tuition, living allowances, travel grants, and membership in a powerful network of global professionals.
If you are a professional or emerging leader with a passion for making a positive impact, this is one of the best scholarships to apply for in 2026.
Quick Summary of the SI Scholarship 2026
| Category | Details |
| Host Country | Sweden |
| Study Level | Master’s Degree |
| Scholarship Type | Fully Funded |
| Eligible Regions | 33 Selected Countries (Including Nigeria, Kenya, India, Egypt, etc.) |
| Scholarship Benefits | Full Tuition, SEK 12,000 Monthly Stipend, Travel Grant, Mentorship, Networking |
| Duration | 1–2 Years (Full-Time Master’s Programs) |
| IELTS Requirement | Not Mandatory for Some Programs |
| Application Deadline | February 25, 2026 |
About the Swedish Institute SI Scholarship
The Swedish Institute Scholarship for Global Professionals (SISGP) is a fully funded master’s scholarship program offered by the Government of Sweden through the Swedish Institute. It supports talented professionals from selected countries who wish to study at top Swedish universities.
This scholarship goes beyond academic funding — it focuses on nurturing global professionals who can drive sustainable development, innovation, and leadership in their home nations after completing their studies.
Every year, about 350 scholarships are awarded to outstanding students around the world who demonstrate strong leadership potential and professional achievements.
Benefits of the SI Scholarship for Global Professionals 2026
The SI Scholarship provides everything you need for a smooth study experience in Sweden, allowing you to focus fully on your academic and leadership growth.
Key Benefits Include:
- Full Tuition Fee Coverage: The Swedish Institute pays tuition fees directly to your university each semester.
- Monthly Living Stipend: SEK 12,000 per month to cover living costs throughout your studies.
- Travel Grant: One-time payment of SEK 15,000 for most regions (SEK 10,000 for some countries).
- Insurance: Comprehensive insurance against illness and accidents.
- Professional Networking: Membership in the SI Network for Future Global Professionals (NFGP), a global leadership and alumni community.
- Post-Scholarship Alumni Access: Continued mentorship and access to over 19,000 SI Alumni working in sustainability and leadership worldwide.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the Swedish Institute (SI) Scholarship for Global Professionals 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Citizenship: Must be a citizen and resident of one of the eligible countries in Africa, Asia, Latin America, or Eastern Europe.
- Professional Experience: A minimum of 3,000 hours (about 2–3 years) of full-time work experience is required. Applicants must also have demonstrated leadership experience in their organisations or communities.
- Academic Requirement: Must have completed an undergraduate degree equivalent to a bachelor’s degree from a recognised institution and be admitted to an eligible master’s program in Sweden.
- Leadership Potential: Should be able to show leadership experience either at work, in community service, or within an organisation.
- Eligible Master’s Programs: Only master’s programs listed by the Swedish Institute are eligible.
- Exclusions: Applicants who have previously studied in Sweden or already hold a Swedish permanent residence permit are not eligible.
Eligible Countries (Selected List)
The scholarship is open to citizens from 33 countries, including:
Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, Ghana, Egypt, Ethiopia, Rwanda, Uganda, Tanzania, Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, Colombia, Brazil, Mexico, Bolivia, Morocco, Zambia, Ukraine, Georgia, and Armenia.
Application Documents
Applicants must prepare the following documents before applying:
- Completed the SI Scholarship application form
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) in SI template format
- Motivation Letter highlighting goals and leadership experience
- Two Recommendation Letters from employers or supervisors
- Proof of Work and Leadership Experience
- Valid Passport or National ID
- Letter of Admission from a Swedish university (from University Admissions in Sweden)
All documents must be in English and submitted electronically.
How to Apply for the Swedish Institute SI Scholarship 2026
The SI Scholarship application involves two main stages:
Stage 1: Apply for a Master’s Program
- Apply to up to four eligible master’s programs at Swedish universities via the official University Admissions platform.
- Application window: October 16, 2025 – January 15, 2026.
Stage 2: Apply for the SI Scholarship
- Once you have applied for admission, submit your scholarship application on the Swedish Institute’s portal.
- Application window: February 9 – February 25, 2026.
- Upload all required documents before the deadline.
For more details, visit official website here.
Selection Process:
- The Swedish Institute will screen all applications based on eligibility, academic excellence, leadership experience, and motivation.
- Final results are expected to be announced by April 2026.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Start Early: Prepare all your academic and professional documents before the deadline.
- Be Specific in Your Motivation Letter: Clearly explain how your field of study aligns with your country’s sustainable development goals.
- Highlight Leadership: Provide concrete examples of how you’ve influenced change or led initiatives in your community or workplace.
- Use Official Templates: The Swedish Institute provides templates for CVs and recommendation letters; using them increases your chances.
- Double-Check Eligibility: Ensure your program is listed among the SI-eligible master’s courses.
Application Timeline (2025–2026)
| Process | Timeline |
| Master’s Application Opens | October 16, 2025 |
| Master’s Application Closes | January 15, 2026 |
| SI Scholarship Application Opens | February 9, 2026 |
| SI Scholarship Deadline | February 25, 2026 |
| Admission Results Announced | March 26, 2026 |
| SI Scholarship Results Released | April 2026 |
CHECK THESE OUT:
ENS Scholarships in France 2026 (École Normale Supérieure Scholarship) | Fully Funded
MEPI Tomorrow’s Leaders Program 2026-2027 | Fully Funded Undergraduate Scholarships
QuTech Academy Scholarship in Netherlands 2026 | Fully Funded MSc & PhD Opportunities
Honjo Foundation Scholarship in Japan 2026 (Study in Japan)
ANSO Scholarship in China 2026 | Fully Funded Master’s and PhD Opportunities