Study in Sweden Without IELTS: Top Universities to Choose

According to World Happiness Report 2022, Sweden ranks 7th as the world’s happiest country. Not only this but it is also hailed as one of the most sustainable nations in the world, with a highly-ranked education system and a reputation for happiness. The country is home to digital giants such as Skype and Spotify, as well as some of the cleanest cities on the planet, making it an attractive destination for those seeking to study or work abroad. IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is a prerequisite to study in Sweden for Indian students. However, there are other options too, to study in Sweden without IELTS.

Why study in Sweden?

With flexible visa policies, Sweden is welcoming to students from all over the world and offers a range of affordable academic and career opportunities without compromising on the quality of education. In 2022, Sweden became home to international students from all across the globe, with an estimated 2500 Indian students, as per Ministry of External Affairs data. 

IELTS Requirements For Studying At Swedish Universities 

In Sweden, many universities and colleges require international students to demonstrate English proficiency by providing an IELTS score. This is needed to prove that the student can pursue English-taught programs. However, some universities in Sweden may accept alternative English proficiency tests such as TOEFL, Cambridge English exams, or Duolingo English Test. 

Additionally, there are some universities that may waive the English proficiency requirement altogether for applicants who have completed their previous education in English or are from English-speaking countries. In Sweden, the overall English proficiencyrequirement is categorized into different levels, with universities asking for scores equivalent to level 5, 6, or 7, depending on the program of study. 

However, some departments that offer highly competitive programs may have slightly higher requirements. It's essential to review the specific language requirements for the program you are interested in to ensure that you meet the necessary standards.

The Basic English language Requirements For Various Program Levels Are Mentioned As Below:

• To be admitted to undergraduate level programs, such as a bachelor's degree, you will be required to obtain an IELTS score equivalent to either English 5 or English 6. An IELTS score of 5.5 with no band less than 5.0 is equivalent to English 5, while an IELTS score of 6.5 with no band less than 5.5 corresponds to English 6.
• When applying for master's level programs in Sweden, a level of English proficiency equivalent to Swedish upper secondary course English 6 is generally required. However, certain universities may require a higher proficiency level, such as English 7, which can be met with a minimum IELTS score of 7.0 with no band score less than 6.0.

Some other accepted types of tests or certifications for English proficiency are also listed below: 

• CAE at least grade B
• BEC at least grade B
• CPE at least grade C
• Pearson test of English Academic (PTE) min score 68
• SSE course 108/109 at least grade C/Good/Pass
• A-level GCSE issued in Singapore
• English as native language
• Bachelor's degree completed in English in an English-speaking country
• Bachelor's degree completed in English in a CEMS or an EQUIS/AACSB accredited institution
• University of Michigan, Examination for the Certificate of Proficiency in English (ECPE) is required for English 6
• TOEFL iBT

IELTS Score Requirements for Swedish Universities