Applications for the 2026 SI Scholarship for Global Professionals, which provides fully supported master’s degree possibilities for international students to study in Sweden, are now being accepted by the Swedish government.
The Swedish Institute announced that applications opened on February 9, 2026, with the deadline set for February 25, giving prospective candidates a limited window to apply. The award is intended for seasoned professionals looking to enhance their education and develop their leadership skills in preparation for the 2026 school year.
The program, according to the institution, is intended for people who have demonstrated leadership and professional skills and who intend to support development in their native countries once they graduate.
For qualified master’s programs, the scholarship covers the entire cost of tuition, which is paid directly to Swedish
academic institutions. In addition, recipients will get a SEK 12,000 monthly living allowance, a SEK 15,000 one-time trip grant, and membership in the SI Network for Global Professionals, which offers courses, leadership development, and international networking opportunities.
The grant supports full-time master’s programs in public health, entrepreneurship, innovation, governance, and STEM that are offered in English and last one or two years.
According to the Swedish Institute, only professionals with confirmed work and leadership experience are eligible for the scholarship. Candidates must be nationals of one of 34 nations in Africa, Asia, Europe, and Latin America, including Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, Ghana, Bangladesh, Brazil, India, and Indonesia.
Additional qualifications include proof of leadership positions in professional or civil society organizations, as well as verified job experience gained through employment, freelancing, or commercial activity. For the fall 2026 intake, applicants must additionally obtain admission, or conditional admission, to an appropriate master’s program.
Due to the fact that scholarship applications that are not accompanied by a proper program application will not be evaluated, prospective candidates must first apply for a master’s degree through Sweden’s official University Admissions portal. Documents such as motivation letters, official Swedish Institute templates, and evidence of work and leadership experience should be prepared in advance.
Prior to the Swedish Institute announcing the final scholarship beneficiaries, university entrance results are made public. The application process entails screening and review. Those who are accepted will then get advice on how to prepare for their studies and travel.
According to the Swedish Institute, all necessary scholarship documentation must be submitted by February 25, 2026, the application window’s closing date.
