Sweden

Capital: Stockholm
Background: 
A military power during the 17th century, Sweden has not participated in any war in almost two centuries. Armed neutrality was preserved in both World Wars. Sweden's long-successful economic formula of a capitalist system interlarded with substantial welfare elements was challenged in the 1990s by high unemployment and in 2000-02 by the global economic downturn, but fiscal discipline over the past several years has allowed the country to weather economic vagaries. Indecision over the country's role in the political and economic integration of Europe delayed Sweden's entry into the EU until 1995, and waived the introduction of the euro in 1999. 

Higher Education: 
Sweden is a safe and modern country in northern Europe, and it has accrued a spectacular reputation as an innovator and creative force. Sweden's famed corporate brands - like Volvo, Ikea, Ericsson, H&M and Saab - complement its cultural brands - like Bergman, Abba, Astrid Lindgren, Bjorn Borg, Strindberg, The Cardigans and Garbo.

Sweden has a long and proud history of academic excellence, with outstanding universities dating back to the 15th century. Sweden is the home of the Nobel Prize, the world's most prestigious academic distinction. Today, Sweden’s reputation for innovation is built on close cooperation between industry and academia. Swedish universities are renowned for their investigative research and independent thinking, and this reputation is cemented with rigorous quality control and nationally certified degrees. Sweden has one of the most ambitious educational evaluation programmes in Europe, aimed at maintaining this competitive edge. 

Swedish universities offer around 450 master’s programmes in English, ranging from human rights law to mechanical engineering. Programmes are structured in response to student demand – the result is a student-centric education system, with open, informal relations between students and teachers, and where personal initiative and critical thought are prized

Many students studying in Sweden come from abroad – 8.5% of the student body, according to the OECD – making Sweden one of the world’s most inclusive countries for education. But there is room for more: The number grew by over 80% over the last 4-year period. There are now PhD candidates from some 80 countries working towards their degrees in Sweden.

Sweden’s educational policy is based on the recognition that a multicultural student body is a resource. Competition for places is keen, but students of all nationalities may apply, given the right credentials; and degree equivalency for past studies is granted on a flexible basis.