Study in Sweden for international students is every student’s dream, and Dalarna University (DU) ranks among the top institutions making it a reality. It has a strong emphasis on innovation, quality education, and international diversity and hence provides various financial assistance schemes through the Dalarna University Sweden Scholarships 2026 for International Students.
These scholarships aim to reduce the cost of tuition fees while paying students for good academic performance. Whether studying on-campus or online, Dalarna University offers half-tuition waivers and even full funding under an agreement with the Swedish Institute.
This guide discusses the kind of scholarships, the eligibility criteria, the benefits, deadlines, and application process for international students applying in 2026.
Why Study at Dalarna University, Sweden?
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Ranked among top modern universities in Sweden.
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Offers diverse master’s programs in business, technology, education, and health.
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Scholarships for both on-campus and online master’s students.
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Affordable living in Falun and Borlänge compared to other Swedish cities.
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Culturally rich and welcoming environment for international students.
Types of Dalarna University Sweden Scholarships 2026
Dalarna University provides two main scholarships in addition to Swedish Institute scholarships.
1. Choose Dalarna First Scholarship
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5,000 SEK tuition reduction for the first semester.
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Awarded automatically if you:
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Apply for a DU master’s program as your first choice on Dalarna University.
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Submit the scholarship application before the deadline.
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Applies only to non-EU/EEA tuition-paying students.
2. Academic Excellence Scholarship
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Awarded each semester based on academic results.
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Scholarship value ranges from 5,000 to 15,000 SEK per semester.
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Students maintaining high academic performance can earn up to 90,000 SEK over the entire program.
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Additional Programme Distinction Award of 30,000 SEK upon graduation for outstanding achievers.
3. Swedish Institute Scholarships (SI)
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Separate application process via Swedish Institute.
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Full tuition coverage.
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Monthly living allowance of 12,000 SEK.
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Travel grant and insurance.
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Offered only to students from eligible countries (check SI website).
Scholarship Benefits: Quick Comparison
| Scholarship Name | Tuition Reduction | Living Allowance | Additional Benefits | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Choose Dalarna First | 5,000 SEK (1st semester) | ❌ | Automatic award if DU is 1st choice | Non-EU/EEA |
| Academic Excellence | 5,000–15,000 SEK per semester | ❌ | Up to 90,000 SEK total + Distinction Award | High academic achievers |
| Swedish Institute (SI) | Full coverage | 12,000 SEK/month | Travel, insurance, grant | Specific eligible countries |
Eligibility Criteria
For Choose Dalarna First Scholarship
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Apply to a master’s program at DU as your first choice.
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Submit scholarship application on time.
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Be admitted to the program.
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Be a tuition-paying international student (non-EU/EEA).
For Academic Excellence Scholarship
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Must complete 30 credits per semester.
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Achieve top grades (at least 15 credits with highest marks).
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Apply during the official scholarship window.
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Maintain good standing with DU regulations.
For Swedish Institute Scholarships
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Must be a citizen of an eligible SI country.
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Apply separately through SI’s official portal.
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Admission to a Dalarna University master’s program is required.
Application Deadlines (2025–2026)
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Choose Dalarna First Scholarship
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Autumn Intake 2026: February 15, 2026
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Spring Intake 2026: September 15, 2025
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Academic Excellence Scholarship
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For Spring 2026 results: July 1 – July 15, 2026
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For Autumn 2026 results: Feb 1 – Feb 15, 2027
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Swedish Institute Scholarships
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SISGP & Women in STEM: February 2026 (check SI official dates)
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Step-by-Step Application Guide
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Choose Your Program at Dalarna University.
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Apply via Dalarna University and rank DU as first choice.
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Submit Scholarship Application on DU portal before deadlines.
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Prepare Documents:
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Academic transcripts
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English proficiency proof (IELTS/TOEFL)
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Motivation letter / SOP
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Wait for Admission + Scholarship Decision.
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If eligible, apply separately for Swedish Institute scholarships.
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Apply for Swedish Student Visa.
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Arrive in Sweden & Register at Dalarna University.
Pros and Cons of Dalarna University Scholarships
Pros
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Multiple scholarship options for international students.
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Combines automatic awards with performance-based rewards.
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Covers both on-campus and online master’s programs.
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SI scholarships provide full tuition + living allowance.
Cons
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Highly competitive selection process.
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Limited awards compared to number of applicants.
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Bachelor’s students not eligible.
Case Example: Scholarship Value Breakdown
Suppose you enroll in a two-year master’s program (4 semesters).
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Choose Dalarna First: 5,000 SEK (1st semester).
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Academic Excellence: 10,000 SEK per semester × 4 = 40,000 SEK.
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Graduation Distinction Award: 30,000 SEK.
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Total Possible Award = 75,000 SEK.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I apply for both Dalarna University and Swedish Institute scholarships?
Yes, but if awarded the SI scholarship, the DU scholarship will not apply.
Q2: Do online students qualify for scholarships?
Yes, starting from 2026, DU scholarships are open to online master’s students.
Q3: Are bachelor’s students eligible?
No, scholarships are only for master’s level programs.
Q4: What is the minimum GPA requirement?
There is no fixed GPA, but high academic achievement is required for Academic Excellence scholarships.
Q5: How much can I save with DU scholarships?
Between 20,000 and 90,000 SEK depending on performance.
Q6: Do I need a separate application for Choose Dalarna First?
Yes, you must submit a scholarship application, even though it’s automatically considered if DU is your first choice.
Q7: Is the Swedish Institute scholarship only for certain countries?
Yes, check the SI website for the list of eligible countries.
Q8: When will I know the scholarship decision?
Usually within a few weeks after admission results are published.
Q9: Can I reapply if I don’t win the scholarship?
Yes, you can apply again in the next application window if you continue your studies.
Q10: Are DU scholarships renewable each semester?
Yes, the Academic Excellence scholarship is awarded each semester based on performance.
Conclusion
The Dalarna University Sweden Scholarships 2026 for International Students are an excellent opportunity for motivated learners to study in Sweden with reduced financial stress. With options like the Choose Dalarna First Scholarship, Academic Excellence Awards, and Swedish Institute Scholarships, students can secure partial or even full funding.
By planning early, preparing strong applications, and maintaining academic excellence, you can maximize your chances of receiving these scholarships and pursuing your dream education in Sweden.
