The prestigious Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals (SISGP) are now open for the 2026/2027 academic year, offering outstanding individuals from across the world, including Nigeria and other eligible countries, the opportunity to pursue fully funded master’s degrees in Sweden. This life-changing program, funded by the Swedish government, aims to develop future global leaders who will contribute to sustainable development both in their home countries and internationally.
The SISGP is one of the most competitive and highly respected scholarship programs in Europe, designed for ambitious professionals with proven leadership experience and a passion for driving positive change. Successful applicants will receive a fully funded opportunity to study at world-class Swedish universities, with generous benefits including tuition coverage, monthly stipends, travel allowances, and access to an exclusive international alumni network.
About the Swedish Institute Scholarship for Global Professionals
The Swedish Institute (SI) — a public agency under the Swedish Ministry for Foreign Affairs — manages the SISGP program as part of Sweden’s international development cooperation. The initiative supports the government’s goal of promoting democracy, equality, and sustainable development worldwide.
Each year, hundreds of talented candidates from developing nations are selected to study in Sweden through this scheme. The scholarship not only covers the financial costs of studying abroad but also empowers scholars to build lasting professional networks and strengthen ties between Sweden and their home countries.
The SISGP program is specifically tailored for individuals with strong academic records, leadership skills, and work experience relevant to Sweden’s global development agenda. It prioritizes applicants who are committed to contributing to the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development after completing their studies.
Fields of Study Covered
The Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals cover a wide range of eligible master’s programmes offered by Swedish universities. These include disciplines closely linked to sustainability, innovation, and global development. Some of the major areas include:
- Governance and Public Administration
- Public Health and Health Sciences
- Environmental and Climate Studies
- Innovation, Entrepreneurship, and Business Development
- Human Rights and International Relations
- Technology, Engineering, and ICT
- Economics, Finance, and Development Studies
Applicants can apply for up to four eligible master’s programmes at Swedish universities through the national admission portal before applying for the scholarship.
Countries Eligible for the 2026/2027 Intake
The SISGP is open to citizens from specific countries across Africa, Asia, Eastern Europe, and Latin America. Eligible countries include:
Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, South Africa, Ethiopia, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Zambia, Egypt, Morocco, and several others.
Other eligible regions include parts of Eastern Europe (Ukraine, Georgia, Moldova, Belarus, Armenia, Azerbaijan), Asia (Indonesia, Bangladesh, Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, Philippines), and Latin America (Brazil, Mexico, Colombia, Peru, Bolivia, Ecuador, Guatemala).
This broad coverage makes the Swedish Institute Scholarship a truly global initiative that promotes diversity and inclusion in Swedish higher education.
Scholarship Benefits
The Swedish Institute offers one of the most generous scholarship packages globally. Selected scholars will enjoy the following benefits throughout their study period in Sweden:
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Tuition Fee | Paid directly to the Swedish university each semester. |
| Monthly Stipend | SEK 12,000 per month to cover living expenses, accommodation, and other personal needs. |
| Travel Grant | A one-time grant of SEK 15,000 (or SEK 10,000 for certain regions) to cover airfare and related travel costs. |
| Insurance Coverage | Comprehensive insurance for medical and accident-related expenses during the study period. |
| Professional Networking | Exclusive membership in the SI Network for Future Global Professionals (NFGP) and the Sweden Alumni Network for career growth and collaboration. |
Please note that the scholarship does not cover family members, additional study periods beyond the approved duration, or the application fee required during the university admission process.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Swedish Institute Scholarship for Global Professionals, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Citizenship – Must be a citizen of one of the eligible countries listed by the Swedish Institute.
- Master’s Admission – Must apply for and gain admission into an eligible master’s programme at a Swedish university.
- Tuition Fee Status – Must be liable to pay tuition fees to Swedish universities (non-EU/EEA students).
- Work Experience – Must have at least 3,000 hours (approximately two years) of relevant work experience.
- Leadership Experience – Must demonstrate leadership capacity through current or past employment, volunteer work, or community development roles.
- Academic Excellence – A strong academic background and a well-articulated motivation for studying in Sweden.
The Swedish Institute places special emphasis on applicants who show a clear commitment to contributing to positive social change and sustainable development in their home countries after graduation.
Application Timeline (2026/2027)
The SISGP application process involves two main stages — admission to a Swedish university and the scholarship application itself. Below is the official timeline for the 2026/2027 academic cycle:
| Stage | Date / Period |
|---|---|
| Master’s Programme Application Opens | 16 October 2025 |
| Deadline for Master’s Applications | 15 January 2026 |
| Publication of Eligible Master’s Programmes | Mid-November 2025 |
| SISGP Scholarship Application Window | 9 – 25 February 2026 |
| University Admission Results Announced | 26 March 2026 |
| Scholarship Recipients Announced | 23 April 2026 |
| Academic Year Begins in Sweden | August 2026 |
Applicants are encouraged to begin preparing their documents early, especially recommendation letters, proof of work experience, and motivational statements.
How to Apply
The application process involves two main steps:
- Apply for Admission to a Master’s Programme in Sweden
- Visit the national admissions portal for Swedish universities.
- Select up to four eligible master’s programmes.
- Submit all required academic and identification documents before the January deadline.
- Apply Separately for the SISGP Scholarship
- After completing your master’s application, apply for the scholarship during the open period in February 2026.
- Prepare and upload all supporting documents, including your CV, motivation letter, leadership proof, and reference letters.
- Ensure your application reflects your leadership potential, work experience, and commitment to development goals.
Applicants are assessed based on their academic background, professional experience, leadership qualities, and motivation to contribute to sustainable development.
Selection Process
The Swedish Institute follows a competitive and transparent selection process. Applications are reviewed by an independent evaluation committee composed of academic and professional experts. Selection is based on:
- Quality and clarity of motivation letter
- Leadership experience and impact in the applicant’s community or workplace
- Relevance of the applicant’s chosen programme to sustainable development
- Academic merit and professional background
Only a limited number of applicants will be selected each year, making it crucial for candidates to submit well-prepared, authentic, and compelling applications.
Why Choose Sweden for Your Master’s Studies
Sweden is renowned for its high academic standards, innovative teaching methods, and emphasis on creativity, sustainability, and equality. It is home to some of the world’s leading universities, offering modern facilities, multicultural learning environments, and excellent career prospects.
Studying in Sweden means joining a society that values collaboration, sustainability, and innovation. Beyond academics, scholarship recipients also become part of the SI Network for Future Global Professionals (NFGP) — a platform that connects scholars with global leaders, companies, and organizations working towards sustainable development.
Conclusion
The Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals (SISGP) 2026/2027 provide an exceptional opportunity for motivated individuals to acquire world-class education, develop leadership skills, and become change-makers in their home countries. With full financial support and access to Sweden’s dynamic innovation ecosystem, this scholarship remains one of the most sought-after opportunities for aspiring global professionals.
If you are passionate about contributing to positive societal change and envision a leadership role in your field, this is your chance to take the next bold step — apply for the Swedish Institute Scholarship and join a global community of future leaders shaping a better world.
