Best boarding schools in Sweden 2024

Scandinavia in general and English schools in Sweden in particular attract students from all over the world. Nature, culture, history and numerous monuments of Sweden leave a positive impression on a person who has visited here. Thousands of people come to Stockholm and other cities for secondary education, gaining prestigious knowledge for further education and career.

The foreign students value Swedish school for high quality preparation, democratic, pragmatic and reasonable approach. The education system in Sweden is based on the interests of the student, and the guiding principle is equality: everyone has equal rights and opportunities, regardless of status, gender, social status or religion. Children are allowed to choose which institution to attend, regardless of where they live.

The Swedish school system is built in such a way that children are engaged for at least ten years, starting to attend classes at the age of six (seven) and finishing the ninth grade at 16-17 years, respectively. Attendance is mandatory, such a requirement is established by the Swedish law on education.

Sweden's educational framework consists of a compulsory 9-year school system:

• Primary School: Grades 1-3

• Intermediate Stage: Grades 4-6

• High School: Grades 7-9

Following these levels, students can enroll in a "gymnasium" which lasts for three years. International students have the option to choose from:

• Professional programs

• Technical programs

• Academic programs

In the early grades (1-6) of boarding schools in Sweden, students often have a single teacher for most subjects. From Grade 5 onwards, some schools may opt to segregate boys and girls. By Grades 7-9, students start to specialize, with choices in disciplines and alternative courses that align with their career aspirations.

In the primary years, the emphasis is on the child's social development, prioritizing interactions and activities with peers. Consequently, traditional academic pursuits might not be the main focus.

Through Grade 5, students don't receive formal grades, and no student is held back a year. Teachers frequently meet with parents to discuss their child's progress. Beginning in Grade 6, students receive grades ranging from A (highest) to F (lowest). Every week, students present a written report detailing their learnings and achievements.

The Swedish school year starts late August and is divided into two semesters: autumn and spring. While class timings typically range from 08:30 to 14:30, they can vary depending on the school.

After Grade 9, most students continue their education in gymnasiums. Admission requires successful completion of three national exams in Swedish, English, and mathematics. The academic standards for these exams can differ based on the gymnasium's prestige.

Various educational pathways, numbering over 20, are available after Grade 9. Students can consult school counselors for direction. The duration at the gymnasium averages 2-3 years. Subject studies are tiered, with subjects like physics, mathematics, and English offered at increasing difficulty levels.

For international students, proficiency in Swedish is crucial. Specialized preparatory classes are available across Sweden for newcomers to learn the language, often on a one-on-one basis.

Both public and private boarding schools in Sweden accept international students, primarily aged 14-17. Standard gymnasium courses last 3 years, but foreign students may only study for a year, unless they are permanent residents.

English proficiency is essential for gymnasium admission. Though initial instruction might be in English, eventually, the medium of instruction shifts to Swedish. However, there are gymnasiums offering international programs where English remains the primary language, facilitating global university admissions post-graduation.

Tuition typically stands around 6,000 euros per academic year, with private schools potentially charging more. Factors influencing fees include the school's reputation, location, extracurricular offerings, and the selected program.

For courses shorter than 3 months, a standard visa suffices. Longer durations necessitate a residence permit due to education. Foreign students must provide:

• A filled-out application in Swedish or English

• Proof of enrollment in a gymnasium or similar institution

• Evidence of financial stability (either the student's or their sponsor's)

• International passport with photocopies of all pages

• Two passport-sized photographs

• Medical insurance

Sweden's boarding schools offer an enriching and holistic education, ensuring that students are not only academically proficient but also socially adept and globally aware.