Wallenberg Foundations - Wallenberg Foundations

What the Wallenberg Foundation funds

The Dr. Tech. Marcus Wallenberg Foundation (TMW) awards scholarships to Swedish nationals to study at leading universities abroad. The amount of the scholarship is determined on an individual basis for each scholarship holder, so there is no fixed standard amount. The Foundation offers two programmes. Which one is suitable for you depends on what stage of your studies you are at.

Master's scholarship (main programme): This applies to a Master’s programme in the field of ‘International Industrial Entrepreneurship’ (business and management subjects with an international focus) at a prestigious university outside Sweden. Your period of study abroad must last for at least one full academic year and no more than two years. Scholarship holders in recent years have studied at institutions including Harvard University, MIT, Stanford University, Oxford, the LSE, INSEAD and the London Business School.

Postdoc scholarship at Georgetown University (USA): This funding is intended to support a one- to two-year postdoctoral research position (research following a PhD) at Georgetown University in Washington. The grant amounts to approximately 60,000 euros per year (65,000 US dollars), plus a travel grant of approximately 6,900 euros per year (7,500 US dollars). If family members are travelling with you, you can apply separately for a grant of approximately 13,800 euros per year (15,000 US dollars). Upon your return, you may also be eligible for funding for a research post at a Swedish university for up to two years.

Who can apply

• Nationality: You are a Swedish citizen.
• Where you go: You are studying or conducting research abroad, not in Sweden.
• Master's programme: You already hold a first degree from a Swedish higher education institution. You have not yet obtained a master’s degree abroad (preference will be given to applicants without such a qualification). Professional experience in the private sector or public administration is an advantage, but not a requirement.
• Postdoc programme: You obtained your PhD from a Swedish university no more than two years ago and are affiliated with a Swedish university or a non-profit research organisation. You have never worked at Georgetown University or received a scholarship there. You may not combine this scholarship with any other scholarships or employment.
• Field of study: All departments relating to international industrial entrepreneurship (Master’s) or international relations and the global economy (postdoctoral).
• Not funded: Work placements, final-year projects, study trips, short stays as part of a Swedish bachelor’s degree programme, as well as degree programmes that you have already started or completed.

How to apply

Applications must be submitted via the Foundation’s online portal. For the Master’s scholarship, please apply in Swedish by 15 April. For the postdoctoral scholarship, please apply in English by 16 November. Incomplete applications will not be considered. You will be notified of the decision immediately following the Foundation’s board meeting.

How realistic are your chances?

Both programmes have very strict eligibility criteria: you must be a Swedish national, be planning to undertake a specific course of study abroad, and meet clear academic requirements. As a result, the group of those eligible for funding is significantly smaller than for open scholarships. In 2025, the 43 Foundation awarded master’s scholarships, so there are indeed places available for suitable applicants. If you meet the criteria, are aiming to study at a prestigious foreign university and can demonstrate a clear plan, your prospects are good.