The Royal Swedish Academy of Engineering Sciences (IVA) - The Hans Werthén Fund Scholarship

The Hans Werthén Fund Scholarship

You will receive a one-off grant of SEK 100,000 to 400,000 (about 22,000 EUR on average) to study or conduct research abroad for one year and subsequently bring what you have learnt back to Sweden. The funding covers one year of academic work at postdoctoral or doctoral level, or an MBA or LL.M. programme at a renowned international university or research institute. Recent scholarship recipients have included students who went to King’s College London, NYU Stern, the London Business School and KU Leuven, amongst others. The scholarship is awarded by the Hans Werthén Foundation, which is administered by the Royal Swedish Academy of Engineering Sciences (IVA).

Who can apply

• Where you go: You are studying or conducting research abroad, not in Sweden, and will subsequently return to work in Swedish industry, business or academia.
• Degree: You must hold an academic qualification, preferably a Master’s degree. For a postdoctoral position, you will need a PhD.
• Field: Your area of expertise should preferably be in the fields of engineering, natural sciences, business, law or management.
• Age: You are between 25 and 35 years old.
• Residence: You live in Sweden. Applicants of all nationalities are welcome to apply.
• Experience: Since graduating, you have worked in a related field. Preference will be given to candidates with research experience or professional experience in the private sector, where you have developed your specialist knowledge.

How to apply

Applications must be submitted via the online form on the IVA website. Please complete the form in full in a single session and attach your CV, a two-page cover letter, your academic transcripts, at least two letters of recommendation and a financial plan. The application period runs from 8 January to 7 March 2027. The Executive Board will make its decision in May and notify applicants in writing.

How realistic are your chances?

The criteria for this scholarship are quite strict. You must be resident in Sweden, in your late twenties or early thirties, hold a relevant university degree, and have a clear plan to further your development abroad and subsequently return. As only around eight scholarships are awarded each year, competition amongst well-qualified applicants is very fierce. The most important factor is a concrete, well-reasoned plan for your stay and how it will benefit Sweden, as the initial assessment is based solely on your application form.