CSN - CSN

CSN student aid for studying abroad

For full-time study abroad, you will receive a combination of a grant and a loan totalling about 1,503 EUR every four weeks (16,552 SEK). This consists of three parts: a non-repayable grant of approximately 374 EUR (4,120 SEK), a standard student loan of approximately 860 EUR (9,472 SEK) and a supplementary loan of approximately 269 EUR (2,960 SEK) to cover the higher cost of living abroad. Depending on your circumstances, you can apply for additional loans to cover tuition fees, travel and insurance costs, a supplement to your grant if you have children, and an additional loan if you have previously been in employment. CSN is the Swedish national agency for student finance. The amounts are the same regardless of whether you are studying in Sweden or abroad.

Who can apply

• Where you study: You’re studying abroad, not in Sweden. You’ll also need a Swedish bank account to receive the money.
• Level: Your degree programme is at university or university of applied sciences level. If you are older than 20, you may also be eligible for funding for upper secondary education courses abroad, such as language courses.
• Admission: You have received a certificate of enrolment from a recognised school or university abroad.
• Progress: You must keep up with your degree programme and meet the minimum credit requirements. You must complete language courses by sitting an exam or obtaining a certificate.
• Field of study: Any topic is allowed.
• Age: There is no upper age limit.

How to apply

First, check whether your degree programme and your destination country are eligible for funding. Then apply for funding online via your personal CSN page (‘Mina sidor’), ideally for the whole academic year. Enclose your letter of acceptance, which must specify the higher education institution, the degree programme, the qualification, the start date and the scope of your studies. There is no fixed deadline, but you should apply for funding as early as possible.

How realistic are your chances?

This is a standard form of state-funded student finance and not a competitive scholarship with a limited number of places; it is therefore not a question of competing against other applicants. If you are a Swedish student with a Swedish bank account, can provide proof of admission to a recognised higher education institution abroad, and meet the requirements regarding academic progress, you should be eligible. Apply for the grant well in advance and for the whole year to avoid any gaps in payment.