SWEA International - Agneta and Gunnar Nilsson scholarship for the study of intercultural relations

Agneta and Gunnar Nilsson scholarship for intercultural studies

You will receive a one-off grant of 15,000 USD (about 13,800 EUR) to fund a one-year intercultural study programme abroad. The funding is provided by SWEA International, a global network of Swedish-speaking women that promotes the Swedish language, culture and traditions. This is one of three SWEA scholarships awarded annually, each for the same amount; you may only apply for one of them. In return, you undertake to give talks about your experiences to SWEA members in Sweden and abroad.

Who can apply

• Degree: You have completed a bachelor’s degree programme lasting at least three years at a Swedish university or university of applied sciences, or hold an equivalent bachelor’s degree.
• Your project: You have specific plans to undertake an intercultural degree programme abroad. You can provide evidence that you already have a contact at a foreign university or institution, for example in the form of a letter of acceptance or an invitation.
• Where you go: The studies are taking place outside Sweden.
• Nationality: Open to all nationalities.
• Field of study: Your project focuses on intercultural relations and promotes Swedish culture, traditions or language worldwide.
• Not a SWEA insider: You are not a SWEA member. Furthermore, you were not a close relative of a member during the three years prior to your application.

How to apply

Applications must be submitted via the SWEA online form. The application period runs from mid-September until 15 January. First, a committee will check that your application documents are complete. These will then be assessed by an independent jury, and the SWEA Executive Committee will make the final decision. You will be notified of the result in March, and the award will be presented in August during the SWEA Summer Days.

How realistic are your chances?

Only one intercultural scholarship is awarded each year, so competition for this single award is fierce. However, the eligibility criteria significantly narrow down the pool of applicants. You must have completed a three-year degree at a Swedish higher education institution and have secured a place at a foreign university for a clearly intercultural project. If you already have this specific plan and the relevant contacts, and submit a well-reasoned application, your chances are good.