2026 Malmo University Scholarships in Sweden: Fully Funded Guide for International Students
For many international students, tuition fees and living costs in Europe present a significant barrier. Fortunately, Malmo University in Sweden offers a suite of scholarship opportunities to help international students pursue world-class education without bearing the full financial burden.
In this comprehensive article, we break down everything you need to know about the Malmo University Scholarship Programme for the 2026 academic year: eligibility, scholarship types, what is covered, how to apply, and practical tips to enhance your chances of success. By the end, you’ll have a clear roadmap to unlock a potentially life-changing opportunity.
Why Study at Malmo University?
Located in Malmo, Sweden’s third largest city, Malmo University (MAU) is known for its international outlook, commitment to sustainability, and diverse academic offerings. The city itself is vibrant and multicultural, offering a high quality of life and easy access to the rest of Scandinavia. As one of Sweden’s most forward-looking institutions, Malmo University blends practical education with industry relevance, making its degrees globally competitive.
For non-EU/EEA students, Malmo University charges tuition fees for bachelor’s and master’s programmes. It also offers scholarships to help mitigate these costs
Scholarships Available at Malmo University (2026)
Malmo University provides several scholarship types — each with its own eligibility requirements and coverage. Below are the key scholarships available to international students required to pay tuition fees.
1. Malmo University Master’s Scholarship
The Malmo University Master’s Scholarship is the main funding opportunity for international students applying to English-taught master’s programmes. This scholarship is merit-based and seeks academically exceptional applicants.
Who Can Apply?
To be considered, you must:
- Apply for a master’s programme taught in English at Malmo University.
- Be from a country outside the EU/EEA and Switzerland — that means you must pay tuition to be eligible.
- Apply during the first admissions round through the Swedish central admissions portal (Universityadmissions.se).
- List Malmo University as your first choice (ranked #1 of up to four choices).
- Be admitted into your first choice programme.
If you meet these conditions and are admitted, you’ll be invited to apply for the scholarship.
How the Scholarship Works
- Merit-based: Your application is evaluated based on academic excellence, experience (as listed in your CV), and your motivation for social engagement or impact through your chosen programme.
- Coverage: Partial or full tuition fee waiver. This means some students may receive 100% tuition coverage.
- Duration: If you are enrolled in a two-year programme, you can retain the scholarship for the second year provided you achieve the minimum academic progression (at least 22.5 credits per semester, and 45 credits per academic year).
- Notification: Scholarship recipients are generally notified by the end of April following the admissions admissions decision. Applicants not chosen are typically not informed individually.
Important Notes
- The scholarship does not cover living expenses, accommodation, travel costs, or visas — only tuition fees.
- Only a limited number of scholarships are granted each year, and competition is strong.
- The deadline to pay tuition fees is May 10.
2. Malmo University Excellence Scholarship
In addition to support for incoming master’s students, Malmo University also offers the Excellence Scholarship targeted at current fee-paying students who have demonstrated strong academic performance. This award is intended to reward and support continuation of excellent studies.
Who Can Apply?
- Students who are already enrolled in a programme at Malmö University.
- Must be starting their second or third year in the upcoming autumn semester.
- Must have completed all required courses prior to applying for the scholarship.
Coverage
- Partial or full waiver of tuition fees for the upcoming academic year.
- Like other scholarships, this does not cover living expenses.
This scholarship is especially useful for students who may have started their studies without funding but have earned outstanding results and want financial support to continue.
3. Swedish Institute (SI) Scholarships and Related Programmes
While not administered directly by Malmo University, international students at Malmo are eligible to apply for Swedish Institute scholarships, including:
These are national-level scholarships offered by the Swedish Institute (SI), a governmental agency that supports international students studying in Sweden.
What They Cover
SI scholarships are among the few funding opportunities that cover not just tuition fees but also living stipends, travel grants, insurance, and more — making them closer to fully funded scholarships:
- Full tuition fee coverage at the host university
- Monthly living allowance
- Travel grant
- Insurance benefits (health/accident)
- Access to SI networking and development programs
These are exceptionally competitive but can significantly reduce overall costs of studying abroad. International applicants to Malmo University are encouraged to explore and apply for SI opportunities in tandem with Malmo University scholarships.
What the Scholarships Cover and What They Don’t
Understanding what each scholarship actually covers is important:
Malmo University Master’s Scholarship
- Partial or full tuition fee waiver
- Does not cover living expenses (rent, food, travel, insurance)
- Does not include a stipend or maintenance allowance
- Does not cover visa costs or health insurance premiums
Malmo University Excellence Scholarship
- Partial or full tuition fee waiver for current students
- No living costs or maintenance support
SI Scholarships (Swedish Institute)
- Full tuition fee coverage
- Monthly living stipend
- Travel grant
- Insurance coverage
- Networking and career development support
- Often covers the entire period of study for eligible candidates. Some minor personal expenses may still need to be self-funded
How to Apply: Step-by-Step
Here’s a practical step-by-step guide to submit a successful application for 2026 opportunities:
Step 1: Choose Your Programme
Visit Malmo University’s programme listings and select an English-taught master’s programme that suits your goals. Ensure it offers a strong curriculum and aligns with your academic ambitions.
Step 2: Apply Through Universityadmissions.se
Submit your application via the Swedish national admissions portal during the first admissions round. List Malmo University as your first priority choice.
Step 3: Pay the Application Fee
Pay the required application fee to process your admission request. This is mandatory for your application to be considered.
Step 4: Await Admission Decision
Once you receive your Notification of Selection Results (admission outcome), Malmo University will send further instructions on how to apply specifically for the scholarship.
Step 5: Submit Scholarship Application
Complete the scholarship application form, attaching your academic records, CV, motivation letter, and any other requested documents.
Step 6: Await Scholarship Results
Scholarship decisions are typically sent by end of April following the admission confirmation period.
Tips to Increase Your Chances
Getting a scholarship at a European university like Malmo requires preparation and strategy. Here are some practical tips:
- Prepare a Strong Motivation Letter: Explain not only why you want to study at Malmo University but also how your academic journey and future goals align with your programme choice.
- Maintain Excellent Academic Records: Scholarship awards are merit-based. Highlight any honours, research experience, or academic achievements.
- Apply Early: Apply in the first admissions round — scholarships are limited, and early applicants often get higher priority.
- Gather Relevant Supporting Documents: This may include your CV, academic transcripts, reference letters, and proof of achievements. Ensure everything is accurate and well-formatted.
- Consider Other Funding: Apply for SI scholarships or country-specific scholarships in addition to university grants to broaden your support base.
Conclusion
The 2026 Malmo University Scholarships offer a significant opportunity for international students seeking quality education in Sweden with reduced financial pressure. While the university’s own scholarships primarily cover tuition fees, options like the Swedish Institute scholarships can bring your study plan closer to fully funded status by supporting living costs as well.
With Sweden’s rich academic environment, Malmo’s cultural diversity, and the potential for networking and growth, this scholarship route is worth serious consideration. Start early, prepare well, and don’t miss your chance to study in Scandinavia’s vibrant academic landscape