Dreaming of studying in Sweden? Jönköping University (JU) in Sweden is offering scholarships for the 2026 intake to help international students cover part of their tuition costs. This is a golden opportunity: Jönköping University scholarships award a 30% tuition waiver on Bachelor’s and Master’s programs. In this article, we explain how to apply, who can qualify, and what benefits you get. Whether you’re an undergraduate or graduate applicant, read on to learn how JU’s funding can make your Swedish study dreams a reality.
Overview of the Scholarship and University
Jönköping University is a private institution located in the city of Jönköping, Sweden. Known for its international focus and entrepreneurial spirit, JU hosts a diverse student body and hundreds of global partner companies. In fact, JU “is an international university in the heart of Sweden, known for student entrepreneurship, strong research and successful collaborations”. It enrolls thousands of students (over 14,700 registered in 2024) from around the world. JU’s scholarship program is designed to reward top academic merit: selected students receive a 30% discount on tuition fees for the full duration of their degree.
This funding applies to on-site Bachelor’s and Master’s programs (typically 3-year and 2-year durations, respectively). For example, a Bachelor’s degree is 180 ECTS (three years) and a Master’s is 120 ECTS (two years). In short, the JU scholarship is a partial funding award – a substantial tuition waiver – not a full living-cost grant, but it significantly lowers your expenses in Sweden.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for a Jönköping University scholarships, applicants must meet all of the following conditions (in addition to program admission requirements):
- Non-EU/EEA student: You must be a citizen of a country that is required to pay tuition fees in Sweden (EU/EEA citizens do not pay tuition and so are not eligible).
- Paying tuition at JU: You must be required to pay tuition fees for your chosen study program at JU.
- Programme selection: JU must be your first-choice university. This means you applied to your Bachelor’s or Master’s degree at JU either through the national admissions system (Universityadmissions.se) or via JU’s Direct online portal.
- Programme type: You must apply for a full-time, on-campus Bachelor’s or Master’s program at JU. (Exchange or distance programs are not covered.)
- Application completeness: Your scholarship application must be complete and submitted by the deadline. All documents and information provided will be checked. (You can apply even before you have an official admission decision, as long as you apply to a JU program by the scholarship deadline.)
Students who have a program offer in hand can still apply; JU processes scholarship applications once the corresponding study application is complete. Note that if you receive other organizational scholarships (e.g. from Colfuturo, FIDERH, etc.), you cannot combine them with the JU scholarship itself. Check each bullet above carefully – missing one makes an application ineligible.
Coverage / Benefits
Jönköping University scholarships are partially-funded awards that cover a fixed share of your tuition:
- 30% Tuition Fee Waiver: The scholarship grants a 30% reduction on the tuition fee for your entire program. For example, if your program’s total tuition is 300,000 SEK, the scholarship reduces it by 90,000 SEK.
- Academic-merit basis: These awards are given based on academic excellence. The main qualification is your strong grades and potential to succeed.
- Program duration: The 30% waiver applies for the full length of your degree (e.g. 3 years for Bachelor’s, 2 years for Master’s). You must remain enrolled full-time to maintain the scholarship.
- No living stipend: The scholarship does not cover living costs or travel – only tuition. You’ll still need to arrange your own living expenses. However, with a lower tuition bill you’ll have more budget for housing, food, and personal expenses.
JU’s goal is to reduce financial barriers for talented students. Even though it’s a partial award, a 30% tuition waiver is a substantial financial aid. It’s one of the few scholarship opportunities available to fee-paying students from outside the EU/EEA. Use this benefit to lower your debt and focus on studying in Sweden’s innovative environment.
Host Country & University Info
Sweden is consistently ranked highly for quality of life, safety, and education. As an international student, you’ll find English widely spoken and an inclusive environment. Studying in Sweden means experiencing cutting-edge research, sustainability, and a multicultural campus life. The country’s free tuition for EU citizens means that scholarship funds in Sweden can be focused on top talents.
Jönköping itself is a vibrant small city on the shores of beautiful Lake Munksjön. JU is known for its friendly community and entrepreneurial culture. A typical JU program is very international – students from over 70 countries study there. The university’s business school is even triple-accredited (AACSB, EQUIS and AMBA) – a mark of high quality. You’ll learn in modern facilities and often work on team projects with partner companies. In summary, JU offers a supportive setting for global students and its scholarships help create a diverse, merit-based learning community.
Application Process (Step-by-Step)
Applying for a JU scholarship involves both your programme application and a separate scholarship form. Here’s a clear roadmap:
- Choose your program & apply to JU: First, pick the Bachelor’s or Master’s program you want. Then apply for admission to that program for Autumn 2026. Submit your application through Universityadmissions.se (the national portal) or via JU Direct online. Important dates: the first admissions round for international students opens around mid-Oct 2025 and closes on 15 January 2026 (JU Direct also opens Oct 16, 2025 and stays open through May 2, 2026). Make sure JU is your first choice in the application.
- Prepare scholarship documents: While your study application is pending, gather the required materials. You will need your study application number (the ID you get after applying to JU) and documents like transcripts, language proof and letters of recommendation. Also write a concise personal statement (about 200 words) outlining your goals and why you deserve the scholarship. Review JU’s scholarship terms to ensure you meet all criteria.
- Submit the scholarship form: Between 16 October 2025 and 2 May 2026, log in to the JU scholarship portal and fill in the online form. Enter your personal info and study application number. Upload your letter(s) of recommendation and statement – JU allows up to two recommendation letters. Make sure the email on this form matches the one in your program application. Submit the form before 2 May 2026 – late or incomplete submissions won’t be considered.
- Wait for the decision: The university will review your academic record and scholarship application. You should hear back by early May 2026. According to JU, scholarship awards will be notified by 7 May 2026 (right after the 2 May deadline). If you’re selected, you’ll receive instructions to confirm your acceptance of the scholarship (usually a simple yes/no form). If you’ve already paid part of your tuition, JU will apply the discount to your next invoice. Remember to reply promptly to secure your place.
Important Deadlines
Keep these critical dates in mind when planning your application:
- Bachelor’s/Master’s program application (Round 1): opens mid-Oct 2025, deadline 15 Jan 2026. (This is the first round for international admissions.)
- Scholarship application period: 16 Oct 2025 – 2 May 2026. Submit the online form by May 2.
- Admissions results: Late March 2026 (for programs). Shortly after, scholarship decisions come (by 7 May 2026).
- Program start: Classes for Autumn 2026 typically begin in August or September 2026 (confirm exact dates on the JU website when announced).
Missing any deadline can mean waiting an extra year, so set reminders now. Planning ahead – for example, asking referees for letters early – will keep you on track.
Tips for Applicants
- Highlight your strengths: In your personal statement, clearly emphasize your academic achievements, leadership experiences, and why you chose JU. Be specific (e.g. “I led a research project…” or “I won an award for…”). Tailor your letter to this program at JU.
- Strong recommendation letters: Ask teachers or mentors who really know your work to write for you. Give them plenty of time and share your résumé or statement so they can write effectively.
- Follow instructions carefully: Double-check that your study application number and email match everywhere. Submit exactly the items JU requests. Small errors or omissions can disqualify an application.
- Show genuine interest: If you have any experience related to your field or Sweden (work, volunteer, exchange), mention it. For instance, note if you did a project on sustainability (a Swedish focus) or spoke Swedish.
- Proofread everything: Typos or poor formatting can hurt. Read over your statement and form entries, and consider asking a friend or counselor to review them.
- Start early and stay organized: Give yourself time before deadlines. Make a checklist of materials (transcripts, English test scores if needed, etc.). Bookmark the JU scholarship page and admissions site so you can reference them easily.
- Stay positive and proactive: Even if competition is tough, a clear, enthusiastic application can make you stand out. Believe in your qualifications and show it in your writing.
Remember: Admissions staff look for commitment and clarity. Demonstrating that you’ve researched JU and Sweden, and that you’re excited to contribute, will make your application memorable.
Conclusion
A Jönköping University scholarships can be the key to affordable, high-quality education in Sweden. By offering a 30% tuition waiver to top international students, JU aims to build a global community of learners. Don’t miss this chance – start your application early, meet the requirements, and submit before the deadlines. With careful preparation and a strong application, you could be one of the select scholarship recipients. Apply to JU’s programs and scholarship today, and share this opportunity with friends. Good luck!
Take the first step toward your future – apply now and turn your study-abroad dream into reality.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is covered by the JU scholarship?
The JU scholarship covers 30% of the tuition fee for your chosen Bachelor’s or Master’s program. It does not cover living expenses. - Who is eligible to apply?
International students (outside the EU/EEA) who pay tuition fees in Sweden and who have applied to a full Bachelor’s or Master’s program at JU are eligible. You must meet JU’s admission requirements and pay non-EU fees. - How do I apply for this scholarship?
First apply to your JU program (via Universityadmissions.se or JU Direct by Jan 15, 2026). Then complete the JU scholarship form online (Oct 16, 2025 – May 2, 2026) using your study application number and required documents. - What are the application deadlines?
The scholarship application opens 16 Oct 2025 and closes 2 May 2026. Note program admission deadlines too (15 Jan 2026 for Autumn 2026 entry). - Is the scholarship fully funded?
No. This is a partial scholarship providing a 30% tuition waiver. You still need to cover the remaining tuition and all living costs. - Can EU/EEA citizens apply?
No. Students from EU/EEA countries do not pay tuition fees in Sweden, so this scholarship (designed for tuition-paying students) does not apply to them. It is meant for non-EU/EEA nationals.

