Sweden, the largest of the Scandinavian countries, is also considered a leader in innovation, ranking in the top 5 countries with most patent requests per capita. Whether you are just planning a short visit to study in Sweden as an exchange student, studying a master’s program or study a full degree, you will benefit from the Swedish open and informal atmosphere, moderate tuition fees as well as the large array of progressive courses you can choose from.

When you study in Sweden, you’re encouraged to think independently, creatively and critically. At Swedish universities, the emphasis is firmly on developing your ability to question the status quo by assessing information, seeking new perspectives and coming up with well-informed opinions. You’ll be free to think creatively because of the informal and non-hierarchical nature of Swedish society, where everyone is encouraged to contribute ideas and opinions. Expect to have an open and informal relationship with your professors.

This independence of mind and the fact that everyone can make their voice heard are two of the reasons why Sweden consistently ranks among the world’s most innovative nations. Another is that investment in R&D isamong the highest in the world in relation to GDP.

Sweden’s status as a leader in innovation, as a home of trendsetters and early adopters, is nothing new: the list of Swedish world-changing inventions is a long one and includes breakthroughs like the three-point seatbelt, the pacemaker and the music service Spotify.

EXPERIENCE EQUALITY AND EMBRACE DIVERSITY

Swedish society is known for its inclusiveness and egalitarianism. You may have heard Sweden referred to as the most equal country in the world. It consistently places among the world’s top countries in gender equality, while LGBT rights in Sweden are regarded as among the most progressive in the world.

This belief that everyone is of equal value contributes to Sweden’s consensus approach to getting things done, where everyone takes part in the decision-making process. During your studies, you’ll learn how to balance different interests, needs and ideas to bring out the best in everyone and solve complex issues as a team – vital skills for your career in the global marketplace, where teamwork and collaboration across cultures and boundaries are the norm.

What is the most important characteristic you’ll need for success in your career? According to a global study of CEOs, it’s creativity. And creativity is exactly what studying in Sweden will encourage, along with other in-demand skills such as how to combine theory and practice, and how to navigate complex situations where there’s no easy solution.

Many degree programmes in Sweden include internships, which are a great way to get real-world experience while you build your professional network. If you’re interested in research, doing a master’s in Sweden can be a great way to make the contacts you’ll need to carry on and do a PhD.

The fact that Sweden is home to the largest number of multinationals per capita of any country in the world and is the birthplace of many world-conquering companies – including IKEA, TetraPak, Volvo, Ericsson, AstraZeneca and H&M – means that getting on the career ladder here can really take you places. Should you receive a job offer while you’re still studying here, you can apply for a work permit and enjoy the work-life balance that Sweden is famous for.