Uppsala University (UU) is one of Sweden’s top universities, offering a wide range of internationally recognized degree programmes, including over 120 Master’s programmes taught in English. Uppsala University+2Uppsala University+2
Why study a Master’s at Uppsala?
- Wide choice of programmes — from science/engineering to humanities, social sciences, business, sustainability, computer science, and more. Uppsala University+1
- International student‑friendly environment and well‑established admissions processes for international applicants. Uppsala University+1
- Opportunity to study in Europe, with access to a high-quality education and a globally recognized university.
📝 Entry Requirements & Application Process
✅ General Requirements
To be eligible for a Master’s at Uppsala you need:
- A Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) from a recognised university — equivalent to a Swedish “Kandidatexamen” (≈ 180 ECTS). Uppsala University+1
- Good command of English (if your programme is taught in English). For most programmes, required test scores are e.g. IELTS Academic 6.5 (no sub‑score below 5.5), or TOEFL iBT 90. Uppsala University+1
- Any programme‑specific requirements (for example certain prior coursework or credits, depending on discipline). Uppsala University+1
If you are in your final year of bachelor’s when you apply, you may be conditionally admitted, provided you supply an official transcript and a document confirming you will graduate before the master’s programme starts. Uppsala University
📅 Application Timeline
- International application round for Master’s programmes begins mid‑October each year and closes 15 January. Uppsala University+1
- For the 2026 intake: application window is 16 October 2025 – 15 January 2026. Uppsala University
- Supporting documents must also be submitted — application is only complete once all documents and application fee (if applicable) are received. Uppsala University+1
You apply through the central Swedish portal: University Admissions in Sweden (universityadmissions.se). Uppsala University+1
💸 Costs & Fees
- If you are from outside the EU/EEA/Switzerland, you are required to pay tuition fees. Uppsala University+1
- Typical tuition fee for international Master’s programmes ranges from SEK 50,000 to SEK 72,500 per semester (varies by programme). Uppsala University+1
- Living costs (housing, food, personal expenses) are not covered by tuition — you must budget separately.
🎯 Scholarships & Financial Aid
Uppsala offers a few scholarship schemes for international (fee-paying) Master’s students. Uppsala University+1
🔸 Main Scholarship Options
- Uppsala University Global Scholarship — for non‑EU/EEA/Swiss citizens. This covers full tuition fee for selected Master’s programmes. It does not cover living costs. Uppsala University+1
- Anders Wall Scholarship — open to citizens from African countries (among others). Covers full tuition fee for Master’s (or Bachelor’s) programmes at Uppsala. Does not cover living costs. Uppsala University+1
Competition is stiff: only a small percentage (~ 2%) of applicants get scholarships. Uppsala University+1
If you are from South Africa (or another non‑EU country), these scholarships are relevant — but you must apply on time, meet entry requirements, and clearly justify academic merit / need / potential.
✅ Who Should Consider Uppsala Master’s — Ideal Candidate Profiles
You should consider applying to Uppsala if you:
- Have a strong bachelor’s degree and good academic record;
- Are interested in pursuing Master’s studies abroad (in science, business, humanities, sustainability, computer science, etc.);
- Understand that if you’re non‑EU, you’ll need to pay tuition (unless awarded scholarship);
- Are able to cover living expenses (or plan for external funding) even if tuition is waived by scholarship;
- Meet English‑language and any programme‑specific requirements.
For an ambitious South African (or other international) student, Uppsala offers a solid pathway — especially if you secure a scholarship.
✅ My View: Is Doing a Master’s at Uppsala a Good Idea — Yes, If You Plan Ahead
Pros:
- High‑quality international education with many programmes in English.
- Scholarships are available — with chance (though limited) to get your tuition covered.
- International exposure, European standard of education, and a global network potential.
Challenges / What to Watch Out For:
- Tuition is hefty for non‑EU/EEA students, and living costs in Sweden are significant.
- Scholarships are very competitive (small success rate).
- You’ll need to plan and secure living expenses — tuition waivers don’t cover those.
- Entry requirements are strict — must ensure bachelor’s equivalence, English proficiency, and any programme-specific prerequisites.
