Dalarna University Scholarships

Dalarna University Scholarships in Sweden Without IELTS. Studying in Sweden is an attractive option for international students because of its high-quality education, innovative teaching methods, multicultural environment and strong links with industry. Among Sweden’s universities, Dalarna University offers a range of English-taught master’s programmes and scholarship opportunities for international students.

Join WhatsApp for Latest Updates Join Now

Join Telegram for Latest Updates Join Now

One question many students ask is: Can I study at Dalarna University without IELTS? The answer is yes, in some cases. However, “without IELTS” does not mean that English proficiency is completely ignored. Applicants must still prove that they meet the required English-language level. Depending on their previous education and country of study, some students may be able to meet the English requirement without submitting an IELTS or TOEFL score.

For students starting master’s studies from 2026 onwards, Dalarna University has introduced a new scholarship structure. Eligible fee-paying master’s students can receive a Choose Dalarna First Scholarship worth SEK 5,000, while students who achieve outstanding academic results may receive additional Academic Excellence Scholarships.

This guide explains Dalarna University scholarships, the possibility of applying without IELTS, eligibility, documents, benefits, deadlines and the application process.

Dalarna University Scholarships – Quick Summary

Scholarship/Requirement	Details
University	Dalarna University, Sweden
Study level	Master’s
Scholarship for new students	Choose Dalarna First Scholarship – SEK 5,000
Additional scholarship	Academic Excellence Scholarship
IELTS	May not be required if an accepted English-language exemption applies
Typical IELTS requirement	6.5 overall, with no section below 5.5 when a test is required
Tuition status	Mainly for fee-paying students
Bachelor’s scholarship	Dalarna University scholarships are not available for bachelor’s programmes
Application platform	UniversityAdmissions.se
Autumn scholarship deadline	February 15
Spring scholarship deadline	September 15
Official website	Dalarna University Scholarships

Always check the specific programme page before applying because admission and English requirements can vary by programme.

What Are Dalarna University Scholarships?

Dalarna University currently provides scholarship opportunities primarily for fee-paying master’s students.

For students beginning their programme, there are two main university scholarship opportunities:

1. Choose Dalarna First Scholarship

This scholarship provides a SEK 5,000 reduction from the first-semester tuition fee.

To qualify, students generally need to:

Apply for a Dalarna University master’s programme.
Rank Dalarna University as their first choice on UniversityAdmissions.se.
Apply by the relevant admission deadline.
Submit the separate Dalarna University scholarship application by the scholarship deadline.
Be admitted to a Dalarna University master’s programme.
Be required to pay tuition fees.

The university states that students meeting the criteria receive the scholarship, and the amount is deducted from the first-semester tuition invoice.

2. Academic Excellence Scholarship

Students can potentially receive additional tuition-fee reductions based on excellent academic performance after beginning their studies.

For students starting from 2026, the award varies by programme. For example, the available semester awards can range from SEK 5,000 to SEK 15,000, while programme distinctions can provide additional amounts depending on the programme.

Some programmes therefore offer the possibility of receiving considerably more financial support throughout the degree.

Clarendon Scholarships at Oxford University: Fully Funded

Can You Study at Dalarna University Without IELTS?

Yes, some international students can meet Dalarna University’s English requirement without taking IELTS.

However, students should not interpret this as “Dalarna University does not require English proficiency.”

For most master’s programmes in Sweden, the standard English requirement is equivalent to English 6/English Level 2. When a recognised English test is required, Dalarna University states that applicants normally need IELTS Academic 6.5 overall with no section below 5.5.

The important point is that UniversityAdmissions.se allows certain applicants to demonstrate English proficiency through previous education instead of an international English test. For master’s applicants, some students can document their English ability through previous bachelor’s studies or other accepted qualifications.

Therefore, “without IELTS” may mean:

Your previous education satisfies the English requirement.
Your country-specific educational qualifications qualify for an exemption.
Your previous degree was taught in English and this is accepted under the applicable documentation rules.
You meet another recognised English-language exemption.

The exemption depends on where and what you studied, so applicants should check the country-specific instructions on UniversityAdmissions.se rather than assuming that an English-medium degree automatically removes the IELTS requirement.

IELTS Requirements at Dalarna University

If you do not qualify for an English-language exemption, you may need to provide an approved English test.

For many programmes, the typical requirement is:

IELTS Academic: 6.5 overall
No individual section below 5.5

Equivalent TOEFL requirements may also be accepted.

Importantly, the requirement can differ according to the programme. UniversityAdmissions.se explains that most master’s programmes require English 6/English Level 2, but some programmes may have different requirements.

Tip: Before applying without IELTS, verify that your previous qualification is specifically accepted as evidence of English proficiency.

Advantages of Dalarna University Scholarships

There are several reasons international students may consider Dalarna University.
1. Study in Sweden
Sweden is internationally recognised for its education system, research environment and emphasis on independent learning.
2. Reduced Tuition Fees
The Choose Dalarna First Scholarship provides a SEK 5,000 first-semester tuition reduction for eligible students.
3. Additional Academic Awards
Students who achieve excellent academic results may qualify for additional tuition reductions during their studies.
4. Possibility of Studying Without IELTS
Students who satisfy the English requirement through accepted previous qualifications may not need to submit IELTS or TOEFL results.
5. English-Taught Programmes
Dalarna University offers master’s programmes taught in English in areas including business, data science, energy, sustainability, tourism and other fields.
6. Scholarship Opportunities Beyond Dalarna University
Eligible applicants may also be able to apply for Swedish Institute scholarships separately. The Swedish Institute scholarships have their own eligibility criteria and application procedure.

Russia Scholarships for International Students

Eligibility Criteria

Dalarna University scholarships are mainly intended for fee-paying master’s students.

Generally, applicants should:

Hold a bachelor’s degree equivalent to a Swedish bachelor’s degree.
Meet the specific academic requirements of the selected master’s programme.
Meet the English-language requirement.
Be liable to pay tuition fees.
Apply through the appropriate Swedish admissions system.
Select Dalarna University as their first choice when applying for the Choose Dalarna First Scholarship.
Submit the scholarship application before the relevant deadline.

For master’s admission in Sweden, applicants normally need a bachelor’s degree from an internationally recognised university. Programme-specific requirements may also apply.

Who Usually Pays Tuition Fees?

Students who are not citizens of the EU/EEA or Switzerland generally have to pay tuition fees unless another exemption applies.

Required Documents

The exact documents depend on your country of study and selected programme. Common documents include:

Bachelor’s degree certificate
Academic transcripts
Proof of English proficiency or accepted English exemption
Passport or identification document
Programme-specific documents
CV, if required
Motivation statement or other supporting documents, if required
Scholarship application information

If you are applying without IELTS, pay particular attention to your English-language documentation. UniversityAdmissions.se explains that some master’s applicants can demonstrate English proficiency without an internationally recognised English test, but the exact rules depend on the applicant’s educational background and country instructions.

Do not simply upload a letter stating that your previous degree was taught in English unless the applicable country instructions say that this is acceptable evidence.

Fully Funded Scholarships in New Zealand

How to Apply for Dalarna University Scholarships

Step 1: Select a Master’s Programme

Visit Dalarna University’s programme pages and select a master’s programme matching your academic background.

Check:

Academic requirements
English requirements
Tuition fees
Programme duration
Available scholarships

Step 2: Apply Through UniversityAdmissions.se

International students normally submit their application through Sweden’s central admissions system.

For the Autumn 2027 international admissions round, the application opens on 16 October 2026, with the main application deadline on 15 January 2027. Supporting documentation is generally due by 1 February 2027, with master’s admission results scheduled for 1 April 2027.

University Admissions – Sweden

Step 3: Rank Dalarna University First

If you want the Choose Dalarna First Scholarship, make sure your eligible Dalarna University master’s programme is ranked as your first choice.

This is an important condition of the scholarship.

Step 4: Submit Your Scholarship Application

After applying for the master’s programme, submit the separate scholarship application by the appropriate Dalarna University deadline.

For the autumn intake, the scholarship deadline is generally February 15. For the spring intake, the deadline is generally September 15.

For the January 2027 intake, Dalarna University has announced that applications for the Choose Dalarna First Scholarship are open according to its current scholarship information.

Step 5: Wait for the Admission Decision

The university will assess your academic eligibility and documentation.

For international applicants, it is particularly important to submit documents before the deadline because incomplete documentation can result in an unsuccessful application.

Step 6: Pay the Remaining Tuition Fee

If you receive the Choose Dalarna First Scholarship, the SEK 5,000 reduction is deducted from your first-semester tuition invoice.

Remember that this university scholarship is a tuition reduction, not a complete living-cost scholarship.

Academic Excellence Scholarship After Admission

The scholarship opportunities do not necessarily end after admission.

Students who perform exceptionally well can apply for the Academic Excellence Scholarship.

For students starting from 2026, the university evaluates academic performance each semester. Students normally need to complete the required credits and achieve outstanding grades. The precise award depends on the programme.

For example, some programmes provide a semester award of SEK 10,000 or SEK 15,000, while additional Programme Distinction awards may be available to students who receive the academic award throughout their programme.

This means that students can potentially reduce their tuition costs further by maintaining excellent academic performance.

Is This a Fully Funded Scholarship?

No. Dalarna University’s standard scholarship should not be described as fully funded.

The Choose Dalarna First Scholarship provides a SEK 5,000 tuition reduction, while Academic Excellence Scholarships provide additional tuition reductions for students meeting the academic criteria.

Students should separately budget for:

Remaining tuition fees
Accommodation
Food
Transportation
Residence-permit-related costs
Personal expenses
Other living costs

Dalarna University states that tuition fees cover teaching, supervision and access to university facilities and systems, but not living expenses or accommodation.

High Commission of Saudi Arabia Scholarships

Swedish Institute Scholarship: Another Option

International applicants should also investigate the Swedish Institute Scholarship for Global Professionals (SISGP) if they meet its country, professional and programme requirements.

This is separate from Dalarna University’s scholarships. According to Dalarna University, SI scholarships can cover tuition fees and provide a living allowance of SEK 12,000 per month, with a travel grant also available under the applicable scheme.

The SI scholarship has its own eligibility requirements and application process, so receiving or applying for a Dalarna University scholarship does not replace the SI application.

Important Deadlines

For students planning the next autumn intake, the international first admissions round for autumn has these important dates:

16 October 2026: Applications open
15 January 2027: Main application deadline
1 February 2027: Supporting-document deadline
1 April 2027: Master’s admission results
August/September: Autumn semester begins

For Dalarna University’s Choose Dalarna First Scholarship, the university currently lists February 15 for autumn intake and September 15 for spring intake.

Because deadlines can change, students should always verify the dates on the official university and UniversityAdmissions websites before submitting an application.

Tips for Applying Without IELTS

If you want to study at Dalarna University without IELTS, follow these recommendations:
1. Check your country instructions
Do not assume that an English-medium degree automatically qualifies for an exemption.
2. Check the exact master’s programme
English requirements can vary between programmes.
3. Prepare complete academic records
Your transcripts and degree documents should clearly establish your previous education.
4. Do not wait until the final day
UniversityAdmissions must review your documents, so submit them as early as possible.
5. Apply for the scholarship separately
Admission to Dalarna University and application for the scholarship are related but are not necessarily the same process.
6. Keep proof of English education ready
If you are relying on previous education to meet the English requirement, make sure your documentation satisfies the applicable UniversityAdmissions rules.

University of Calgary Scholarships in Canada for International Students

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I study at Dalarna University without IELTS?
Yes, potentially. Some applicants can meet the English requirement through previous education or another accepted exemption instead of submitting IELTS. However, you must still demonstrate the required level of English.
What IELTS score does Dalarna University normally require?
For many programmes, the standard requirement is IELTS Academic 6.5 overall with no section below 5.5 when a test is required.
Is Dalarna University scholarship fully funded?
The standard Dalarna University scholarships are not fully funded scholarships. The Choose Dalarna First Scholarship provides a SEK 5,000 tuition reduction, with further awards possible through Academic Excellence Scholarships.
Can bachelor’s students apply for Dalarna University scholarships?
No. Dalarna University’s current scholarship information states that its university scholarships are for master’s students, not bachelor’s students.
Can online master’s students receive a Dalarna University scholarship?
Yes. Dalarna University states that students starting in 2026 can receive university scholarships for eligible master’s programmes, including online master’s programmes.
How much is the Choose Dalarna First Scholarship?
It is worth SEK 5,000, deducted from the first-semester tuition fee for eligible students.
What is the scholarship deadline for autumn admission?
The current Dalarna University scholarship deadline is February 15 for the autumn intake.
Can I apply for the Swedish Institute Scholarship as well?
Potentially, yes. The Swedish Institute scholarship is a separate scholarship with its own eligibility requirements and application procedure.

Final Thoughts

Dalarna University Scholarships in Sweden can be a useful opportunity for international master’s students, particularly those looking for an affordable route to Swedish higher education. The university’s new scholarship structure for students beginning in 2026 or later provides a guaranteed SEK 5,000 tuition reduction to eligible students who meet the Choose Dalarna First conditions, while strong academic performance can lead to additional tuition scholarships.

Students interested in studying without IELTS should understand the distinction between not submitting IELTS and not proving English proficiency. Dalarna University and UniversityAdmissions.se allow certain applicants to demonstrate English through previous qualifications, but the exemption depends on the applicant’s educational background and country-specific rules.

For the 2027 autumn intake, international applicants should plan early, with applications opening on 16 October 2026 and the main deadline on 15 January 2027.