preschool: förskola
If you’re moving here with a child aged 1–5, you’ll probably hear about förskola (preschool) very quickly. Preschool isn’t compulsory, but it’s a normal part of family life in Sweden. Most children attend between ages 1 and 5. It helps children learn, play, make friends, and get comfortable in Swedish society — while also making it easier for parents to work or study. Förskola is affordable, subsidised, and widely available. In this article, we’ll walk you through how it works, how to apply, and what to expect — including the practical things expat parents wish someone had explained on day one. school
From preschool and school to university and adult education, there are plenty of study options. Learn about schools, enrolment, university, student finance and accommodation — so you can understand your options and choose the right path.
secondary school: gymnasieskola
After completing compulsory school, young people have the right to continue to upper secondary education. While not mandatory, it is widely seen as an essential stage of growth and preparation for the future. These 3 years offer more than academic knowledge — they provide direction, independence, and the opportunity for students to begin shaping their adult lives with confidence. Gymnasieskola combines academic learning, vocational training, and personal development in a system built on accessibility and trust in young people’s choices.new residence rules for foreign doctoral students and researchers
GOTHENBURG — New rules have been introduced in Sweden aimed at making the country more attractive to international researchers and doctoral students, while tightening rules around study residence permits. The changes took effect on 11 June 2026. The changes are part of a broader effort to attract international talent while strengthening controls around residence permits for studies. Doctoral students with a hosting agreement can now apply for a residence permit for research. The new rules also make it easier for eligible doctoral students and researchers to qualify for permanent residence. For qualifying permits, permanent residence can now be possible after 3 consecutive years in Sweden, provided the other requirements are met. Research permits, doctoral-study permits, certain long-term mobility research permits and EU Blue Cards can be counted towards this period. The period for looking for work or exploring starting a business after completing doctoral studies or research has been extended. It was previously limited to 12 months; under the new rules, the permit can now be granted for up to 18 months. The changes also introduce stricter rules for students in first- and second-cycle higher education. During semesters, students are generally limited to 15 hours of work per week, while work is unrestricted during June, July and August. There are also higher study-progress requirements and tighter rules for switching from a study permit to certain other permits. Are these changes impacting your academic career or job search after graduation? We would love to hear your thoughts — confidentially reach out to us at info@newroots.se.p.h.d. on offer to study authoritarian governments targeting people abroad
update: Applications for this PhD position closed on August 14, 2026. Shortlisting and interviews are underway for a January 2027 start. GOTHENBURG — For anyone interested in global politics, migration and human rights, Sweden may have just posted one of the more unusual PhD openings of the year. The University of Gothenburg is offering a fully funded doctoral position in Peace and Development Research focused on how authoritarian governments attempt to monitor, pressure or silence people living abroad — particularly activists, journalists and diaspora communities. The 4-year programme will examine how democratic countries such as Sweden, Norway and Estonia respond to what researchers describe as “transnational repression”, a growing issue where governments extend political pressure beyond their own borders. The selected candidate will join an international research team working on migration, democracy, security and global governance. The role includes both academic research and coursework, with the possibility of some teaching responsibilities along the way. Applicants are expected to have a master’s degree in a related subject such as International Relations, Political Science, Peace and Conflict Studies or Development Studies. Candidates will also need to submit a research proposal, academic transcripts, references and other supporting documents. Like most PhD positions in Sweden, the role comes with a salary and employee benefits, rather than tuition fees and unpaid research work. The programme is expected to begin in January 2027. If you applied for this position, we would love to hear your views on the initiative. You can confidentially share your thoughts via info@newroots.se.