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Frequently asked questions

Studying abroad independently

The page has information about what to do if you want to apply to study abroad independently.

If you want to study at a university with which Södertörn University does not have an exchange agreement, you can choose to apply independently, as a freemover. As a freemover student, you must pay any tuition fees yourself and manage all contact with the host university.

The page has information about what to do if you want to apply to study abroad independently.

  • Where do you want to study?
    The first thing you have to decide is where in the world you want to study. The Studera.nu External link, opens in new window. website from the Swedish Council for Higher Education has general information about studying abroad.
  • Read up on the courses and programme you might be interested in
    The best place to find information about this is the university’s website. You will find information about individual degree programmes and courses, and about how to apply.
  • Will your credits count in Sweden?
    Before you decide on a higher education institution, you should check that it is recognised in Sweden. It must be recognised in Sweden, otherwise you will not be able to transfer credits for the courses when you get back.
  • Contact the university
    Once you have found a university that suits you, it is a good idea to contact them and find out more information.

Here are some questions that it may be a good idea to ask the foreign university:

  • How much are the tuition fees?
  • Do they offer any grants or scholarships you can apply for to cover the tuition fees?
  • Is it possible to apply for a place for one or two semesters or only an entire programme?
  • What is the application process?
  • What documents are necessary when applying? Do they need to be stamped?
  • When is the application deadline?
  • When are admissions decisions sent out?

Be clear about who you are and what you want from your communication with the university. For example, tell them:

  • Whether you are already in higher education and the courses have you already studied.
  • How long you plan to study abroad.
  • Whether you want to graduate in Sweden after completing your studies abroad.
  • Apply straight to the university
    Certificates of registration and results can be downloaded from Ladok.
  • Registration during your semester abroad?
    During the semester you spend studying independently at a foreign university, you should not be registered at Södertörn University. If you are studying a degree programme, you should apply for approved leave from studies at your academic school, so you are guaranteed a place on the programme when you return. It is important that this leave is registered in Ladok.