Written by Maël
21 Nov 2025
Choosing to study in Sweden opens the door to far more than a degree. For many international students, it becomes a launchpad into a global career, whether that career ultimately unfolds in Sweden or somewhere completely different.
Recently, I attended an alumni talk featuring former students who had studied a wide range of programmes, from curating art to environmental science, immersive technology, geomatics, and international law. Today, all of them are thriving in diverse professional fields, both in Sweden and abroad. While their paths looked very different at first, their advice on how to build a career during or after your studies in Sweden was surprisingly aligned. If you’re wondering about how to prepare for life after graduation, or you’re curious whether Swedish universities truly help students transition into the job market: here, I put together the insights that stood out most.
1. Internships Are Game-Changers
Nearly every alum emphasized the value of internships. Sweden has a strong culture of hands-on experience, and many organizations openly welcome students to join their teams. Internships give you a chance to test different work environments, build confidence, and most importantly, gain Swedish work experience. This can significantly boost your chances when applying for full-time positions!
Even if an internship isn’t a formal part of your programme, seeking one out on your own is absolutely worth it (and very possible due to the long summer study break!). You gain experience for yourself, of course, but also for future companies: Some employers treat internships as extended job interviews, so don’t underestimate the long-term payoff.
2. Learn Swedish, Even Just a Little
One of the biggest pieces of advice they shared? Learn Swedish. You don’t need to be fluent to work here, many international graduates build entire careers in English-speaking workplaces. But learning the basics of the language signals openness and makes everyday life easier. It also expands your opportunities: Internal communications, client interactions, and public-facing roles often require at least some Swedish, so having that foundation can set you apart.
It’s not about perfection, it’s about showing willingness. And Sweden offers so many free or low-cost options to learn Swedish, such as university classes and language cafés, that it’s easier than you might think at first.
3. Tailor Your Applications
Two alumni emphasized that their employers cared deeply about their tailored and thoughtfully designed applications. A generic CV won’t get you far here. It’s important to adapt your CV and cover letter to each position, highlighting the skills, experiences, and motivations that match what the employer is looking for.
This might feel time-consuming, but it truly pays off. A polished, concise CV that clearly communicates who you are as a professional and how you fit into the role can make you stand out in a competitive job market.
4. Embrace Rejection and Stay Persistent
A side of the job market that I feel like is not talked about enough is rejection. So I felt it was refreshing when the alumni openly shared stories about being refused. A lot. Rejection is normal in any job market, even for highly qualified applicants. But the message was clear: don’t let it discourage you. Everyone goes through it. What matters is persistence, consistency, and keeping your motivation up.
It helps to treat each application as practice. Instead of viewing rejections as failures, see them as steps closer to the right opportunity.
5. Put Yourself Out There: Networking Matters
Sweden may be known for being modest and low-key, but the alumni shared that the professional world runs on connections. Not in the sense of favoritism, but in terms of building trust and community.
You don’t need to be an extrovert to network effectively. Start small:
- Attend career fairs
- Join student associations
- Talk to older students or alumni
- Follow up after seminars or workshops
- Be curious and ask questions
Often, opportunities arise from casual conversations or unexpected introductions. The alumni stressed that your role can begin with simple interactions (maybe even during a chill fika!).
6. Being International Is a Strength
This was one of the most empowering takeaways from the event: your international background is an asset. Coming from another country means you bring new perspectives. Swedish workplaces value diversity and international competence, especially when dealing with global clients, multicultural teams, or complex societal challenges.
Rather than seeing your international identity as a barrier, lean into it. Highlight what makes your perspective unique! It truly is one of your greatest strengths.
7. Be Proactive and Curious
Across the board, the alumni encouraged us to take initiative. Don’t wait for the perfect opportunity to appear. Reach out to people, ask questions, show interest in ongoing projects, or volunteer to help where you can! Curiosity is highly valued in Swedish workplaces, employers appreciate candidates who show authentic engagement and enthusiasm.
If you’re unsure where to start: befriendpeople from your university, connect with alumni from your programme, check your courses websites or get in touch with student advisors! These seemingly small things can be very useful in the future. You may be surprised by how many people are willing to help.
8. Career Fairs Are More Valuable Than You Think
It’s easy to underestimate career fairs, but they’re fantastic opportunities to meet recruiters face-to-face, practice pitching yourself, and learn what Swedish employers are actually looking for. Even if a conversation doesn’t lead to a job immediately, you get experience and trust in yourself, and the connection might come back later in the form of a recommendation or an internship! Plus, you gain real-time insight into different industries.
Study in Sweden, Work Anywhere
The variety of career paths really stood out from the alumni panel. Some speakers built careers in Stockholm, others found opportunities in London, Germany, or other parts of Europe. That’s the benefit of studying in Sweden: the education is deeply international, and the skills you gain are recognized globally. Whether you stay in Sweden or move abroad, the degree you earn and the experiences you gather open doors across the world.
This aligns well with what Kelsey wrote in her post about finding jobs: the Swedish approach prepares you not just to apply for jobs, but to develop as a professional, a collaborator, and a global citizen.
Final Thoughts
Building a career through studying in Sweden isn’t about luck. It’s about being intentional, proactive, curious, and persistent. Internships, networking, language learning, and tailored applications all play major roles. And through it all, remember: being an international student isn’t a disadvantage – it’s one of your greatest strengths!
Sweden offers incredible opportunities, a supportive academic environment, and a global outlook. If you embrace the process with an open mind and a bit of courage, you’ll be well on your way to shaping the career you envision, whether that’s here in Sweden or anywhere else in the world.
