List of 10 Best Schools in Sweden (2026 Fees)

Sweden has one of the best education systems in the world. This is because the country’s education structure encourages learners to think independently, critically, and creatively. Moreover, the Swedish Education Act provides all children and youth free education in all public or state schools. The schooling system is divided into four levels, which include:

• Preschool (förskola)
• Compulsory schooling which is made up of Elementary school (lågstadiet), middle school (mellanstadiet) and junior high school (högstadiet).
• Upper secondary school or senior high school (gymnasium)
• Tertiary education

In Sweden, education is compulsory from the age of seven to 16 years, according to the Swedish Education Act. Although not mandatory, most children between one to five years join preschool, in either private or public institutions. Once they reach seven years, they advance to elementary school, followed by middle school and later, junior high school. By law, children are expected to start school at age seven, but in some cases, they begin at age six or eight. Regardless of starting-age, children are required to attend mandatory schooling for nine years.

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• School Holidays in Sweden
• Public Holidays in Sweden

At the junior high school level, exceptional students may opt for advanced mathematics or sciences while others choose music, arts, or practical courses such as carpentry or electronics. Moreover, children with special needs can attend specialized facilities that adequately cater to their needs. When children complete this level, they receive a certificate and proceed to secondary or Junior High School. Besides, mainstream education, some schools focus on helping students harness their skills and talents, in sports among other talent-based activities.

Although upper secondary schooling or gymnasium is not compulsory, a majority of the youths in the country complete this level of education. After completing upper secondary education, the student gets to choose whether they want to progress to university level or pursue a career.

Facts About Schools in Sweden (مدارس في السويد)

• Parents have the option to choose from a variety of public schools, private schools, and international schools. In recent years, public schools have outperformed private schools in the country.
• The school year in Sweden starts in August and ends in June.
• From 2011, the country adopted a new grading system which is similar to the one in the one used in schools in the United States. The initial grading system consisted of four grades ranging from the pass with special distinction (MVG) to Did Not Pass (IG), while the new grading system ranges from A-F.
• The official language of instruction in schools is Swedish. However, English is taught from a young age.
• Play and recess make up an integral part of the early years of education in the country. The Government mandated that preschool teachers should incorporate STEM subjects into the curriculum by having the children engage in exercises that involve teamwork.
• The government fully pays for primary education through secondary education in public schools. At higher-level education, the government pays for tuition fees, while the student caters for living expenses.
• The education system is decentralized, meaning that each locality has the authority to design its course structures or curriculum. However, the federal government establishes goals and objectives to be followed while creating these structures and curricula.

Edarabia showcases all private schools in Sweden through which parents can filter by tuition fees, curriculum, rankings & ratings. There are many public, private and charter schools near you that cater to both expat and local students.

Depending on the level of education; kindergartens (pre-schools), primary, secondary and high schools will all have varying tuition fees. Most K-12 schools offer different curriculums and extra-curricular activities to support the intellectual and physical wellbeing of students. Admissions for the top international schools in Sweden tend to have waiting lists so it is recommended that parents apply well in advance to secure a spot for their children. Additionally, each school has ratings based on parent reviews and are ranked below accordingly.

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