Schools & Education in Sweden for Expat Families

Expat families in Sweden can choose from several international schools, including Internationella Engelska Skolan, Stockholm International School, and British International School of Stockholm. Adults can also access free Swedish language classes, known as Swedish for Immigrants (SFI), which are usually available within three months of registration and cover levels A-D, leading to B1 proficiency. These SFI classes can be taken in-person or online, helping adults to quickly integrate into Swedish society.

Public vs. International Schools

	Public School	International School
Tuition fee	Free	€10,000–22,000/year
Language	Swedish	English (usually)
Curriculum	National curriculum	IB / British / American
Availability	All cities	Major cities only
Waiting list	None	Often 1–2 years

Public school enrolment

Free ✓ Swedish

All children aged 6–16 residing in Sweden have a legal right and obligation to attend school, regardless of residence permit status. Contact your local municipality (kommun) school office. Enrolment is based on home address; the municipality assigns the nearest school.

Adults receive free Swedish for Immigrants (SFI) classes through their municipality, usually starting within 3 months of registration. SFI covers levels A–D leading to B1 proficiency. Classes are available in-person and online.

International Schools in Sweden

School	City	Curriculum	Annual fee
Internationella Engelska Skolan (IES) Stockholm	Stockholm (multiple campuses)	Swedish national curriculum taught in English	Free (state-funded)
Stockholm International School	Stockholm	IB (PYP, MYP, Diploma)	Free (state-funded)
British International School of Stockholm	Stockholm	English National Curriculum + IGCSE + A-Levels	Free (state-funded)