KTH Royal Institute of Technology, located in Stockholm, Sweden, is one of Europe’s leading technical and engineering universities. Since its founding in 1827, KTH Royal Institute of Technology has become Sweden’s largest and most prestigious technical university, known for its innovative research and education focused on sustainable societal development. With around 17,000 students and nearly 100 programs in engineering, architecture, natural sciences, and industrial economics, KTH Royal Institute of Technology fosters critical thinking and real-world problem-solving through strong industry and societal partnerships.
The KTH Royal Institute of Technology ranks 73rd globally (QS World Rankings) and emphasizes interdisciplinary research to address global challenges like climate change and energy supply. KTH’s commitment to sustainability, gender equality, and innovation makes it a leader in technical education and research. All Master’s programs are taught in English, making it accessible for international students.
University Summary
- Location: Stockholm, Sweden
- Global Ranking: Consistently ranked among the Top 100 universities worldwide (QS World Rankings)
- Available Programs:
- Bachelor’s in Engineering, Architecture, ICT
- Master’s in Sustainable Technology, Computer Science, Industrial Management
- PhD in various technology and engineering fields
- Program Duration:
- Bachelor’s: 3 years
- Master’s: 2 years
- PhD: 4-5 years
- Application Timeline:
- Opens: Mid-October
- Closes: Mid-January (for most programs)
Study Areas: Program List
KTH Royal Institute of Technology offers diverse programs across various fields. Here are some of the key study areas:
- Engineering: Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, and Chemical Engineering
- Technology: Information and Communication Technology, Industrial Management
- Architecture & Design: Urban Planning, Environmental Design
- Natural Sciences: Physics, Mathematics, Biotechnology
- Sustainable Development: Environmental Science, Renewable Energy
- Computer Science: AI, Robotics, Data Science
- List of master’s programmes
- Doctoral programmes and subjects
KTH Royal Institute of Technology Admission Requirements (Bachelor, Master’s, PhD)
Bachelor Students:
Application deadlines for studies starting 2025
- Application round 1
- Open: 15 October
- Close: 15 January
- Application round 2
- Open: 17 March
- Close: 15 April
- Academic Requirements:
- A completed upper secondary education is required.
- General entry requirement for English is studies equivalent to the Swedish upper
Masters Students
- Application Deadline: 15 April
- A Bachelor’s degree equivalent to a Swedish bachelor’s degree.
- Students at Swedish universities must have completed 150 credits in their programme by 3 February per the instructions from KTH.
- Requirements for each masters programme
English Proficiency for Bachelors and Masters Degree Students:
- IELTS
- Accepted: Academic, Online, UKVI (Academic), One Skill Retake (Academic)
- Scores:
- English 7: Overall 7.0, no section below 6.0
- English 6: Overall 6.5, no section below 5.5
- TOEFL iBT
- Accepted: iBT, iBT Home Edition, iBT Paper Edition
- Scores:
- English 7: Total 100, Writing 20
- English 6: Total 90, Writing 20
- Pearson PTE Academic
- Accepted: PTE Academic, PTE Academic Online
- Scores:
- English 7: Total 68, Writing 61
- English 6: Total 62, Writing 61
- Cambridge Exams
- C2 Proficiency (CPE): English 7, minimum 200
- C1 Advanced (CAE): English 6, minimum 180
- Not Accepted: First Certificate in English
- Michigan ECPE
- English 6 only
PhD Students:
Prospective doctoral students apply for vacant positions, announced nine times a year: in February, March, April, May, June, September, October, November and December.
General Entry Requirements (PhD)
- Must have a second-cycle (Master’s) qualification
- OR completed at least 240 credits (with 60 credits at second-cycle level)
- OR possess equivalent knowledge from other experiences
- Exemptions may be granted for extraordinary reasons
Specific Entry Requirements (PhD)
- Relevant higher education or equivalent studies
- Professional/vocational experience related to the subject
- Language proficiency and other program-specific conditions
- Exemptions granted for candidates with 60+ second-cycle credits and relevant thesis
- Suitability judged on maturity, independent critical thinking, and judgment capacity
English Proficiency for PhD Students:
- English proficiency equivalent to Swedish upper secondary school (English B/6):
- TOEFL (Paper-based): 575 total, 4.5 in writing
- TOEFL iBT: 90 total, 20 in writing
- IELTS Academic/UKVI: Overall 6.5, no section below 5.5
- Cambridge ESOL: CAE or CPE certification
- MELAB: Minimum score of 90
- Pearson PTE Academic: Score of 62 (61 in writing)
- Swedish language skills may be required for certain programs
- Previous studies may fulfill language requirements
Required Documents to Apply at KTH Royal Institute of Technology
- Application fee SEK 900
- Completed online application
- Transcripts from previous studies
- Proof of English proficiency
- Statement of Purpose outlining academic interests and goals
- Letters of Recommendation (typically 2 for Master’s/PhD)
- CV/Resume for Master’s and PhD programs
- Portfolio (for Architecture or Design programs)
- Copy of passport or ID
- For Country-wise Required Document: Check (Bachelor)
- For Country-wise Required Document: Check (Masters)
Tuition Fees for International Students
- Tuition fee for bachelor’s programmes:
- The full programme tuition fee for non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens studying bachelor’s programme in all subject areas except for architecture is SEK 423,000.
- More about Bachelor Fees
- Tuition fee for Masters programmes:
- The full tuition fee for most two-year programmes with both years spent at KTH is SEK 360,000, but it varies between the programmes.
- Tuition fee for each programme
- PhD Programs: Generally free of charge as they are salaried positions
Living Expenses in Stockholm
- Estimated Monthly Cost: SEK 8,000–12,000 (€700–€1,100)
- Housing: SEK 4,500–7,000
- Food: SEK 2,000–3,000
- Transport: SEK 600–800 (student discounts available)
- Miscellaneous/Leisure: SEK 1,000–2,000
Why Choose This University?
KTH is known for its innovative teaching, cutting-edge research, and strong industry connections. With its strategic location in Stockholm, students benefit from networking opportunities with top global tech companies like Ericsson and Spotify. The university’s focus on sustainability and entrepreneurship makes it a preferred choice for those wanting to shape the future of technology.
Suggestions for International Applicants
Start your application early and double-check all required documents. Tailor your Statement of Purpose to reflect your passion for technology and innovation. Also, research housing options ahead of time, as student accommodations fill up quickly in Stockholm. Joining student groups and attending orientation events can help you settle in smoothly.
Available Scholarships for Interested Students
- KTH Scholarship: Covers full tuition fees for Master’s students
- KTH One-Year Scholarship: Covers tuition for the second year of Master’s studies
- Swedish Institute Scholarships: Provides tuition, living expenses, and travel grants
- EIT Digital Master School Scholarships: Offers funding for digital and tech-focused programs
- Scholarship opportunities for master’s studies
FAQ About KTH Royal Institute of Technology
- Is Swedish language proficiency required?
No, most Master’s and PhD programs are taught in English. However, learning Swedish can help in daily life and job opportunities. - Are there job opportunities after graduation?
Yes, KTH has a strong network with tech companies and startups, making it easier for students to find internships and full-time roles. - Can international students work while studying?
Yes, international students can work without restrictions in Sweden, but it’s recommended to balance work and study. - Is there on-campus housing available?
KTH offers limited housing for international students, but you should apply early. Off-campus housing options are also available in Stockholm. - How competitive is the admission process?
Admission is highly competitive, especially for scholarships. A strong academic record, compelling motivation letter, and relevant experience will boost your chances.
