Student blogs

Learning Swedish in Sweden as a foreigner is surprisingly difficult. Due to the country’s high level of English, it is easy to get away with knowing no Swedish during your time here. I’ve used English in hospitals, the Swedish tax agency (Skatteverket), restaurants; virtually everywhere. However, I made a promise to myself that I would give learning Swedish a real try. So I’ve compiled a list of options I’ve made use of and that you can too as a KI student to learn Swedish!

1) Folksuniversitet 

KI offers a free Swedish course for all new arriving students that can go on for five or ten weeks. There are different levels (A1-B2) that students can choose from and days of the week. I did an A1 course when I first arrived in Sweden, and it helped me get the basics down without being an overwhelming commitment. You can find out more information at the KI Swedish course website! 

2) Swedish for Immigrants

Swedish for Immigrants (SFI) is a free Swedish school that the government offers residents for free. There are multiple schools around Stockholm that you can choose from, although usually they must correspond with your address. Most people that are attending KI start at Level C, as this level pertains to people with a higher education (or that are currently pursuing one). To move on to Level D, you must take the Nationella provet (national exam), and the same to “graduate” or finish SFI. Afterwards, you can go on to Svenska som andraspråk at Komvux, which is basically like Swedish highschool. SFI has definitely helped my Swedish, and although it is a bigger commitment, (around six hours a week), I think it’s a great opportunity if you really want to learn. You can find out more information at the Stockholm’s stad SFI website. 

3) KI Language cafe 

KI also offers a Language cafe, which is free if you are an MF (Medicinska Foreningen – KI’s student union) member. Not only is there Swedish, but there are many more languages available too. I think it’s a great and low effort way to develop your speaking and comprehension.  More information can be found at the KI Language Cafe website. 

4) Watching Swedish shows 

There are a variety of Swedish shows to choose from that come with Swedish/English subtitles! Some of my favorites include Young Royals and Love is Blind: Sverige. I think it’s a good way to expose yourself to the language (and having the option to rewind and replay something you didn’t understand helps a lot!). Also, SVT, national Swedish television, is free, offers plenty of shows in Swedish and you can put on Swedish subtitles. 

Learning Swedish can be difficult as not only is it a whole new language, but as KI students in international English master’s programmes we are not very immersed in it day-to-day. However, if you are up for the challenge, these are four resources that you can use, even if that means by the end of your time in Sweden (or not) being able to order a coffee!