How to Apply to a Swedish University Using Högskoleprovet: A Guide for IB Students
As an International Baccalaureate (IB) student in Sweden, you will most likely understand feeling overwhelmed when applying to Swedish University using IB grades. However, supplementing IB grades with Högskoleprovet (the Swedish Scholastic Aptitude Test) is a great way to boost your application!
In this article, we will explain how you can apply to Swedish universities using Högskoleprovet, what the test entails, and how it fits into your overall application strategy.
What is Högskoleprovet?
Högskoleprovet (often abbreviated as HP) is a standardized multiple choice test used by Swedish universities to assess applicants. It is designed to test general academic abilities in several areas. The test consists of two main sections: Quantitative (mathematics and problem-solving) and Verbal (language skills, reading comprehension, and logical reasoning). It has in total 8 sub-components.
The test is held twice a year (in spring and autumn), and while it’s not mandatory for university admission, a good result can significantly improve your chances of getting accepted — especially if you don’t have upper secondary grades in Swedish A or want to boost your application.
Can IB Students Take the Högskoleprovet?
Yes! Even though you're in the IB program, you are eligible to take the Högskoleprovet. However, the test is in Swedish (aside from the English component). As such it is recommended for those who are more fluent in Swedish. Despite this, application is open to everyone, including those without Swedish citizenship.
Steps to Apply to Swedish Universities with Högskoleprovet
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply to Swedish universities using your Högskoleprovet results:
1. Register for the Högskoleprovet
You need to register for the test on the official Högskoleprovet website. Registration usually opens a few months before the test date, so make sure to keep an eye out for the deadlines.
For those applying Spring 2025, application is between 7th of January 08:00 and 14th January 23:59.
You can register for the test as long as you’re a minimum of 18 years old or if you will turn 18 the same calendar year as the test is taken.
Eg. If you are 17 but turn 18 in November of 2026, you can still take the Spring 2026 test.
The test itself is only available in Swedish, so you’ll need to be comfortable with reading and understanding Swedish at a high level.
Applying costs 550 kr and can be paid via credit card or Swish.
For those without Swedish citizenship, apply with your birth date, instead of your social security number.
2. Prepare for the Test
While the test is designed to be a measure of general academic ability rather than specific subject knowledge, preparing for the Högskoleprovet is still important.
There are many online resources and practice tests available to help you get familiar with the test format and types of questions.
hpappen.se
högskoleprovet.nu
Practising prefixes & suffixes is very useful for the word definition component of the exam.
If you’re not already fluent in Swedish, it’s a good idea to study some key Swedish academic terms, especially in the areas of mathematics and verbal reasoning, which are heavily language-dependent.
For IB students, the Högskoleprovet may feel quite similar to the types of standardized tests you’re familiar with, but expect a heavy focus on problem-solving and logical reasoning.
3. Take the Test
The test is usually held on a Saturday and lasts for approximately 4 hours. Make sure to bring valid ID and arrive early to avoid any unnecessary stress.
The test is sorted into 5 sections of 55 minutes.
2 sections include the quantative components
2 sections include the literary components
1 section is a trial where the organisation tests potential questions for future years. (This does not affect your score in any way)
4. Understand the Scoring System
The test is scored on a scale of 0–2.0, with a higher score indicating a stronger performance. A score of 1.0 is considered average, and anything above 1.5 is generally regarded as competitive.
Check appication statistics (antagningstatistik) of universities you may be interested in to see what the required grade needed is.
After taking the test, your score will be available online within a few weeks.
5. Apply to Universities
Once you have your Högskoleprovet score, you can use it as part of your university application through antagning.se, the central application portal for Swedish universities.
You’ll need to submit your IB diploma results as well as your Högskoleprovet score to be considered for university programs.
Your IB scores will be converted into a Swedish grade equivalent (called a "slutbetyg"), and the Högskoleprovet score will be factored in alongside your grades.
6. Use Your HP Score Strategically
The Högskoleprovet score can be used to replace or supplement your IB grades. Swedish universities often give applicants the option to use either their upper secondary school grades (such as your IB scores) or their Högskoleprovet score in the admissions process, depending on which gives them a higher total merit score.
Some universities and programs may give more weight to the Högskoleprovet score, while others may prioritize your IB diploma. It’s important to check the specific admission requirements for the programs you are interested in.
Benefits of Using Högskoleprovet for Your Application
A Boost to Your Merit Score
If your IB grades are slightly below the threshold for some competitive programs, a strong Högskoleprovet score can give your application a significant boost.
Access to More Programs
Certain programs may have specific admission criteria or cut-off scores. A high Högskoleprovet score could allow you to be eligible for a wider range of programs, particularly in popular fields like medicine, engineering, and economics.
A Second Chance
If you don’t perform as well on your IB exams or have concerns about your grades, the Högskoleprovet gives you another opportunity to improve your application and increase your chances of admission.
Flexibility in Application
Universities allow you to combine your IB results and Högskoleprovet scores, giving you flexibility in how you present your academic profile.
Key Tips for Success
Practice and Prepare: Don’t underestimate the value of preparation. Even if you’re a strong student, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the test format to avoid surprises.
Stay Calm and Focused: The Högskoleprovet is a time-limited test, so time management is essential. Stay calm and try not to rush through questions. Eliminate answers which seem wrong.
Be Strategic: Use your Högskoleprovet score to your advantage, but remember that the best university application is a combination of strong grades, a good test score, and a well-rounded personal profile.
Final Thoughts
For IB students aiming for university admission in Sweden, the Högskoleprovet is a powerful tool to enhance your application. By taking the test and using the results strategically, you can improve your chances of gaining admission to a wide range of competitive programs. Whether you've already decided on a university program or still thinking being aware and planning for Högskoleprovet can help you reach your academic goals!
Check out our past blog post for more advice on applying to Swedish universities.
