Navigating Swedish University Applications with IB Grades: A Comprehensive Guide
Applying to Swedish universities can be a thrilling yet daunting task, especially if you’re coming from an International Baccalaureate (IB) background. Sweden is renowned for its innovative education system and welcoming environment for international students. However, understanding how your IB grades translate into the Swedish grading system and merit points can be complex. This guide will help you navigate the process, ensuring that you make the most of your IB results when applying to Swedish higher education institutions.
Understanding the Swedish Grading System
In Sweden, grades are given on a scale of 10 to 20, with the highest achievable score being 22.5 after including merit points. Here’s how IB grades correspond to Swedish grades:
- 24 IB Points = 12.40 Swedish Grades
- 25 IB Points = 13.23 Swedish Grades
- 30 IB Points = 15.89 Swedish Grades
- 35 IB Points = 17.92 Swedish Grades
- 40 IB Points = 19.48 Swedish Grades
- 43-45 IB Points = 20.00 Swedish Grades
The Swedish grading system uses these values to determine eligibility and ranking for university programs. The higher your Swedish grade, the more competitive your application.
Merit Points
Adding Value to Your Application
Swedish universities also consider extra merit points, which can significantly boost your application. Here’s a breakdown of how you can earn these points based on your IB courses:
1. Modern Foreign Languages (Max 1.5 Points)
- Language A HL or Language B HL (Not English) = 1.5 Points
- Language B SL (Not English) = 1.5 Points
- Language Ab Initio = 0.5 Points
- MFL During ‘Pre-IB’ = 0.5 Points
2. English (Max 1.0 Points
- English A HL/SL = 1.0 Points
- English B HL = 1.0 Points
- English B SL (if English is the Teaching Language) = 1.0 Points
3. Mathematics (Max 1.5 Points)
The merit points achieved by different maths programs, depends on the minimum required maths level of the university program you are applying to. The table below shows this.
Meeting Basic and Special Merit Requirements
You need to ensure that you meet the basic and special merit requirements for specific programs. For instance, a minimum grade of 4 in courses like Language & Literature A HL/SL, Swedish A, or equivalent is crucial.
To qualify for many Swedish university programs, you need to meet basic and special merit requirements.
Basic Merits
Must include one of the following:
Language & Literature A HL/SL
Swedish A, A1, or A2, SL/HL
Alternatively do the TISUS test (Swedish for immigrants)
Norwegian or Danish A or A1, SL/HL
As well as one of the following:
Maths AI (SL/HL) or Maths AA (SL/HL)
Special Merits
Often required to achieve specific grades in relevant IB subjects:
To get these merits you need a minimum grade four in the corresponding subjects.
Exceptions include higher Level: Biology, Chemistry & Physics, in which a grade 3 is sufficient.
Svenska 3
Swedish A, A1 or A2, SL/HL or Norwegian or Danish A or A1, SL/HL
Engelska 6
English B, SL with another teaching language other than english.
Engelska 7
English A, HL/SL or English B, HL or English B, SL with english as teaching language
Moderna språk 3*
Språk Ab initio (not swedish/english)
Moderna språk 5*
B-language, SL/HL (not swedish/english)
Moderna språk 7*
If another A-language exists in the IB diploma (not swedish, danish, norwegian or english)
Matematik 2a
Mathematics from IBO:s MYP grade 5
Grade 3 in mathematics: applications and interpretation SL ger Matematik 2a.
Matematik 3c
Mathematics: applications and interpretation SL
Grade 3 in Mathematics: analysis and approaches SL gives Matematik 3c.
Matematik 4
Mathematics: analysis and approaches SL
Grade 3 in Mathematics: applications and interpretation HL or Mathematics: analysis and approaches HL ger Matematik 4.
Matematik 5
Mathematics: applications and interpretation HL
Matematik specialisering
Mathematics: analysis and approaches HL
Fysik 2
Physics SL/HL
Kemi 2
Chemistry SL/HL
Biologi 2
Biology, SL/HL
Naturkunskap 2
Environmental Systems, SL
or
Two of the following subjects - Chemistry, Physics och Biology, SL/HL
Historia 1b
History, SL/HL
Samhällskunskap 1b
IB exam
Samhällskunskap 2
Economics SL/HL or Global politics SL/HL
Maximising Your Application Potential
To strengthen your application, consider the following strategies:
1. Focus on Relevant Courses: Ensure that you meet the special merit requirements for your chosen program by achieving the necessary grades in specific IB subjects.
2. Leverage Merit Points: Utilise all possible merit points by choosing a sufficient combination of subjects. This can give you a competitive edge.
3. Understand Program Requirements: Different programs may have varying requirements. Research the specific demands of the program you are interested in and tailor your application accordingly.
4. Do Högskoleprovet: A standardised multiple choice test in Swedish which can be used to strengthen your application. It has 8 components.
5. Prepare Your Documents: Ensure that your IB transcripts, proof of merit points, and any other required documents are prepared and submitted on time via antagning.se.
Conclusion
Applying to Swedish universities with an IB background requires careful attention to the translation of your grades and the strategic use of merit points. By understanding how your IB results align with Swedish grading and maximizing your merit points, you can enhance your chances of admission to your desired program. Sweden offers a wealth of educational opportunities, and with careful preparation, you can make the most of this exciting journey. Good luck!
Contacting our University Counsellor
Feel free to contact our university counsellor at BISS by filling out this form or emailing the contact below for any further advice!
