- Lund University, founded in 1666, is Sweden's top-ranked university and is ranked 72nd in the QS World University Rankings 2026, its best result since 2016
- It has around 46,000 students and 8,500 staff across campuses in Lund, Helsingborg, Malmo and Ljungbyhed, with nine faculties
- EU, EEA and Swiss citizens study free, while non-EU tuition is set per programme, roughly SEK 135,000 to 160,000 per year for many master's degrees, plus a SEK 900 application fee.
What Is Lund University Known For?
Lund University, founded in 1666, is Sweden's top-ranked institution and one of the world's oldest and most prestigious universities. It is known for research excellence, sustainability leadership and hosting two of Europe's flagship research facilities, MAX IV and the European Spallation Source. Its nine faculties span law, engineering, medicine, science, economics and the humanities.
Lund University operates across the cities of Lund, Helsingborg, Malmo and Ljungbyhed and maintains over 600 partner institutions in 70 countries. Its annual turnover is around EUR 1,024 million, with roughly two-thirds directed to research, reflecting its position as one of Northern Europe's most research-intensive universities.
What Are Lund University's Rankings in 2026?
Lund University is ranked 72nd in the QS World University Rankings 2026, up three places from 2025 and its best result since 2016. This makes Lund the top-ranked university in Sweden and among the leading institutions in the Nordic region. It also performs strongly in global sustainability and subject rankings.
- QS World University Rankings 2026: 72nd globally, best since 2016
- Top-ranked higher education institution in Sweden
- Among the leading universities in the Nordic region
- Strong performer in global sustainability and subject rankings
What Does Lund University Cost for International Students?
Students from the EU, EEA and Switzerland study free at Lund University. Non-EU and non-EEA students pay tuition set per programme, roughly SEK 135,000 to 160,000 per year for many master's programmes, such as SEK 155,000 for law and SEK 160,000 for management. A one-time application fee of SEK 900 also applies.
Tuition is set per programme, so fees vary and some science and engineering degrees cost more. Non-EU students pay per semester, with the first instalment due before arrival so the residence permit can be processed. There are no tuition fees for exchange students or PhD candidates at Lund University.
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Applications to Lund University are made through Sweden's national portal, universityadmissions.se, usually by mid-January for the autumn intake. Master's applicants need a relevant bachelor's degree and proof of English proficiency, typically IELTS 6.5 overall with no band below 5.5. Non-EU applicants also pay the SEK 900 application fee per semester.
What Scholarships Does Lund University Offer?
The Lund University Global Scholarship is the main merit-based award for fee-paying non-EU students, covering 25 to 100 percent of tuition. Swedish Institute scholarships also fund international master's students, covering tuition plus living costs. Because these awards are limited and highly competitive, applicants should budget for full tuition and living expenses as a backup.
Why Should International Students Choose Lund University?
International students choose Lund University for its world-class research, English-taught programmes and vibrant student life built around Sweden's oldest student nations. Graduates benefit from Sweden's strong innovation economy and a residence-permit extension to seek work after studies. The compact, historic city of Lund offers a safe, sustainable and internationally diverse environment.