Schools & Preschools
If you have children, finding a good school or preschool will be a priority. Here you will find information on the Swedish school system and some of the schooling options on offer
Preschool
For preschool your child must be between 1 and 5 years old and have a Swedish personal identification number. In most cases both of the parents must work, study or be looking for a job in order for your child to get a place in a preschool.
Fees are based on your household income and the number of children you have enrolled. The maximum monthly cost for one child is approximately 1 500 SEK.
Elementary school
The year your child turns 6, he or she will need to attend preschool class (förskoleklass). This was a voluntary school form, but is now compulsory for children in Sweden.
Between the ages of 7 and 16, children are required to attend compulsory school (grundskola), which is from grades 1-9. Your child always has the right to a place in school in the area where you live. You also have the right to choose another school and can arrange a visit or apply for a place by contacting the school you are interested in.
Upper secondary school (gymnasium), or grades 10-12, is not compulsory but is attended by most young people in Sweden. It is also a prerequisite for tertiary studies. Your child can choose from a range of programmes which will prepare them for working life or further studies.
International schools
In Sundsvall, you will also find Internationella Engelska Skolan (International English School), which provides a bilingual learning environment and a curriculum with an international profile. For upper secondary education, Västermalm Gymnasium in Sundsvall is one of the world’s 3,200 schools offering the International Baccalaureate (IB) program, giving students a globally recognized qualification.
How to apply
Most schools and preschools are run by the municipality and for these schools you apply for a place through your municipality. Get in touch with a relocation coordinator for help with finding a suitable school or preschool.
