Pick 'n' mix with high standards

English-taught courses are widely available and very accessible in Sweden.

Higher education is of a high standard, very flexible and, most important, free.

Contrary to popular belief, the cost of living is similar to that of the UK, while student accommodation is far cheaper in Stockholm than in London.

Apart from the climate, the only downside is Sweden's sluggish response to the Bologna agreements: there is still no clear division between undergraduate and postgraduate education, which can make the transition to and from the UK tricky to negotiate.

Although foreign nationals pay no fees, they cannot apply for study loans.

Student union membership is obligatory but cheap. Fees range from SEK150-400 (£11-£29) a term. Textbooks are expensive, however.

Classes are smaller than in the UK and a study credit system is used. One credit point represents a week of full-time study and is equivalent to 1.5 credit points in the European credit transfer system. Students can pick and mix more freely than almost anywhere in the world, not only among faculties but also between universities.

Applications are processed by the Swedish national admissions board.

Application forms: www.hsv.se

More details: www.studyin.sweden.se