Learning in Sweden

The Swedish learning system covers different stages and goals rather than one single path. Compulsory education normally takes place in grundskola, while gymnasieskola offers voluntary academic and vocational programmes after it. Municipal schools and independent schools called friskolor are both part of the school system. Vocational learning can take place through an apprenticeship, usually called lärlingsutbildning, where much of the training happens at a workplace while the learner remains connected to a school or training provider. Higher education is offered by universities and university colleges, called universitet and högskolor. Students can take individual courses or complete programmes leading to academic or professional degrees. Adults can use several forms of upskilling. Komvux can help complete school subjects or obtain further qualifications, while Yrkeshögskolan, often called YH, focuses on practical vocational skills. Folkhögskola and studieförbund provide other forms of adult learning, including general education, shorter courses and personal development. The suitable option depends on the desired qualification, previous education, work goal, admission conditions and available study format. Swedish is the main language of public education and working life, but English is widely used in some courses and programmes. Schools may offer mother-tongue teaching or language support, and Sweden recognises Sami, Finnish, Meänkieli, Romani Chib and Yiddish as national minority languages. The specific support depends on the learner, school and education level.