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Studies at KTH

KTH is a university with a rich history of pioneering ideas and innovation that dates back to 1827. For nearly 200 years, KTH has shaped the talents who find solutions to tomorrow’s challenges.

Graduation ceremony in Stockholm City Hall
Graduation ceremony in Stockholm City Hall. Photo: Kalle Börjeson, borjesons.se

What are studies like at KTH?

Learn to work together

At KTH, collaborative work is a vital part of education. Professors are on a first-name basis, researchers value new ideas from students, and the curriculum emphasises personal development. You are encouraged to explore your ideas in and out of the classroom. You will learn how to work in teams with classmates from all over the world, preparing you for your future career.

Solve real-world problems

Our education is challenge-driven. Through our courses, which are closely connected to the latest research and industry, you'll work on projects addressing real societal issues. In the final semester of your programme you'll complete your degree project either at a company or university. Often, this will also be the place where you'll work after completing your degree .

Gain hands-on experience

We believe in learning-by-doing. That's why our curriculum largely integrates laboratory sessions, allowing you to gain invaluable practical experience alongside solid theoretical knowledge. As a KTH student, you gain access to cutting-edge research infrastructures and state-of-the-art technical equipment that meet the highest international standards.

Academic calendar

The academic year at KTH is split into two parts, the autumn semester and the spring semester. The autumn semester starts in late August and goes until the middle of January. The spring semester starts in the middle of January and goes until the beginning of June. Each semester has two study periods, each with three or four courses that run parallel for seven weeks. During this time, students can have scheduled lectures, lab work, group work, tutorial sessions, and individual studies. After that, there is a week of independent work and study before exams. Students are assessed through written or oral exams, which happen twice per semester, and may also include exercises and lab work. If a student fails, they have a second chance at the end of each semester.

ECTS credits

Each course and programme at KTH is measured in Swedish higher education credits. 1 Swedish higher education credit equals 1 ECTS credit. ECTS is a standard within the European Union for comparing academic credits. One academic year of full-time studies equals 60 ECTS (two semesters of in total 40 weeks of study). One semester of full-time studies equals 30 ECTS. If a semester consists of 4 comparable courses, they each have 7.5 ECTS credits and consist of 5 weeks of studies.

KTH Main Library
KTH Main Library

Support and services

Moving to a new country for studies often represents a major change in one's life, which can come with excitement and some concerns. To help you settle in, KTH provides a welcoming environment with a full range of support services tailored to the needs of international students. Whoever you are, you will find a place at KTH and be a part of a diverse community of students.

Students taking in the sun outside KTH Hallen, the sports facility on KTH Campus
Students taking in the sun outside KTH Hallen, the sports facility on KTH Campus

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