Ingvar Kamprad Scholarship: A Comprehensive Guide for International Students

Introduction

The Ingvar Kamprad Scholarship is a prestigious financial aid opportunity named after Ingvar Kamprad, the founder of IKEA and one of Sweden’s most influential entrepreneurs. The scholarship reflects Kamprad’s lifelong commitment to entrepreneurship, innovation, frugality, and international outlook, values that are deeply embedded in Sweden’s higher education system.

Primarily associated with Swedish universities, most notably Linnaeus University (located in Småland, Kamprad’s home region) and, in some contexts, linked broadly to Swedish academic excellence and innovation, the Ingvar Kamprad Scholarship is designed to support high-achieving international students pursuing Bachelor’s or Master’s degree programmes.

This article provides a detailed and student-focused overview of the Ingvar Kamprad Scholarship, including its purpose, eligibility criteria, funding coverage, application process, selection criteria, and tips for success.

Background: Who Was Ingvar Kamprad?

Ingvar Kamprad (1926–2018) was the founder of IKEA, one of the world’s largest and most innovative retail companies. Born in Småland, Sweden, Kamprad was known for:

• Entrepreneurial thinking from a young age

• Emphasis on efficiency, sustainability, and cost-consciousness

• Strong belief in education, innovation, and global cooperation

The scholarship bearing his name aims to empower future global leaders, particularly those who embody entrepreneurial spirit, innovation, and social responsibility.

What Is the Ingvar Kamprad Scholarship?

The Ingvar Kamprad Scholarship is a merit-based and/or need-aware scholarship awarded to international students enrolling in eligible degree programmes at Swedish universities, most commonly Linnaeus University.

Core Objectives of the Scholarship

• Promote internationalisation in Swedish higher education

• Support talented students with strong academic and leadership potential

• Encourage innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable development

• Reduce financial barriers for students studying in Sweden

The scholarship is competitive and awarded to a limited number of students each academic year.

Fields of Study Typically Supported

The Ingvar Kamprad Scholarship is often aligned with programmes that reflect Kamprad’s values and Sweden’s strengths, including:

• Business Administration and Management

• Entrepreneurship and Innovation

• Economics and Finance

• Engineering and Technology

• Sustainability and Environmental Studies

• Design, Logistics, and Supply Chain Management

• Social Sciences with an innovation or development focus

However, eligibility is ultimately tied to specific programmes approved by the host university in a given year.

Who Can Apply?

Eligibility criteria may vary slightly depending on the institution and academic year, but the following requirements commonly apply.

1. Nationality

• Open to international students (non-EU/EEA and sometimes EU/EEA, depending on the award category)

2. Admission Status

• Applicants must have applied for or received an offer of admission to an eligible Bachelor’s or Master’s programme at the host university.

3. Academic Excellence

• Strong academic performance in previous studies

• Relevant academic background for the chosen programme

4. Motivation and Values

• Demonstrated interest in:

  • Entrepreneurship

  • Innovation

  • Sustainability

  • Leadership or social impact

5. Tuition Fee Status

• Many Ingvar Kamprad Scholarships are aimed at tuition-fee-paying students, particularly non-EU/EEA applicants.

What Does the Ingvar Kamprad Scholarship Cover?

The scholarship is typically a partial funding award, though the exact value may vary annually.

Common Benefits

• Tuition Fee Reduction

  • Often covers a percentage of tuition fees (e.g., 50%–75%)

• Full Tuition Coverage (in limited cases)

• One-Year or Programme-Length Support

  • Some awards apply for one academic year

  • Others may be renewable subject to academic performance

What Is Usually Not Covered

• Living expenses (accommodation, food, transport)

• Travel costs to Sweden

• Visa and residence permit fees

• Insurance (unless stated)

Students are expected to demonstrate the ability to cover remaining costs as required by Swedish residence permit regulations.

Duration of the Scholarship

• Typically awarded for one academic year

• May be renewable for multi-year programmes, subject to:

  • Satisfactory academic progress

  • Continued enrolment

  • Compliance with scholarship conditions

Selection Criteria

The Ingvar Kamprad Scholarship is highly competitive. Selection committees usually assess applications based on:

1. Academic Merit

• Grades and academic achievements

• Relevance of previous education

2. Motivation and Personal Statement

• Clear explanation of:

  • Why you chose the programme

  • How it aligns with your career goals

  • How you embody Ingvar Kamprad’s values

3. Leadership and Initiative

• Entrepreneurial experience

• Innovation projects

• Volunteering, leadership, or business initiatives

4. Long-Term Impact

• How the education will contribute to:

  • Your home country

  • Global development

  • Innovation or sustainable solutions

How to Apply for the Ingvar Kamprad Scholarship

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Apply for Admission via University Admissions Sweden

   • Submit your degree application through the national portal.

   • Select an eligible programme at the host university.

2. Apply for the Scholarship Separately

   • Scholarship applications are usually submitted via:

     • The university’s scholarship portal

     • A dedicated online application form

3. Prepare Required Documents

   • Academic transcripts

   • Curriculum vitae (CV)

   • Motivation letter or personal statement

   • Proof of admission (if available)

4. Submit Before the Deadline

   • Scholarship deadlines often fall between January and March

   • Late or incomplete applications are not considered

5. Await Selection Results

   • Successful candidates are notified by email

   • Acceptance of the scholarship is usually required within a short timeframe

Difference Between the Ingvar Kamprad Scholarship and Other Swedish Scholarships

Tips for a Strong Application

1. Align with Kamprad’s Values

   • Emphasise entrepreneurship, innovation, efficiency, and sustainability.

2. Write a Compelling Motivation Letter

   • Be personal, clear, and forward-looking.

3. Show Impact

   • Explain how your studies will create real-world change.

4. Demonstrate Leadership

   • Highlight initiatives, startups, or leadership roles.

5. Apply Early

   • Scholarship slots are limited and competitive.

Why the Ingvar Kamprad Scholarship Matters

This scholarship:

• Supports global access to Swedish education

• Encourages entrepreneurial and innovative thinking

• Honors Ingvar Kamprad’s legacy of simplicity and impact

• Helps develop future business leaders, innovators, and change-makers

It is particularly valuable for students who share Sweden’s emphasis on sustainability, innovation, and social responsibility.

Final Thoughts

The Ingvar Kamprad Scholarship is an excellent opportunity for ambitious international students seeking high-quality education in Sweden. While it may not always cover all study costs, it significantly reduces financial barriers and offers recognition tied to one of the world’s most influential entrepreneurs.

If you are planning to study in Sweden and have a strong academic record combined with entrepreneurial or innovative ambitions, the Ingvar Kamprad Scholarship is well worth pursuing.