The Design by Umeå Scholarships for International Students are prestigious merit-based awards offered by Umeå University, Sweden, to support talented international students admitted to its world-renowned Design by Umeå Master’s programmes. These scholarships are designed to attract highly motivated, creative, and academically outstanding students who wish to pursue advanced studies in design within an innovative, sustainability-focused academic environment.
This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about the Design by Umeå Scholarships—eligibility criteria, scholarship benefits, eligible programmes, application process, selection criteria, deadlines, and expert tips to improve your chances of success.
About Umeå University and Design by Umeå
Umeå University is one of Sweden’s leading research universities, consistently ranked among the top young universities globally. Known for its strong emphasis on innovation, sustainability, and interdisciplinary learning, the university attracts students from over 80 countries.
Design by Umeå is the collective identity of Umeå University’s advanced design education. It is internationally recognised for producing designers who combine creative excellence, social responsibility, technological awareness, and strategic thinking.
Design by Umeå programmes are practice-oriented, research-informed, and closely connected to industry and real-world challenges.
What Are the Design by Umeå Scholarships?
The Design by Umeå Scholarships are tuition-fee scholarships awarded to outstanding non-EU/EEA international students admitted to eligible Design by Umeå Master’s programmes.
These scholarships are:
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Highly competitive
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Merit-based
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Intended to reward exceptional academic performance, creative ability, and design potential
They aim to make world-class design education in Sweden more accessible to top international talent.
Eligible Design Programmes
The scholarships are primarily linked to Design by Umeå Master’s programmes, including (but not limited to):
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Master’s Programme in Interaction Design
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Master’s Programme in Advanced Product Design
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Master’s Programme in Transportation Design
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Master’s Programme in Architecture and Urban Design (where applicable)
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Other design-related Master’s programmes offered under the Design by Umeå umbrella
Eligibility may vary slightly by academic year, so applicants should always confirm the current list of eligible programmes.
Scholarship Coverage and Benefits
What the Scholarship Covers
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Full or partial tuition fee waiver (up to 100% of tuition fees)
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Covers the entire duration of the Master’s programme (usually two years), provided academic progress is satisfactory
What the Scholarship Does NOT Cover
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Living expenses (accommodation, food, transportation)
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Health insurance
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Travel costs
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Study materials and personal expenses
International students must therefore demonstrate that they can finance their living costs in Sweden, even if awarded the scholarship.
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)
To be eligible for the Design by Umeå Scholarships, applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
1. International Student Status
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Must be a citizen of a non-EU/EEA country
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Required to pay tuition fees at Umeå University
2. Admission to an Eligible Programme
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Must apply for and be admitted to a Design by Umeå Master’s programme
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The programme must be listed as eligible for the scholarship in the relevant academic year
3. Academic Excellence
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Strong undergraduate academic record
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Competitive GPA or equivalent
4. Design Portfolio Excellence
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High-quality design portfolio demonstrating:
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Creativity and originality
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Design thinking and problem-solving
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Technical and conceptual skills
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Social, ethical, or sustainability awareness
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5. English Language Proficiency
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Must meet Umeå University’s English language requirements for Master’s studies
Selection Criteria
The Design by Umeå Scholarships are extremely competitive and are awarded based on:
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Academic merit
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Portfolio quality and originality
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Relevance of previous studies to the chosen programme
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Motivation and future potential in the design field
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Ability to contribute to the Design by Umeå academic community
Financial need is generally not the primary criterion—the focus is on talent, excellence, and potential impact.
Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Apply for a Master’s Programme
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Submit your application through the Swedish national application portal
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Choose a Design by Umeå Master’s programme as your priority
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Upload all required documents, including transcripts and portfolio
Step 2: Receive an Admission Offer
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You must receive an offer of admission before you can be awarded the scholarship
Step 3: Apply for the Design by Umeå Scholarship
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Complete the separate scholarship application form provided by Umeå University
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Only admitted students are eligible to apply
Step 4: Submit Required Scholarship Documents
Typically includes:
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Motivation letter or statement
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Updated portfolio (if required)
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Proof of academic merit
Step 5: Await Selection Results
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Scholarship decisions are usually announced before the tuition payment deadline
Key Deadlines (Indicative)
While exact dates vary each year, the general timeline is:
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January – Deadline for Master’s programme applications
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March–April – Admission results released
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April – Scholarship application deadline
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April–May – Scholarship decisions announced
Applicants are strongly advised to apply as early as possible.
Tips to Strengthen Your Scholarship Application
1. Create an Outstanding Portfolio
Your portfolio is the most critical component. Ensure it:
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Shows clear design process, not just final outcomes
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Explains problem definition, ideation, testing, and iteration
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Demonstrates user-centered or sustainability-focused thinking
2. Write a Strong Motivation Letter
Clearly explain:
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Why you chose Design by Umeå
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How the programme aligns with your career goals
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What impact you want to create as a designer
3. Align with Umeå University’s Values
Emphasise:
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Sustainability
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Social responsibility
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Innovation and collaboration
4. Apply Early and Carefully
Incomplete or late applications are usually disqualified.
Life in Umeå as an International Student
Umeå is known for:
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A high quality of life
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Strong student community
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Affordable living costs compared to larger European cities
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Access to nature, creativity, and innovation
Students benefit from:
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Modern design studios and workshops
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Close collaboration with industry partners
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A strong international alumni network
Career Prospects for Design by Umeå Graduates
Graduates of Design by Umeå programmes go on to work as:
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Interaction Designers
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Product Designers
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UX/UI Designers
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Transportation and Mobility Designers
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Design Strategists
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Entrepreneurs and Innovation Consultants
Employers include global design firms, tech companies, automotive brands, startups, and public-sector innovation labs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the Design by Umeå Scholarship fully funded?
No. It covers tuition fees only. Living expenses are not included.
Can EU/EEA students apply?
No. The scholarship is for tuition-paying non-EU/EEA students.
Is a separate scholarship application required?
Yes. After admission, eligible students must submit a dedicated scholarship application.
Can the scholarship be withdrawn?
Yes, if academic performance is unsatisfactory.
Final Thoughts
The Design by Umeå Scholarships for International Students represent an exceptional opportunity for talented designers to study at one of Europe’s most innovative design institutions. While highly competitive, the scholarship rewards creativity, academic excellence, and a strong commitment to socially responsible design.
If you are an ambitious international student with a compelling portfolio and a clear vision for your future in design, Umeå University’s Design by Umeå programmes—and their associated scholarships—can be a transformative step in your academic and professional journey.
