How I Secured a Fully Funded Master's at Kristianstad University, Sweden Through the Swedish Institute Scholarship for Global Professionals

Hi everyone! I am Lamin Saidy from The Gambia, West Africa. I hold a bachelor’s degree in accountancy from the University of The Gambia and have built my career in internal auditing across both the private and public sectors. This experience has deepened my interest in governance, risk management, internal controls, and accountability.

In 2022, I was privileged to receive the Swedish Institute Scholarship for Global Professionals, which enabled me to pursue a master’s degree in Business Administration, specializing in Auditing and Control, at Kristianstad University in Sweden, which I completed in 2023. The programme broadened my perspective beyond auditing and strengthened my understanding of leadership, sustainability, youth participation, social policies, and global development, while equipping me with knowledge I could bring back and apply in The Gambia.

Swedish Institute (SI) Scholarship for Global Professionals Details

The Swedish Institute Scholarship for Global Professionals was a fully funded scholarship that covered:

• Full tuition fees;
• Health insurance;
• Monthly living stipend; and
• One round-trip air ticket to Sweden.

Beyond the financial support, the scholarship gave me the opportunity to study in an international academic environment, exchange ideas with people from different countries, develop new perspectives, and experience Swedish culture and society.

For me, it was more than a scholarship; it was an opportunity for personal growth, academic development, and international networking. Most importantly, it gave me knowledge and experiences that I could bring back and apply in The Gambia, both professionally and in contributing to the development of my community.

Were You Offered Any Other Scholarships?

The Swedish Institute Scholarship for Global Professionals was the scholarship I received for my master’s studies.

My experience, however, showed me that there are many international scholarship opportunities available to qualified students and professionals. The key is to research them carefully, understand the eligibility requirements, and prepare well in advance.

Educational Background

I completed my Bachelor’s degree in Accountancy at the University of The Gambia.

My undergraduate education gave me a strong foundation in accounting, finance, auditing, and financial management. After graduation, I moved into the field of internal auditing, where I gained professional experience in both the private and public sectors.

This combination of academic knowledge and practical experience prepared me well for my Master’s degree in Business Administration with specialization in Auditing and Control at Kristianstad University.

My professional experience also helped me appreciate that auditing is not only about reviewing financial records. It is also about governance, risk management, internal controls, accountability, organizational performance, and helping institutions achieve their objectives.

How Did You Prepare to Apply for SI Scholarship for Global Professionals?

I approached the application process carefully and took time to understand both the university and scholarship requirements.

I reviewed the eligibility criteria and considered whether my academic background, professional experience, leadership activities, and community involvement aligned with what the scholarship was looking for.

At the time of applying, I had gained significant professional experience in internal auditing in both the private and public sectors. I had also accumulated the required working hours, which was an important eligibility requirement.

I also reflected on my long-term career goals and how further education would enable me to contribute more effectively to my profession and to the development of The Gambia.

How Did You Find Information About Scholarships and Institutions?

I used online research to learn about scholarship opportunities and universities. I reviewed information from official scholarship and university websites and also sought advice from people with experience in international education.

Speaking to people who had previously applied for or received scholarships was particularly useful because they could provide practical advice based on their own experiences.

My advice to prospective applicants is to always go back to the official scholarship and university websites for the most accurate information and to use advice from past scholars and mentors as additional guidance.

Did You Take Any Standardized Tests Such as SAT, ACT, TOEFL, IELTS, GRE or GMAT?

No standardized tests such as the SAT, ACT, TOEFL, IELTS, GRE, or GMAT were required as part of my scholarship application.

The major requirements included having a strong academic background, relevant professional experience, leadership experience, and the required working hours.

Therefore, my preparation focused mainly on understanding the requirements, presenting my academic and professional experience clearly, and demonstrating how my goals aligned with the objectives of the Swedish Institute Scholarship for Global Professionals.

How Did You Prepare to Apply for the Swedish Institute Scholarship for Global Professionals?

I started by carefully reviewing the scholarship requirements and assessing how my academic, professional, leadership, and community experiences aligned with them.

I also reflected on my personal journey and the reasons I wanted to pursue postgraduate education.

My professional experience was an important part of my application. I had worked as an internal auditor in both the private and public sectors, and I had developed experience in areas related to governance, accountability, and organizational controls.

I also had experience working as an Internal Auditor with the National Youth Council, which exposed me to youth development issues.

Before applying, I was also involved in volunteering through NGOs and youth volunteer groups, supporting initiatives related to children’s education and environmental sustainability.

These experiences helped me demonstrate that my interest in social impact and development was genuine and had been part of my journey before I applied for the scholarship.

How Was Your Experience at Kristianstad University?

My experience at Kristianstad University was both academically and personally rewarding.

The master’s programme exposed me to new ways of thinking about business, auditing, control, governance, and organizational performance. It encouraged critical thinking and independent learning rather than simply focusing on theoretical knowledge.

Studying alongside people from different backgrounds also broadened my perspective. I learned that the same organizational and development challenges can be approached differently depending on a country's economic, social, and institutional environment.

Beyond the classroom, living in Sweden gave me an opportunity to experience a different culture, interact with people from different backgrounds, and develop personally. The Swedish FICA was great for networking, and I introduced it in my department to bond and network.

How Do You Rate Kristianstad University Academically and Why?

I would rate Kristianstad University as one of the best institutions to study at. The programme offered a strong balance between theoretical knowledge, practical learning, and research, with a particular focus on auditing, control, governance, and management.

The master’s programme was well structured and closely aligned with my professional background, while its emphasis on critical thinking, independent analysis, and practical application strengthened my professional skills. The international learning environment also allowed me to work with people from different backgrounds, broadening my perspectives and strengthening my teamwork and communication skills.

Overall, my experience at Kristianstad University provided me with quality academic knowledge, international exposure, and practical skills that continue to support my professional development.

How Does Kristianstad University Support International Students?

My experience as an international student was positive. The academic environment was welcoming and provided opportunities to interact with students and people from different cultural backgrounds.

The Swedish Institute scholarship community was also an important part of my experience. It created opportunities for scholars from different countries to connect, share experiences, build professional networks, and learn from one another; networking with the scholarship community continues even after my studies.

The experience also allowed me to learn about Swedish culture and society while sharing my own experiences and perspective as someone from The Gambia. That cultural exchange was one of the most valuable aspects of studying abroad.

Were Your Classes Conducted in English or Swedish?

My classes were conducted in English, so I was able to participate fully in lectures, academic discussions, group work, and assessments without a language barrier.

Although Swedish is the local language, English is widely spoken, which makes it relatively easy for international students to communicate and settle in. International students also have the opportunity to attend free Swedish language classes through CFE, which can be very helpful for those who want to learn the local language.

From my experience, knowing Swedish is not essential for succeeding academically, but I would still encourage international students to learn the basics. It makes everyday life easier, helps you connect with local people, and gives you a deeper appreciation of Swedish culture and society.

What Did You Pursue After the Scholarship?

After completing my Master’s degree in 2023, I returned to The Gambia and continued my professional career in internal auditing. I currently serve as the Head of Internal Audit at Reliance Financial Services, one of the leading microfinance institutions in The Gambia, where I contribute to strengthening governance, risk management, internal controls, and accountability.

Returning home was important to me because I wanted to apply the knowledge, skills, and international exposure I gained in Sweden to my professional environment and contribute to institutional development in The Gambia.

For me, the scholarship was never simply about going abroad to study. It was about gaining knowledge, developing as a leader, and returning home with the ability to create meaningful value in my country.

Would Potential Students Have Problems Academically Without Knowing Swedish?

I did not experience academic difficulties from not knowing Swedish because my master’s programme was taught in English.

International students should therefore not necessarily be discouraged by the fact that Swedish is the local language.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

I believe my application stood out because it demonstrated a consistent commitment to professional development, leadership, social impact, and service to my community.

My application was not based solely on academic qualifications. I was able to connect my academic background, professional experience, leadership activities, and community involvement into a clear story.

My experience working as an internal auditor in both the private and public sectors demonstrated my professional growth and commitment to accountability and good governance.

My work as an Internal Auditor with the National Youth Council was also important because it gave me direct exposure to youth development and the issues affecting young people. In addition, I had been actively involved in volunteering with NGOs and youth groups, supporting children’s education and environmental sustainability.

These experiences helped demonstrate that my interest in social impact was not something I developed simply because I wanted a scholarship. It was already part of my personal and professional journey.

I believe the strongest part of my application was being able to clearly explain where I had come from, what I had done, why I wanted further education, and how I intended to use the opportunity to contribute to my country.

What Would You Have Done Differently if You Were Going Through the Process Again?

If I were going through the process again, I would start preparing even earlier.

I would give myself more time to develop and refine my essays and would seek feedback from past scholars, mentors, and other experienced professionals before submitting the application.

I would also keep more detailed records of my leadership, volunteering, and community activities so that I could clearly demonstrate the impact of those experiences.

The application process taught me that a strong scholarship application is not created overnight. It is the result of experiences and activities that you build over time.

What Advice Would You Give to Future Applicants?

My advice to anyone considering applying for the Swedish Institute Scholarship for Global Professionals is to believe in yourself and start preparing early.

Do not wait until the scholarship application opens before you begin building your profile. Get involved in voluntary activities, contribute to your community, develop your leadership skills, gain relevant professional experience, and look for opportunities where you can make a positive difference.

When writing your application, do not simply list your achievements. Explain the impact of what you have done. Tell the selection committee what you learned, how your experiences shaped you, and how the scholarship fits your future goals.

Research the scholarship requirements carefully and do not rush through the application just to get it submitted. Take the time to understand what the scholarship is looking for and make sure your application genuinely reflects your experiences.

I would also strongly encourage prospective applicants to seek advice from past Swedish Institute scholars, mentors, lecturers, and professionals. Their experiences can provide valuable guidance and help you avoid mistakes.

Most importantly, remember that you do not need to have a perfect background to apply. What matters is being able to demonstrate commitment, leadership, purpose, potential, and a genuine desire to create positive change.

My own journey is an example of what can happen when you combine education, professional experience, community involvement, and a clear vision for how you want to contribute to your country.