Studying in the USA is a popular choice among Swedish students. To make education accessible, there are several financing options that can help cover costs during your studies. Grants and favorable student loans from CSN (the Swedish Board of Student Finance) are the most common solution and can often cover everything from tuition fees to housing, insurance, and flights. There are also scholarships available for those who want to study abroad.
How Much Do You Get from CSN?
An academic year in the United States is approximately 34 weeks, divided into either two semesters (around 17 weeks each) or three quarters (around 11 weeks each). To be eligible for CSN funding for studies in the USA, you must study full-time for at least 13 consecutive weeks, and you can receive student financial aid for up to 6 years (240 weeks).
Full-Time Studies Are Required for CSN
Full-time studies in the USA typically mean taking at least 12 units (around 4 courses) per semester. However, for certain degree programs, such as an Associate’s Degree or a Bachelor’s Degree, you may need to take 15 units (around 5 courses) per semester to graduate within the expected timeframe. To keep your student funding, it is also important that you pass your courses, as this affects your eligibility for CSN.
Loans and Grants from CSN
You can choose whether you want to apply for both grants and loans, or just the grant. The grant does not need to be repaid as long as you successfully complete your studies, while the loan must be repaid no earlier than six months after you stop receiving student funding. You then have 25 years to repay it. CSN loans remain a favorable form of financing, even though interest rates have increased in recent years. The interest rate for 2026 is 2.135%, compared to 1.981% in 2025.
Estimate Your CSN Funding Here
Student Financial Aid from CSN
Student financial aid from CSN consists of grants and loans to help you manage your finances during your studies, whether you are enrolled in a full degree program or individual courses. The amount of financial aid you receive depends on the number of weeks you are registered for your program or courses. In addition, you can also apply for loans to cover tuition fees, as well as extra costs such as insurance or travel to and from the United States. All schools and programs offered by Calistudies are approved for CSN student financial aid.
After you have applied to a school through Calistudies, we will help you with the entire CSN application process. However, this can only be done once you have received your admission decision from the school you have chosen. Therefore, it is beneficial to apply to Calistudies well in advance.
U.S. Financial Aid for Other Regions
Students from different regions also have access to various types of financial aid when studying in the USA. Funding opportunities vary by country, but many regions offer scholarships, grants, or loan programs, and U.S. universities may also provide additional financial support for international students.
Learn more about funding options for international students here.
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Learn About Studying in the USA
Want a full overview of studying in the United States? Explore our complete guide to understand how studying in the USA works, including admissions, costs, visas, and scholarships.
Questions About Studying in the USA?
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