PRESCHOOL (FÖRSKOLA)
- Age: Children aged 1–5 are entitled to preschool from the age of 1 (or when parental leave ends).
- Placement process: Municipalities manage preschool locally. Contact the municipality as soon as you can explain your child’s needs and likely address; a municipality should offer a preschool place within four months after it has been notified that a child needs one.
- Cost: Highly subsidised through the maxtaxa system. Maximum fees are set nationally.
- Language: Preschool is conducted in Swedish. Every child’s adjustment and language development is individual.
SCHOOL (GRUNDSKOLA AND GYMNASIUM)
- School places: Children of compulsory-school age have a right to free education. Contact the municipality early; for children aged 6–18, a place should be offered as soon as possible.
- International schools: Availability, admissions and fees vary by school. Contact the individual school for current information.
- Support for new arrivals: Schools assess newly arrived pupils’ previous knowledge and can provide Swedish as a second language and other support where appropriate.
MY ADVICE
Common mistake
Waiting too long to contact the municipality can make an already busy move feel more pressured. Begin the conversation as soon as your family’s likely address and timing are sufficiently clear.
Expert tip
When choosing a neighbourhood, research the local schools before committing to an area. School quality and culture vary significantly between districts, even within the same city.
The emotional side
Children often need time as well as practical support. Allow space for missing old friends and routines, and keep talking to the school about what will help your child settle.
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