The Swedish school model

The combination of free school choice, per-pupil vouchers, decentralisation, and independent schools that makes the Swedish system unique.

The Swedish school model (den svenska skolmodellen) is internationally unique in its combination of free school choice, per-pupil vouchers to independent schools, decentralisation to municipalities, and the possibility for for-profit companies to run schools.

International attention

The model is studied internationally as an example of market-oriented education policy. Both successes (choice, innovation) and problems (segregation, grade inflation, inequality) are discussed. The OECD has repeatedly analysed the Swedish model and issued recommendations for improvement.

Related terms

Free school choice (Fritt skolval) The right to choose a school regardless of where you live. Introduced in 1992 and a cornerstone of the Swedish school system. School voucher (Skolpeng) The amount the municipality pays per pupil to the school the pupil attends. The funding follows the pupil, regardless of whether the school is municipal or independent. Municipalisation (Kommunaliseringen) The 1991 reform that transferred responsibility for schools from the state to the municipalities. One of the most debated education reforms. The free school reform (Friskolereformen) The 1992 reform that granted the right to start independent schools with public funding. Introduced free school choice.

All glossary terms