högskoleförberedande

Högskoleförberedande, often translated as "university preparatory" or "tertiary preparatory," refers to a type of upper secondary education in Sweden designed to qualify students for higher education. These programs are offered in Swedish gymnasieskolan (upper secondary school) and typically span three years. Successful completion of a högskoleförberedande program leads to a grundläggande behörighet (basic eligibility) for university studies.

There are six main högskoleförberedande programs: the Natural Science Programme (Naturvetenskapsprogrammet), the Social Science Programme (Samhällsvetenskapsprogrammet), the Economics Programme (Ekonomiprogrammet), the Technical Preparatory Programme (Teknikprogrammet), the Liberal Arts Programme (Humanistiska programmet), and the Arts Programme (Estetiska programmet). Each program has a distinct focus, with specific core subjects and electives designed to provide a foundation for related university fields. For instance, the Natural Science Programme emphasizes mathematics, physics, chemistry, and biology, preparing students for science and engineering degrees.

In addition to the general basic eligibility, many university programs have specific course requirements known as särskild behörighet (specific eligibility). Students often tailor their elective courses within their högskoleförberedande program to meet these requirements, or they may take additional courses after graduation. The choice of a högskoleförberedande program is a significant decision for Swedish students, influencing their future academic pathways and career opportunities.