studievägledare

Studievägledare, or study advisors, are professionals within the Swedish education system who provide information, guidance, and support to students planning their education and future careers. They work in upper secondary schools (gymnasieskolan), universities and university colleges, as well as in municipal adult education and some private institutions. Their primary aim is to help students understand educational pathways, entry requirements, and the steps needed to reach their goals.

Services commonly offered include help with choosing courses and programmes, planning degree trajectories, mapping prerequisites and credit transfer options, and information about admissions processes, timelines, and scholarships. Studievägledare also support developing study skills, time management, and strategies for handling studying and workload. They provide information about international opportunities, internships, exchanges, and career possibilities, and assist with transitions such as switching programmes, taking a break, or re-entering study after a pause.

Approaches are typically client-centered, confidential, and non-judgmental. Meetings may involve conversations, career assessments, and learning-strategy tools, and are often complemented by group information sessions. Studievägledare collaborate with teachers, study counselors, career centers, and welfare services to coordinate support and referrals as needed.

Qualifications and context vary, but many studievägledare have a background in education, psychology, social work, or guidance and counseling, with formal training in educational and career guidance at the university level. They are employed by schools or higher education institutions and funded through public education authorities or student-support budgets. Their role is to inform and empower students to make informed choices, not to act as therapists or make decisions for them.