Programme Overview
The Swedish specialist training in obstetrics and gynaecology (OBGYN) is a nationally coordinated programme aimed at producing competent, patientcentred consultants. It is recognised by the Swedish Society of Obstetrics and Gynaecology and complies with European Union standards for medical specialisation.
Entry level: Medical licence (Swedish licence or recognised foreign licence)
Main aim: Acquire comprehensive clinical, surgical and research competence in obstetrics, gynaecology and reproductive medicine.
Training Structure
1. Core Clinical Rotations (Years 13)
- Obstetrics: Antenatal care, labour and delivery, highrisk pregnancy, fetal medicine.
- Gynaecology: Outpatient clinics, minor and major surgery, urogynaecology, oncology.
- Emergency Medicine: Acutecare shifts in obstetric emergencies and perioperative care.
2. SubSpecialty Experience (Year 4)
During the fourth year trainees spend 612 months in one or more subspecialities such as:
- Maternalfetal medicine
- Reproductive endocrinology & IVF
- Gynecologic oncology
- Urogynaecology
3. Research & Academic Development (Year 5)
All trainees must complete a research project that results in a peerreviewed publication or a thesis. The year also includes teaching responsibilities and preparation for the final specialist exam.
Assessment
Progress is monitored through a national logbook, annual competence reviews, and a final written & oral exam administered by the Swedish National Board of Health and Welfare (Socialstyrelsen).
How to Apply
Eligibility
- Medical degree recognised in Sweden.
- Completion of a 1year internship (ATprogram) or equivalent.
- Proficiency in Swedish (B2C1 level) language assessment is mandatory.
Application Process
- Register on the national portal SJF Trainee Portal.
- Upload required documents: CV, licence, ATprogram certificate, Swedish language certificate, references.
- Submit your ranking of preferred training hospitals (e.g., Karolinska University Hospital, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Uppsala University Hospital).
- Participate in the national selection interview if shortlisted.
- Accept the offer and complete the formal registration with Socialstyrelsen.
Key Dates (20252026 intake)
- Application opening: 1March 2025
- Deadline for documents: 30June 2025
- Interview period: AugustSeptember 2025
- Allocation of places: 15October 2025
- Start of training: 1January 2026
Living and Working in Sweden
Work Environment
Swedish hospitals operate under a transparent, teambased model. Working hours follow a 40hour week with a strong emphasis on worklife balance. Oncall duties are shared, and shift patterns are designed to avoid excessive fatigue.
Salary & Benefits
- Starting monthly salary for trainees: SEK38000 44000 (USD4000 4600) gross.
- Collective agreement provides pension, paid parental leave, sick leave, and continuingeducation funds.
- Travel allowance for commuting and possible housing support in highcost cities.
Cost of Living
Sweden ranks among the highercost European countries, but salaries are taxed progressively to fund extensive public services. A single trainee can expect a monthly net budget of SEK2000025000 for rent, food, transport and leisure, depending on city.
Cultural Tips
- Respect for punctuality and consensusbased decision making.
- Swedes value personal space; keep conversations professional but friendly.
- Learning Swedish fast helps integration; many colleagues speak English, but patient communication is in Swedish.
Helpful Resources
- Swedish National Board of Health and Welfare (Socialstyrelsen) official regulations and exam details.
- Swedish Society of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (SLET) guidelines, conferences, and networking.
- Swedish Migration Agency visa and workpermit information for nonEU citizens.
- Swedish University of Health Sciences research opportunities and masters programmes.
Joining the trainee community on social platforms such as Facebook Groups or Reddit r/SwedenMedical can provide practical advice and peer support.
