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Are you considering studying in SWEDEN? Studying abroad in Europe is every student’s dream, and Sweden is one of the top destinations for students planning to move abroad. Sweden is among the most popular destinations for studying abroad. The Swedish education system ranks as one of the best in the world.
The student-centric education system in Sweden helps develop independent thinking and personal initiative. Active participation in seminars and discussions, as well as contributions of opinions and ideas, helps students develop academic skills and learn the skills needed for building an international career.
Sweden offers a unique and exciting student life soaked in centuries of tradition. Student populations are the highest in Uppsala and Lund, where student nations are. In these cities, many groups organize student events. As countries have their own vibes, international students get an opportunity to meet and socialize with students from around the world.
Country Information – Benefits to be in SWEDEN
Studying in Sweden, Visiting Sweden or moving for work to Sweden! In recent years, Sweden, one of Europe’s overlooked studies abroad destinations, has experienced a huge boost in interest from prospective students, and we think we know why.
- Internationally Renowned Education System: The quality and international standing of the Swedish education system needs no explanation, with universities consistently ranked among the best in the world. The addition of one of its fine institutions would be an excellent addition to any student’s academic CV.
- Thriving Student Life: Sweden has an interesting and unique student life that is steeped in centuries of tradition. Sweden’s largest student populations can be found in the cities of Uppsala and Lund, where student nations, organizations specifically responsible for organizing student events, are plentiful.
- No Language Barrier: While the official language of Sweden is Swedish, a rich and beautiful language, in 2017 Swedes ranked second in the world for skills in English as a second language. As the world becomes increasingly connected and businesses seek to expand beyond national and linguistic boundaries, Sweden offers an excellent location to learn and develop your English language skills.
Details about Educational institutes, Colleges, Universities
- Student have lots of institutions to choose from for education in Sweden. A desire to pursue higher education and earn a degree doesn’t have to be stressful, boring or something to trudge through especially if you vault over one of the top universities or colleges in Sweden.
- Top Class Universities: The universities in Sweden rank among the best in the world but are still less expensive than their counterparts overseas. Not only are you paying good fees than other students in another country, but you will also get a globally-recognised degree and will be sought after by numerous companies worldwide.
- The Swedish Way of Life: Lagom, the Swedish ethos of ‘just enough’ infiltrates all aspects of life, from their study life balance to their holidays and traditions. It’s no surprise then that Swedish design, made famous by the furniture retailer, IKEA, relies so heavily on minimalism and functionality.
- A Rich History: From the Vikings to Abba, Sweden has contributed a lot to the history books, and Swedes are not shy about celebrating them. Through numerous museums and festivals, the historical highlights of Sweden are accessible and championed throughout Sweden and a joy to behold.
- Home to International Business: For students who wish to seek internships or work experience, look no further than one of Sweden’s many internationally-renowned businesses. Students will find the head offices of companies like H&M and Spotify in Stockholm. Or, if you find yourself studying on Sweden’s west coast, you may be interested in gaining experience at Volvo’s head office in Gothenburg.
- High Quality, Unconventional Education: Sweden excels in master’s programs in mathematics, mechanical engineering, medicine, physics, software engineering, urban planning, and political science. The system emphasizes individual learning and focuses on your academic interest rather than grades. As a result, Swedish universities prepare students to succeed in the future. They teach them to be innovative and perceptive team players. The universities are flexible with their study programs. Degree programs in Sweden allow the students to study and do practical work alongside. This will give them first-hand experience in their respective fields.
- Innovative Country: Sweden is home to universities dating back to the 15th century. Modern inventions like the computer mouse, the pacemaker, Bluetooth, dialysis equipment, and Internet applications like Skype and Spotify result from the academic and research excellence of the universities in Sweden. Sweden has numerous multinational organizations that are front runners in innovation and technology. For example, the well-known companies Ericsson, Volvo, Electrolux, Scania, Atlas Copco, Sandvik, and Ikea have their beginnings in Sweden. Academic institutions encourage creativity and innovation. The undergraduate and post-graduate programs offer courses that can be tailored to your interests.
- Multicultural Environment of Sweden: Sweden is emerging as a destination for higher education for international students. The wide range of disciplines offered by the master’s degree portal is a significant attraction. The scholarships provided by the universities are many. Students from various countries get scholarships ranging from 50% to 75% of the tuition fee. Education is free for nationals of EU/EEA countries and Switzerland. Hence, Sweden has an eclectic mix of people from all over the world who bring different perspectives and experiences. Students learn to interact with people from diverse communities and cultures.
- Thriving Student Life: Besides, students are given opportunities to learn about the cultures and traditions of other countries. For example, students in the Flogsta neighbourhood in Uppsala gather at 10 p.m. every night to let out a collective scream. New students may find it strange initially, but it encourages students to come together to support one another and have fun.
- Working While Studying and After Completing the Program: The Swedish job market is very competitive. The major industries in Sweden include telecommunications, pharmaceuticals, automobiles, precision equipment, home goods, and iron and steel. Ikea and Spotify are the major Swedish companies. After completing your studies, you can stay in Sweden for six months to look for employment. However, it would be advantageous if you had a residence permit to remain in the country.
- Quality of Life: Sweden believes in freedom, equality, and sustainability to create a better world. Sweden is one of the most progressive countries, with Stockholm qualifying as an Open City. Almost all of the people speak English, making international students feel at home. Sweden is a beautiful place to live in, with a corporate culture that encourages work-life balance. The Swedes are polite people and mostly keep to themselves. Public services are excellent.
List of Top Sweden Universities:
- University of Aix-Marseilles
- Blekinge Institute of Technology
- Chalmers University of Technology
- Dalarna University
- GIH – the Swedish School of Sport and Health Sciences
- Halmstad University
- Jönköping University
- KMH – Royal College of Music in Stockholm
- KTH Royal Institute of Technology
- Karlstad University
- Karolinska Institutet
- Konstfack
- Kristianstad University
- Linköping University
- Linnaeus University
- Luleå University of Technology
- Lund University
- Malmö University
- Marie Cederschiöld University
- Mid Sweden University
- Mälardalen University
- Royal Institute of Art
- SLU – Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences
- SMI – University College of Music Education in Stockholm
- Sophiahemmet University College
- Stockholm School of Economics
- Stockholm University
- Stockholm University of the Arts
- Swedish Defence University
- Södertörn University
- The Swedish Red Cross University College
- Umeå University
- University College Stockholm
- University West
- University of Borås
- University of Gothenburg
- University of Gävle
- University of SkövdeUppsala University
- Örebro University
Language Tests or Language requirements
Do I need to pass and ENGLISH LANGUAGE TEST to study in Sweden? Is the question you must be having in your mind. Let us make it clear and precise for you. If your first language is not English, you’ll need to show excellent language proficiency to apply to a Sweden university.
When you apply for a university in Sweden, you have to provide proof of: Swedish language proficiency – if you apply for French-taught degrees. English language proficiency – if you apply for English-taught degrees (accepted tests are: IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT, Duolingo and PTE Academic).
- IELTS: IELTS is a commonly accepted English test all over the world. Most universities set their English requirements to levels they call “English 5”, “English 6” or “English 7”, which relates to how English is taught in the Swedish school system. “English 6” (sometimes also called “English B”) is by far the most common requirement to study in Sweden in an English-language Masters or Bachelor’s degree programme. an IELTS score of 5.5 (with no section below 5.0), an IELTS score of 6.5 (with no section below 5.5), and/or an IELTS score of 7.0 (with no section below 6.0).
- TOEFL: TOEFL or Test of English as a Foreign Language is accepted by most Sweden universities and colleges. A TOEFL PBT score of 4.0 in the written test with an overall score of 530, a TOEFL iBT score of 17 in the written test with an overall score of 72, a TOEFL PBT score of 4.5 in the written test with an overall score of 575, a TOEFL iBT score of 20 in the written test with an overall score of 90, a TOEFL PBT score of 4.5 in the written test with an overall score of 600, and/or a TOEFL iBT score of 20 in the written test with an overall score of 100,
- PTE: PTE is accepted by Swedish universities too. You can use your score to follow your university and university applications quickly. a Person PTE Academic score of 47. a Person PTE Academic score of 62 (writing 61), and/or a Person PTE Academic score of 68 (writing 61).
- DUOLINGO: Duolingo is accepted for visas in Sweden. The DET has been made a permanent offering as a current minimum English language standard for Swedish study visas. For a second-level and foundation level or preparatory English course, test takers must have a minimum score of 75.
- CET: CET or Cambridge English Test is also an English proficiency test accepted in Sweden. CET is a CEFR examination offered by Cambridge University. However, the Cambridge certificates assess language proficiency at the following levels:
- the Cambridge English First Certificate in English (“FCE”) grade A, B or C,
- the Cambridge English Certificate in Advanced English (“CAE”),
- the Cambridge English Certificate of Proficiency in English (“CPE”),
VISA types and Its Understandings
A student visa is a type of visa required by foreign nationals to study and stay in Sweden for the duration of their studies. A student who is not a citizen of Sweden but wants to study in Sweden requires a Sweden Student Visa to fulfil this purpose. Any foreign student who enrols on a course lasting three months or more in Sweden will require a student visa.
There are different types of visas meant for people intending to pursue educational activities in Sweden:
Type of Student Visa for Sweden
- Short Stay Student Visa – Sweden Student Visa (Type C): If you are planning to do a short-term course, diploma, or certification, the duration of which is a maximum of 3 months, then you need to apply for this type of visa.
- Long Stay Student Visa: – Sweden Residence Permit (Type D): If your programme lasts for longer than six months, you are eligible for this visa type.t’s Chat.
Admission & VISA Application Process
Admission process explained in a simplified way
- Apply for a school in Sweden
- Receive Offer Letter & Pay Initial Fees
- Submit Visa Application & Book Biometric at VAC
- Attend Visa Interview
- Visa Approve or Decline
1. Apply for a school in Sweden
- Before you apply for a student visa you will need to apply for admission into the Undergraduate or Graduate program. Applications to different courses and universities in Ireland can be made 2 times a year which include Spring and Fall/Autumn.
- Spring Intake: This one is not applicable for all universities and courses in Sweden. There are slightly lesser courses and universities available for applicants in this intake. The timeline begins in February.
- Fall or Autumn Intake: It is the core intake for swedish universities, and all institutions and programs are usually available at this time of the year. The timeline begins from September-October onwards.
- The next step for international students to study in sweden is applying. The early bird gets the worm, so it’s best to submit your application on or before these deadlines: Ireland universities have varying deadlines for intake. Applying will cost you about Euro 50 to 150.
- Once you received notification of admission, Offer Letter, then you can proceed with visa application processes. Please note, a student visa may be issued no more than 90 days prior to the start date mentioned on your OFFER LETTER.
2. Receive Offer Letter & Pay Initial Fees
- Now that you have been admitted and you receive a document called Offer Letter from the institution’s international student office. You will be instructed to pay some fees to confirm your admission to the institution. Pay the fees from your bank account for safer transactions and then get Final Offer Letter from the college.
- You should have done your medical test for getting the Final Offer Letter from institution. It’s not mandatory until informed but it is advised to get medical done.
3. Submit Visa Application & Book your Biometric at VAC
- The next step is to submit your Visa application and then do not delay to book or schedule a biometric session at the VAC. Collect all your educational and financial documents and submit them online on sweden government website. Pay the biometric fees and after that you get biometric date at VAC.
4. Attend Visa Interview
- Now is the time to wait for reply from High Commission and based on your application, biometric and details you will be asked to submit documents (if required). Or else a short interview may or may not be conducted.
- In a few chances, there is interview conducted by the HC or sometimes it is not conducted. This depends on your application and the documents submitted. Mostly, there is a telephonic interview and you can comfortably attend it.
5. VISA Approve or Decline
- After the interview, they can either approve or decline your visa depending on your performance and how well you comply with the visa application process. Once you’ve completed all of the steps above and have received approval for an international student visa to Australia, your embassy will return your passport to you with your new visa in it.
Applying for Student Visa?
Understand the procedure and then only start the visa application process. You are expected to apply three months in advance of your trip. It takes about four to eight weeks to get your visa if you do not forget to submit any documents or have to re-submit them. Here are the steps for applying for your Sweden student visa:
Eligibility Criteria for Sweden Student Visa: To be eligible for a visa to study in Sweden you must fulfil the following conditions:
- You must have a completed university application.
- You must provide proof of identity – A valid passport & 1 MRP photo.
- Additionally, you may be required to submit copies of your passport pages that show your personal data, signature, period of validity, and permission to live in other countries.
- Application form. You must submit a filled – out and signed visa application form for your student visa.
- Identity photos. You must submit MRP photo attached to your application.
- Previous study transcripts. Submit certified copies of transcripts from a previous institution, degree, or achievement certificate.
- Acceptance letter. You need to submit a letter of acceptance from a higher educational institution in Sweden showing that you are admitted to a full-time study program that requires your presence in Sweden.
- Health insurance. A copy of documents that show you have health insurance policy valid in Sweden. If you do not have health insurance, you should provide a copy of documents proving you have applied for insurance.
- Proof of financial stability. A bank statement proving you have enough money to cover your living expenses or documents issued in your name showing you have been granted a monthly allowance for the period of your stay.
- Payment of the paid application fee
- Visa Fee will not be reimbursed in case of visa refusal.
Dos and Don’ts for Sweden Student Visa Application: You need to remember the following dos and don’ts while applying for Sweden student visa.
Dos
- Apply for a student visa at least 5 weeks in advance of your planned travel date to allow enough time for the application procedure to be completed on time for you to join your course.
- Remember that if you are applying online, you can only apply for your visa a maximum of 180 days before your course starts
- Fill up your visa application form carefully with all accurate details.
- Submit all the required supporting documents along with your visa application form.
Don’ts
- Do not present false documents for your visa.
- Do not provide any false information.
- Do not hide or misrepresent facts in your visa application.
Financial requirements, Finances & Cost of Living
How much does it cost to study in Sweden? Sweden remains the most preferred among most international students when it comes to popular study-abroad destination options. However, proof of clear available funds is required to pursue studies in Sweden to cover tuition and living expenses.
- How much are the tuition fees in Sweden?
- How to prove funds for Sweden?
- How much does student accommodation costs in Sweden?
- How much does it cost to live in Sweden?
- What financial support is available to international students in Sweden?
- How much are the TUITION FEES in Sweden?
- Sweden is one of the most popular destinations for university study but, like the UK, Australia, Canada and the US, it is not much expensive.
- The entry requirements as well as tuition fees differ depending on the University. On average, here’s how much you might have to pay for tuition in a Swedish University based on your degree. Bachelor’s degree: 7,770 SEK (Swedish Krona) per year. Master’s degree: 10,870 euros per year. PhD’s degree: 13,770 per year.
- How to prove FUNDS for Sweden?
- In order to pursue your studies in Sweden, proof of sufficient funds is required to cover tuition and living expenses. You can prove to fund with the following:
- International students interested to study in Sweden must have financial ability to live during their study in Sweden. How much money do you need to show? When you plan to study overseas number one concern is finance and costs. International students interested to study in Sweden must have a clear financial budget for their duration of the stay.
- If you are a student of outside the European Union you should look at this sponsor money matters. You need to prove that you have sufficient funds available to study and live in Sweden using your personal bank statement. Now the question on your mind who could be the sponsor e.g., parents, siblings, uncle or aunt. The answer is no one. You’ve to be your own ‘sponsor’ according to Swedish Migration Agency.
- Amount: When you apply for the study permit and visa to Sweden you must provide financial information by providing your personal bank statement. All applicants must prove they can afford their living expenses during their studies. The amount is 9,064 (Swedish Krona) SEK per month.
- Proof you paid for tuition and housing. Travellers’ cheque, your international bank account also can be an added document.
- How much does the student ACCOMMODATION costs in Sweden?
- Finding a place to live can be hard. Start your search as soon as you can.: But where to start? Check with your university first. Some provide guaranteed housing for international students. Some don’t. But most universities have some kind of accommodation service available. It’s easier to find housing in smaller cities. Student housing is in high demand in big cities like Stockholm and Gothenburg. And, well, it’s the same in the traditional student cities of Lund and Uppsala.
- Moving to a small or medium-sized city? You’ll find it slightly easier to find somewhere to live. Your monthly rent will probably cost between SEK 2,500 – 6,500. Or perhaps even more. How much you pay for rent depends on a few things. City, location, size, type of housing. And rent in larger cities like Stockholm or Gothenburg tends to be higher than smaller cities.
- Living in student accommodation is a top choice. It’s often cheaper and easier to find.: And your university can help you out. Either by arranging housing in corridor rooms or flats. Or by providing you info about local student housing companies. Just a quick heads up – you might need to join : Corridor rooms or Student flats.
- You can also search for a place to live on the Swedish rental market: If you can’t find – or don’t want – student housing, you can look for a room or flat on the private market. Where to start? Well, Facebook groups, housing company websites, and classified ads on websites like seare good places to look. And your university can give you tips for local housing companies and organisations.
- How much does it cost to LIVE in Sweden?
- The expenses that arise in the course of leading a normal life, i.e., for accommodation, food, clothing and recreational activities, are called living costs.
- Sweden is expensive. But not as expensive as Switzerland… Nervous about the cost of living in Sweden? That’s fair enough. But, with some smart spending, it can be affordable. And because we’re so into our second-hand shopping and weekends in the wild, you’ll find that a lot of the best stuff about Sweden doesn’t cost much.
- You’ll need a minimum of SEK 9,450 per month to cover your living costs: You might spend more than that. Or you might spend less. Your monthly costs will depend on a few things. Like your lifestyle. Or where you live. But we’d say that the minimum average monthly student budget is around SEK 9,450 (and that’s about €843 or $910).
- Telecommunications: The cost of internetin Sweden is also relative, with basic packages starting from around 400 SEK per month.
- Groceries in Sweden: There are many factors affecting grocery spending. Buying from specialty shops instead of Swedish supermarkets will increase the cost of living in Sweden. Swedish households spend on average, around 2500 SEK on food a month including groceries and eating out, however, this varies depending on the city.
- Transport costs in Sweden: Though the cost of living is higher than that of rural Sweden, one of the benefits of living in a well-developed, metropolitan city is the extensive public transport system in Sweden. The monthly expenses on transport can be 750 SEK
- What financial support is available to INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS in Sweden?
- Financial aid comes in many formats: Scholarships, Grants, Assistantships, and Work–Study Schemes. In Sweden, there are 2 main ways that students can fund their studies–scholarships and financial aid. There are a few scholarships that students can apply for which can help towards living expenses and tuition fees. However, these are often reserved for Erasmus exchange students and some selective business, engineering and medical students who come from former French-speaking countries or colonies.
- Scholarships: A scholarship is a type of non-repayable financial support that EU and international students can apply for if they meet specific requirements – these requirements will differ depending on the scholarship you’re applying to.
- The Swedish Universities and Institutes offer several scholarship programs for international students at Bachelor’s, Master’s, Ph.D., and Post-Doctoral Levels. The 38 universities offer 29 scholarships, nine other fellowships, and grants.
- All the universities have loan schemes and country-specific scholarships for international students. Country-specific scholarships offer waivers of 50 to 75% of the tuition fee. Scholarships make the tuition fee affordable to many students. Besides, Sweden boasts of having low living expenses.
- The Swedish government awards only one scholarship to a student. But the student can avail of extra funds through grants or scholarships offered by other entities from their home countries or abroad. This could be in addition to the scholarship from the Swedish government.
- Students can apply for scholarships as soon as they complete the application for admission to the university. Therefore, the assessment for scholarships happens along with the admission procedures.
- The Swedish Institute offers scholarships for global professionals. This scholarship provides a unique opportunity for ambitious professionals to develop professionally and academically. In addition, this enables the building of a long-lasting relationship with Sweden and other global professionals.
- Student Discount Card: So, you’ll probably get a university-specific student card with your name and photo on it. And it will give you access to your campus after working hours. And it’s probably the same card you’ll use to borrow books from your university’s library. But it probably won’t be one you’ll use for getting student discounts. You’ll get a separate student card for that. And there are national student cards, like Mecenat or Studentkortet. With them you get access to loads of great deals and discounts. Where? Umm, pretty much everywhere. In shops, online stores, cafés, gyms, restaurants, travel…
Work Opportunities and Work environment
Currently, Sweden has announced that there will be a temporary lift in the current work hour restrictions placed on international students in Sweden. As it stands, international students that are authorized to work off campus are currently allowed to do so for less than 20 hours per week, this number might grow to 40 hours per week.
EVERY FOREIGN STUDENT HAS THE RIGHT TO WORK IN SWEDEN: All foreign students have the right to work while studying in Sweden. This right applies to all students in Sweden. Students who are not European Union nationals must have a student resident permit. Sweden law allows foreign students to work up to 964 hours per year, or the equivalent of 60% of the maximum working hours permitted. When working in Sweden, whether a student or not, a minimum wage is guaranteed by law. A student working 10 hours a week at minimum wage will earn approximately €82 net.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Studying in Sweden is possible both for a full degree, or – if you are enrolled in another country – as an exchange student for one semester. The English requirements (see below) usually apply to both full-degree and exchange students. As a degree-seeking student, you need to choose the universities and study programmes you are interested in and then submit your application through the centralised Swedish admissions system. If you plan to start your studies in the autumn (i.e., September), the deadlines for the first rounds of applications are usually already in January. Easiest exchange programme for most students is Erasmus+, which is available to all students in the EU or EEA as well as a range of partner countries. Other than that, your local university might have agreements with Swedish universities. Ask your local international officer for details. The time it takes to get a visa for Sweden depends on several factors, so there’s no set answer. In general, visas can take anywhere from two weeks to six months or more to process, depending on where you’re applying from.
- Citizens of the European Union (EU), the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland do not have to pay tuition fees and can study in Sweden for free. Students who are coming to Sweden in a student exchange programme also do not have to pay tuition fees (unless their home university requires it).
- However, citizens from outside the EU/EEA/Switzerland may have to pay tuition fees. The amount depends on the university and programme. Annual tuition fees are typically in the following ranges: (1) between 80,000 SEK and 110,000 SEK for Social Sciences degrees, (2) between 120,000 SEK and 150,000 SEK for Technology and Engineering degrees, (3) between 190,000 (19,000 EUR) and 270,000 SEK (27,000 EUR) for Architecture and Design degrees.
- Studying in English in Sweden, although not the most common thing you hear, is possible. Public Universities in Sweden are some of the most affordable institutions in Europe. Some of them have English-taught programmes where you can get a full French education in English. Most of them will also include teaching you French while you study in English but some like “Sciences Po” have English-only programmes.
- No, you don’t need to! Swedish people are among the most proficient English-speakers in Europe: If you speak English, you will have absolutely no trouble communicating with locals in Sweden. In fact, many Swedes will be delighted if they can try their English on you. You can even find a job after graduation without speaking Swedish, especially in large cities like Stockholm or Gothenburg. That said, Swedish is a relatively easy language to learn, and if you spend a year or more in the country, you should give it a try.
- International students can work while they are pursuing their education in Sweden. There is no upper limit to the number of hours a student can work for. However, a student is required to mandatorily complete a minimum study of 40 hours a week. Most of the Universities in Sweden have their own career cells where students can be assisted in finding appropriate part-time options.
- Students who have completed their studies in Sweden can apply for and get an extension of their Residence Permit for 6 months to seek suitable employment. Once the student has an appropriate job, s/he would be required to have a Work Permit for Sweden. Students can also seek a Residence Permit to start their own business in Sweden.
- A large number of international students prefer Sweden for pursuing higher studies. But, pursuing an education in Sweden does not come cheap. Therefore, students have to look for different ways to arrange funds to cover tuition fees and living costs. Considering the demand of the students’ various universities offer scholarships.
- In Sweden, you can change from a student to a work visa. Suppose you already have a residence permit for higher education studies and have completed two semesters in Sweden. In that case, you can apply for a residence permit to look for work or to start your own business.
- The Swedish Migration Agency will only consider admitting you to a program if you have paid the tuition fee. Applicants granted temporary residency in Sweden for reasons other than studies are exempt from paying application or tuition fees. Students who have a temporary residency for studying must pay application and tuition fees. If you have financial support through a scholarship program, you must provide proof of financial aid when applying for a student visa.
- Yes, you can work in Sweden on a student visa if you have a residence permit for studies in Sweden. You can work for the same period as your permit’s validity. You can also work with a work permit after you finish your study program.
- If your family wants to accompany you while studying in Sweden, they must apply for a residence permit. Family members of students with a residence permit for studies in higher education must apply for a residence permit for the same period as the student’s residence. Family members of students who obtained a permanent residence permit after four years of doctoral studies can obtain a permanent residence permit once they meet the requirements. If the entire family wants to apply at the same time, they can complete their application online.