Study in Sweden

SFI means "Svenska För Invandrare" or Swedish For Immigrants, a course offered by the Swedish government for immigrants who want to study the Swedish Language.

As an immigrant, I find it difficult to communicate to some Swedish people using plain English. That's why it is really important to learn their mother tongue, especially if you're planning to live and work in Sweden.

There are some private schools for adult immigrants and one example is Folkuniversitetet in Stockholm. Teachers are well trained and the system of teaching is very effective. But ofcourse, it is not free of charge. I also studied there for three months but when I got my Residence Permit, I applied in SFI. Not only because the education is for free, but also, the school is just a walking distance from my place.

In that course, I consider myself as a beginner, since I'm just in the level of absorbing the basic terms of their language. For my opinion, Swedish language seems to be so complicated and it is quite confusing, especially when it comes in learning the logic behind the rules.

With this, I'm striving to be proficient, both in oral and written Swedish communication skills. I am currently enrolled in SFI Course where I only have 2 classes every week. I chose the evening course so I can still take care of my four months old baby during the days. And while I'm at school, my husband is watching over our baby. Setting a time management and adhering to those routines work well with my husband and I.

In my case, it will take longer to finish a course. Although there are ways to speed up the time of studying, I'll just rather wait for a year or two, whenever I can leave my daughter in "dagis" or day nursery.

Nonetheless, studying in Sweden is a vital task in my 'list to fulfill'. Although I earned a Bachelor's degree in the Philippines, I still need to have a higher education here in Sweden.

I know, there will always be some challenges, moments of tiredness and negative factors that might drag me down, but I'm still hoping to pursue my Swedish education into a higher level, simply because, it will take me further in the society.