Strong interest in Chalmers programmes ahead of the autumn semester

The increase is driven by broad demand for engineering programmes. At programme level, both applications and first-choice applicants increase by around ten per cent. Several of the largest programmes also continue to grow – Mechanical Engineering increases by 13.8 per cent in the number of first-choice applicants (from 566 to 644), while Industrial Engineering and Management increases by 14.4 per cent (from 730 to 835).

‘What we see is that the increase is broad, but that it is particularly driven by several programmes that already attract a high number of applicants. This means that changes in those programmes have a significant impact on the overall picture,’ says Jonas Olausson, admissions officer at Chalmers.

The development is also driven by more individuals applying to Chalmers. The number of applicants increases by 9.6 per cent, from 15,598 to 17,088.

Foundation year in engineering sees strong growth

Interest in the foundation year in engineering continues to grow. The number of first-choice applicants increases by 29.8 per cent, from 941 to 1,221, and the total number of applications increases by 28.0 per cent. Cecilia Hillman, Head of Student and Alumni Relations, sees a link to the public debate that Sweden needs more engineers.

‘Many people considering studying want to make safe and future-proof choices. Those who have not studied technology or science in upper secondary school see the foundation year in engineering as a pathway to a stable career and good prospects, and through the foundation year there is an opportunity for a guaranteed place on a programme at Chalmers,’ says Cecilia Hillman.

Another clear trend is the continued increase in maritime programmes. The Marine Engineering programme increases by 71.2 per cent in the number of first-choice applicants – from 73 to 125. This is the second consecutive year of strong growth.

Strong and growing demand

At the same time, demand for certain programmes is decreasing. Architecture decreases by 21.9 per cent in the number of first-choice applicants (from 425 to 332), and Industrial Design Engineering decreases by 16.6 per cent.

‘However, we see that the development is not unique to Chalmers. Demand for these programmes is also decreasing at other higher education institutions, indicating a broader trend linked to a weakening labour market within these professions,’ says Jonas Olausson.

Overall, the figures show stable and increasing demand, with interest increasingly concentrated on large engineering programmes with a clear link to the labour market.

‘It is encouraging that Chalmers programmes continue to be attractive to so many, and that interest is growing,’ says Cecilia Hillman.

Facts / Applications for the Autumn semester 2026