Stockholm Launches Driving License Scholarship for Vocational Students

In a bid to combat workforce shortages, Stockholm is introducing a driving license scholarship aimed at high school students enrolled in specific vocational programs. Eligible students can receive up to 15,000 kronor to cover the costs associated with obtaining a driving license, which is often a necessity for many job opportunities, particularly in fields such as healthcare and vehicle transport.

According to Emilia Bjuggren, the city’s school councilor, the initiative is designed to enhance the appeal of vocational education by providing financial support for students pursuing careers that demand a driving license. "Many jobs require a driving license even for interview opportunities," Bjuggren stated, emphasizing the importance of the scholarship for students’ future employability.

The scholarship will initially roll out at Kungsholmens Västra gymnasium and the Stockholm transport and vehicle technology gymnasium. It is projected that the program will cost the city around 1.3 million kronor annually, with this figure potentially rising to 1.8 million if interest increases. Students will be eligible to apply starting from their second year of high school, provided they maintain a minimum grade of E in all completed courses and have satisfactory attendance as verified by their school’s principal.