In some parts of Sweden, the upper secondary school choice has already been open for a little while, while in other areas it opened on Wednesday.
Regardless, it's likely that there's a lot of intense thinking going on at home among many teenage families right now, notes Johan Olsson, a competence supply expert at Svenskt Näringsliv.
It's a big and important choice. But we also remind you that it's not a life-determining decision, he says.
The Vehicle Industry at the Top
According to the organization's latest survey of upper secondary school programs, Swedish ninth-graders largely choose upper secondary education based on interest. However, the opportunities to get a job have become an increasingly important component as well.
The vehicle and transport program is at the top.
Other programs, such as the construction and property management program and the HVAC and property management program, are also doing well in terms of how quickly you can get a job after upper secondary school.
It's the vehicle industry, the construction sector, and industry that are at the top. It's nothing that surprises us, really, but rather it's how companies' supply needs and recruitment look, says Johan Olsson.
"Well-Considered Choice"
The higher education preparatory programs are often perceived as better in terms of, for example, opportunities for good working hours or a well-paid job.
At the same time, the vocational programs also provide a basic higher education eligibility, emphasizes Johan Olsson.
We want students to make a more well-considered upper secondary school choice, but it's clearly also connected to the large needs we see in the Swedish labor market, he says.
The national upper secondary school programs that top the list in terms of how quickly you can get a job after graduation.
Vehicle and transport program: 60 percent of students established in the labor market one year after completing their education.
Construction and property management program (58).
Industrial technology program (54).
HVAC and property management program (52).
Health and social care program (51).
Note: The figures apply to students who graduated in 2018 and 2020.
Source: Upper Secondary School Compass 2025, Svenskt Näringsliv
There's a lot to think about when choosing an upper secondary school. But here are some tips:
Don't think of the choice as determining your entire future.
Choose an upper secondary school program based on interest. The most important thing is to enjoy yourself and have the energy to complete it.
Read up on the different programs and what you can do afterwards.
Choose what's right for you, it's you who should enjoy yourself at upper secondary school.
Get help from the study and career counselor at school if you're having trouble choosing.
Source: The Swedish National Agency for Education
