PhD in Sweden

Some of you may be aware but I recently started a PhD in Sweden. Now as an American this is a great thing.

I always wanted to pursue a PhD and had been searching for programs for a couple of years. I considered going back to the U.K. but I decided to look elsewhere in Europe since I knew some did not require tuition payments and paid a stipend.

I decided to apply to a university here in Sweden and it was the best decision I made. Unlike many universities in the U.S. you'll need a grant or hold a position as a graduate assistant for a tuition reduction or coverage. I also know a lot of people who pursued and are pursuing PhD's in the U.S. that took out more student loans. This was NOT the route I wanted to take. I already have student loans and I did not want to add to them, just pay them down.

Pursuing a PhD here has many benefits. To be honest, I do not understand why more Americans are not taking advantage of them.

1. You are treated as an employee and an early-stage researcher. 
2. You earn a salary, granted you have to pay taxes on it. However, I find the after-tax pay very similar to an entry-level banking position in the U.S. 
3. Great healthcare and very low cost. Seriously, I broke my arm my first week here and had to have surgery. So far, I've only had out-of-pocket expenses equate to 1000 SEK (~$110.00), which is supposed to be reimbursed once I no longer have to go to P.T. Another benefit!

There are other benefits but these are the only ones that come to mind.

Now, for the fun part. I am currently on an Income-Repayment for my student loan (SL) back home. This means that every year I tell the company my current salary and they calculate my discretionary income and 10% of that is my monthly payment. Now, that I am in Sweden my take-home pay in USD is now $0.00. This means that I don't have to make a payment but it still accrues interest. 

I have been working on paying it down by wiring money home and paying for it that way. So far the wire transfer fees from my bank here are not too bad but I am looking for cheaper options, like TransferWise. I've had other friends studying in Europe who wired money home that way.

Like I said, I am writing this as a way to follow my personal progress and for other Americans to see that pursuing a PhD in Europe is an option. Especially, if you can still pay your student loan. Since, I do not see a lot of blogs about that right now.

Anyway, if you have any questions or suggestions, let me know!