For many young people, a summer placement is their first contact with working life. It is a way to try out an occupation, earn a little money and build a first CV. This guide explains what feriepraktik is, how to apply and how it differs from a regular placement.
Feriepraktik is a form of summer placement that municipalities offer young people, often around lower and upper secondary age. You get to try out work for a few weeks during the holidays and receive compensation for your time. Unlike a placement within an education, feriepraktik is not linked to a course but is an offer from the municipality.
Why feriepraktik is valuable#
Entering the labour market early makes a difference. A summer placement gives young people a first reference, an understanding of how a workplace works and a chance to discover what they enjoy doing. For the municipality, it is a way to support young people on their path towards future jobs.
Who can apply?#
Feriepraktik is usually aimed at young people of a certain age who are registered residents of the municipality. Exact age limits, the number of positions and application periods are decided locally, so they differ between municipalities. Check the conditions on your own municipality's website.
How to apply#
Applications are usually made via the municipality during the winter or spring, ahead of the summer. The steps are usually as follows:
- Keep track of when applications open on the municipality's website.
- Fill in the application and state your interests and preferences.
- Wait for a decision on a position and placement.
- Sign any paperwork and check the practical details.
Because positions are limited, it pays to apply early and to be flexible about the type of workplace you can consider.
Compensation during feriepraktik#
During feriepraktik you receive compensation from the municipality. The level is set locally and often depends on your age and how many hours you work. It is not a market wage, but compensation reflecting that this is a placement rather than employment.
Feriepraktik compared with other forms#
| Type | Who arranges it? | Age | Compensation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prao | Compulsory school | Lower secondary | No |
| Feriepraktik | The municipality | Often 15–18 | Yes, municipal compensation |
| Summer job | The employer | From 16 | Yes, salary |
| APL | Upper secondary school | Upper secondary | No (study support) |
If you want to read more about prao, we have a separate guide to prao for pupils and parents.
Tips for a successful summer placement#
- Be on time and show initiative — it is noticed and remembered.
- Ask about things you do not understand; you are there to learn.
- Ask for a reference or an assessment when the period ends.
How Prakto can help#
Prakto is built to make placements easier to manage for schools, municipalities and workplaces. The same principles that make feriepraktik meaningful — clear tasks, a supervisor and follow-up — can be structured digitally instead of on paper.
Frequently asked questions#
What is the difference between feriepraktik and a summer job?#
Feriepraktik is a placement arranged by the municipality with compensation, while a summer job is ordinary employment with a salary at an employer.
How old do you have to be for feriepraktik?#
The age limit is set by the municipality, but feriepraktik is often aimed at young people between about 15 and 18. Check what applies in your municipality.
Do you get paid during feriepraktik?#
Yes, you receive compensation from the municipality. It is lower than a regular wage and often depends on age and number of hours.
When should you apply for feriepraktik?#
Usually during the winter or spring ahead of the summer. Keep an eye on your municipality's website so you do not miss the application period.
Conclusion#
Feriepraktik is a good first step into working life for young people. It is arranged by the municipality, provides compensation and builds experience for future jobs. Apply in time, be open to different workplaces and ask for a reference afterwards — the first thing you do in working life can open doors later.
Sources#
- Arbetsförmedlingen — information about young people's route into the labour market.
- Swedish Association of Local Authorities and Regions — the municipalities' role in summer placements and youth initiatives.
