Student aid investigator

What does a Study Support Investigator do? – Tasks and work environment

A Study Support Investigator primarily handles and investigates applications for study support, such as student loans and grants, for individuals and students. The work involves reviewing submitted documents, verifying information against current regulations, and making decisions on approval or rejection. Contact with applicants often occurs via phone, email, or digital systems. The role requires accuracy, integrity, and the ability to interpret laws and regulations. The work environment is usually office-based with periods of high workload, especially at the start of terms, which demands stress resilience and good planning skills.

Salary development over time

The salary for a Study Support Investigator has shown stable and positive growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 36,100 SEK per month, followed by an increase to 37 200 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the salary has continued to rise and is now at 38 900 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 7.8% over this period. The salary growth is partly explained by increased complexity in case handling and the need for higher qualifications in the profession. Additionally, labor shortages in some regions have contributed to rising wages, although the salary level is still influenced by government and municipal budget constraints. The trend indicates continued demand for qualified case officers, but increased automation may impact salary development in the long term.

Study Support Investigator salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 38 900 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 34,000 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 49,300 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 234 SEK
• Women earn: 38 000 SEK/month (92% of men's salary)
• Men earn: 41 500 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Slight, but wages are generally somewhat higher in metropolitan regions

Education and qualifications

To work as a Study Support Investigator, a post-secondary education is usually required, often in law, social sciences, or economics. Employers prefer candidates with experience in case handling or administrative work, and good computer skills are a basic requirement. Internally provided training in current regulations and routines is common for new hires.

• Post-secondary education: 2–3 years (e.g., university degree in a relevant field)
• Courses in administrative law and public administration: Meritorious
• Internships or trainee programs: Common within government agencies
• Good computer skills and experience with case management systems: Often required
• Communication skills: Important for customer contact and collaboration

Common benefits and compensations

Study Support Investigators often have access to benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, flexitime, and opportunities for remote work. Other common benefits include subsidized lunches, extra vacation days, and professional development through internal courses and training.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a Study Support Investigator is considered moderate, with a balanced ratio between applicants and available jobs. A challenge is that the work tasks are becoming increasingly complex due to changes in laws and regulations, which requires continuous skill development. Additionally, technological advancements, such as automation of certain case handling processes, may reduce the need for personnel in the long term. Still, there remains a significant need for qualified investigators for more complex cases where personal judgment is essential.

Tips for those who want to become a Study Support Investigator

To succeed as a Study Support Investigator, it is good to combine accuracy with analytical skills, as the work involves interpreting and applying complex regulations in each case. Good communication skills are valuable since the job involves frequent contact with applicants and colleagues, and the ability to explain decisions clearly and empathetically is important. Being organized helps manage many cases simultaneously and keep documentation in order. Flexibility and stress resilience are also crucial, especially during periods of high workload. Finally, an interest in societal issues and the education system provides a deeper understanding of the work and the motives behind the regulations.

Key facts about Study Support Investigators

• Average salary: 38 900 SEK/month
• Educational level: Post-secondary education, often 2–3 years
• Work environment: Office-based, often in team settings
• Gender differences: Women earn 92% of men's salaries
• Number of job openings (occupational group): 758

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years as a Study Support Investigator, there are opportunities to develop into specialist roles within investigation, quality assurance, or regulation interpretation. It is also common to advance to managerial or team leader roles within agencies and larger organizations. According to the Employment Service’s forecast for the group of other case officers, including Study Support Investigators, the job market is considered balanced with moderate opportunities. Over the next five years, demand is expected to decline slightly, partly due to digitization and automation of case processes. Despite this, there remains a continued need for qualified investigators, especially for more complex cases where digital systems are insufficient.

Frequently asked questions about Study Support Investigators

• What does a Study Support Investigator earn?
  - A Study Support Investigator has an average salary of 38 900 SEK per month, with a range between 34,000 SEK and 49,300 SEK.
• What are the gender differences in the profession?
  - Women earn an average of 38 000 SEK per month, which is 92% of men's salary of 41 500 SEK.
• What education is required to become a Study Support Investigator?
  - Post-secondary education, often in law, social sciences, or economics, is most common. Employers may also require courses in administrative law and handling experience.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Salaries may vary slightly depending on the region, with somewhat higher salaries in metropolitan areas.
• What does the job market look like in the future?
  - The job market is considered balanced today, but demand is expected to decrease slightly over the next five years due to increased automation.
• What are the most common benefits?
  - Common benefits include occupational pension, flexitime, wellness allowance, and opportunities for remote work.
• What are the career paths?
  - Typical career paths include specialist roles, team leaders, or managerial positions within public administration.