For most of the 20th century, the Swedish education system was oriented towards equity - that the occupation of the parents should not determine the educational possibilities for their children. This ambition was expressed in a unification of the system, abolishing segmentation of different tracks. Furthermore, the private sector had been very marginal and few proper elite institutions existed. However, this context has been rapidly changing in the last few decades. The differences between schools are increasing and education policy has been oriented towards creating elite institutions at all levels. Additionally, there has been an increased importance placed on international models of educational organisation (e.g. Bologna) and international cooperation and investments (studies abroad, exchange networks, etc.). This paper will focus on analysing the interplay between internationalisation and elite education and formation in Sweden. Methods/methodology The paper draws on statistical analyses of large data sets on pupils in upper secondary school and higher education, document analyses, and interviews. Expected outcomes/results We will argue that the internationalisation of the educational system has had different effects. First, most dominant elite institutions have strengthened their position vis-a-vis national competitors. Second, some ‘newcomers’ and non-elite institutions have profited from this intensive investment in internationalisation.