" All of our colleges are free in Sweden, but this acting program is the second most expensive education for the government. It’s difficult to get in. There are around 1,500 applicants, and 10-12 applicants are accepted each year. I was accepted, and I studied there for five years. "
- Joel Kinnaman

The quote highlights the unique situation of a specific acting program in Sweden where higher education is typically free for students. Despite this general policy, this particular program stands out as exceptionally costly for the government to fund due to its rigorous nature and limited acceptance rate. Each year, around 1,500 applicants compete for only ten to twelve spots, making it highly selective.

The deeper meaning of this statement underscores the value placed on specialized education in the arts and how certain disciplines require significant investment even when broader educational access is free. The quote also speaks to the intense competition faced by aspiring actors who must demonstrate exceptional talent and dedication to gain acceptance into such a program. This level of selectivity reflects not only the high costs associated with training professional performers but also the importance placed on maintaining high standards within the field.

Joel Kinnaman, the speaker in this quote, is a Swedish actor known for his roles in various international productions including "The Killing," "Altered Carbon," and "RoboCop." His acceptance into this prestigious acting program laid the groundwork for his successful career in the entertainment industry.