Study in Finland

Finland is known for its education system, small classes and a calm, safe environment. Universities and universities of applied sciences teach many bachelor’s and master’s degrees in English, and graduates can stay for up to two years to look for work.

• Two kinds of university

  Research universities, and universities of applied sciences that focus on practical, career-oriented degrees with work placements.

• English-taught bachelor’s and master’s degrees

  Unlike many European countries, Finland teaches a good number of bachelor’s degrees in English, not only master’s.

• Scholarships from universities

  Most universities offer tuition scholarships to strong applicants, often covering half or all of the fee.

• Two years to find a job

  Graduates can apply for a residence permit of up to two years to look for work or start a business.

Also on our list

• Åbo Akademi University
• Haaga-Helia University of Applied Sciences
• JAMK University of Applied Sciences
• LAB University of Applied Sciences
• Laurea University of Applied Sciences
• Metropolia University of Applied Sciences
• University of Eastern Finland
• University of Jyväskylä
• University of Oulu
• University of Vaasa

• Autumn

  Classes start

  August to September

  Apply

  December to January

  The main intake. The national joint application closes in January.

• Spring

  Classes start

  January

  Apply

  August to September

  Offered mainly by universities of applied sciences.

TuitionUniversities of applied sciences usually charge less than research universities.

€8,000 to €18,000 a year

Living costsIncluding rent. Helsinki costs the most.

€800 to €1,200 a month

Proof of fundsAbout €9,600 for a year, on top of tuition, held when you apply.

€800 a month

• English

  • IELTS Academic 6.0 to 6.5 overall, depending on the university
  • TOEFL iBT and PTE Academic also accepted

• Academic

  • Bachelor’s: HSC or equivalent; many universities of applied sciences also set an entrance exam
  • Master’s: a relevant bachelor’s degree

• Residence permit

  • An admission letter and proof of tuition payment or a scholarship
  • Proof of funds for the first year
  • Health insurance for the length of your studies

1. 01

   Choose programmes

   Compare research universities and universities of applied sciences on the national Studyinfo service.

2. 02

   Take an English test

   IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT or PTE Academic.

3. 03

   Apply in the joint application

   Most programmes starting in August take applications in December and January.

4. 04

   Take the entrance exam, if there is one

   Many universities of applied sciences hold an online exam or interview.

5. 05

   Accept your place and pay tuition

   Unless a scholarship covers it, pay the first year’s fee to receive the documents for the permit.

6. 06

   Apply for the residence permit

   Online to the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri), then prove your identity at the Embassy of Finland in New Delhi.

• While you study

  Up to 30 hours a week on average during term, and full time during official holidays.

• After you graduate

  A residence permit of up to two years to look for work or start a business.