Study in Finland

Why Study in Finland?

  • Globally recognised for its innovative and high-quality education system.

  • Over 500+ English-taught programs, especially at Master’s level.

  • Strong in Engineering, IT, Education, Environmental Sciences, and Business.

  • Research-driven universities with close collaboration with global industries.

  • Safe, modern, and student-friendly country with one of the highest standards of living in Europe.

  • Opportunity to stay and work in Finland or across the EU after graduation.

Top Universities & Global Rankings

UniversityQS World Ranking (2025)Known For
University of Helsinki#92Sciences, Humanities, Research
Aalto University#109Design, Technology, Business
University of Turku#291Medicine, Social Sciences
University of Oulu#313Technology, Life Sciences
Tampere University#376Engineering, Health Sciences
LUT University#481Business, Engineering, Sustainability

Finland is especially popular for Technology, Innovation, Education, and Sustainable Development studies.

Intakes & Application Deadlines

  • Autumn Intake (September) – Main intake for most programs.

  • Spring Intake (January) – Limited programs available, mostly at Master’s level.

Deadlines:

  • Autumn Intake: Apply between December – January.

  • Spring Intake: Apply between September – October (previous year).

Tuition Fees & Living Costs

  • Non-EU/EEA Students: €6,000 – €18,000 per year (depending on program and university).

  • EU/EEA Students: Tuition-free.

  • Living Costs: €7,000 – €10,000 per year (~€600 – €900/month).

Scholarships available through Finnish Government and universities, covering partial or full tuition fees.

Language Proficiency Requirements – IELTS / TOEFL

  • Undergraduate & Postgraduate (English-taught programs):

    • IELTS: 6.0 – 6.5 overall

    • TOEFL iBT: 79–92

  • Finnish/Swedish-taught programs: Proficiency required (YKI test or university-specific exams).

  • Many universities accept MOI (Medium of Instruction) for English-taught programs.

Standardized Tests

  • Undergraduate: Some programs require entrance exams, especially in Technology and Business.

  • Postgraduate: GRE/GMAT may be required for MBA and certain competitive courses.

  • Most Arts, Humanities, and Sciences programs do not require additional tests.

Application Process & Timeline

  1. 12 months before intake: Research universities via Studyinfo.fi (official application portal).

  2. Prepare Documents: Passport, transcripts, IELTS/TOEFL/MOI, SOP, LORs, CV.

  3. Submit Application: Apply through the Studyinfo.fi portal.

  4. Entrance Exams (if required): For specific programs like Business or Engineering.

  5. Receive Admission Letter: Decisions usually by April (for September intake).

  6. Apply for Student Residence Permit at Finnish Immigration Service (Migri).

Finland Student Visa – Requirements & Documents

  • Visa Type: Student Residence Permit (for non-EU/EEA students)

  • Application Fee: €350 (online) / €450 (paper)

  • Required Documents:

    • Admission letter from Finnish university

    • Valid passport

    • Proof of funds: Minimum €560/month (~€6,720 per year)

    • Proof of accommodation

    • Health insurance (coverage of €120,000 for students in Finland)

    • Academic documents & language certificates

Residence permits are usually granted for 1–2 years, renewable until studies are complete.

Work While Studying & Post-Graduation

  • During Studies: Up to 30 hours/week of part-time work (no limit during breaks).

  • After Graduation:

    • Students can apply for a 2-year residence permit to seek employment.

    • Opportunity to transition into a work permit or apply for EU Blue Card.

Finland offers great career opportunities in IT, Engineering, Education, and Research, with high chances of long-term residency for skilled graduates.

List of Universities & Colleges

  • Arcada University of Applied Science
  • Centria University of Applied Science
  • LUT University
  • Metropolia University of Applied Science
  • Satakunta University of Applied Science
  • Seinajoki University of Applied Science
  • Turku University of Applied Science
  • University of Eastern Finland