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Study in Europe

Getting you ready to plan and complete higher education studies in Europe

Part of European Education Area

Study in Finland – tuition, visas, scholarships, and student life

Sunset view of central Helsinki
Photo: Mikko Huotari, Visit Finland

Tuition fees and living costs

Tuition fees depend on your nationality. In 2025 this means

  • EU/EEA students pay no tuition fees
  • for students outside of the EU/EEA, fees apply for English-taught bachelor’s and master’s programmes
    • range: €8,000 – €20,000 per year, depending on programme and institution

Many universities offer early-bird discounts or partial fee waivers.

Average monthly expenses are around €900 - €1 200. This includes housing, food, transport, study materials, and leisure.

You must also have proof of sufficient funds for living in Finland.

More detailed fees and living costs

Visa requirements

EU/EEA students don’t need a visa and must register their residence in Finland if staying longer than 90 days.

If you are a student from outside the EU/EEA, you must apply for a residence permit for studies before arriving in Finland.

Requirements include

  • proof of admission to a Finnish institution
  • proof of sufficient funds
  • health insurance

The residency permit is usually granted for the duration of the entire degree.

Application process for a residency permit

Higher education system

Finland offers high-quality education with a strong focus on research, innovation, and student-centered learning. There are almost 600 programmes in English across fields like technology, business, design, health, and education.

Finnish universities are either

  • universities with a focus on academic and scientific research, which offer bachelor's, master's, and PhD degrees
  • Universities of Applied Sciences (UAS) which focus on practical skills and professional training and offer bachelor’s and master’s degrees

Browse a list of all Finnish universities or browse programmes by degree.

Languages

Many degree programmes are fully taught in English. However, learning Finnish is helpful for daily life and employment.

Application process

You can apply for programmes in English via the national platform Studyinfo.fi. Many programmes have one joint application period each year, usually in January for the following autumn semester (August/September). However, some programmes have a differing application timetable so always check with the university you're planning to apply to!

Steps

  1. Search for programmes on www.studyinfo.fi
  2. Check specific requirements (e.g. previous qualifications, English language certificate)
  3. Apply via the online portal
  4. Take an entrance exam or attend and interview, if applicable

Admissions guidance

Scholarships

If you’re a student from outside the EU/EEA, you can apply for scholarships. These often cover 25% to 100% of the tuition fees and are based on academic merit.

Some universities offer early-bird discounts, first-year fee reductions, or full scholarships for top students.

Erasmus+ and Nordic programmes also offer mobility grants for exchange.

Learn about bachelor’s and master’s scholarships

Student life

Students in Finland benefit from a safe and modern society, clean environment, and world-class student support services:

  • unions and organisations offer social events, clubs, and sports
  • housing is usually arranged through student housing foundations
  • student card, with discounts on food, transportation and healthcare services

Working part-time while studying is allowed. You can work up to 30 hours per week on average, but bear in mind that finding part-time work can be challenging, especially without Finnish or Swedish skills.

However, during your studies you’ll have many opportunities that can boost your future career more effectively than part-time studies - for example company projects, international student exchange, internships and networking with professionals, teachers and fellow students.

Practical tips on living in Finland

Stories from students

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to pay tuition fees in Finland?

Only non-EU/EEA students pay tuition fees for English-taught programmes. EU/EEA students study for free.

Can I apply for a scholarship?

Yes. Most universities offer tuition fee waivers or merit-based scholarships for non-EU/EEA students.

Can I work during my studies?

Yes. International students can work up to 30 hours per week on average, and full-time during holidays.

Is Finnish required to study in Finland?

Many degree programmes are fully taught in English. However, learning Finnish is helpful for daily life and employment.

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