Finland is an attractive destination for international students seeking high-quality education in a country known for its innovative teaching methods, strong academic culture, and vibrant student life. Studying in Finland offers a world-class education with various opportunities for career growth and personal development.
Studying in Finland offers numerous advantages, from exceptional education quality to opportunities for personal and professional growth. Finland has a reputation for innovation in teaching, research, and technology, with many of its universities ranking among the best in the world. Finland also offers an excellent work-life balance, a safe environment, and a culturally rich student life. Additionally, international students benefit from a unique social welfare system, affordable living costs, and the possibility of part-time work during their studies. Finland’s stunning natural beauty and friendly atmosphere make it an ideal place to live and study.
Here are some of the best universities in Finland for international students:
| # | QS World University Ranking (2025) | University Name | Approximate Tuition Fees (€) | Highlights |
| 1 | 112 | University of Helsinki | €13,000 - €18,000 | Finland’s oldest university, offering diverse programs, especially in social sciences and natural sciences. |
| 2 | 135 | Aalto University | €12,000 - €15,000 | Known for its engineering, technology, and business programs, Aalto is a leader in innovation. |
| 3 | 170 | University of Turku | €10,000 - €14,000 | Offers comprehensive programs in health sciences, arts, and technology. |
| 4 | 188 | University of Eastern Finland | €8,000 - €12,000 | Renowned for its biological sciences and education programs, with a strong focus on research. |
| 5 | 195 | University of Oulu | €10,000 - €15,000 | A leading university in information technology, engineering, and environmental sciences. |
| 6 | 220 | Tampere University | €10,000 - €12,000 | Known for its engineering, health sciences, and social sciences programs. |
| 7 | 240 | Hanken School of Economics | €12,000 - €18,000 | A top business school offering courses in business and economics, with a focus on international trade. |
| 8 | 250 | Lappeenranta-Lahti University of Technology (LUT) | €10,000 - €12,000 | Specializes in engineering, business, and sustainability studies, focusing on renewable energy. |
| 9 | 280 | University of Lapland | €8,000 - €10,000 | Known for its arts and tourism programs, as well as cultural studies. |
| 10 | 300 | Åbo Akademi University | €8,000 - €10,000 | Offers programs in humanities, natural sciences, and engineering, with an emphasis on multilingualism. |
To study in Finland, international students must apply for a student visa. There are two types of Finland student visa:
Both visa types require proof of enrollment, financial support, and health insurance.
Finland offers a diverse range of programs for international students. Some of the most popular fields of study include:
| # | Course Name | Leading Universities in Finland | Estimated Tuition Fees (€ / year) |
| 1 | Computer Science & Information Technology | Aalto University, University of Helsinki | €15,000 – €25,000 |
| 2 | Business Administration / MBA | Aalto University, Hanken School of Economics, Tampere University | €12,000 – €20,000 |
| 3 | Renewable Energy & Sustainability | LUT University, Aalto University | €13,500 – €22,000 |
| 4 | Forestry & Environmental Technology | University of Eastern Finland, Aalto University | €12,000 – €18,000 |
| 5 | Early Childhood Education | University of Helsinki, University of Turku | €10,000 – €12,000 |
| 6 | Tourism & Hospitality Management | Haaga-Helia UAS, Lapland University of Applied Sciences | €10,000 – €15,000 |
| 7 | Design & Digital Media | Aalto University, Tampere University | €18,000 – €25,000 |
| 8 | Biomedical & Health Sciences | University of Turku, University of Eastern Finland | €10,000 – €15,000 |
| 9 | General Engineering | Tampere University, University of Oulu | €8,000 – €15,000 |
| 10 | Business Analytics & Digital Business | Metropolia UAS, South-Eastern Finland UAS (XAMK) | €9,000 – €12,000 |
*Note: With a strong emphasis on innovation, many universities also offer interdisciplinary programs in sustainability, entrepreneurship, and artificial intelligence.
Best Master’s Degree Programs to Study in Finland (2025)
These Master's degree programs in Finland provide high-quality education with a strong emphasis on research, innovation, and practical application, making graduates well-prepared for the global job market.
To be eligible to study in Finland, international students must meet the following criteria:
Specific eligibility requirements may vary depending on the course and university.
To apply for a student visa and study in Finland, you must meet the following general requirements:
| Visa Type | Fee (€) | Additional Costs |
| Finland Student Visa | € 350 | Medical certificates, police certificates, biometric processing (additional costs may apply) |
*Note: The fee is non-refundable and must be paid upon application submission. Please check with the Finnish consulate for current fee details.
Here’s the information in table format:
| Visa Type | Processing Time | Additional Information |
| Finland Student Visa | 2 to 3 months | Apply well in advance, especially during peak application seasons. Ensure all documents are complete and accurate for faster processing. |
Admission Requirements to Study in Finland for International Students
To gain admission to Finnish universities, international students typically need:
Each university may have additional requirements, such as entrance exams or interviews.
To apply for a Finland student visa, follow these steps:
Step 1: Receive an Acceptance Letter
The first step is to secure an acceptance letter from a recognized Finnish university or educational institution. This letter confirms that you have been admitted to a program and is a requirement for the visa application. Ensure you meet the university’s entry requirements and have all necessary documents, including language proficiency and academic records.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
After receiving your acceptance letter, you need to gather the necessary documents. These typically include:
Step 3: Submit Visa Application
Submit your completed student visa application at your nearest Finnish embassy or consulate. Be sure to complete the application form accurately and submit it along with all the required documents. Some embassies may allow online submissions, while others may require in-person applications.
Step 4: Attend Visa Interview (if necessary)
In some cases, you may be required to attend a visa interview. This will typically involve confirming your purpose of stay, your financial ability, and your intent to return to your home country after your studies. Make sure to be prepared to answer questions about your course, accommodation, and future plans in Finland.
Step 5: Wait for Visa Approval
Once your application is submitted, the Finnish authorities will process it, which usually takes between 2 to 3 months. Ensure that you have provided all the necessary documents to avoid any delays. Check with the embassy for any additional documents they may require.
Step 6: Travel to Finland
Once your student visa is approved, you will receive a notification and can travel to Finland. Upon arrival, you may need to complete some post-arrival procedures, such as registering with local authorities or obtaining a residence permit. Once everything is in place, you can begin your studies and enjoy your time in Finland!
Finland offers various scholarships to help international students finance their education. Some popular scholarships include:
*Note: Check with individual universities for specific scholarship opportunities and eligibility criteria.
Y-Axis offers comprehensive support to students aspiring to study in Finland. Their assistance includes a range of essential services such as,
Explore what Global Citizens have to say about Y-Axis in shaping their future
Canada PR Visa
Sameer got Permanent Resident Visa for C
Read More...
Canada Work Permit Visa
Varun provided us with great Y-Axis Revi
Read More...
Canada PR Visa
One of our client Virendra availing his
Read More...
Studying in Finland offers numerous benefits, including access to world-class education and a focus on innovation, research, and practical learning. Finland’s education system consistently ranks among the best globally, and it offers English-taught programs across multiple fields. Finland is known for its student satisfaction, offering an excellent work-life balance and affordable living costs. The country’s safe environment, stunning natural landscapes, and vibrant cultural experiences make it an attractive destination for international students. Additionally, students have the opportunity to work part-time while studying and enjoy high-quality healthcare and a supportive student community. Finland's emphasis on sustainability and green technologies also makes it an appealing choice for those interested in environmental sciences and renewable energy.
Yes, it is possible to study in Finland without IELTS. Many universities in Finland accept alternative methods of language proficiency, such as TOEFL, Cambridge English, or other recognized English qualifications. Some universities may also waive the IELTS requirement if you have previously studied in English or come from an English-speaking country. It’s essential to check with the specific university or program for their language requirements, as some universities may also offer an internal language assessment. For courses taught in Finnish, you may need to prove proficiency in the Finnish language, which can be demonstrated through other tests or language certifications. Always confirm the specific requirements for your chosen program.
Finland offers a range of vibrant cities for studying. Helsinki, the capital, is home to several top universities, including the University of Helsinki and Aalto University, and is known for its innovative design, culture, and excellent job opportunities. Tampere and Turku are popular cities for engineering, health sciences, and business programs. Oulu and Espoo are known for their strong technology and engineering programs, while Lapland is ideal for students interested in tourism, social sciences, or environmental studies. Smaller cities such as Jyväskylä and Kuopio offer a more affordable cost of living while still providing quality education. Your choice of city will depend on your course, budget, and preferred lifestyle.
Studying in Finland is not free for non-EU/EEA international students. However, tuition fees are relatively affordable compared to other European countries. Public universities in Finland charge tuition fees ranging from €8,000 to €18,000 per year, depending on the program and university. EU/EEA students are exempt from tuition fees. Finland also offers various scholarships for international students to help cover tuition and living expenses, especially for students from non-EU/EEA countries. These scholarships can significantly reduce the financial burden, so it’s worth researching options before applying. Despite the tuition fees, the overall cost of living in Finland is quite affordable compared to other study destinations in Europe.
To apply for a Finland student visa, international students must meet the following requirements:
After fulfilling these requirements, students can submit their application to the nearest Finnish embassy or consulate.
The cost of a Finland student visa is approximately €350. This fee must be paid at the time of submitting your application and is non-refundable, even if your application is rejected. Additional costs may include biometric fees and medical certificates if required. Be aware that you may also need to pay for language proficiency tests or any other supporting documents needed for the application. It’s recommended to confirm all costs with the Finnish consulate in your country, as fees can sometimes change based on the country of application.
Yes, Finland is considered a great place to work, offering high standards of living and a balanced work-life environment. The country is known for its innovative economy, especially in fields like technology, engineering, healthcare, and education. Finland regularly ranks high in terms of work satisfaction, low unemployment rates, and employee benefits. The Finnish work culture values equality, flexibility, and professional growth, making it an attractive destination for skilled professionals. Additionally, Finland provides strong social security benefits, affordable healthcare, and a safe environment, making it ideal for both students and professionals alike.
Yes, international students with a Finland student visa are permitted to work part-time during their studies. Students can work up to 25 hours per week during the academic term, and full-time during holidays or breaks. The part-time work allows students to gain valuable experience and support their living expenses while studying. Many international students find jobs in cafes, retail, or part-time positions in their field of study. However, it’s important to ensure that the work does not interfere with your studies, and that you maintain your full-time student status.
The application fee for a Finland student visa is €350. This is the standard fee for non-EU/EEA students applying for a long-term student visa (over 90 days). This fee is non-refundable and must be paid when submitting your application. Some additional costs may arise, such as biometric fees, medical certificates, or police certificates if needed. Always verify the exact fee with your nearest Finnish consulate before applying.
No, there is no specific age limit for applying for a Finland student visa. However, students must meet other requirements such as having sufficient financial resources, an acceptance letter from a recognized institution, and the ability to demonstrate academic eligibility. Generally, student visas are intended for individuals who are pursuing full-time education, so it’s essential to show that your purpose for staying in Finland is education-related. While the visa doesn’t have an upper age limit, applicants should ensure they meet all academic and legal requirements for their specific program.
If you want to study any English-taught programs in Finland, you must hold any language proficiency proof. You need to showcase sufficient English-speaking skills.
Finland universities consider admission if you are a native speaker of English or if you have graduated from any university in the EU/EEA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, or the United States of America with the medium of language as English.
Finnish universities accept English-taught programs from other universities in your previous academics.
All Finnish universities accept IELTS, TOEFL, iBT, or PBT, Cambridge ESOL's Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE), Pearson Test of English (PTE Academic), or Cambridge ESOL's Certificate in Advanced English (CAE).
To get admission to Finland Universities, non-English speakers must score IELTS between 6.0 and 6.5 or a TOEFL iBT score of 79 to 92.
After graduating from Finland University, international students can get two years of work permit. If you have been appointed to a full-time job and decided to settle in the country, you can apply for PR in Finland
The Finland student residence permit typically takes 1–3 months to process, depending on your application completeness and the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) workload.
After graduation, international students can apply for a residence permit for job-seeking or entrepreneurship, valid for up to 2 years. This allows you to find employment or start a business in Finland.
Yes. Students with a valid Finland residence permit can apply to bring their spouse and children as dependents. You must prove sufficient financial means to support them during your stay.
You must show at least €560 per month (about €6,720 per year) to cover living costs, in addition to proof of tuition payment or funding.
Students must have valid health insurance before entering Finland. While healthcare is high-quality, it’s not free for non-EU/EEA students without insurance.
Finland is globally known for programs in Engineering, Computer Science, Education, Environmental Studies, Design, and Business Administration.
Most Finnish universities have two major intakes:
Autumn Intake (August–September) — main admission season.
Spring Intake (January–February) — limited programs.
Tuition fees for non-EU/EEA students typically range between €5,000 and €18,000 per year, depending on the university and program.
Yes. Most Finnish universities offer merit-based scholarships that cover 25% to 100% of tuition fees. Some are automatically considered during admission.
The average monthly living cost is around €700–€1,200, including accommodation, food, and transportation depending on your city (Helsinki being higher).
