Explore Finland
Study in Finland.
Imagine new ideas beside waterfront streets and open northern skies. Explore the study environment and everyday details that could shape your own Finnish chapter.
At a glance
Studying in Finland, at a glance.
Main intakes
Mostly August or September, with application rounds in January
Bachelor’s degree
3 years at universities, 3.5 to 4 years at universities of applied sciences
Master’s degree
Usually 2 years
Teaching language
English-taught programmes are widely available
Tuition (indicative)
Often around €6,000 to €18,000 a year
For non-EU/EEA students on English-taught degrees. EU/EEA students pay no fees, and most universities offer tuition-fee scholarships.
Living costs (indicative)
From about €800 a month
The Finnish Immigration Service sets a minimum monthly amount for residence permits; it was €800 at our last check. Helsinki costs more.
General guidance, reviewed in November 2026 against official and published sources. Fees, living-cost figures and requirements change and differ by institution and course, so always confirm with the institution and official sources such as Study in Finland and Studyinfo (applications) before making decisions.
Why Finland
What draws students to Finland.
Student-centred teaching
Small groups, project work and close contact with teachers are common.
Safe and well organised
Finland is known for clean cities, reliable public services and a calm pace of life.
Close to nature
Lakes, forests and the sea are never far away, even from the city centre.
Study opportunities
Subject areas with a wide choice of programmes.
Finnish universities offer a growing range of English-taught bachelor’s and master’s programmes. Start with what you want to learn, then check each course’s modules, teaching approach and entry requirements.
- Information technology
- Business and economics
- Engineering
- Education
- Design and arts
- Environmental and natural sciences
Where to study
Examples of well-known institutions in Finland.
In no particular order. These are examples to start your research, not rankings or recommendations, and many other excellent institutions exist.
University of Helsinki
- City
- Helsinki
- Type
- Public research university
Aalto University
- City
- Espoo
- Type
- Public university
Tampere University
- City
- Tampere
- Type
- Public university
University of Turku
- City
- Turku
- Type
- Public university
University of Oulu
- City
- Oulu
- Type
- Public university
LUT University
- City
- Lappeenranta
- Type
- Public university
Check programmes, entry requirements and fees on each institution’s official website.
Admission requirements
What applications usually ask for.
Requirements are set by each institution and course. Use this as a starting checklist, then follow the official course page.
Most applications
- Academic transcripts and certificates from your previous study.
- Evidence of your proficiency in the language of instruction.
- A personal statement or statement of purpose, written in your own words.
- One or two academic or professional references.
- A CV, particularly for postgraduate applications.
- A valid passport.
Specific to Finland
- Applications for most English-taught degrees go through the joint application on Studyinfo.
- Finland has universities and universities of applied sciences; check which one offers your course.
- Some programmes use an entrance exam or pre-assignment.
- English language evidence as required by the institution.
Scholarships
Scholarships worth researching.
Public information only. Eligibility, deadlines and amounts are set by each provider; WINAR does not provide or arrange funding.
University tuition-fee scholarships
Most Finnish universities reduce or waive tuition for successful non-EU/EEA applicants. Check each university’s scholarship page.
Finland Scholarship
A Finnish Government scheme offered through participating universities to new non-EU/EEA degree students.
Student life
Everyday life in Finland.
Seasonal routines
Long summer days and dark winters shape daily life. Plan practical preparation for the seasons.
Student housing
Student housing foundations offer affordable rooms in many cities; apply early.
Settling in
Student unions offer discounts, health services in many cities and a strong community.
Visas and immigration
Visa and immigration rules are set by the government of Finland and change regularly. WINAR does not provide immigration advice or services. Read the official guidance published by Finnish Immigration Service (Migri), and speak to a suitably qualified and regulated adviser if you need advice on your own circumstances.
Questions, answered plainly
Questions about studying in Finland.
What would your Finland chapter need?
Discuss your study goals, the information still to verify and possible next steps with WINAR. Support scope and destination coverage are subject to confirmation.