Finland is known for its high-quality education system, innovative teaching methods, and strong focus on research and development. Finnish universities offer a wide range of degree programs in English, especially at the master’s and doctoral levels. The country has two types of higher education institutions: universities (focused on academic research) and universities of applied sciences (UAS) (focused on practical skills and professional education).

International students are attracted by Finland’s modern campuses, safe society, and emphasis on equality and sustainability. While tuition is free for EU/EEA students, non-EU/EEA students typically pay tuition fees, although many scholarships are available.

Student life in Finland includes access to excellent facilities, nature, and student unions that provide social and support services. Most Finnish cities are student-friendly, with discounts on transportation, meals, and cultural activities.

1. Intakes

• Main Intake:Autumn (August–September)
  • All Finnish universities and UAS (Universities of Applied Sciences) participate.
  • Most programs open for application between December and January.

• Secondary Intake :Spring (January)
  • Limited availability, mainly for bachelor’s programs at UAS.

• Rolling / Direct Admissions:
  • Offered by some UAS and occasionally by universities for specific programs.
  • Applications are processed as they come in, and seats may fill early.
  • Ideal for students who miss the joint application deadlines.

2. Application Methods

• Joint Application (via Studyinfo.fi):
  • One application for up to 6 programs (used mostly in main intake).

• Separate Application:
  • For programs with unique schedules or admission processes (Entrance or Oral Test Based).

• Required Documents:
  • Academic transcripts and certificates
  • Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, etc.)
  • Entrance exam OR SAT/GRE/GMAT, depending on the program
  • Motivation letter, CV, and possibly an interview

3. Standardized Tests

Student having these tests are not required to submit English language test like IELTS/PTE or TOEFL.

• SAT:
  • Accepted by many UAS bachelor’s programs instead of entrance exams.
  • Minimum score requirements vary, usually around 1100–1200.

• GRE / GMAT:
  • Required or recommended for master’s programs in business, economics, engineering, or tech.
  • Competitive programs may require strong scores, but many are test-optional.

4. Tuition Fees

• EU/EEA Students: Tuition is free.
• Non-EU/EEA Students:
  • Fees typically range from €4,000 to €18,000 per year depending on the university and program. It has affordable fee among Nordic countries in Europe.
  • Engineering and business programs often fall on the higher end of the scale.

5. Scholarships & Early Bird Discounts

• University Scholarships:
  • Most institutions offer partial or full merit-based scholarships (25% to 100%).
  • May be granted for first year only or renewable based on academic performance.

• Early Bird Discounts:
  • Offered mainly by UAS and some universities for early tuition payment or prompt confirmation of offer.
  • Discounts range from 10% to 50%, depending on the institution.
  • Often combined with other scholarships.

1. Student Visa (Residence Permit) Success Rate

• Finland has a high visa approval rate for genuine students who meet all requirements.
• Success rate is High, especially for applicants with:
  • An admission letter from a recognized institution
  • Sufficient financial proof (€560/month or ~€6,720/year)
  • Valid health insurance
• Visa decisions are usually made within 1 to 2 months.

2. Post-Study Work (PSW) Opportunities

• Finland offers generous PSW options:
  • After graduation, you can apply for a 2-year job-seeking or entrepreneurship residence permit.
  • You can work full-time during this period.
• Graduates in IT, engineering, healthcare, and business often find opportunities in Finland’s growing sectors.

3. Pathway to Permanent Residency (PR)

• You can apply for Permanent Residency after 4 years of continuous residence in Finland with a valid residence permit.

• Key requirements:
  • Legal residence with no long gaps
  • Financial independence
  • Basic Finnish or Swedish language skills (for some permits)

• PR leads to a long-term EU residence permit and eventually citizenship (after ~5 years total residence, including language and integration conditions).

4. Bringing Family Members

• International students can bring:
  • Spouse or registered partner
  • Children (under 18)
• You must show sufficient income to support your family (around €700–1,000/month extra per family member).
• Family members are eligible for residence permits and may work in Finland.