Finland has two types of higher education institutions: universities and universities of applied sciences (UAS).
Universities focus on academic learning and scientific research, while UAS institutions take a more practical, career-oriented approach with strong links to working life. Universities offer bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees, while UAS institutions offer bachelor’s and master’s degrees.
Your choice depends on your goals: a university may suit you if you are interested in research and academic study, while a UAS may be a better fit if you prefer practical, professionally oriented learning.
You apply to Finnish universities and universities of applied sciences (UAS) online through , Finland’s official national application portal. First find the degree programme you want to apply to, then check its application period, admission requirements and required documents. Some programmes use the national joint application, while others have separate application periods.
Application periods depend on the degree programme. The main joint application for English-taught bachelor’s and master’s programmes starting in autumn is usually held in January. A smaller number of programmes starting in January may be available in an autumn joint application. Some programmes use separate or rolling applications with different schedules. Always check the exact application period for your chosen programme on or with the university you are planning to apply to.
Admission requirements vary by degree programme. For a bachelor’s degree, you generally need an upper secondary qualification that gives you eligibility for higher education. For a master’s degree, you need a relevant bachelor’s degree, and master’s programmes at universities of applied sciences (UAS) also require relevant work experience. Some programmes may have additional requirements, such as entrance examinations or interviews. Always check the exact eligibility criteria and required documents on and with the university you are applying to.
Finland offers around 600 English-taught bachelor’s and master’s degree programmes in a wide range of fields. You can find English-taught programmes and their admission details on and on the universities’ own websites. Some fields and degree programmes, such as medicine, are available only in Finnish or Swedish.
It depends on the degree programme. If you need to prove your English proficiency, commonly accepted tests include IELTS, TOEFL, PTE and Cambridge English qualifications, but some applicants may qualify through other evidence or exemptions. Always check the exact language requirements for your chosen programme on Studyinfo.fi and the university’s website.
Students from outside the EU/EEA and Switzerland generally need to pay tuition fees for English-taught bachelor’s and master’s degree programmes in Finland. Tuition fees typically range from €8,000 to €20,000 per year, depending on the university and programme.
EU/EEA and Swiss students generally do not pay tuition fees. Doctoral programmes do not charge tuition fees, regardless of nationality. Exchange students also generally do not pay tuition fees to the Finnish host university.
Yes. Finnish universities and universities of applied sciences may offer scholarships or tuition fee waivers to students who are required to pay tuition fees. Scholarship schemes, eligibility criteria and amounts vary by university, and they usually cover tuition fees partly or fully rather than living costs. There are no Finnish government scholarships available. Check the scholarship options directly with the university you are applying to, and plan to cover your living expenses independently.
Student life in Finland combines independent study with active student communities and a wide range of student services. Universities and student organisations offer activities, clubs and opportunities to meet other students, while student discounts can help with everyday costs such as meals and transport. Campus life varies by university and city, so explore the university and destination you are interested in to get a better picture of daily student life.
We recommend budgeting approximately €900–€1,200 per month for living expenses in Finland. Your actual costs will depend on where you live and your personal spending, with accommodation typically taking the largest share of your budget. If you are required to pay tuition fees, remember to budget for these separately. You should plan your finances so that you can cover all your living costs independently throughout your studies.
If you have a Finnish residence permit for studies, you are allowed to work in paid employment for an average of up to 30 hours per week. You may work more hours during some weeks or holidays as long as your average working time remains within the permitted limit. Work that forms part of your degree, such as certain internships or thesis work, may be exempt from the limit. Check the current rules on the .
Finding part-time work can be challenging, particularly without Finnish or Swedish skills, so you should not rely on employment to finance your studies.
Yes. You can complete an English-taught degree programme in English, and English is widely used in many everyday situations in Finland. However, learning Finnish or Swedish can make everyday life easier and significantly broaden your opportunities for internships, part-time work and employment after graduation. We recommend starting to learn one of Finland’s national languages while you study.
Eligible can apply for a residence permit to join them in Finland. Your family must meet the Finnish Immigration Service’s financial requirements, which depend on the size of your family and where in Finland you live. A family member who receives a residence permit on the basis of family ties has an unrestricted right to work and study in Finland. However student family housing is limited and employment can be difficult without local-language skills. Check the eligibility criteria, financial requirements and application instructions on the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) website before making plans.
If you are coming to Finland from outside the EU/EEA to complete a degree, you will generally need a residence permit for studies. The application requires documentation including proof of your study place, sufficient funds and valid insurance. Residence rules differ for EU/EEA citizens and for shorter stays. Always check the current requirements with the .
Use official sources when checking Finnish universities, degree programmes, admissions and scholarships. Studyinfinland.fi is Finland’s official guide for international students, while Studyinfo.fi is the official national service for finding degree programmes and applying to higher education. You should also verify information on the university’s own official website. Be cautious of fake universities, as well as organisations or social-media accounts promising guaranteed admission, guaranteed visas or “fully funded Finnish government scholarships”.
Yes. If you complete a degree in Finland and do not yet have a job, you may be eligible to apply for a residence permit to look for work or start a business. The permit can be granted for a maximum of two years, subject to the Finnish Immigration Service’s eligibility and financial requirements. If you already have a job after graduating, a different residence permit based on having completed a degree in Finland may be appropriate. Check the on the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) website.
vlog focuses on higher education at Finnish universities and universities of applied sciences. For information about general upper secondary education, vocational education and training, and other study options in Finland, visit . also provides practical information about education and living in Finland in several languages.
vlog is the official guide to Finnish higher education for international students, maintained by the Finnish National Agency for Education. We provide information about studying and living in Finland, including degree programmes, applications, tuition fees and scholarships, student life and what to do after graduation.