Finland offers around 600 English-taught bachelor’s and master’s degree programmes in a wide range of fields. You can explore programmes and their admission details on Studyinfo.fi and on the universities’ own websites. Some fields, such as medicine, are available only in Finnish or Swedish.
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.
Studying in Finland is independent, practical and collaborative. Teaching encourages critical thinking, creativity and active participation in an informal learning environment. You'll develop your skills, explore new ideas and take responsibility for your own learning.
Student life combines independent study with active communities, services and extracurricular activities. Student discounts can also help with everyday costs, such as meals and transport. Campus life varies by university and city, so explore your chosen destination to learn more. Explore more about Life in Finland.
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.
You apply to Finnish universities and universities of applied sciences (UAS) online through Studyinfo.fi, 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.
Yes, if you are a non-EU/EEA applicant, you need to pay an application fee of 100€.
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 Studyinfo.fi 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 at leas two years of 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 Studyinfo.fi and with the university you are applying to.
Finnish universities may require IELTS, TOEFL or another accepted form of English-language proficiency evidence for English-taught degree programmes. The accepted tests, minimum scores and exemptions depend on the university and programme, so check the exact requirements with the university offering the programme you are planning to apply to.
Doctoral studies in Finland typically take four years and are offered by universities. There are no tuition fees, regardless of nationality, but you need to secure funding for your living expenses. Paid doctoral research positions may also be available.
Explore opportunities on Studyinfo.fi and university websites, and check each university's application requirements. Read more about Doctoral admissions and Doctoral funding.
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 €9,000 to €20,000 per year, depending on the university and programme. Check the exact tuition fee on Studyinfo.fi or with the university you are applying to.
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.
The total annual cost of studying in Finland depends on your nationality, degree programme and living expenses.
Students from outside the EU/EEA and Switzerland generally pay tuition fees of €9,000–€20,000 per year for English-taught bachelor's and master's programmes. In addition, students should budget approximately €900–€1,200 per month for living expenses, including accommodation.
This means a typical fee-paying student should plan for approximately €19,800–€34,400 per year in tuition and living expenses combined, before additional costs such as travel, insurance and applicable fees. EU/EEA and Swiss students generally do not pay tuition fees, but they must still cover their living expenses.
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.
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. Doctoral (PhD) students and researchers apply for a researcher's residence permit. Check the current requirements with the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri).
Student housing in Finland is usually provided by local student housing organisations. Apply as soon as you receive confirmation of admission, as demand can be high, especially in autumn. Rooms in shared student apartments typically cost €200–€380 per month. You can find housing providers through SOA or ask your university for advice.
Eligible family members of a student 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 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. However, finding part-time work is not guaranteed, and you should not rely on employment to finance your studies. Make sure you have sufficient funds to cover your living expenses independently throughout your studies.
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 current options and application requirements on the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) website.
Employment opportunities vary significantly by field, location, work experience, language skills and economic conditions. Finding a job in Finland can be challenging, especially without Finnish or Swedish language skills. Learning the local language, building professional networks and gaining experience through internships can improve your prospects.
Your university's career services can help you get started. Find more tips on our Opportunities after graduation page.
Study in Finland 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.
Study in Finland 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 Studyinfo.fi. InfoFinland.fi also provides practical information about education and living in Finland in several languages.
