Hey you — yes, you with big dreams of studying in Europe! 👋
If you’re a Bangladeshi student wondering where to go, let me give you a little insider tip: Finland is quickly becoming a top choice. Think world-class education, safe cities, affordable tuition, and yes — the magical Northern Lights!
I know choosing the right university abroad can be confusing, so I’ve put together this easy guide just for you. From the best universities in Finland to scholarships, application tips, and real student stories — everything you need to start your Finnish journey is right here.
Top 7 Finnish Universities for Bangladeshi Students in 2025
Choosing the right university can feel like trying to find your way in a snowstorm — exciting but a little confusing. So let me be your guide! Here’s a list of the top universities in Finland where you, as a Bangladeshi student, can thrive, grow, and maybe even see the Northern Lights while you’re at it.
1. University of Helsinki
📍 Location: Helsinki (the capital city!)
If you’re aiming for the top, the University of Helsinki is Finland’s oldest and most prestigious university. It’s like the Dhaka University of Finland — respected, research-driven, and full of history.
🧠 Best Programs: Life Sciences, Environmental Studies, Humanities, Political Science, and Law
📌 For Bangladeshi Students:
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Admission Requirements: Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) + IELTS 6.5+ (for English-taught programs)
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Tuition Fees: Around €13,000–€18,000/year
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Scholarships: Excellent academic scholarships that cover up to 100% of tuition + living allowance
🌍 Student Life: Lots of international students, and Helsinki has an active student scene. Plus, there are Facebook groups and student unions where Bangladeshi students can connect and feel at home.
2. Aalto University
📍 Location: Espoo (next to Helsinki)
Calling all future tech geniuses, creative designers, and business minds! Aalto University is the place where innovation comes alive. Think of it as Finland’s version of MIT — but more relaxed and surrounded by nature.
🧠 Best Programs: Engineering, Design, Business, and Computer Science
📌 For Bangladeshi Students:
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Admission Requirements: Strong grades in science/math + IELTS 6.5+ or TOEFL
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Tuition Fees: Around €12,000–€15,000/year
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Scholarships: Merit-based scholarships (50% or full tuition coverage)
🌍 Student Life: Super international campus with startup culture everywhere. Aalto even has its own student-run startup accelerator! Bangladeshi students have been part of many tech and entrepreneurship events here.
3. Tampere University
📍 Location: Tampere (a cool, student-friendly city)
This university is known for combining tech with society. If you’re into engineering, media, or social science, Tampere University might be your match.
🧠 Best Programs: Engineering, Media Studies, Social Sciences, Health Tech
📌 For Bangladeshi Students:
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Admission Requirements: HSC + Bachelor’s (for Master’s) + English test scores
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Tuition Fees: Around €10,000–€13,000/year
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Scholarships: Up to 100% tuition waivers
🌍 Student Life: Tampere is affordable compared to Helsinki, and the student community is super friendly. You’ll find international events, part-time job opportunities, and even Bangladeshi cultural nights!
4. University of Turku
📍 Location: Turku (Finland’s historic city by the sea)
If you love research and want to study in a peaceful, coastal city, the University of Turku could be your academic home. It’s known for its industry connections, which means great career options after graduation.
🧠 Best Programs: Business, Health Sciences, Education, and Natural Sciences
📌 For Bangladeshi Students:
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Admission Requirements: HSC + Bachelor’s (for Master’s) + English test
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Tuition Fees: €8,000–€16,000/year
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Scholarships: Competitive scholarships for high-performing students
🌍 Student Life: Turku is calm but lively, and there’s a growing Bangladeshi student presence. Plus, you’re never far from a cozy coffee shop or a ferry to Sweden.
5. LUT University (Lappeenranta-Lahti University of Technology)
📍 Locations: Lappeenranta and Lahti
Looking to change the world through clean energy or green tech? LUT University is your go-to. It’s super focused on sustainability, which is a big global trend right now.
🧠 Best Programs: Energy Tech, Sustainability, Business Analytics, Industrial Engineering
📌 For Bangladeshi Students:
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Admission Requirements: HSC + science background + English test
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Tuition Fees: €10,000–€13,500/year
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Scholarships: Early bird and merit scholarships available
🌍 Student Life: LUT has a tight-knit international student community, and many Bangladeshi students have landed internships and even job offers before graduation!
6. University of Eastern Finland
📍 Locations: Joensuu and Kuopio
Want to live close to nature while studying health sciences or environmental studies? UEF is a great choice — peaceful, affordable, and very research-focused.
🧠 Best Programs: Public Health, Forestry, Environmental Sciences, Social Sciences
📌 For Bangladeshi Students:
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Admission Requirements: Standard academic background + English proficiency
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Tuition Fees: Around €10,000/year
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Scholarships: Partial and full scholarships based on merit
🌍 Student Life: You’ll enjoy clean air, forest walks, and a strong sense of community. Bangladeshi student groups are active in both cities.
7. Metropolia University of Applied Sciences
📍 Location: Helsinki Metropolitan Area
If you want to jump straight into a career, Metropolia UAS is a fantastic option. It’s known for hands-on programs and solid industry connections in the heart of Finland’s job market.
🧠 Best Programs: IT, Engineering, Business, Health Care
📌 For Bangladeshi Students:
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Admission Requirements: HSC or Diploma + entrance exam or SAT
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Tuition Fees: Around €10,000/year
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Scholarships: Available after the first year based on academic performance
🌍 Student Life: Metropolia’s location gives you access to internships, tech meetups, and job fairs in Helsinki. There’s a strong South Asian community here, so you won’t feel alone.
Looking to study abroad on a budget? Check out our list of affordable Finnish universities for Bangladeshi students in 2025.
Understanding the Finnish Higher Education System
Before we get into the best universities, let’s make sure you understand how Finland’s higher education system works. It’s a bit different from what you might be used to in Bangladesh, but in a good way!
University vs. University of Applied Sciences (UAS): What’s the difference?
In Finland, there are two main types of higher education institutions:
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Universities – These focus on academic research and theory. If you love exploring ideas, doing lab work, or thinking about big problems in the world, universities are for you.
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Universities of Applied Sciences (UAS) – These are more hands-on and practical. Want to jump into real-world projects, work closely with companies, and build skills that employers love? Then UAS might be your best fit.
Both offer Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees, but universities are the ones offering Doctoral (PhD) programs.
What can you study?
As a Bangladeshi student, you’ll find loads of options. Finnish universities offer programs in:
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Business & Management
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Engineering & Technology
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Computer Science & IT
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Health & Life Sciences
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Environmental Studies
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Education & Social Sciences
Many programs are taught completely in English, especially at the Master’s level, so don’t worry if your Finnish isn’t fluent yet (though learning a few words definitely helps).
Teaching style in Finland: Study your way
One of the coolest things about studying in Finland? The way you learn. It’s very student-centered, which means:
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You’ll work in teams, not just listen to lectures.
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You’ll be encouraged to ask questions and think critically.
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There’s a strong focus on independent study — so you get to explore topics you care about.
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Professors are friendly and accessible (yes, you can call them by their first name!).
Scholarships & Financial Aid for Bangladeshi Students
Let’s be honest — studying abroad can get pricey. But the good news is Finland offers several scholarships, and many Bangladeshi students get financial help to reduce the cost. You just need to know where to look (and how to apply smartly).
🎓 Government-Funded Scholarships
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Finland Scholarship: Offered for non-EU/EEA students applying to Master’s programs. Covers first-year tuition and includes a €5,000 relocation grant. Many top universities like Helsinki, Aalto, and Tampere offer this.
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EDUFI Fellowship (Doctoral Level): If you’re planning to go all the way to PhD, this is a great option for funding research in Finnish universities.
🏫 University-Specific Scholarships
Every Finnish university offers merit-based scholarships, especially for non-EU students. Here’s a quick look:
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University of Helsinki: Full and partial tuition waivers + €10,000–€15,000 grants.
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Aalto University: 50% or 100% tuition scholarships; very competitive, so high academic grades are key.
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Tampere University: Tuition waivers + Finland Scholarship combo.
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Metropolia UAS: Scholarships based on academic performance starting from the second year.
💡 Pro Tip: Apply early! Many scholarships are awarded during the admission process — no separate application needed, but timing is everything.
💼 Part-Time Jobs & Work Rights
Yes, you can work while studying in Finland! Here’s how it works:
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20 hours/week during the semester
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Full-time during holidays
Common jobs for students include working in cafes, cleaning services, delivery, and even IT support (if you have the skills!). You’ll need a residence permit for studies, which also acts as your work permit.
How to Apply to Finnish Universities from Bangladesh
So, how do you actually get into a Finnish university? It’s not as complicated as it sounds — just follow the steps.
Eligibility & Documents Required
Here’s what you’ll typically need:
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HSC certificate (or Bachelor’s degree for Master’s)
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English proficiency test (IELTS 6.0–6.5 or TOEFL)
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Motivation letter (why you want to study that course/university)
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CV (for Master’s level)
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Copy of passport
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Sometimes an entrance exam or interview
💡 Tip: Some UAS programs accept SAT scores instead of entrance exams — great if you’re already preparing!
The Joint Application System (Studyinfo.fi)
Most Finnish universities use the Studyinfo.fi platform. Here’s how it works:
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Create an account on gmc-studies
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Choose up to 6 programs (rank them in order of preference!)
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Upload your documents
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Submit your application — only once, for all choices!
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Wait for entrance exam or interview (if required)
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Receive results — usually in April/May (for autumn intake)
Deadlines for 2025 Intake
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Autumn 2025 intake: Application period – January 2025
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Spring 2025 intake: Only a few programs open – Apply by September 2024
Always check the exact dates and requirements on the university websites!
Motivation Letter Tips
This is your time to shine. Share:
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Why you love the subject
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Why you chose Finland and that specific university
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Your career goals
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How you’ll contribute to the university community
Keep it personal, focused, and honest. No copy-pasting, please!
Life in Finland as a Bangladeshi Student
Okay, so now you’re in Finland. What’s life really like there?
💸 Cost of Living & Budgeting Tips
On average, you’ll need €700–€1,200/month, depending on your city.
Breakdown:
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Rent: €250–€600
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Food: €150–€250
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Transport: €35–€60 (student discounts available!)
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Internet & phone: €20–€40
💡 Tip: Apply early for student housing — it’s cheaper and more social.
Accommodation Options
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Student Housing: Managed by organizations like HOAS (in Helsinki) — shared apartments or studios
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Private Rentals: More expensive but gives you more freedom
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Dorms & Hostels (short-term): If you arrive early
Weather & Cultural Adjustment
Be prepared — it gets cold! Winter temps can drop to -20°C, but Finnish homes are super warm and cozy.
Cultural surprises:
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People are quiet but kind
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Very punctual (don’t be late!)
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Everyone respects personal space
Once you adjust, you’ll love the clean air, safe streets, and peaceful lifestyle.
Student Support & Bangladeshi Communities
All universities offer:
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Career counseling
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Mental health services
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Student tutors to help you settle in
Plus, you’ll find Bangladeshi student groups on Facebook, WhatsApp, and in university associations. Join them — they often help with housing, food, and even halal groceries!
Final Tips for Making the Most of Your Study Abroad Journey
You’ve got the dream — now let’s make it real.
Prepare Mentally & Practically
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Say your goodbyes early
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Practice cooking your favorite meals!
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Keep digital copies of all documents
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Learn a few Finnish phrases (it helps a lot!)
Use University Resources
Every uni has:
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Career centers to help you find internships
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Student unions that organize events
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Alumni networks for future jobs
Conclusion
So there you have it — your ultimate 2025 guide to the best universities in Finland for Bangladeshi students. Whether you’re dreaming of Helsinki’s vibrant city life or a quiet lakeside campus in Joensuu, Finland offers something truly special: high-quality education, a safe and innovative environment, and a path to global opportunities.
🌟 Now it’s your turn. Start shortlisting your universities today and take the first step toward your Finnish journey!
FAQ’s About Best Universities in Finland
What are the best universities in Finland?
Some of the top universities in Finland are Aalto University and the University of Helsinki. Also, the University of Jyväskylä, the University of Oulu, and the University of Turku are well-regarded. They are known for great academic programs, modern research centers, and diverse international students.
Why should I consider studying in Finland?
Finland stands out for its excellent education system, often ranked at the top worldwide. Its universities provide a creative, critical thinking focused learning environment. It offers affordability, work chances, and stunning nature besides.
What are the tuition fees and living expenses in Finland?
Tuition in Finland for international students can range from €5,000 to €18,000 yearly. Living costs fall between €700 and €900 monthly, covering food, shelter, and transport. Besides, there’s a small student union fee, about €50 a year, offering valuable benefits.
What are the admission requirements for international students in Finland?
Admission for international students is simple in Finland with few hurdles. You need your previous academic records, proof of English, a passport, and a final degree certificate. Not all universities require an IELTS or TOEFL score.
Can international students work in Finland?
International students can work up to 25 hours a week in Finland. This is a great way to gain working experience and earn extra money. The country’s strong high-tech and business sectors provide many internship opportunities.
What are the post-graduation prospects for international students in Finland?
After studies, you can stay in Finland to find work. The government offers a “job search visa” or a “residence permit for work” to ease this transition. This is how many students start their professional careers in Finland.
What scholarships and financial aid are available for international students in Finland?
Various scholarships and financial help are available for international students in Finland. Universities offer scholarships that can cover tuition fully or partially. Certain policies also allow for tuition fee exemptions for eligible students.
What is the application process for studying in Finland?
Applying to study in Finland is simple and clear. Needed documents are a transcript of your previous studies, English proficiency proof, a passport, and your final certificate. It’s essential to know the deadlines for your university of choice.
