Finland, a Nordic welfare state aiming to achieve carbon neutrality by 2035, is renowned for being the happiest country in the world. Finland offers a wide range of outdoor activities due to the country’s extensive forest cover, distinctive natural landscapes, including the largest archipelago and lake district in Europe as well as the untamed wilderness of Lapland.
The capital city, Helsinki, is known for its design and architecture. Finland’s long, cold winters provide opportunities for winter sports and activities like skiing and viewing the Northern Lights. The country is also recognized for its top-quality education system, offering over 500 English-speaking degree programs in internationally-minded higher education institutions.
With state-funded institutions and modern facilities, students in Finland have access to resources to support their academic and career goals.
Why Study Abroad in Finland?
The higher education institutions are of manageable size and operate efficiently. They have a global focus but also incorporate unique characteristics of their respective regions.
Additionally, students have the option to study in diverse environments, such as bustling urban campuses or serene nature-filled campuses. Higher education institutions have a significant level of independence, but they receive the majority of their funding from the Ministry of Education and Culture, which also closely monitors the quality of teaching.
Reasons to Study in Finland
More than 400 English-language study programs are available. Several degree programs in English are offered by Finnish universities. You can find several study options in all areas of education, ranging from full degrees to quick programs taken as part of exchange schemes.
The importance of quality in research and education is emphasized
The national policy in Finland emphasizes excellence in education at all levels and values research and innovation. Finnish students highly value higher education degrees as a crucial step towards building a strong foundation for their future careers.
They are motivated to study due to their basic education and national entrance exams. Unlike in other countries, students in Finland have a significant impact on the quality of education, as they are given a unique opportunity to collaborate with their teachers in developing their institutions and studies.
Country that is efficiently structured and managed
A strong infrastructure in Finland ensures that public and private services operate efficiently. All residents have access to various services, including transportation, healthcare, and emergency services.
Residents can always seek assistance with these services, and their opinions are important. Additionally, Finland offers top-notch banking services that are modern, creative, and user-friendly.
Great amenities for work and recreation
Studying at a higher education institution in Finland comes with many benefits, such as well-equipped libraries that students can freely access with a library card. Additionally, students have free access to the internet and can also use municipal library services for free.
Cafés and common areas are popular places for socializing, and there are various clubs and organizations that offer activities and outings. Sports facilities are also widely available for both local and international students.
Top cities in Finland for international students
Explore the top cities in Finland offering exceptional opportunities for international students. Discover vibrant cultural scenes, prestigious universities, and stunning natural landscapes in these sought-after destinations.
Top Cities to Study
Finland is quickly growing in prominence among international students because of its top-notch educational system, reasonably priced living standards, stunning natural surroundings, and a host of other alluring features that make it a desirable place to live and study. Here are the top Finnish cities for international students, each with its own special appeal-
Helsinki- Ideal for individuals who enjoy a stunning, highly acclaimed, and welcoming city with a global perspective. Helsinki, the capital of Finland, is the top choice for international students among Finnish cities.
It is a lively city with a variety of attractions for tourists and global learners, including beautiful beaches, parks, architectural landmarks, and a vibrant cultural scene. Arcada University of Applied Sciences, Hanken School of Economics, University of Helsinki, and other prestigious universities are among them. Top destinations to visit-
- Helsinki Cathedral
- Ateneum Art Museum
- Suomenlinna fortress
Tampere- Tampere is a popular destination for international students in Finland due to its reputation for technological innovation and the presence of numerous tech companies. It is located in the Pirkanmaa region of the country. This city is a great place for international students interested in science and innovation to study and have successful careers. The university in this city is highly regarded and focuses on technology, health, and society.
Tampere is a great place to be active and have fun during school breaks, with opportunities for biking, hiking, and exploring parks and lakes to enjoy the beautiful scenery. Among the top universities are- Tampere University of Applied Sciences. Must-visit places are-
- Tampere Cathedral
- Tampere Art Museum
- Pyynikki Observation Tower
- Turku- Turku is one of the best cities in Finland for international students, thanks to its cultural and historical significance. This city is the oldest in the country and is known for its beautiful medieval architecture, including a detailed Gothic cathedral. It also has a significant harbor with a history of seafaring. Turku is a well-liked place for students, offering opportunities to make new friends and participate in a vibrant social environment. Must- see places are-
- Turku Castle
- Market Square
- Wäinö Aaltonen Museum of Art
- Vaasa- Vaasa is a popular destination for international students and is recognized as one of the best cities in Finland. It is situated along the coast and is renowned for being the sunniest city in the country. A variety of entertaining activities are available in Vaasa. You can stroll along designated trails and enjoy the stunning coasts during the summer. Additionally, you can take part in social and cultural events like the Night of the Arts, Vaasa Littfest, and the international wildlife film festival Wildlife. Vaasa University of Applied Sciences and Novia University of Applied Sciences are considered to be some of the top universities. Places to visit are-
- The Rajavuori Observation Tower
- Museum of Old Vaasa
- Kuntsi Museum of Modern Arts
- Oulu- Oulu, located in the northern part of Finland, offers students a sanctuary with stunning natural surroundings, including numerous parks, forests, and lakes for relaxation and enjoyment. Oulu is an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts who enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and camping. Additionally, its vibrant student community and diverse options for dining and entertainment make it a top choice for international students studying in Finland. Here, the best university is Oulu University. Must visit places are-
- Oulu Museum of Art
- Tietomaa Science Centre
- Hupisaaret Park
- Lahti- Lahti is a popular city in Finland for international students who enjoy outdoor activities and sports. It is located only 80 kilometers away from Helsinki and boasts a variety of sports facilities, such as the Lahti Sports Center and Ski Jumping Hill. Furthermore, Lahti offers a wonderful opportunity for individuals who love outdoor activities to appreciate the beauty of nature. Must visit places-
- Lahti Art Museum
- Sibelius Hall
- Lahti History Museum
- Kuopio- Kuopio, a charming city in eastern Finland, offers a lively arts and culture scene. Although smaller than other cities for international students, it has a variety of enjoyable activities. The top university in Kuopio is the Savonia University of Applied Sciences. The attractions in Kuopio include
- The Puijo Tower
- Kuopio Art Museum
- Monastery of Valamo.
- Rovaniemi- Rovaniemi, the capital of Finnish Lapland, is well-known for being the recognized residence of Santa Claus. Many tourists visit this popular destination to reminisce about joyful memories from their childhood. In addition, there are various enjoyable activities to discover in one of the most charming Finnish cities for students from abroad. International students will definitely enjoy the cultural offerings of Rovaniemi and other parts of Finland. It is becoming increasingly popular for global students to come to Finland to experience the benefits of studying in the country. Among universities, Lapland University of Applied Sciences is the best. Must-visit locations-
- Santa Claus Village
- Korundi House of Culture
- Ounasvaara Ski Resort
Study in Abroad – Finland with GMC STUDIES
Embark on your educational journey in Finland with GMC STUDIES. Explore our expert guidance, from course selection to travel arrangements and visa assistance. Experience high-quality services tailored to your study abroad aspirations.
- We operate multiple locations worldwide in addition to our central office in the United Kingdom.
- Our experts will assist you with everything from course selection to travel planning, visa registration, signing up, and even academic assistance.
- We offer high-quality services.
- Complimentary Consultation
- Immediate evaluation.
- Expert and knowledgeable visa assistance
Our Success Stories & Student Review for Finland
Check our Student Reviews– ‘I am so grateful to GMC Studies. Their level of service was very remarkable. They were really beneficial right from the start of the application procedure.
Finland Student Visa Requirements
Discover the essential requirements for obtaining a student visa for Finland. Explore the documentation, fees, and procedures necessary to pursue your educational aspirations in this Nordic country.
- Types of Student Visa- There are two types of student visa:
- Short Term Visa- For courses shorter than three months, a short-term student visa is granted.
- Long Term Visa (D-type)- In order to study in Finland, students must obtain a Residence Permit or Study Visa, which allows them to stay in the country for an extended period of time for different purposes.
- Finland Student Visa Fees- The current fee for a Finland Study Visa is 450 EUR.
- Study Visa Documents List-
- Valid Passport
- VISA Application Form
- Two Photos in White Background
- Travel Health Insurance
- Proof of Accommodation
- Proof of Means of Transport (Flight Return Tickets)
- Proof of Financial Means
- NID / Birth Certificate (If needed)
- Previous VISA Copy and Refusal Copy (If any)
- Certificate of Admission or Registration
- Cover Letter
Finland University Tuition Fees Range
Finish universities charge different tuition depending on the kind of school, the nationality of the students, the degree of education (undergraduate, graduate), and other variables. Usually, the tuition fees ranges from 6000-18000 EUR per year.
Popular Finland University Courses:
- Engineering
- Computer Science/ Information Technology
- Business
- Nursing
- Education
Available Scholarships to Study in Finland
There are various funding options available for students interested in studying abroad in Finland. Finnish universities offer various scholarships for international students based on academic merit, with some covering full tuition fees and others offering partial discounts. Each university has its own scholarship program with specific quotas for different degree programs. Some of the scholarships are-
International Students’ Scholarships from the Finnish Government
The Finland Government Scholarship Pool program offers monthly financial support of EUR 1500 to international researchers in any field, but it does not cover transportation, tuition, or insurance. Only potential international researchers can apply for these scholarships.
International Students to Apply for CIMO Doctoral Fellowship
The Centre for International Mobility provides Doctoral and Double Doctoral Fellowships to international students studying at a Finnish university. The fellowship is worth 1500 EUR per month and can last for 3 to 12 months.
It is open to students from any country and helps cover living expenses, but not tuition or travel costs. It is recommended that applicants apply at least 5 months before their program begins, and decisions on the scholarships will be made within 3 months of submitting the application.
Fellowships Program of EDUFI for Junior Doctorate Students
The EDUFI Fellowships program in Finland offers 1500 Euros per month to Doctoral level students and researchers from any academic background. The scholarship can support the living costs of one person in Finland.
Besides these the University of Helsinki, Tampere, Oulu, Turku, etc. also offers a good amount of scholarships for the international students.
Study Options-
- Foundation
- Bachelors/Undergraduate
- Masters
- Doctorate Degree
Study in Finland from Bangladesh without IELTS
In order to pursue an international degree in English, you will need to provide a language certificate such as IELTS or TOEFL. Universities require a minimum language score that must not be more than 1-2 years old. If you do not meet the language requirements, you may need to take an English preparation course to improve your skills and scores.
Costs of studying and living in Finland
Living and studying in Finland allows you to enjoy the relaxed lifestyle and high quality of living, while also forming lasting friendships with the friendly and dependable Finnish people. On average, a student in Finland can expect to spend around 700-900 EUR (including accommodation, food, travel) per month on living expenses.
However, these costs can vary depending on where you are studying, with higher expenses in places like Helsinki and other cities. Usually, the tuition fees ranges from 4000-18000 EUR per year.
Part-Time Jobs/Work Opportunities
Many international students in Finland seek part-time job opportunities to not only engage with the local community and learn, but also to earn extra money. In Finland, international students can work part-time for 30 hours per week during the semester, but they have no restrictions on the number of hours they can work during summer breaks.
International students in Finland are allowed to work unlimited hours during semester breaks, but they must prioritize their studies and maintain minimum grades set by their university. If your work is related to your degree (for example, practical training or thesis work) then this 30-hour restriction does not apply.
Post-Study Work Permit
Typically, if you are not a citizen of an EU/EEA country, you will need a student residence permit to pursue a degree in Finland. Your initial student residence permit in Finland for undergraduate or graduate studies can be issued for the full length of your program, as long as your passport remains valid during that time. After study completion the student gets 2 years of post-study work permit.
Study in Finland FAQ:
1. Is living in Finland safe?
According to the Global Peace Index, Finland is consistently recognized as one of the safest countries in the world. With its low crime rate and outstanding public healthcare system, Finland offers a secure and enjoyable living environment.
2. Is it possible for foreign students to find part-time work in Finland?
As long as they have a valid student residence permit, international students are allowed to work. While studying in Finland, finding part-time work may be challenging, but it’s not unattainable.
3. Do students need to take the IELTS exam to obtain a student visa for Finland?
Admission to Finnish Universities is possible without IELTS, but passing an entrance exam is required.
4. Are international students enrolled in Finnish universities eligible for any scholarships?
There are various funding options available for students interested in studying abroad in Finland. Finnish universities offer various scholarships for international students based on academic merit, with some covering full tuition fees and others offering partial discounts. Each university has its own scholarship program with specific quotas for different degree programs.
5. What prerequisites must one meet in order to study in Finland?
A strong academic record and fluency in English are the standard prerequisites for studying in Finland. It could be necessary for you to pass an admission exam for certain courses. Find out the precise admission requirements from the university of your choice.
6. How much time does it take to obtain a Finland student visa?
The processing time for a Finland student visa is 2-4 months for online applications and 3-5 months for offline applications.
