Can You Study in Finland for Free in 2025? Fees & The Best 100% Scholarships

Empower Your Future: Navigating University Fees and Funding in Finland 2025

Planning to study in Finland in 2025? You’re looking at university fees ranging from €8,000 to €20,000 per year, depending on the institution and program you choose. However, the landscape is changing, with some universities like Laurea updating their fee structure for 2025 – Bachelor’s programs will cost €9,500 and Master’s programs €11,000 per academic year.

Furthermore, living expenses are another crucial consideration for international students heading to Finland. While the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) officially requires you to have at least €800 per month, we recommend budgeting between €900 and €1,000 monthly for comfortable living. In fact, when applying for your student residence permit, you must demonstrate having €9,600 in your bank account. The good news is that students can work up to 30 hours per week with a student residence permit, which can help offset some of these costs.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about studying in Finland in 2025, specifically focusing on university fees, scholarship opportunities, visa requirements, and practical living costs. Whether you’re an Indian student exploring Nordic education options or an international applicant researching funding possibilities, we’ve compiled the essential information to help you make informed decisions about your academic future in Finland.

Planning Your Education in Finland

Finland offers a distinctive educational experience that attracts thousands of international students annually. With its cutting-edge research facilities, inspiring campuses, and vibrant student life, it’s an excellent choice for ambitious academic pursuits.

Why study in Finland in 2025?

Finland’s education system consistently ranks among the world’s finest, built on principles of equality, innovation, and student wellbeing. The country hosts 13 universities and 22 universities of applied sciences (UAS) with enrollment across more than 600 English-taught programs over 30,000 international students.

Beyond academics, Finland stands out as one of the world’s safest countries, allowing you to focus entirely on your studies without safety concerns [2]. The nation is frequently listed among the happiest countries globally, offering an outstanding quality of life with high-level infrastructure and technology [2].

Finnish institutions embrace an educational philosophy centred on critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving rather than rote memorisation. This approach cultivates graduates with strong analytical skills, highly valued by employers worldwide [2].

Additionally, the Finnish government has ambitious plans to make 2025 an ideal time to become part of this growing academic community and increase international student numbers to 15,000 annually by 2030. Book a counselling session with IMFS to know more about studying in Finland.

Popular programs for international students

Finnish institutions offer diverse English-taught programs across all educational levels. Bachelor’s degrees typically require 3 years at universities and 3.5-4.5 years at UAS, whereas master’s degrees take 2 years at universities and 1-1.5 years at UAS (following 2 years of relevant work experience) .

The most sought-after fields among international students include:

• Technology and Engineering (particularly at Aalto University)
• Business and Management
• Computer Science and Information Technology
• Biomedical Sciences and Healthcare
• Environmental Studies and Renewable Energy

Finnish education distinguishes between research-oriented traditional universities and practically-focused Universities of Applied Sciences. This structure allows students to choose between academic research paths or hands-on professional development based on their career goals.

Notably, all programs emphasise real-world applications through modern learning environments, strong industry connections, and problem-solving approaches designed to launch your career with confidence.

Study in Finland for Indian students: what to know

Indian students represent a growing demographic in Finland’s international student community. As of 2024, Finland hosted over 2,645 Indian students, with numbers expected to rise significantly in the coming years [4].

For Indian applicants, the application process begins at, where you’ll find comprehensive information about programs, eligibility criteria, and application guidelines Studyinfo.fi[5]. Non-EU/EEA applicants (including Indians) must pay an application fee and demonstrate English proficiency through tests like IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or Cambridge exams [5].

Admission typically requires a high-school diploma for bachelor’s programs or a bachelor’s degree for master’s studies. Depending on your chosen program, you may also need to take entrance exams or participate in interviews [5].

Consequently, Indian students should plan their applications well in advance, particularly for the primary Autumn intake, which offers the most course options, followed by the secondary Spring intake [4]. Upon graduation, Finland offers promising post-study opportunities with a residence permit to search for work or continue your career journey in this innovative Nordic nation [2].

Breakdown of University Fees

Understanding the financial aspect of studying in Finland is crucial for international students planning their education budget. The tuition fees vary considerably based on degree level, institution type, and student nationality.

Finland university fees by degree level

Tuition fees in Finland apply primarily to non-EU/EEA students pursuing English-taught bachelor’s and master’s programs. These fees generally range from €8,000 to €20,000 annually[6][7]. For instance, most bachelor’s and master’s degrees cost between €8,000 and €18,000 per year, with business, engineering, and medical programs typically at the higher end [6].

One of the most appealing aspects of Finnish education is that doctoral (PhD) programs remain completely tuition-free regardless of your nationality [6][7]. This makes Finland an excellent destination for international students seeking affordable doctoral education.

At the University of Helsinki, which commands some of the highest fees in the country, master’s programs cost between €13,000 and €18,000 annually, while their bachelor’s programs in science cost €13,000 per year [5].

Public vs private institutions

The tuition structure differs substantially between public and private institutions. Public universities in Finland generally charge between for international students €4,000-€18,000 per year[8]. In contrast, private universities typically have higher fees, ranging from €6,000 to €25,000 annually, depending on the program [8].

For EU/EEA students, public universities offer tuition-free education, requiring only a small semester fee of approximately €80-€100 [8]. This difference creates a significant financial advantage for European students.

For example, at the University of Turku, non-EU/EEA students pay:

• Social Science degrees: €8,000-€10,000 per year
• Science, Engineering, and Medical degrees: €12,000 per year
• Education, Humanities, and Economics degrees: €10,000 per year [9]

How tuition fees are structured per semester

Most Finnish universities collect the full annual tuition fee in advance of each academic year [5]. Generally, payment deadlines fall around late August—for instance, at the University of Helsinki, the tuition payment deadline is August 31 [5][10].

Moreover, some institutions offer payment flexibility. Students can sometimes pay in two instalments rather than one lump sum, making the financial burden more manageable [11]. At certain universities, an “early bird” discount applies—the University of Eastern Finland offers a one-time €500 reduction for students who accept their place and pay tuition by June 10 [10].

The tuition typically includes mandatory student union membership fees (approximately €50-€70 annually), which provide valuable benefits like discounted meals, cheaper public transportation, and student health services [6].

Prospective students should note that starting January 1, 2025, applicants from outside the EU/EEA will need to pay a €100 application fee when applying for bachelor’s or master’s degrees in Finland [11].

Funding Your Studies: Scholarships and Grants

Securing financial support is a key consideration for international students heading to Finland. Many universities offer scholarship programs specifically designed for non-EU/EEA students who are required to pay tuition fees.

Types of scholarships in Finland

Most Finnish institutions provide two main categories of financial support:

• University scholarships: These typically cover either, with the majority being 50% tuition waivers 50% or 100% of tuition fees[12][2]. Some universities also offer language-based scholarships that reward students who develop Finnish language skills during their studies.
• Merit-based awards: These scholarships recognise academic excellence, with some prestigious programs like the University of Helsinki offering full tuition coverage plus €10,000 annually for living expenses.

Importantly, all scholarships and tuition fee waivers only assist with covering tuition costs – you must independently finance your own living expenses [2]. Book a counselling session with IMFS to know more about studying in Finland.

Eligibility criteria and application process

The application process varies by institution, but follows several common patterns:

• Many universities allow you to apply for scholarships simultaneously with your admission application [12][2]
• Other institutions make scholarships available after you’ve started your studies [2]
• Some scholarships reward academic progress, success, or Finnish language acquisition [2]

Eligibility typically requires excellent academic performance in previous studies [5]. At the University of Helsinki, for instance, scholarships are awarded based on overall academic assessment according to entrance requirements and demonstrated motivation [5].

How to study in Finland for free

EU/EEA students enjoy tuition-free education at public universities in Finland [4]. For non-EU/EEA students, several pathways exist:

First, doctoral (PhD) programs are typically tuition-free regardless of nationality. Second, high-achieving international students can secure tuition waivers covering 50-100% of fees based on academic excellence. Finally, some universities offer Finnish language proficiency scholarships worth €3,000-€6,500 for students who achieve specific language proficiency levels.

Finland government scholarship options

Beyond university-specific options, government-backed funding includes:

• EDUFI Fellowships: Provides for doctoral students and researchers monthly allowances of €1,500.
• Finland Scholarship Pool: Offers €1,500 monthly to researchers from any academic field

The Finland Government Scholarship covers tuition fees and provides up to €5,000 for living expenses. Nevertheless, be cautious about misleading “Finland Government Scholarship” advertisements containing false information [2].

To maximise your chances, apply for multiple scholarships and prepare a compelling motivation letter that clearly explains why you’re an ideal candidate.

Cost of Living and Daily Expenses

Beyond tuition fees, understanding the daily expenses in Finland helps create a realistic budget for your study period. Let’s explore what to expect financially as an international student.

Finland living cost estimates for students

The monthly living costs for students in Finland range from €700 to €1,200, depending on your lifestyle and location [16]. While the Finnish Immigration Service sets the minimum financial requirement at €800 monthly for residence permits, realistically, you’ll need closer to €900-1,000 to live comfortably [7].

Helsinki, being the capital, is naturally more expensive with costs between €980-€1,580 monthly, compared to smaller cities like Oulu at €660-€1,000. Your primary expenses will include accommodation, food (€150-250 monthly), transportation (€35-65 for a monthly pass), and personal expenses [17].

Accommodation and housing options

Housing typically consumes the largest portion of your budget. Student housing foundations offer the most affordable options, with single rooms in shared apartments costing between €200-380 monthly [18]. Private rentals are considerably pricier, ranging from €400-800 for studio apartments.

First and foremost, apply for student housing as soon as your admission is confirmed since applications work on a first-come, first-served basis. In Helsinki, the HOAS foundation maintains nearly 19,000 tenants and over 10,000 apartments specifically for students [20].

Student discounts and union fees

University students must pay a student union membership fee of €50-85 per academic year [7][21]. This investment grants valuable benefits like discounted meals in student cafeterias (around €2.5-3 per meal), a 45% discount on public transportation in the Helsinki region, and reduced prices for long-distance travel [22].

Many museums, restaurants, and shops offer student discounts with your digital student ID through the Tuudo app, which is provided free of charge [22].

Healthcare and insurance costs

All higher education students must pay a healthcare fee to Kela each term, currently €35.60 per term in 2025 [23]. This fee provides access to the Finnish Student Health Service (FSHS), covering general, mental, and dental health services [6].

International students from non-EU/EEA countries are required to have private health insurance as part of their residence permit application [24]. EU/EEA students can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) instead [25]. Remember that FSHS services don’t include emergency or hospital care, so comprehensive insurance is essential [16].

Visa and Work Opportunities

Navigating the visa process is a crucial step for non-EU/EEA students planning their educational journey in Finland. Let’s examine what you need to know about permits and work options.

Finland study visa requirements

Non-EU/EEA students must apply for a residence permit after receiving an acceptance letter from a Finnish institution [26]. Your studies must lead to a degree or vocational qualification at recognised educational institutions [27]. Before applying, ensure you have sufficient funds— it is considered adequate €560 per month (€6,720 annually)[27]. First-time permits are typically valid for two years, unless your studies are shorter [27].

Working while studying: rules and limits

With a student residence permit, you can work up to 30 hours per week on average [9]. This means you might work more hours some weeks, provided your average stays within limits by year’s end [9]. Throughout the year, you’re permitted 120 hours monthly or 1,560 hours annually [9]. Unlike other work, internships and thesis work related to your degree aren’t subject to these hourly restrictions [9].

Documents needed for a visa application

Essential application documents include a valid passport, an acceptance letter from your Finnish institution, proof of sufficient funds, health insurance coverage, and evidence of tuition payment or scholarship. For minors, additional parental consent documentation is required.

Finland study visa cost and timelines

The residence permit costs €450 for online applications or €550 for paper submissions. Processing typically takes 1-3 months, with electronic applications often processed faster [29]. For most cases, decisions arrive within one month [29].

Conclusion

Finland certainly presents a compelling destination for international students planning their 2025 academic journey. The country’s world-class education system, coupled with its reputation for safety and exceptional quality of life, offers significant advantages despite the financial considerations.

While non-EU/EEA students face tuition fees between €8,000 and €20,000 annually, multiple scholarship pathways exist to reduce this burden substantially. Additionally, the opportunity to work up to 30 hours weekly allows students to offset living expenses while gaining valuable professional experience in a progressive economy.

Planning your Finnish education requires careful financial preparation. The required €9,600 bank balance for residence permits represents a genuine estimate of what you’ll need for comfortable living. Book a counselling session with IMFS to know more about studying in Finland. Their expertise can help you navigate scholarship applications, visa requirements, and accommodation options with confidence.

Finnish universities’ emphasis on critical thinking and problem-solving prepares graduates for success in global job markets. The country’s ambitious plan to increase international student numbers by 2030 signals a commitment to educational diversity that makes 2025 an ideal time to join this vibrant academic community.

Therefore, whether you’re drawn to Finland’s technological innovation, business programs, or environmental studies, the investment in a Finnish degree offers long-term value that extends far beyond the initial costs. With proper planning and financial strategy, your educational journey in this Nordic nation can become both accessible and transformative.

Key Takeaways

Here are the essential insights for international students planning to study in Finland in 2025:

a) Tuition fees range €8,000 €20,000 annually for non-EU/EEA students, with PhD programs remaining completely tuition-free regardless of nationality.

b) Budget €900-€1,000 monthly for living expenses despite the official €800 requirement, and demonstrate €9,600 in bank funds for residence permit applications.

c) Multiple scholarship opportunities exist with 50-100% tuition waivers available based on academic merit, plus government fellowships offering €1,500 monthly allowances.

d) Work up to 30 hours weekly with a student residence permit to offset living costs while gaining valuable professional experience in Finland’s progressive economy.

e) Apply early for student housing through foundations offering affordable €200-380 monthly rooms, as applications work on a first-come, first-served basis.

Finland’s commitment to increasing international student numbers to 15,000 annually by 2030, combined with its world-class education system and emphasis on critical thinking, makes 2025 an ideal time to join this innovative Nordic academic community. The investment in Finnish education offers long-term career value that extends far beyond initial costs.

Your Global Future Secured:

Ready to get started? Book a free counselling session with IMFS today to convert global education trends into your personal success roadmap for 2026-27.

FAQs

Q1. What are the tuition fees for international students in Finland for 2025? Tuition fees for non-EU/EEA students typically range from €8,000 to €20,000 per year, depending on the institution and program. However, PhD programs remain tuition-free for all students regardless of nationality.

Q2. How much should I budget for living expenses as an international student in Finland? It’s recommended to budget between €900 and €1,000 per month for living expenses in Finland. This covers accommodation, food, transportation, and personal expenses. Costs may be higher in Helsinki compared to smaller cities.

Q3. Are there scholarships available for international students in Finland? Yes, many Finnish universities offer scholarships for international students. These typically cover 50% to 100% of tuition fees. There are also government-backed options like EDUFI Fellowships, which provide monthly allowances for doctoral students and researchers.

Q4. Can international students work while studying in Finland? Yes, students with a residence permit can work up to 30 hours per week on average. This allows you to earn money to offset living expenses while gaining valuable work experience in Finland.

Q5. What are the visa requirements for studying in Finland? Non-EU/EEA students need to apply for a residence permit after receiving an acceptance letter from a Finnish institution. You’ll need to demonstrate sufficient funds (€6,720 annually), have health insurance, and pay tuition fees or show proof of scholarship. The permit application fee is €450 for online submissions.

References

https://www.studyinfinland.fi/funding-your-studies/bachelors-and-masters-scholarships

https://www.mastersportal.com/articles/1042/tuition-free-universities-in-finland-norway-and-germany.html

https://www.helsinki.fi/en/admissions-and-education/apply-bachelors-and-masters-programs/tuition-fees-and-scholarship-program

https://www.aalto.fi/en/study-at-aalto/student-benefits-and-services

https://www.studyinfinland.fi/funding-your-studies/fees-and-cost-living

https://thinkeurope.de/how-much-will-it-cost-to-study-in-finland

https://migri.fi/en/working-and-internships-during-studies

https://www.uef.fi/en/tuition-fees-waivers-and-scholarships

https://www.study.eu/article/tuition-fees-in-finland

https://www.studyinfinland.fi/admissions

https://www.helsinki.fi/en/admissions-and-education/international-students/student-life-helsinki/cost-living-and-financial-matters

https://propelld.com/site/blog/cost-of-living-in-finland

https://www.studyinfinland.fi/life-in-finland/accommodation

https://hoas.fi/en/

https://hyy.fi/en/members/membership/

https://opiskelijan.metropolia.fi/en/student-life/cost-and-finance/student-discounts

https://www.kela.fi/student-healthcare-fee-higher-education

https://www.internationalstudentinsurance.com/finland-student-insurance.php

https://www.studyinfinland.fi/faq

https://home-affairs.ec.europa.eu/policies/migration-and-asylum/eu-immigration-portal/student-finland_en

https://migri.fi/en/processing-times