Study in Finland is a good option for students seeking quality education in a safe, modern country at reasonable costs. Many English-taught programs, scholarships, and free study options are available for Indian and international students. Universities in this country provide degrees complying with the European standards, which are recognized throughout the world.
Most faculties in Finnish universities run English-language programs, and the desired level of proficiency in Finnish is not required. For them, English-taught programs are attractive at Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD levels. Life is fun for international students!
Opting for Finland is always a good choice for Indian students because of its prestigious universities and career opportunities. The procedure to study in Finland from India is very straightforward. A student has to be in the 12th class to enroll in Bachelor's or Master's programs.
Mostly, an English proficiency test, i.e., IELTS or TOEFL score, would prove the language capacity requirement. Studying in Finland from India enhances the chances of European jobs and a multicultural campus life.
Most of the top universities in Finland offer degrees in English. Whether it is business, engineering, computing, natural science, art, or social sciences, the course is always taught in simple English that would be convenient for students coming in from India and any other country. Students can pursue English-taught programs in all possible fields. Due to cultural differences, teachers provide special support to the foreign students.
Every specific university has the right to establish its own criteria for admission to its courses. Usually, Finnish universities want the prospective students to satisfy the curricular and language demands set by a given university. The specific requirements to study in Finland for international students are:
Study in Finland Requirements |
|
Requirement |
Details |
Academic record |
High school (Bachelor's); Bachelor’s (Master’s) |
Language test |
IELTS/TOEFL or alternative proof in English |
Passport |
Valid at least for the study period |
Motivation letter |
Required for most degrees |
Entrance exam |
For some programs, especially Bachelor’s |
Reference letters |
Often needed for Master’s and PhD programs |
Funds |
Show proof of funds for visa/residence |
Several universities award full scholarships covering 100% of tuition fees and also a monthly allowance. EU/EEA students would still enjoy free tuition in public universities. Scholarships depend on academic achievement, motivation, and sometimes entrance exams. Otherwise, now there is education against payment, and it is mostly applicable only to non-EU countries.
Public universities in Finland offer free programs for EU/EEA students. Non-EU students can apply for scholarships that cover part or all of the tuition fees.
The Finland Scholarship covers tuition fees and offers up to €5,000 (around ₹4,30,000) for living expenses.
Scholarships in Finland are for undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctorate studies. Each Finnish university has its own scholarship program for international students. Besides, there are national scholarship opportunities as well.
Scholarships could cover either partial or full tuition fees; some may come with living allowances. Applying early with a good academic background increases your chances.
Study in Finland Scholarship |
||
Scholarship Name |
Coverage |
Who can apply |
Finland Government Scholarship |
Full/partial tuition, monthly support |
Master’s students |
University-specific scholarships |
Full/partial tuition |
Bachelor’s/Master’s/PhD |
EDUFI Fellowships |
Living costs, research grants |
Doctoral students |
Yes, studying in Finland without IELTS is possible. If you have previously studied in English or if your previous education was in an English-speaking country, you may not need to take IELTS or TOEFL. Some universities recognize alternative English certificates or have their own tests/interviews. Always check well in advance the English language requirements and procedures of the university you are applying to
For non-EU and EEA students, study fees in Finland vary greatly depending on the student category and could amount to EUR 5,000-18,000 per year, with some private institutions or business ones charging more than others. Apart from tuition fees for obtaining a visa, living expenses are about EUR 560 per month.
On average most students spend their living on rent, food, transport, and insurance, from EUR 7,000 up to 12,000. Most grants for reducing tuition fees for new international students are available in the form of tuition scholarships for the first year.
Study in Finland Fees |
|
Fee Type |
Amount (EUR/year) |
Tuition (Bachelor) |
5,000–15,000 |
Tuition (Master) |
6,000–18,000 |
Living expenses |
7,000–12,000 |
Study in Finland for free for Indian students is possible with scholarships. Apply to universities offering tuition waivers or full scholarships for top students. Prepare a strong application and check each university’s scholarship policies. You can also apply for paid internships, research grants, and part-time jobs to support your costs. Doctoral studies in Finland are mostly free, with many PhD students being paid a salary.
Finland has good universities that offer degrees in UG and PG levels. They also focus on the overall development of the student along with academics. Most degrees last three years for Bachelor’s and two years for Master’s.
Tuition fees are reasonable compared to other European countries, and many universities provide scholarships to international students. Here is a simple table of the best universities for international students in Finland.
Popular Universities in Finland |
||||
University Name |
Popular Courses |
Tuition Fee/Year (EUR) |
Language |
City |
University of Helsinki |
Science, Law, Arts |
13,000–18,000 |
English |
Helsinki |
Aalto University |
Business, Tech, Design |
12,000–15,000 |
English |
Espoo/Helsinki |
University of Turku |
Medicine, Science, IT |
8,000–12,000 |
English |
Turku |
Tampere University |
Engineering, IT, Health |
8,000–12,000 |
English |
Tampere |
University of Eastern Finland |
Health, Environment |
8,000–10,000 |
English |
Joensuu/Kuopio |
LUT University |
Engineering, Energy |
10,000 |
English |
Lappeenranta/Lahti |
University of Oulu |
Science, Tech, IT |
10,000–13,000 |
English |
Oulu |
Åbo Akademi University |
Chemical Engg, IT, Social Sci |
8,000–12,000 |
English |
Turku/Vaasa |
Application processes to study in Finland from India are simple and straightforward. Start by researching possible universities and courses that are of interest to you. Go through the official university website for their exact admission requirements, required documents, and deadlines. Confirm you have met all academic and language requirements before you apply.
Choose your university and course in Finland.
Confirm all requirements on the university's website.
Prepare all documents, including marksheets, passport, English test scores, motivation letter, and any other papers needed.
Apply online through the Finnish national study portal (studyinfo.fi.fi) or through the official university website.
Upload all required documents and fill out the application form diligently. If required, take the entrance exam or interview.
Wait for an admission decision, usually by April or May. Accept your offer, apply for a Finnish residence permit (student visa), attaching your admission letter, documents about your finances, and health insurance.
Arrange accommodation and travel, reaching Finland a few weeks ahead of the start of classes for student orientation.
Finland is famous for its safe cities, beautiful forests, and friendly people. Students enjoy festivals, clubs, and outdoor sports like skiing and canoeing. Public transport is excellent, and student discounts are common. Most universities help with housing, health care, and adjusting to Finnish life.
Degrees are respected everywhere. Universities offer strong industry connections and internships. The country is clean, green, and safe. Education is modern, practical, and student-focused. Many English-taught programs and scholarships make it easy for students from India and other countries to join.
Studying in Finland offers an international education, a friendly lifestyle, and global career chances. With good planning, scholarships, and English-taught programs, it is a smart choice for students from India and worldwide.