Ever dreamt of studying abroad? Finland, a place not likely to be at the top of your list when thinking of study abroad destinations, is fast becoming a place to acquire world-class education. A country that values both intellect and inner peace, Finland just might be your perfect destination! From its advanced teaching methods, to its safe, vibrant cities, to its beautiful forests, and the warm and welcoming culture, studying in Finland has become more than just earning a degree. It is a place where you build a lifestyle.

Whether you’re seeking academic excellence, cultural richness, or a mix of both, this guide gives you everything you need to know to kick-start your journey. And with Arrows Education by your side, applying has never been easier.

Why Choose Finland?

Finland offers more than just a degree. It delivers a transformative study experience rooted in innovation, safety, and balance. Here’s why it stands out as one of the best destinations for international students:

• World-Class Education: Finland is globally recognized for high-quality, research-driven education with innovative teaching methods.
• Student-Centered Learning: Classes encourage independence, creativity, and critical thinking in a flat, friendly academic hierarchy.
• Safe and Welcoming Society: Consistently ranked among the safest and happiest countries—ideal for students seeking peace of mind.
• Affordable Lifestyle: While living costs exist, student-friendly services like subsidized meals and housing keep things manageable.
• English-Taught Programs: Hundreds of degree programs are offered in English, especially at the Master’s and Doctoral levels.
• Nature and Balance: Finland blends modern urban life with breath-taking natural landscapes and promotes a healthy work-life balance.
• Post-Graduation Work Opportunities: International graduates can stay for up to two years to find work, especially in high-demand fields like tech and sustainability.
• Supportive Student Life: From campus clubs to national student unions, international students get access to vibrant communities and support services.

Study Options in Finland

Types of Institutions:

1. Universities (Yliopistot)

• Focus: Academic and scientific research
• Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral degrees
• Goal: Produce high-level research and provide education based on that research
• Examples of Fields: Humanities, natural sciences, law, medicine, engineering, education

2. Universities of Applied Sciences (UAS / Ammattikorkeakoulut)

• Focus: Practical skills and working life relevance
• Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees (no PhDs)
• Goal: Provide professional education closely linked with the job market and industry needs
• Examples of Fields: Health care, business, engineering, social services, media, tourism

Language of Instruction
Most programs for international students are taught in English. Finnish and Swedish are national languages, and learning basic Finnish is encouraged.

Admission Requirements

Application Process
Apply easily through Arrows Education, where expert advisors will guide you every step of the way.

Eligibility

Bachelor’s Degree

• Educational Background: A completed upper secondary education or high school diploma equivalent to the Finnish matriculation examination.
• Language Proficiency: Proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL) if applying for an English-taught program.
• Additional Requirements: Entrance examination or SAT (depending on the institution/program).
• Some programs may also require a motivation letter or portfolio (for design/art-related fields).

Master’s Degree

• Educational Background: A completed Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field from a recognized institution.
• Language Proficiency: Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent).
• Work Experience (for UAS Master’s): Minimum of 2 years of relevant work experience after completing the Bachelor’s degree.
• Other Documents: May include a CV, statement of purpose, references, and possibly an entrance exam or interview.

Doctoral (PhD) Degree

• Educational Background: A completed Master’s degree in a relevant field.
• Research Proposal: A well-defined research plan or project proposal aligned with the university’s expertise.
• Supervisor Confirmation: A professor or research group must agree to supervise your research.
• Language Proficiency: Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent).
• Other Documents: May include academic transcripts, CV, and reference letters.

Understanding EU/EEA vs. Non-EU/EEA Applicants

• EU/EEA Students: Citizens of EU or EEA countries; usually treated like Finnish nationals in tuition policy.
• Non-EU/EEA Students: From outside these regions; must typically pay tuition and apply for a residence permit.

Application Fees

• A €100 non-refundable fee applies to non-EU/EEA applicants for Bachelor’s and Master’s programs.

Tuition Fees and Scholarships

Tuition Costs

Program Level	Annual Tuition Fee (€)	Approx. Fee (USD)	Notes
Bachelor’s	8,000 – 12,000	8,600 – 12,900	Varies by program and institution
Master’s	8,000 – 20,000	8,600 – 21,600	Higher for fields like business, tech, and arts
Doctoral (PhD)	Free	Free	Most programs are tuition-free; research positions may provide funding

Scholarships
Merit-based and need-based scholarships are widely available and often cover up to 100% of tuition. Arrows Education will assist with scholarship applications.

Cost of Living in Finland

Expense Category	Estimated Monthly (€)	Approx. Cost (USD)
Accommodation	300 – 800	325 – 860
Food	200 – 350	215 – 380
Transportation	35 – 60	38 – 65
Utilities & Internet	100 – 130	108 – 140
Health Insurance	~36	~39
Miscellaneous	100 – 200	108 – 215
Total Estimate	700 – 1,500	750 – 1,615

Hot tip: Student cafeterias offer full meals for just €2.30–3.00!

Student Accommodation

Types of Student Accommodation in Finland:

1. Student Housing Foundations

• Most common option for international students
• Managed by regional student housing organizations (e.g., HOAS in Helsinki)
• Offers shared apartments, studios, or dorm-style rooms
• Rent includes basic furnishings, heating, water, and sometimes internet
• Monthly rent: ~€250–€500
• Pros: Affordable, social environment, close to campus
• Cons: Limited availability; early application recommended

2. University-Owned Dormitories

• Some institutions offer on-campus or near-campus dorms
• Usually includes private rooms with shared kitchens and bathrooms
• Priority often given to exchange or first-year international students

3. Private Rental Apartments

• Students can rent alone or share flats with others
• Rent may be higher, especially in major cities (Helsinki, Tampere)
• Monthly rent: ~€500–€900 for private apartments
• Tip: Use city housing portals or Facebook groups to find flatshares

4. Shared Housing / Roommates

• Popular option among students looking to save money and build community
• Shared costs on utilities, internet, and rent
• Often arranged independently or through housing foundations

What’s Included?

• Most student housing includes basic furniture (bed, desk, wardrobe)
• Shared facilities: kitchen, laundry, common room
• Some buildings offer saunas (a Finnish tradition!) and bike storage
• Rent often includes water, heating, and maintenance fees

Visa and Residence Permit

• EU/EEA students: No visa needed.
• Non-EU/EEA students: Must apply for a residence permit

Requirements for a Finnish Student Residence Permit

1. Official Admission Letter: You must have a valid letter of acceptance from a Finnish university or university of applied sciences.
2. Proof of Financial Means: You must show you can support yourself in Finland.

• Accepted proof: bank statements, official scholarship letters, or a sponsor’s financial documents.

3. Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for the entire duration of your studies.
4. Health Insurance: Required for all non-EU/EEA students.

• Coverage must be valid for your entire stay
• Cover medical expenses up to €120,000 (for stays longer than 2 years) or €40,000 (for shorter stays)

5. Visa Application Form & Payment

• Complete the application
• Pay the processing fee

6. Biometrics & Interview

• Biometric data collection (fingerprints and photo)
• Possible interview

7. Other Supporting Documents

• Colour passport photo (recent)
• Residence permit application confirmation
• Housing arrangement details (if available)
• Tuition payment receipt (if applicable)

8. Processing Time: Typically 1–2 months, so apply well in advance.

Work While Studying in Finland

How Many Hours Can You Work?

• Up to 30 hours per week during the academic term
• Full-time allowed during holidays or official breaks (e.g., summer vacation)
• Note: The 30-hour limit is averaged monthly. You may work more on some weeks as long as the monthly average stays within the limit.

Eligibility

• You must hold a valid residence permit for studies.
• The work must relate to your degree or be a non-degree-related part-time work (e.g., café, retail, logistics).

Typical Student Jobs

• Cafés and restaurants
• Retail stores
• Cleaning services
• Warehouse and logistics
• Tutoring or freelance work (especially if you speak English/Finnish)
• Internships (sometimes unpaid or included in your degree)

Expected Pay

• Average part-time wage: €9 – €13/hour
• Monthly earnings can range from €500 to €1,200, depending on hours worked

Where to Find Jobs

• University career centres and job portals
• TE Services (Finland’s public employment service)
• Websites such as:
  • mol.fi
  • oikotie.fi
  • duunitori.fi
• Facebook student job groups and university bulletin boards

Tips for Success

• Learn basic Finnish. It significantly boosts your job prospects.
• Apply early, especially in cities with many international students.
• Be mindful of study priorities; don’t exceed your hour limit.

Weather & Lifestyle (What International Students Should Know)

The weather in Finland may be a bit of a culture shock, however, it’s also part of what makes studying here so unique!

Be Winter-Ready

• Winters are long, cold, and dark, especially from November to March.
• Temperatures can drop to -20°C (–4°F), particularly in the north.
• Invest in quality winter gear: thermal layers, waterproof boots, gloves, and a heavy coat are essential.
• Use the layering method to stay warm and comfortable indoors and outdoors.

Make the Most of Summer

• In contrast, Finnish summers are magical—with up to 20+ hours of daylight in June and July.
• Take advantage of outdoor festivals, cycling, hiking, and lakeside retreats.

Embrace the Finnish Lifestyle

• Silence, nature, and personal space are valued. Don’t take quietness personally, it’s part of the culture!
• Students are expected to be independent and self-managed, but support is always available if you ask.
• Take up local pastimes like sauna, forest walks, and ice swimming (if you’re brave enough!).

Daily Life Tips

• Grocery stores and services are reliable and safe, but some may close early especially on Sundays.
• Use public transport. It’s clean, punctual, and well-connected in most cities.
• Finland is digital-first: banking, study portals, and student services are online and efficient

Post-Graduation Opportunities

Residence Permit for Job Seeking

• After graduation, you can apply for a 2-year residence permit to find work or start a business.
• Apply before your student permit expires.
• This extension applies to both Bachelor’s and Master’s graduates.

Employment Opportunities

Finland has a demand for skilled professionals, especially in:

• ICT & Software Development
• Engineering & Clean Energy
• Health Technology
• Education & Research
• Business & Finance
• English-speaking roles are growing, but learning Finnish improves your chances significantly.

Starting a Business

• Graduates can use their extended permit to launch a startup or freelance career.
• Finland offers startup-friendly policies and digital tools for business registration.

Work-Based Residence Permit

• Once you’re employed, you can switch to a work-based residence permit.
• After four years of continuous stay, you may be eligible for permanent residency.

Further Studies

• You can continue with a PhD, research role, or professional training program.
• Many doctoral programs are tuition-free and offer funded positions.

Why Apply Through Arrows Education?

• Expert guidance in ensuring you choose the right program
• Professional handling of application documents
• Support with scholarships and financial planning
• Housing and visa assistance
• Pre-departure training and on-arrival support

Finland is more than just a study destination! It’s a place to grow, thrive, and succeed. With its innovative education, safe cities, and serene lifestyle, it’s a top choice for students ready to expand their horizons.Apply confidently with Arrows Education by your side, let’s make your Finnish study dream a reality!!!