Dreaming of studying in a land where innovation meets nature’s breathtaking beauty? Welcome to Finland – the ultimate destination for academic excellence and unforgettable experiences!
Whether it’s the free education (for EU/EEA students), cutting-edge research, or the stunning Northern Lights painting the skies, Finland has something to offer every ambitious student. With warm, welcoming communities and a globally renowned education system, it’s no wonder Finland is a top choice for international students.
If you’re ready to take the leap and make Finland your academic home, the Spring Intake 2025 is your golden opportunity. From choosing the right university to navigating the application process, this guide has everything you need to kickstart your journey. Let’s dive in and help you turn this dream into reality!
1. Why Choose Finland?
Finland stands out for its top-tier education system, innovative teaching methods, and emphasis on research and development. Whether you’re drawn by the high quality of life or the unique culture, Finland offers an ideal environment for academic growth and personal enrichment.
2. Choosing the Right University
Start by selecting a Finnish university that aligns with your academic goals. Here are some excellent options to consider:
Aalto University
Aalto University in Espoo is a top institution blending technology, business, and art to drive innovation. Renowned for its programs in Business, Design, and Engineering, it’s a leader in multidisciplinary education and cutting-edge research.
Website: https://www.aalto.fi
University of Turku
The University of Turku is Finland’s second-largest university, offering a wide range of programs in science, health, and humanities. It’s known for its international research collaborations and dynamic student life.
Website: https://www.utu.fi
University of Jyväskylä
Nestled in a beautiful lakeside city, the University of Jyväskylä excels in education, social sciences, and natural sciences. It’s a pioneer in student well-being and interdisciplinary research.
Website: https://www.jyu.fi
LUT University
LUT University stands out for its commitment to sustainability and innovation. It’s ideal for students interested in engineering, business, and environmental studies, ranking highly among eco-friendly institutions.
Website: https://www.lut.fi
Metropolia University of Applied Sciences
As Finland’s largest university of applied sciences, Metropolia offers practical education in technology, business, health, and culture. It’s perfect for students aiming for industry-ready skills and hands-on learning.
Website: https://www.metropolia.fi
University of Vaasa
Located on the picturesque west coast, the University of Vaasa specializes in business, technology, and social sciences. It emphasizes internationalization and offers excellent opportunities for globally oriented students.
Website: https://www.uwasa.fi
Laurea University of Applied Sciences
Laurea focuses on practical education in healthcare, business, and service innovation. Its strong industry connections and regional impact provide students with numerous internship and employment opportunities.
Website: https://www.laurea.fi
Hanken School of Economics
Hanken is one of Finland’s oldest business schools, renowned for its excellence in finance, marketing, and economics. With a strong alumni network and industry partnerships, it offers a world-class education in business.
Website: https://www.hanken.fi
Visit the websites of these institutions to explore their programs, requirements, and unique offerings.
Here are some good Finnish universities we recommend considering:
3. Application Process
a) Where to Apply
Applications can be submitted via:
- The university’s official website.
- The official website for Universities of Applied Sciences (UAS).
- Studyinfo.fi, Finland’s centralized application platform.
Prepare the Required Documents
Gather the following essential documents for your application:
- Passport copy
- Academic transcripts
- IELTS/TOEFL scores for English proficiency
- Motivation letter
- CV or resume
- Letters of recommendation (if applicable)
b) Types of Applications
- Joint Application: Apply to up to six programs with one form, listing them in order of preference.
- Separate Application: Apply individually to as many programs as you like.
c) Deadlines
Joint application to higher education for degree programmes in English where studies begin in autumn 2025 begins soon!
Submit your application between 8 Jan 2025 at 8 am (UTC+2) and 22 Jan 2025 at 3 pm (UTC+2) – late applications are not considered. The programmes available in this joint application are university/university of applied sciences degree programmes taught in English.
Starting from 1 Jan 2025, applicants from outside the EU, EEA or Switzerland are required to pay an application fee in order to apply to higher education studies.
****Check individual university websites for exact dates, as they may vary.
4. Language Requirements
If you’re studying in English, you’ll need proof of proficiency. Accepted tests include:
- IELTS Academic
- TOEFL iBT
- PTE Academic
- Duolingo (accepted by some universities)
Universities also accept Finland’s National Certificate of Language Proficiency. Be sure to verify the specific requirements of your chosen institution.
5. Required Documents
Prepare a strong application by gathering the following essentials:
- Academic transcripts.
- Proof of language proficiency.
- Motivation letter.
- CV or resume.
- Recommendation letters (if applicable).
Universities of Applied Sciences (UAS) may additionally require employment certificates or proof of special arrangements for entrance exams.
6. Scholarships and Tuition Fees
Tuition fees for non-EU/EEA students range from €6,000 to €18,000 annually. To ease financial strain, explore scholarships such as:
- University-specific tuition waivers.
- Finnish Government Scholarships.
- Early Bird Discounts for early acceptances.
7. Residence Permits and Visas
Non-EU/EEA students need a residence permit for studies exceeding 90 days. Apply online through EnterFinland.fi. You’ll need:
- Your admission letter.
- Proof of sufficient funds (~€7,000 annually).
- Health insurance.
Start this process early, as permits can take 4–8 weeks to process.
8. Living in Finland
Finland offers affordable living compared to other European countries. Here’s a breakdown of monthly expenses:
- Accommodation: €300–€600.
- Food and Groceries: €250–€300.
- Transport: €50 (student discounts available).
Apply for student housing early through platforms like HOAS (Helsinki) or TOAS (Tampere).
9. Work Opportunities for Students
As an international student, you can work part-time (up to 20 hours per week) during the academic year and full-time during holidays. Learning basic Finnish can improve your job prospects and help with integration into the local community.
10. Final Tips for a Successful Application
- Start Early: Prepare documents and research programs well ahead of deadlines.
- Write a Strong Motivation Letter: Explain why you chose Finland and your goals for studying there.
- Apply to Multiple Programs: Maximize your chances by applying to several universities.
- Monitor Communication: Regularly check your email and university portals for updates.
The application period for study programmes offered in English is 8 January 2025 at 8 am UTC+2 to 22 January 2025 at 3 pm UTC+2.
Conclusion
The spring intake in Finland offers a gateway to world-class education and an unforgettable experience in a country known for its innovation and inclusivity. With proper planning and timely action, you can embark on a transformative academic journey. Start today, and welcome to Finland – your adventure awaits!
For more details, visit Studyinfo.fi or the official websites of your chosen universities. Best of luck!
