How Much Will it Cost to Study in Finland?

Studying in Finland offers an enriching academic experience amidst breathtaking landscapes and a vibrant cultural scene. However, it's essential to understand the financial aspects before embarking on your educational journey.

Tuition Fees in Finland

  1. Public Universities: Tuition fees for public universities in Finland are relatively affordable, ranging from €4,000 to €18,000 per year for international students.
  2. Private Universities: Private universities may have higher tuition fees, typically ranging from €6,000 to €25,000 per year depending on the program and institution.
  3. EU Students: EU/EEA students can enjoy tuition-free education in public universities, only needing to pay a small semester fee of around €80 to €100.
  4. Non-EU Students: Non-EU/EEA students are required to pay tuition fees, with rates varying depending on the university and program.

Scholarships in Finland

  1. Government Scholarships: The Finnish government offers scholarships to international students based on academic merit and financial need.
  2. University Scholarships: Many universities in Finland provide scholarships and grants to exceptional students, covering tuition fees and living expenses.

Living Costs in Finland

  1. Accommodation: On-campus housing or student apartments in Finland typically cost between €250 to €600 per month, depending on the location and facilities.
  2. Food and Groceries: Monthly food expenses can range from €200 to €400, depending on dietary preferences and eating habits.
  3. Transportation: Public transportation in Finland is efficient and affordable, with monthly passes costing around €50 to €100.
  4. Health Insurance: Health insurance is mandatory for all students in Finland, with premiums ranging from €20 to €50 per month.
  5. Other Expenses: Additional expenses such as books, study materials, and leisure activities may amount to €100 to €200 per month.

Total Cost Estimate

  1. Tuition Fees: €4,000 to €25,000 per year (depending on the institution and program).
  2. Living Expenses: Approximately €700 to €1,500 per month, including accommodation, food, transportation, and other miscellaneous expenses.

Financial Planning

It's crucial to plan your finances meticulously to ensure a comfortable and fulfilling experience while studying in Finland. Consider exploring part-time job opportunities, applying for scholarships, and budgeting effectively to manage expenses and make the most of your educational journey.

Cost of Education in Finland

Types of Expenses

Annual Expenses in €

Tuition Fees for one-year (Indicative)

10000

Living and Accommodation (Indicative)

8400

Airfare to Finland (Indicative)

570

Visa Fees

450

Total Expenses

19420

Living expenses and tuition fees in Finland

If you belong to the EU or EEA, public Finnish universities offer tuition-free education. However, for non-EU/EEA students, tuition fees range from 5,000 to 18,000 EUR per academic year, depending on the program.
Nevertheless, there are tuition exemptions available for all students, along with numerous scholarship opportunities to assist with finances. Beyond tuition, living expenses must also be considered:

  • Accommodation costs vary from 160 to 800 EUR per month, depending on the city and type of housing. Private apartments tend to be pricier than student housing.
  • Food expenses typically amount to around 200 - 300 EUR per month.

In total, it is advisable to budget approximately 700 - 1,100 EUR per month to cover all living expenses, including social activities and transportation.

When considering the expenses associated with your future studies in Finland, there are two primary factors to take into account. Firstly, you'll need to consider the tuition fees and available scholarship opportunities if you are a non-EU student. Additionally, you'll need to budget for your everyday living expenses.

Tuition Fees

For students from outside the EU/EEA region, tuition fees are applicable for bachelor’s and master’s level programs conducted in English. The annual tuition fee varies depending on the university and program, typically ranging from approximately 5,000€ to 18,000€ (as of 2023). You can find the specific tuition fee for your desired program on the Studyinfo.fi website or by contacting the university directly. There are certain exemptions to tuition fees, which you can verify using the checklist provided on Studyinfo.fi. Doctoral level programs do not charge tuition fees regardless of nationality. If you are required to pay tuition fees, you may be eligible to apply for a scholarship offered by the university.

Living Expenses

In addition to tuition fees, you'll need to cover your daily living costs independently. This includes expenses for food, accommodation, transportation, and other essentials. Monthly living expenses typically range from €700 to €900, depending on your location and lifestyle. Living costs tend to be higher in larger cities compared to smaller ones.

Student Union Fees

University students are obligated to pay an annual student union fee, which is approximately €50, though this may vary slightly depending on the university. Student unions at universities of applied sciences (UAS) also exist, but membership is usually optional. Membership in the student union entitles you to various benefits, including discounts at student restaurants and on public transportation.

Scholarships

Finnish universities offer various scholarships for international students at both the bachelor’s and master’s levels. Funding options are also available for doctoral programs. Each university or university of applied sciences has its own scholarship system, and you can typically apply for scholarships when you apply for admission to your chosen program. Additionally, there are Finland Scholarships available for master’s and doctoral studies at Finnish research and arts universities. These scholarships aim to support gifted non-EU/EEA students who are liable for tuition fees. The scholarship covers the first-year tuition fee and a relocation grant of at least 5000€, with many universities offering further scholarship options for the second year of master’s studies. Application procedures, deadlines, and requirements vary by institution, so be sure to check directly with the university for details.

Popular Cities in Finland by Cost of Living

The table given below provides the average monthly cost of living in different cities in Finland:

Cities

Cost of Living (approx.) in $

Helsinki

1763

Espoo

1752

Tampere

1329

Vantaa

1611

Oulu

1305

Turku

1397

Seinajoki

1145

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