But in 2020, Finland leapfrogged the rest to finish top of the pile. Finland is an interesting and multifaceted country with amazing nature, well-developed infrastructure and a high level of social security. In 2023, the UN named Finland the happiest country in the world for the sixth time. The state received the highest indicators for the level of welfare of the population, life expectancy, social support and even freedom of speech. It is worth noting that not only Finns are satisfied with life in Finland, but also migrants.

Why choose Finland for studies?

Education System:

The education system in Finland boasts to be some of the best in the world. It is no wonder there are 14000 international students studying in Finland. 9 universities in Finland are ranked among the top universities in the world by QS world ranking, and not to forget the prestigious universities of applied sciences. In short, education in Finland can be compared to education in any top English speaking country like the UK, the USA, Canada or Australia.

Affordable study costs:

For Finnish and EU students the universities in Finland offer free education. However, students coming from other countries also do not have to burn a hole in their pocket to study in Finland. Tuition fees in Finland range from anywhere between 600 euros to 16000 euros a year. For some of the courses like MBA, it can go as high as 25000 euros a year.

International students can always go for scholarship opportunities that come with study in Finland. Many universities offer international students funding opportunities like grants and scholarships. The scholarships are usually based on your academic performance. Some universities may also offer fully paid scholarships, which make education effectively tuitionfree.

Unique Learning Experience:

In Finland, you are allowed to choose the modules you would like to study, which makes it easier for students to take on the best options for themselves. It also helps them in graduating with a higher, more diverse set of skills, unlike other countries. Universities in Finland like to call it ‘Academic Freedom’. Flat hierarchy in the universities of Finland also makes sure every student has equal opportunities to learn, with equal chances to receive higher quality higher education.

Standard of Living:

Finland is a perfect combination for international students as it provides the best of education with affordability to the students. All of this while living in one of the happiest countries in the world. Students benefit from student discounts available throughout the country on food and transportation. Maintaining a work-life balance is also an important part of Finnish culture. Work and Study in Finland are important, but so are vacations and the breaks you take in between. There are tons of lakes and mountains to explore, just a road trip away, no matter where you are in Finland.

Living Cost:

The average living costs in Finland are generally between 600 to 900 EUR per month. The living costs certainly depend on which city you live in and what kind of accommodation you specifically choose.

English taught study programs:

There are lots of English-taught degree options both on bachelor's and master's level to choose from!

How and when to Apply?

The application period and route depends on the degree programme you are interested in, so check in the EU helpers database whether the programmes of your choice use the joint application, or some other admission route.

Joint Application

Many universities use the joint application to Finnish higher education for September 2023 study start.

In the joint application, you can apply to up to six (6) programmes with one application form. You can be offered several study places and choose which place you wish to confirm.

Know more about how to apply in joint application by contacting EU helpers.

If necessary, you can contact the university/UAS of your choice for detailed application information. On the Study in Finland site, you can find a full listing of the universities and the links to their admissions info pages.

Separate Applications and rolling admissions

Some degree programmes are not included in the joint application, and may therefore have a differing application period. For example, several universities’ master’s admissions are already open now for autumn 2023 study start!

General Admission requirements to study in Finland:

• Copy of the final or official higher secondary school certificate or vocational qualification

• Transcript of records. A minimum of 50% GPA is required when applying for programs in Education

• Proof of English language proficiency

• Clear copy of your passport ID page

Academic Requirements:

The admission requirements to study in Finland vary depending on the degree program level and type:

➢ Bachelor’s Degree Programs Applicants must have completed upper secondary education equivalent to the Finnish matriculation examination. Then, the Finnish National Agency for Education will evaluate the student’s application.

➢ Master’s Degree Programs International students must have completed a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field. The university or the Finnish National Agency for Education will assess the applicant’s academic admission requirement to study in Finland.

Aside from the mentioned admission requirements to study in Finland, applicants must specifically meet eligibility criteria such as language proficiency and financial capability.

Required Documents:

A valid passport is one of the essential admission requirements to study in Finland. A residence permit is also needed and can be obtained through EnterFinland.fi.

Here are other essential admission requirements to study in Finland:

• Acceptance letter from a Finnish University. (Global learners must have a letter of acceptance from a Finnish University before applying for a student visa

• Proof of financial capability showing you have sufficient funds during your stay in Finland. Examples are bank statements, scholarship letters, etc.

• Valid health insurance recognized in Finland

• Language proficiency results

• Additionally, some educational programs in the country specifically require the following admission requirements to study in Finland:

• Work or employment certificate with a minimum of 2 years of experience

• GRE or GMAT test

• Motivational video letter

• Entrance Exam or SAT Test

For more details and every step guidance consult EU helpers. We will provide you with care and guidance that will lead you to a happy life and a great career opportunity in an overseas country.

Scholarships offered: The universities and UAS's (universities of applied sciences) in Finland have scholarship options on offer for gifted non-EU students. You usually apply for the scholarship from the university or UAS at the same time when you apply for admission.

Work while studying in Finland: Universities in Finland offer career services for international students. The services are offered when you are looking for a part-time job, or a full-time job after you graduate from one of the universities. Students are allowed to work while studying in Finland for 25 hours a week at parttime jobs. 55 per cent of university students have an employment contract before their graduation is even completed. Moreover, there is no special permit required to work while studying, i.e. when you are working at part-time jobs.

Post Study Visa in Finland : If you are someone who is outside of the EU and complete a masters degree in Finland, you are granted a post-study work visa for one year. You are allowed to look for a job while staying in Finland for one year after graduation has been completed. If you are able to obtain full-time employment, then you can apply for a work visa or a work based residence permit. After that, if you work in Finland full-time for four consecutive years, you are allowed to apply for the permanent residence permit.