Study in Finland

It is well-known that Finland provides world-class education, innovative teaching methods, top-ranked Finnish universities, and a safe environment. Also home to many cities designed for students, practical course structures with options for applied sciences (among others), a growing interest in Finland’s education system has made Finland increasingly attractive during the pandemic. Post-study work opportunities, finite tuition fees for international and Indian students have also made it optimal for a career choice.

To study in Finland from India, you need to apply to universities in Finland via the official study portal Studyinfo.fi. You may be required to demonstrate academic eligibility (if at postgraduate level), to demonstrate proof of funds, and to submit necessary documents including a valid passport, SOP, transcripts, and IELTS or TOEFL exam results. After being accepted, you must apply for a student residence permit. Career Width can assist Indian students at every stage from choosing a course to submitting visa filing paperwork.

The basic requirements to study in Finland for international students include:

• Completed high school or bachelor’s degree (depending on program)
  
• Proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE)
  
• Valid passport and educational documents
  
• Proof of funds (€6,720/year)
  
• Health insurance
  
• Statement of purpose or motivation letter
• Specific programs may have additional entrance exams or interviews.

For everyone wishing to study in Finland, there are the basic criteria required for international students:

• Completed secondary/high school for bachelor’s program or bachelor’s degree for master’s program; 
• Proof of English language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE); 
• Valid passport and educational documents; 
• Proof of funds (€6,720/year); 

Health insurance; 

• Statement of purpose or motivation letter.
• Some programs will require entrance exams or interviews also.

Yes, Finland has several opportunities for Indian students to study overseas on a scholarship. Finnish universities generally provide merit based tuition waivers (50%-100% off). There are also other external funding sources which a student can apply to like Erasmus+, EDUFI fellowships (PhD), or scholarships in India like JN Tata and Inlaks. You usually apply for the funding as part of the application process.

When you choose to study in Finland, you are not only earning a degree, you are also creating your future. For every international student, and all the more for students from India, one of the greatest benefits is Finland’s transparent and supportive post-study work visa policy. 

When you graduate, Finland allows you to seek full-time employment and stay in the country without having to leave right away.

1-Year Job-Seeking Residence Permit

After you have graduated, it is possible to apply for a 1-year residence permit to remain in Finland to find a job. The permit is referred to as a job-seeking or career-search permit. The essentials: 

• Apply immediately after you’ve graduated
• 1 year valid permit
• You may work full-time while seeking stable employment
• You may extend your residence permit if you are offered a job or wish to set up a business
• You do not need to hold a job offer with the application

Note that this includes graduates from both universities and universities of applied sciences, which is another strong argument for a longer-term plan of studying in Finland.

Convert to Work Visa After Finding a Job

If you locate a job within your post-study year, you can easily switch your permit into a work-based residence permit.

Common job sectors for Indian and international graduates in Finland:

• Information Technology & Software

• Engineering & Automation

• Game Design & Multimedia

• Renewable Energy & Sustainability

• Healthcare & Care Work

• Business, Finance & Supply Chain

This makes Finland one of the best provinces to consider for those wondering how to study in Finland from India and then remain in Finland to work after.

Pathway to Permanent Residency (PR)

Finland actively supports skilled graduates to develop sustainable careers. Here is an example of your timeline: 

• 2 years of post-study employment: You will be eligible to apply for continued work permit. 
• 4 years of continuous stay in Finland: You will be eligible to apply for Permanent Residency. 
• After PR, you may look for Finnish citizenship (based on language acquisition and integration) 

So when people ask you, “Why do you want to study in Finland?”, one of the best answers is: Because it leads to life after graduation; to real and possible post-study work opportunities.

High Demand Fields in Finland

Per the labor reports from Finland currently contains fields that are in demand and welcome international graduates with the following skills:

This presents new opportunities for students looking for the best courses to study in Finland matching the demands of the labor market.

After obtaining admission, and perhaps financial support, the next step along the journey to study in Finland is applying for a student residence permit. Unlike other countries that provide a “student visa,” Finland uses a residence permit model, which allows you to work, live, and be in a broader scope during your course.

If you are wondering how to study in Finland from India, this is a step where the right direction could help you save time, money, and frustration.

What Is a Finnish Residence Permit for Students?

The residence permit lets you:

• Live and study in Finland legally.
• Work while you study (for up to 30 hours/week).
• Remain in all of Finland for the length of your course.
• Apply for a post-study work visa after graduation.

It is required for all students from outside the EU/EEA, from the UK and for students from India applying to study in Finland.

When Should You Apply?

You should apply for the residence permit as soon as you receive the official admission letter and once you have paid the tuition fees (or obtained a scholarship). 

The processing time can be between 4-8 weeks so you want to apply sooner than later – especially if you would like to start your studies in the autumn.

How to Apply for a Student Residence Permit

An in-depth step-by-step examination of the student visa process for Finland: 

Step 1: Create a Migri Account 

Go on to Migri.fi – the official Finnish Immigration Service, and create a free online account to start your application.

Step 2: Collect Needed Documents 

• You must upload the following documents:
• Letter of admission (from a Finnish university) 
• Evidence of tuition fee payment or scholarship award 
• Valid passport (with at least 1-year validity) 
• Passport photo (meeting Migri specifications) 
• Evidence of sufficient financial resources (minimum €560 per month or €6,720 per year) 
• Valid health insurance (minimum of €40,000 annually) 
• Cover letter (although optional, this is considered a best practice) 

To study in Finland from India, bank statements should be from accepted nationalised or international banks, and in your name or your sponsors name.

Step 3: Pay Application Fee

• Online submission fee: €350
  
• Paper application fee: €450
  

Online applications are faster and more efficient.

Step 4: Book a Biometrics Appointment

After you submit your application online, make an appointment at your nearest VFS Finland Visa Application Centre (in Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Chennai, etc.) for biometric verification.

Step 5: Wait for Processing

After you submit your biometrics, Migri will process your application. You can monitor your application status online.

Proof of Funds Requirement

You will be required to prove financial ability to study in Finland while an international student. To be able to study, you must show you can support yourself financially while you stay. This means proving: 

• €560/month or €6,720/year
• You must show separate funds to pay for tuition. (unless it is already paid for or waived)
• You must provide recent and clear bank statements.
• You cannot use fixed deposits or papers from property.

Pro Tip: Some universities keep their accommodation affordable which keeps your monthly accommodation cost down, however you still have to prove you meet the minimum required amount.

Work Rights During Study

Your valid student residence permit allows you to:

• Work up to 30 hours per week while studying
• Work full-time during official holidays
• Intern if your studies require an internship

This is a major benefit for Indian students who are looking for part-time income or work experience during their study program in Finland. 

Dependents and Family Members

You can bring your spouse or children on a dependent permit, but you will need to prove you have enough money to support their stay. Career Width provides personalized support and advice on how to manage and plan that transition.

Regardless of whether you are looking at bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD programs, this is a comprehensive overview of the requirements to study in Finland for international students, especially for applicants from India.

General Admission Requirements for International Students

International students need to be aware of the eligibility requirements to study in Finland according to the category of program and education level applying for. However, most universities follow the same format when considering eligibility: 

For Bachelor’s Degree Programs: 

• Higher Secondary Education Certificate (12th grade or equivalent) 

• Valid transcript with above-average academic success 

• Proof of English language skills (IELTS, TOEFL or PTE) 

• In a few instances, students may have to pass an entrance examination, or interview or online aptitude test. 

For Master’s Degree Programs:

• A recognized Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field
• At least 60-90 credits ECTS regarding the master’s program
• Proof of English language capability
• Statement of Purpose (SOP), CV, letters of reference/recommendation, and sometimes a portfolio
• Some courses require a GMAT/GRE, which varies by course
  

 For PhD/Doctoral Programs:

• A master’s degree in a related subject
• Research proposal
• Curriculum Vitae, letters of recommendation and previous publications or dissertation
• Confirmation in writing from a professor/supervisor in Finland (typically)

English Language Proficiency Tests

In order to study in Finland for Indian Students, most universities require either of the following tests: 

• IELTS: 6.0-6.5 (overall into 5.5 in each band) 
• TOEFL iBT: 79-92
• PTE Academic: 54-62 
• Some universities accept other certifications, like Cambridge English.

Tip: Some universities waive the language tests if your previous degree was taught in English.

Entrance Exams & Interviews

If you apply to a University of Applied Sciences (UAS), you might have to take a standardized entrance exam, which may include:

• Logical reasoning
• Mathematics
• English comprehension
• Discipline-specific questions

Typically, these entrance exams are administered online, and you will be notified whenever you make your application.

Special Notes for Indian Students

If you’re considering how to examine study in Finland from India, here are some factors to keep in mind: 

• You have to upload all the academic documents online while applying. 
• Have your passport, all transcripts, migration certificate, test scores in digital format.
• Most universities will not require NEET, JEE or other Indian entrance exam eligibility.
• You need to apply anytime until January – February for Autumn intake.

Bridging Programs and Foundation Courses

Some universities provide foundation programs for international students who do not meet the direct admission criteria. These programs assist you in developing your academic skills or improving your English before you start your degree.

This can be especially helpful for students who were almost eligible and just need a small academic or language adjustment.

Once you have a good grasp of eligibility, the next step is to confidently traverse the admissions process to study in Finland. The great news is that Finland’s education system is designed to make studying in Finland as accessible, transparent, and efficient as possible. Finland universities and University of Applied Sciences (UAS) utilize a centralized application that is easy to follow, regardless of where you are applying.

We are going to take you through how to study in Finland from India step by step.

Step 1: Choose the Right Course and University

Make sure to do your homework and identify the best fields of study in Finland that match your career goals, and places to study based upon your academic capability. Finland is known for various strong programs in the areas of:

• Engineering & Technology
• Data Science & AI
• Sustainable Energy
• Business & Management
• Game Design, Arts & Architectural Studies
• Education & Early Childhood Studies

Then you will need to identify if your preferred program is a university (research focused) or a University of Applied Sciences (UAS) (practice focused); Career Widthes provides you with this choice based upon your academic and career profile.

Step 2: Apply Through Studyinfo.fi Portal

Finland has a centralized site called Studyinfo.fi to apply to most universities. It is the official site that all Finnish universities and UAS institutions use. 

Key application periods are:

• January – February: Autumn intake (Main intake, program starts in August/September)
• Occasional second intake in September – October (program starts in January – February)

You can apply to 6 programs simultaneously – same or different universities.

Step 3: Submit Required Documents

Here are the required documents for international students studying in Finland, Indian applicants in particular: 

• Academic transcripts (10th, 12th, Bachelor´s or  Master´s) 
• Degree certificates (provisional/official) 
• English language test scores (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE) \
• Valid passport 
• Statement of Purpose (SOP) 
• CV/Resume (for masters and PhD) 
• Letters of Recommendation (mostly for master´s) 
• Portfolio (for arts/design courses) 

If you are preparing digital copies make sure they are clear and scanned, and according to the university requirements.

Step 4: Entrance Exams or Interviews (If Required)

Some Universities of Applied Sciences expect you to take either an entrance exam or online test or both in order to assess your academic readiness, logical skills, and sometimes subject knowledge. Some universities conduct an interview through Zoom/Skype. 

Career Width can support you in finding out what to expect in these exams, as well as aesthetic being familiar with the type of university. 

Step 5: Wait for the Offer Letter

After evaluating your application, you will be notified of the result of your application through an email with a Letter of Admission (LoA), which will be:

• A conditional offer, asking you to provide your final documents
• A direct offer, with instructions to accept a seat and pay tuition

You should accept the offer by the deadline provided, and follow the university instructions on fee payments, residence permit, and arrival.

Step 6: Apply for Scholarships

Many universities offer ‘study in Finland’ scholarships when they start your application for your program. When filling out your application, tick the boxes if you would like to be considered for any scholarships. This includes scholarships in the form of:

• Tuition fee waiver (50% – 100%)
• Early bird discounts
• Academic merit-based scholarships
• Country-specific scholarships (some for Indian students)

We assist students in preparing their best possible application, and cover letter, to improve their scholarship possibilities. 

Step 7: Apply for Residence Permit (Student Visa)

Now that you’ve accepted an offer and organized payment, you need to apply for your residence permit (student visa). The application is made online, through the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri). 

You will need to submit:

• An admissions letter
• Proof of tuition fee payment (or scholarship award)
• Proof of funds (€6,720/year minimum)
• Valid health insurance
• Passport and photographs

The visa application process typically takes 1-2 months, and Career Width helps guide you through every document and timeline. 

Step 8: Book Flights & Prepare for Arrival

Once your permit has been approved, schedule your travel and reserve your pre-departure sessions with Career Width. We will assist you with:

• Find accommodation
• Student insurance
• Registering upon arrival
• Opening a bank account
• Orientation checklists

While many European countries do not charge tuition fees for non-EU/EEA students (including Indian and most international students), Finland’s specialness stems from its structured fees, excellent and fair academic worth, and a range of scholarships.

Let’s examine the cost of study in Finland for Indian students and what will be expected of you financially when considering education.

Average Tuition Fee Ranges

Tuition fees in Finland will depend on the university, course, and level of study (bachelor’s or master’s level). The following is an approximate realistic fee for international students to study in Finland: 

These costs usually only include a tuition fee. The fee may or may not include local materials, excursions, or use of laboratory depending on the course.

Cost of Study in Finland for Indian Students: A Clear Breakdown

For Indian students wanting to study in Finland from India, below is a closer review of the total annual cost: 

• Tuition Fees: €6,000 – €18,000 
• Living costs (including rent, food, travel, and insurance): €6,000 – €9,000 
• Residence Permit Application: approximately €350 
• Health Insurance (mandatory): €300 – €600 per year 

Generally, an Indian student should expect to require between €12,000 – €20,000 per year, depending on the city and lifestyle.

Are There Free Study Options in Finland?

Even though education is free for EU/EEA nationals, study in Finland for Indian students will involve fees unless a full scholarship is awarded. This is important to identify study in Finland scholarship opportunities early.

Some universities may offer 100% fee waivers as well as a grant for living expenses to the most outstanding students. The application for these scholarships will usually be with your application for the course.

Additional Tips to Manage Costs

• Aspects of living can be less expensive in smaller cities (i.e., Tampa, Joensuu, or Lappeenranta).
• As a new student, keep an eye out for early-bird scholarships or merit waivers.
• Part-time work rights (up to 30 hours per week) can help sustain your daily expenses in addition to tuition and misc. Items.
• Most institutions offer a fee discount for continuing students with good academic standing.