Study in Finland - Highlights
Finland is becoming an increasingly popular destination for Indian students pursuing higher education abroad. With its globally ranked education system, Finland offers 13 universities and 22 universities of applied sciences (UAS), providing over 500 bachelor’s and master’s degree programs in English.
The country has witnessed a significant rise in the number of Indian students, with over 2,000 Indian students currently enrolled in Finnish institutions, a figure that has doubled in recent years. This growth reflects the strong appeal of Finland's innovative programs in technology, design, and sustainability.
Finland combines world-class education with affordable living costs, making it an attractive choice for students. The cost of studying in Finland for Indian students ranges from €6,000 to €18,000 annually (approximately INR 5,10,000 to INR 15,30,000), depending on the course and institution. Scholarships specifically for Indian students further ease financial burdens. With two major intakes—fall and spring—and promising career opportunities offering an average salary of €3,000 (INR 2,55,000), Finland stands out as a top choice for Indian students pursuing higher education abroad.
Core Facts About Finland
Education in Finland
University / College Stats
Why Study in Finland?
- Top Educational Standards: Finland ranks consistently among the top 10 for global education, known for innovative teaching and academic excellence, ensuring a high-quality learning experience.
- English-Taught Programs: Over 400 programs are offered in English at Finnish universities, making it easier for Indian students to pursue higher education without the need to learn Finnish.
- Research and Innovation Hub: Finland is a leader in research and innovation, with 40% of university research funded externally, offering students valuable opportunities in groundbreaking projects.
- Safety and Security: Finland is considered one of the top 10 safest countries globally, providing a secure and welcoming environment for international students.
- Strong Job Market: Finland’s robust job market ensures high employment prospects for graduates, with 90% of students finding work within a year of graduation.
- Affordable Study Options: Finland scholarships for Indian students and reasonable tuition fees (€6,000 to €18,000) make it a cost-effective option for studying abroad.
- Flexible Intakes: Finnish universities offer two main intakes, in January and August, giving students flexibility when planning to study abroad in Finland.
Universities and Courses
Top Universities in Finland
|
S.NO |
University |
City |
World Rankings 2024 |
Finland Rankings |
|
1 |
|
Helsinki |
87 |
1 |
|
2 |
Espoo |
109 |
2 |
|
|
3 |
Turku |
315 |
4 |
|
|
4 |
Lappeenranta and Lahti |
351 |
5 |
|
|
5 |
Oulu |
392 |
6 |
|
|
6 |
Jyvaskyla |
446 |
7 |
|
|
7 |
Turku |
601-610 |
8 |
|
|
8 |
Joensuu and Kuopio |
548 |
9 |
|
|
9 |
Vaasa |
Not ranked |
Not ranked |
|
|
10 |
|
Helsinki |
Not ranked |
Not ranked |
|
11 |
Hameenlinna |
Not ranked |
Not ranked |
|
|
12 |
Jyvaskyla |
Not ranked |
Not ranked |
|
|
13 |
Tampere |
Not ranked |
Not ranked |
|
|
14 |
Pori |
Not ranked |
Not ranked |
University of Helsinki
Estonian Business School
Popular Courses in Finland for Indian Students
Finland offers a wide array of courses that attract Indian students, with many programs recognized globally for their quality. According to the Finnish Ministry of Education, over 20,000 international students study in Finland, with a significant number of them hailing from India. Fields such as Information Technology, Engineering, and Business Management are especially popular among Indian students, as these programs provide strong job prospects in Finland and globally. Finland's emphasis on research-driven education and practical learning makes it an ideal destination for Indian students seeking quality higher education.
- Information Technology and Computer Science
- Engineering
- Business and Management
- Health Sciences and Medicine
- Design and Creative Arts
- Biotechnology and Life Sciences
- Language and Linguistics
Study in Finland Intakes
Choosing the right intake is crucial when planning to study in Finland for Indian students. Finnish universities offer two main intakes annually, with the Autumn intake being the most popular for international students. Here's a breakdown:
Recommended Intake – Autumn
Autumn Intake (August-September): This is the primary intake for most universities in Finland. Over 70% of international students, including a significant number of Indian students, opt for this intake as it offers the widest range of undergraduate and graduate programs. It aligns well with academic calendars worldwide, making it ideal for those planning to study abroad in Finland.
Spring Intake (January-February)
A secondary option, this intake offers a smaller selection of programs. Although fewer universities participate, it can be a good choice for specific courses or students unable to join in athe utumn.
Indian students planning to pursue maa sters in Finland, especially in popular fields like Information Technology or Engineering, should prioritize the Autumn intake for a broader range of options and sma oother transition.
Cost of Studying in Finland for Indian Students
The cost of studying in Finland is affordable compared to many other European destinations, making it a top choice for Indian students. With options for scholarships in Finland, part-time work opportunities, and student discounts, managing expenses is easier for those planning to study in Finland for Indian students. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
Tuition Fees to Study in Finland
| Program Level | Tuition Fees (per year) |
| Bachelor's | €10,000 – €11,000 |
| Master's | €11,000 – €12,500 |
| Doctorate | €5,000 – €18,000 |
- Finnish universities charge tuition fees for non-EU students, including Indian students. However, Finland college fees are offset by generous scholarship opportunities.
- High-demand programs like Engineering, Biotechnology, and Information Technology may have tuition fees at the upper end but are widely sought after due to excellent career prospects.
Living Expenses
| Category | Estimated Costs (per year) |
| Housing | €4,800 – €6,000 |
| Food and Groceries | €2,400 – €3,000 |
| Transportation | €600 – €900 |
| Miscellaneous | €600 – €900 |
| Total Living Expenses | €8,400 – €10,800 |
- International students must show proof of funds for aminimum of €560 per month (or €6,720 annually) for their residence permit.
- Cities lilike Helsinkind Espoo may have higher living costs, while student-friendly cities like Turku and Oulu are more affordable.
Financial Tips for Indian Students
- Apply fofor Finlandcholarships for Indian students to reduce Finland study costs.
- Work part-time (up to 30 hours per week) to manage daily expenses while studying.
- Leverage student benefits, including discounts on transportation, dining, and housing, available in many universities in Finland for international students.
For those planning to study abroad in Finland, understanding the tuition fees, living costs, and financial aid options ensures a smooth transition to a rewarding educational journey in one of Europe’s most innovative and welcoming countries.
Scholarships for Indian Students to Study in Finland
Finland offers numerous scholarships for Indian students to make higher education more accessible. These scholarships cover tuition fees, living expenses, or both, reducing the overall financial costs for international students. Universities in Finland and the Finnish Government provide financial aid tailored to meet the needs of eligible students. Here's a detailed overview of scholarship opportunities:
| Scholarship | Type | Maximum Amount |
| University of Helsinki Scholarships | Fully funded | €10,000 × 2 years |
| University of Tampere Scholarships | Partially funded | 100% / 50% of tuition fees |
| University of Oulu International Scholarships | Partially funded | 100% / 75% / 50% of tuition fees |
| University of Helsinki International Student Scholarship Grant | Partially funded | €1,000 – €1,500 |
| Finland Government Scholarships | Monthly stipend | €1,500 per month |
Key Details on Scholarships in Finland
- University-Specific Scholarships: Institutions like the University of Helsinki, University of Tampere, and University of Oulu offer scholarships that can cover up to 100% of tuition fees, making them highly appealing to students.
- Finland Government Scholarships: Available to master's and doctoral students, these scholarships provide a generous stipend of €1,500 per month, making Finland one of the most affordable destinations for higher education.
- Eligibility for Indian Students: Scholarships in Finland are merit-based, requiring a strong academic record and, in some cases, a separate application alongside the admission process.
Benefits for Indian Students
- Reduces ovoverall Finlandollege fees, making it cost-effective for Indian students.
- Enables access to top programs like Engineering, Biotechnology, and Business and Management at leading universities in Finland for international students.
- Eases financial pressure, allowing students to focus on academics and take advantage of Finland's research opportunities.
By securing scholarships, Indian students can make their study abroad in Finland dream a reality, enjoying world-class education without financial strain.
Student Visa in Finland
Obtaining a student visa for Finland is essential for Indian students aiming to study abroad in Finland. The Finnish student visa, officially known as a residence permit for studies, allows students to reside and pursue their education in Finland for the program's duration. Here's everything you need to know, including the cost, application timeline, and required documents:
Key Details
| Category | Details |
| Cost of Visa Application | €350 (₹30,985): Current application fee for the Finnish residence permit for students, payable online or at the nearest Finnish embassy/consulate. |
| When to Apply? | Apply Early: Submit your application as soon as you receive your admission letter from a Finnish university. Early applications reduce processing delays. |
| Visa Processing Time | 3–5 Months: Average processing time. Delays may occur during peak intake periods like the Autumn intake, so plan accordingly. |
Documents Required for Finnish Student Visa
- Fully Completed Application Form: Ensure all details are accurate and consistent with your supporting documents.
- Academic Records: Certificates and diplomas from previous educational institutions.
- Valid Passport: Must remain valid throughout your stay in Finland.
- Resume (CV): Highlight academic achievements, work experience, and relevant skills.
- Statement of Purpose (SOP): A well-crafted SOP explaining your reasons for choosing Finland and the selected program.
- Letter of Recommendation (LOR): From professors or employers attesting to your qualifications.
- Language Proficiency Test Results: Proof of English language proficiency through tests like IELTS or TOEFL.
- Standardized Test Scores: If applicable, scores from exams like GRE or GMAT may be required.
With proper preparation, the Finnish student visa process can be seamless, paving the way for an enriching educational journey in Finland, known for its world-class education and student-friendly environment.
Required Entrance Exams to Study in Finland
To study in Finland for Indian students, it’s important to meet the required entrance exam criteria. Below are the key entrance exams and their requirements:
- IELTS:
For undergraduate programs, a band score of 6.0 to 6.5 is required, with no band score below 5.5. For graduate programs, a band score of 6.5 to 7.5 is needed. - TOEFL (iBT):
For undergraduate programs, a score of 80 to 90 is required. Graduate programs typically require a score of 85 to 100. - PTE Academic:
Undergraduate programs require a score of 58 to 65, while graduate programs need scores between 65 to 75. - Cambridge English Qualifications:
Exams like C1 Advanced are accepted for both undergraduate and graduate programs, with specific score requirements varying by university. - Finnish Language Proficiency:
For programs taught in Finnish, students need to meet specific language proficiency levels. Tests like the National Certificate of Language Proficiency (YKI) are commonly required. - Graduate Record Examination (GRE):
Required for many graduate programs, with competitive scores typically ranging from 150 to 160 for verbal and quantitative reasoning sections and 3.5 to 5.0 for the analytical writing section. - Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT):
Commonly used for undergraduate admissions, with a competitive score of 1300 or higher (out of 1600) often needed. - Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT):
Required for MBA and related graduate programs, with competitive scores typically ranging from 600 to 700. - Medical College Admission Test (MCAT):
Required for medical programs, with competitive scores typically ranging from 500 to 520.
These entrance exams help ensure that students are academically prepared for the rigorous programs at Finnish universities and increase their chances of being accepted into the desired course of study.
Work Opportunities after Studying in Finland for Indian Students
Finland offers numerous job opportunities for international students, with competitive salaries across various sectors. Here’s a table summarizing some of the top job roles, their corresponding markets in Finland, and salary ranges:
| Job Role | Market in Finland (Job Availability for Indian Students) | Salary Range |
| Surgeon | High demand in healthcare, however, requires local medical qualifications and language proficiency. | €25,000 - €30,000 annually |
| Lawyer | Competitive; requires Finnish language skills and local legal certification, but opportunities exist. | €18,000 - €19,000 annually |
| Bank Manager | Moderate demand; fithe nance sector is strong but may require local experience and Finnish language skills. | €15,000 - €16,000 annually |
| Data Scientist | High demand, especially in tech and research sectors. International students with strong tech skills can secure these roles easily. | €4,700 - €5,000 per month |
| Software Engineer | Very high demand, especially in the growing tech sector. Indian students with IT and software skills have excellent prospects. | €4,000 - €5,000 per month |
Key Takeaways
- High Demand Sectors: Data Science and Software Engineering are the most accessible job markets for Indian students, with high demand for skilled professionals and a welcoming job market.
- Healthcare and Law: While there is demand in healthcare and legal services, Indian students may need to meet specific local requirements like language proficiency and certifications.
- Banking and Finance: Opportunities exist, but fluency in Finnish and some local experience could be necessary for success.
In the end, while there are significant opportunities in Finland across multiple sectors, students with degrees in data science, software engineering, and technology-related fields have a higher chance of securing well-paying jobs in the country.
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