StudyingMaster's in Finland has become a top choice for international students, with over 20,000 global students enrolling each year, including a growing number from India. Renowned for its innovative education system, ranked among the top 5 worldwide (OECD 2023), Finland offers master's programs to foster research, creativity, and industry collaboration.
With tuition fees starting as low as €6,000 per year and globally acclaimed universities like the University of Helsinki and Aalto University, Finland ensures quality education that aligns with global career demands. This guide covers everything you need to know about pursuing a master's in Finland, including tuition fees, scholarships, requirements, intakes, and more.
Why Pursue a Master's in Finland?
Global Education Excellence: Finland consistently ranks among the top 10 countries for education quality (World Economic Forum 2023), and top universities like the University of Helsinki and Aalto University offer globally respected degrees.
Research-Oriented Learning: Over 45% of master's programs in Finland emphasize hands-on research and collaboration with industries, particularly in fields like AI and Renewable Energy.
Affordable Study Options:The cost of studying in Finland for Indian students is lower than in other destinations. Tuition fees range from €6,000 to €18,000 per year, and numerous scholarships are available.
Safe and Inclusive Environment: Finland is ranked as the happiest country (World Happiness Report 2023) and is one of the safest, offering a welcoming and supportive environment for international students.
Impressive Post-Study Opportunities: Graduates can benefit from two-year post-study work visas and excellent job prospects in industries such as technology, healthcare, and engineering.
Sustainability and Innovation Focus: Finland is a global leader in sustainability and innovation, offering exceptional opportunities for students in fields such as Environmental Science and Renewable Energy.
Top Universities in Finland for Masters
Finland boasts some of the best universities globally. Here are the top universities in Finland for Indian students pursuing a master’s degree:
University | World Ranking (QS World University Rankings 2024) | Average Tuition Fee | Popular Courses/Specializations |
University of Helsinki | 110th globally | €13,000 to €18,000 per year | Environmental Science, Data Science, Law |
Aalto University | 113th globally | €12,000 to €18,000 per year | Design, Business, Engineering |
Tampere University | 462nd globally | €10,000 to €12,000 per year | Biomedical Engineering, Technology, Social Sciences |
University of Turku | 601-650 range globally | €12,000 per year | Education, Life Sciences, Digital Health |
University of Oulu | 601-650 range globally | €12,000 to €13,000 per year | Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning |
Cost of Study in Finland for Indian Students
Tuition Fees for Master’s in Finland
Category | Tuition Fee Range |
Public Universities | €8,000–€18,000 per year |
Universities of Applied Sciences | €6,000–€12,000 per year |
The tuition fees in Finland are generally lower compared to other Western European countries. While public universities charge €8,000–€18,000 per year, universities of applied sciences offer more affordable programs at €6,000–€12,000 annually. Master’s programs in Finland are known for their high-quality education and innovative teaching methods. However, tuition fees are just one part of the total cost, and students should also account for living expenses during their stay in Finland.
Living Expenses for Indian Students in Finland
Category | Cost Range |
Average Monthly Cost | €700–€1,200 per month |
Accommodation | €400–€600 per month |
Food | €250–€400 per month |
Transportation | €50–€70 per month (with student discounts) |
The living expenses in Finland are generally reasonable, with an average monthly cost ranging from €700 to €1,200 depending on the city and lifestyle. Major cities like Helsinki may have slightly higher living costs compared to smaller towns, but student discounts for transportation and affordable accommodation options help keep the overall expenses manageable. Accommodation typically costs between €400 and €600 per month, while food expenses are around €250 to €400. Public transportation is relatively cheap, with an estimated monthly cost of €50 to €70, especially with student discounts.
Scholarships for Indian Students Pursuing Master’s in Finland
Scholarship Name | Eligibility | Funding Pattern | Maximum Amount |
Finnish Government Scholarship | Available for non-EU students, including Indian students | Covers tuition fees and living expenses | €10,000–€15,000 per year |
University of Helsinki Scholarship | Non-EU students applying for master’s programs | Tuition fee reductions and living allowances | Up to €15,000 per year |
Aalto University Scholarship | Non-EU students admitted to master’s programs | Covers full or partial tuition fees, some offer living allowances | Up to €12,000 per year |
Erasmus Mundus Scholarship | For students enrolled in Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree (EMJMD) programs | Covers tuition fees, living expenses, and travel | Up to €24,000 per year |
Linnaeus-Palme Scholarship | Exchange students from partner universities | Covers living expenses and travel costs | Up to €2,000 |
These scholarships are aimed at reducing the financial burden for Indian students planning to pursue their master’s degree in Finland.
Requirements to Study in Finland for Indian Students
Indian students aspiring to study in Finland for a master's degree must fulfill specific criteria to ensure a successful application. These include educational qualifications, English proficiency, and document submission, which play a crucial role in the admission process.
Requirement | Details |
Educational Qualifications | A bachelor’s degree with at least 65% marks in a relevant field. |
English Proficiency Tests | IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5 |
TOEFL: Minimum score of 90. | |
Documents Required | - Academic Transcripts |
- Statement of Purpose (SOP) | |
- Letters of Recommendation | |
- Updated CV or Resume | |
- Valid Passport | |
Application Process | Applications are submitted via Studyinfo.fi, the official portal for study abroad in Finland. |
By ensuring all documentation is in place, Indian students can smoothly navigate the application process to study in Finland for a master's degree.
Popular Master’s Courses in Finland for or Indian Students
Finland offers a wide array of master’s programs tailored to various fields. Here are the most sought-after options:
- Engineering and Technology: Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, and Renewable Energy Systems.
- Business and Management: MBA in Sustainability and Leadership.
- Health Sciences: Public Health, Biomedicine, and Nursing.
- Education: Global and Multicultural Education Programs.
Finland Intakes for Masters
Autumn Intake (August–September)
- Primary intake for most master’s programs in Finland.
- Application deadlines: December to January.
- Ideal for students seeking a variety of programs.
Spring Intake (January–February):
- Limited courses available for master’s degrees.
- Application deadlines: August to October.
- Suitable for students who missed the autumn intake.
For Indian students, the Autumn Intake is typically the preferred choice due to its larger course offerings. Always check individual university websites for exact deadlines and course availability when planning to study in Finland.
Advantages of Studying in Finland for Indian Students
- Post-Study Work Opportunities -Indian students can work up to 30 hours per week during studies and apply for a 2-year post-study work permit after graduation.
- Affordable Education -With numerous scholarships, thecost of study in Finland for Indian students becomes manageable.
- Cultural and Natural Beauty -Finland’s vibrant student life, breathtaking Northern Lights, and safe cities add to the overall
FAQs About Studying in Finland for Indian Students
1. What is the average cost of studying for a master’s in Finland for Indian students?
The cost of study in Finland for Indian students ranges from €8,000–€18,000 per year for tuition, with living expenses around €700–€1,200 monthly.
2. Which are the top universities in Finland for Indian students?
The top options are the University of Helsinki, Aalto University, Tampere University, and the University of Turku.
3. What are the requirements for Indian students to study in Finland?
Indian students need a bachelor’s degree, English proficiency (IELTS 6.5+), and supporting documents like transcripts, SOP, and LORs.
4. Are there scholarships for Indian students in Finland?
Universities offer scholarships covering 50–100% of tuition fees, such as Aalto University Scholarships and Finnish Government Scholarships.
5. What are the intakes for master’s programs in Finland?
The central intake is in Autumn (August–September), with limited options in Spring (January–February).
Finland offers an exceptional combination of high-quality education, affordable living costs, and promising career opportunities, making it an ideal destination for Indian students pursuing a master’s degree. With globally ranked universities, practical learning, and a safe, inclusive environment, studying in Finland ensures a bright academic and professional future.
Start your application process today and enter a world of opportunities with a master’s in Finland!