Top Universities and Colleges in Finland Tuition Fees, Rankings, Scholarships and Exams

Why Study in Finland

• Academic Excellence: Finland is home to some of the world's top universities in Finland, with a strong focus on innovation, technology, and sustainability. The country boasts 13 universities and 22 universities of applied sciences (UAS). Finland's education system ranks consistently high in global assessments, making it an attractive destination for international students. For Instance, the University of Helsinki is ranked among the top 100 universities in the world by QS.
• Inclusive Environment: With over 20,000 international students enrolled in Finnish universities, Finland offers a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere. Finnish institutions are known for their support services and focus on student well-being, ensuring that international students feel at home. This makes Finland a top choice for those looking to study at universities in Finland for international students.
• Research Opportunities: Finland is a global leader in research and innovation, producing 2.4% of the world’s highly cited research papers, despite having only 0.07% of the world’s population. Universities and research institutions in Finland invest heavily in R&D, with research funding amounting to 3.1% of GDP—one of the highest in Europe. Areas of research include ICT, environmental sciences, and renewable energy. Finland is also home to 22 research institutes with close connections to industry and government bodies, creating excellent research collaborations for students.
• Program Duration: Finnish universities offer flexible program durations, with undergraduate degrees typically taking 3 to 4 years and master’s degrees taking 1 to 2 years, allowing students to enter the workforce quickly.
• Scholarships:
  • UNU-WIDER Visiting PhD Fellowship for International Researchers
  • United Nations University-WIDER PhD Internships for International Students
  • Finland Government Scholarships for International Students
  • EDUFI Fellowships Program for Young Doctoral Students
  • University of Turku Postdoctoral Research in Science and Medicine

Universities in Finland - Highlights

Universities in Finland typically offer two main intakes: autumn (August-September) and spring (January). For international students in Finland, tuition fees generally range from €10,000 to €20,000 per year. Finland College fees for international students are relatively affordable compared to other European countries. To know more about Finland’s university admissions and specific criteria, refer to the detailed table below.

Top 5 Universities in Finland

• Aalto University: Aalto University is recognized as one of the top universities in Finland, ranking 116th globally in the QS World University Rankings (2024). The university has an annual research budget of over €200 million, fostering innovation in areas like sustainable design and digital technology. It also provides various scholarships for international students in Finland, covering 50% to 100% of tuition fees.
• University of Turku: The University of Turku is among the top universities in Finland, ranked within the top 400 globally by QS. With a strong focus on research in humanities, natural sciences, and social sciences. It enrolls around 20,000 students, including 2,000 international students, and offers over 300 research projects annually. Tuition fees for non-EU/EEA students range from €8,000 to €16,000 per year, with scholarships available for outstanding students. The university is known for its collaborative international research, particularly in the health and environmental sciences.
• Tampere University of Technology: Tampere University is particularly renowned for its programs in engineering, technology, and social sciences. It serves over 21,000 students, with 3,500 international students from 80+ countries. Tuition fees for international students range from €8,000 to €12,000 per year, with scholarships available that cover 50% to 100% of the tuition fees. The university has a strong emphasis on practical experience and research in fields like biomedical engineering and robotics.
• University of Eastern Finland: The University of Eastern Finland is featured among the top universities in Finland, ranking in the top 500 globally by QS and is known for its research in health and environmental sciences. The university has 15,500 students, including 1,300 international students from over 100 countries. Tuition fees for non-EU/EEA students range from €8,000 to €15,000 per year, with scholarships available to cover up to 100% of tuition fees. The university focuses on sustainable regional development and international cooperation.
• University of Oulu: The University of Oulu is ranked 392nd in the QS World Rankings 2024, excelling in fields like technology, health, and environmental sciences. With 13,800 students and 1,200 international students, Oulu offers a wide range of programs and research opportunities. Tuition fees for international students range from €10,000 to €13,000 per year, with scholarships available to cover 50% to 75% of tuition. The university is noted for its research contributions in 5G technology and Arctic research.

Top Cities to Study in Finland

Helsinki, the capital city, is home to several top universities in Finland, including the University of Helsinki, which is recognized as the best university in Finland. Finland's top cities for studying include Helsinki, Tampere, and Oulu, each offering exceptional educational programs and high quality of life. Helsinki stands out with its leading universities and dynamic student life. Tampere is noted for its strong research focus and attracts significant number of international students. Turku University is among the best universities in Finland for international students, offering a welcoming environment and excellent academic programs.

Cost of Studying at Top Finnish Universities

Studying in Finland is relatively affordable compared to other European countries. Finland college fees for international students vary depending on the institution and program but generally range from EUR 10,000 to EUR 25,000 per year. This range makes studying in Finland a cost-effective choice while maintaining high academic standards. Students benefit from the country's affordable living costs and excellent quality of life, making it a competitive option for those considering universities in Finland.

Jobs in Finland

Graduates from top universities in Finland often find opportunities to work particularly in technology, engineering, and academic sectors. The country is known for its high quality of life and work-life balance, attracting professionals in various fields. There are also growing opportunities in start-ups and research institutions. While Finnish language skills can be advantageous, many jobs, especially in international companies, require English proficiency. The strong economy and good salary makes the graduates prefer Finland universities for International students.