The advanced education system, the focus on practical skills, and the safe living environment are the outstanding reasons that make Finland attractive. In addition, the high-quality human resources, low unemployment rate, and the opportunity to receive valuable scholarships from many universities also create strong motivation for international students to choose this place to study and develop.
1. Introduction to studying in Finland in 2025
Finnish universities often build learn-by-doing programs, meaning students do not just sit and listen, but must participate in practice through experiments, projects, and case studies, helping to improve creativity, teamwork, and critical thinking skills.
1.1 Why is Finland an attractive destination for international students?
- Modern education system: Finland constantly innovates teaching methods, takes advantage of technology, and prioritizes a more interactive learning environment instead of imparting theory.
- High quality of life: This country is at the top of the World Happiness Index; a safe, peaceful, fair society and high welfare make students feel secure and comfortable living.
- Competitive costs & diverse scholarship opportunities: Tuition fees from only 6,000‑15,000EUR/year, lower than many other European countries. Many scholarships of up to 100% are awarded based on achievements, personal essays and abilities.
- Opportunity to work part-time and stay long term: Students are allowed to work up to 30 hours/week during the semester and full-time during vacations; after graduation, international students can apply for a 2-year residence visa extension to find a job.
- Open to international: Finland actively attracts international students through academic programs, international scholarships, study abroad support events and cultural exchange activities. The government and universities also regularly organize career and career guidance seminars to help international students integrate and develop their careers.
1.2 Outstanding innovations in Finnish education policy in 2025
2025 is considered the “year of study abroad reform” in Finland with a series of changes towards better quality, convenience and policies for international students:
- Advanced visa process: Visa processing time is significantly shortened, visa interview process is simplified, supporting accompanying persons if international students have families. In addition, the improved online application system helps candidates easily track the progress of the review process.
- Clear financial proof: Minimum account balance increases 800EUR/month (about 9,600EUR/year) to ensure that students can afford their living expenses in the long term, especially during long vacations. This is a measure to help ensure quality of life and avoid dropping out of school.
- Update profile filtering by qualifications and skills: Some industries such as information technology, engineering, and healthcare are given priority for quick application review, and applications submitted as early as possible before the submission date to enjoy early recruitment. This demonstrates the training orientation strategy linked to the labor market and the country's human resource needs.
- More flexibility with SAT/ACT: SAT is still widely accepted, alongside internal university exams. This eliminates the need for applicants to travel to Finland to take the exam, and reduces the pressure of completing the application.
- Diversify teaching languages: Many programs allow students to deliver their theses and graduation reports in English, although classes are still in Finnish, making it easier for international students in the early stages.
2. Conditions for studying in Finland 2025
2.1 Required education level (high school graduate, university)
Depending on the program applied for (bachelor's or master's), students need to meet specific academic requirements regarding degrees, GPA, and sometimes additional experience or testing.
2.1.1 Bachelor's Degree
Subjects: Students who have completed high school or are in their final year of grade 12.
Specific requirements:
- Already high school graduates or will graduate in the year of admission.
- Minimum GPA from 6.5 (on a 10-point scale). Some highly competitive industries require 7.0 or higher.
Entrance exam may include:
- Applied Mathematics, Logical Thinking, English
- Online interview (depending on school)
- Can be submitted SAT score Replace entrance exam: SAT score required from 400-550, depending on the major and school.
- Some schools consider admission based on transcript + personal essay + extracurricular achievements.
2.1.2 Master's Degree
Target: Students with a 4-year full-time university degree.
Specific requirements:
- Have a regular bachelor's degree(Bachelor's degree) from an accredited school.
- Minimum GPA from 7.0 (10-point scale), some industries require 7.5 or higher.
- Suitable major with the major you intend to study for a master's degree (if not in the same major, you may have to take additional courses).
- Practical work experience: Some majors (MBA, Management, Technology, Design…) require from 1-3 years professional experience.
It may be necessary to submit one of the following certificate:
- GMAT ≥ 550 for Management - Finance programs.
- GRE for advanced studies or Engineering - Science.
Required to submit:
- Motivation letter
- Academic/experience CV
- Letter of recommendation from academic or supervisor(depending on school requirements)
Note: Each university in Finland may have its own admission criteria, so students should carefully look up the entry requirements of each program and prepare their application 6-12 months before the start date.
2.2 English proficiency: What IELTS/TOEFL score is enough?
Finland requires English language proficiency to ensure the ability to study and communicate well in an academic environment. Most courses require the following:
- IELTS: Minimum 6.0 for bachelor's and 6.5 for master's. 7.0 or 7.5 is usually required for highly competitive programs.
- TOEFL iBT: Equivalent to 80 for bachelor's degree, 90–92 or higher for master's degree, especially for natural sciences and engineering.
- Alternative certificates: PTE Academic (61-65 points), Duolingo (120-130 depending on school requirements), Cambridge (First Certificate or above). Some schools may waive the requirement if the applicant has completed a program entirely in English.
2.3 Some specific requirements depending on the industry/school
Depending on the course and training institution, there will be additional requirements. Some schools organize entrance exams in English, while others require students to participate in interviews to assess their abilities.
Some specific requirements may include:
- Entrance exam (including reading comprehension, writing essay, mathematical logic).
- Points required SAT/ACT for undergraduate program.
- Points required GMAT/GRE for master's program.
- Interview to assess thinking ability and learning goals.
- Profile, recommendation letter, detailed study plan.
- Portfolio for design, art, architecture.
3. Cost of studying in Finland 2025
3.1 Average tuition fees for all levels (Bachelor, Master)
Since 2017, Finland has introduced tuition fees for international students from outside the European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA). Tuition fees are set by each university and depend on the subject, programme and language of instruction.
- Bachelor: Tuition fees range from 6,000 to 10,000 euros per year. Subjects with a high level of application such as information technology, communications, international business or taught entirely in English are usually higher.
- Master's degree: Tuition fees range from 8,000 to 15,000 euros per year. Some MBA, high-tech or partnership programmes can cost up to 18,000 euros per year.
Some schools offer automatic scholarships based on academic achievement and language ability, which reduce tuition fees from 25% to 100%.
3.2 Living expenses: housing, food, transportation
The standard of living in Finland is generally higher than in Asian countries but more reasonable compared to the UK, the US or Western European countries.
- Housing: Students often choose to live in dormitories (average 250-400 euros/month) or rent private accommodation (400-700 euros/month depending on the city). Large cities such as Helsinki, Espoo, and Turku have higher rental costs than smaller cities.
- Eat and drink: If you cook for yourself, it will cost around 150-250 euros/month. Eating at the university canteen for students has a discount of around 2.5-5 euros/meal.
- Travel:Bus, train, or public transport tickets are subsidized for students, around 35-50 euros/month. Students can register for a regional transport card for unlimited travel.
- Other costs (telephone, internet, shopping, entertainment...): Average from 50-100 euros/month.
The total monthly living expenses of a student range from 600 to 900 euros, equivalent to 7,200 to 10,800 euros per year.
3.3 Other fees (insurance, books, visa,...)
In addition to tuition and living expenses, international students need to budget for a number of other mandatory expenses throughout their studies:
- Residence visa application fee (Residence Permit): About 350 euros for the first application.
- Health insurance: Students are required to have international health insurance for the duration of their studies in Finland. The fees range from 200-400 euros/year depending on the provider and the coverage.
- Books, learning materials: About 200-300 euros/year. Some school libraries allow students to borrow books for free, so this cost can be significantly reduced.
- Initial costs: Airfare, rent deposit, living expenses for the first 1-2 months while not yet settled. Total costs are around 1,500 to 3,000 euros.
Additionally, some schools require students to pay the full tuition for the first year or at least one semester to confirm the letter of acceptance.
3.4 Tips to save money when studying abroad in Finland
Although the cost of studying and living in Finland is not low, students still have many ways to optimize their budget:
- Apply early for the opportunity to receive scholarships that reduce tuition fees or provide living assistance.
- Prefer dormitories or housing managed by student organizations because they are cheap and safe.
- Share accommodation with roommates to reduce rent and living expenses.
- Cook for yourself instead of eating out often, take advantage of meal support programs at student cafeterias.
- Register for a national student card to enjoy discounts on public transport, restaurants, supermarkets, cinemas...
- Legal part-time work: Finland allows international students to work up to 30 hours/week during school and full-time during vacations. The average income from part-time work can reach 800-1,200 euros/month if you have a stable job.
4. Finland Study Abroad Scholarship 2025
4.1 Popular types of scholarships: school, government, EU scholarships
- University scholarships: Most universities in Finland offer scholarships to international students. Scholarships are usually awarded based on academic performance, English proficiency, and personal profile. The amount of support can range from 25%, 50%, to 100% of tuition fees. Some universities also provide additional support for annual living expenses ranging from 5,000 to 8,000 euros.
- Finnish Government Scholarships (EDUFI Scholarships): Primarily for postgraduate research, short-term research or academic exchange programs. Limited numbers and highly competitive.
- Erasmus+ Scholarship: For students participating in semester exchange programs or studying in joint programs between Finnish and home universities. The scholarships usually cover travel and living expenses during the exchange period (approximately 3–12 months).
For any issues related to scholarships, please contact Gerimmi immediately for a chance to receive 50-100% of the scholarship value.
4.2 Conditions and ways to successfully hunt for scholarships
To have a high chance of receiving a scholarship, students should carefully prepare their application from the beginning:
- High GPA: For undergraduate level, GPA from 8.0 and above; for master level, GPA from 7.5 and above is a distinct advantage.
- International language certificate: A minimum IELTS score of 6.5 or TOEFL iBT of 90 or above is the common entry requirement for both study programs and scholarships.
- Motivation Letter: It is necessary to clearly state your study goals, career orientation and reasons for choosing Finland, your major and university.
- Recommendation Letter: At least 1 letter from a reputable instructor or administrator.
- Outstanding academic record or personal project: If you have participated in social activities, research, national competitions or have extracurricular achievements, please attach evidence in your application.
- Submit application on time: Most scholarships are considered at the same time as your application, so it is important to prepare 3-6 months before the application opens.
4.3 Experience in applying for scholarships
Below are some practical experiences shared by Vietnamese students who have successfully won scholarships in Finland:
- Learn more about each school and program: Each school has its own scholarship criteria, so it is necessary to customize the application accordingly instead of using a general template.
- Prepare documents early: Planning at least 6 months before the admission period gives you time to complete your application, take the English proficiency test, and prepare your finances.
- Invest time in writing your personal essay: An essay that is thoughtful, reflective, and demonstrates your passion for learning will impress the admissions committee.
- Refer to the experience of those who have gone before: You can look to Finnish international student groups, forums or contact alumni directly for helpful feedback.
- Feel free to email the school: The admissions department is always ready to support questions related to scholarships, specific conditions or suggest suitable applications.
5. Procedures for applying for a student visa
5.1 Application form: steps and submission deadline
To apply to universities in Finland, international students need to prepare their application carefully and on time. The basic steps include:
- Learn about the curriculum: Choose the right major, check admission requirements and English requirements (IELTS/TOEFL).
- Register via Studyinfo.fi: This is the official application portal for university programmes in Finland. The application deadline is usually in January each year for the autumn semester.
- Submit paper application (if required): Some schools require paper documents or notarized copies after online registration.
- Take an entrance exam or interview: Some courses may require an online exam or interview to assess your abilities.
- Get admission results: Results are announced around April - May.
- Confirmation of admission: Students need to confirm their admission by the deadline to reserve their place and receive an official letter of offer.
5.2 Student visa application: requirements and procedures
To study in Finland, international students need to apply for a Residence Permit for study purposes, not a regular short-term visa. This is a mandatory and important step to legalize long-term stay in Finland.
5.2.1 Required documents for Residence Permit application
1. Official Letter of Acceptance: Issued by the Finnish university after you are admitted.
2. Valid passport: Passport must be valid for at least 1 year from the date of application and not torn or damaged.
3. Financial proof: You must demonstrate sufficient funds to cover at least your living expenses 800 EUR/month, equivalent to 9,600 EUR/year. Can be used:
- Personal bank account statement
- Scholarships are clearly valued
- Financial guarantee commitment from relatives with proof of income
4. International health insurance:
- Must purchase insurance with minimum coverage 40,000 EUR/year
- Insurance should cover illness, accident, hospitalization, and repatriation if required.
5. Passport size photo: Photo size and quality according to ICAO standards, white background, taken within the last 6 months.
6. Tuition payment receipt (if any): Some schools require tuition fees to be paid before issuing an official letter of offer.
7. Residence Permit application form (fill out online at Enter Finland): This is the official e-service portal of the Finnish Migration Agency (Migri). Once completed, you will need to submit your paper application and have your biometrics taken at the VFS Global Visa Application Centre.
5.2.2 Residence Permit application process for studying in Finland
1. Register an account and apply online at: You need to create an account, declare full personal information, attach a scan of the entire application and pay the online application processing fee.
2. Make an appointment and visit the VFS Global center: After submitting your online application, you will be guided to schedule a fingerprinting appointment and submit your paper application at a visa application centre (VFS) near your place of residence.
3. Waiting for review and response from the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri):
- Average processing time:4-10 weeks, may be faster if the application is complete and no additional information is required.
- Progress can be tracked via your account on Enter Finland.
4. Receive results and Residence Permit card: If approved, you will receive an electronic residence card, valid for 1-2 years, depending on course length. This card can be renewed after each academic year.
Important Note:
- Always ensure clear documentation, notarized translation into English or Finnish if necessary.
- Submit your application 2–3 months before your start date to avoid missing your flight or semester.
- Immigration authorities may request online or in-person interviews to verify further information.
- Financial information must be updated and verified within 30 days of application submission.
- Students can apply for a visa for accompanying relatives (wife/husband, minor children), but additional proof of financial capacity and insurance is required for each individual.
5.3 Review time and important notes
Visa processing time: Usually 1 - 2 months, but can be longer during peak season.
Important Note:
- Prepare complete and honest documents from the beginning.
- Do not buy airline tickets before receiving visa results.
- The bank account used to prove financial resources should be in the student's name.
- Health insurance must meet the requirements of the Finnish government (for programs of less than or more than 2 years of study).
5.4 Common mistakes when making a profile & how to avoid them
- Not checking each school's requirements carefully: Each school may have its own requirements regarding academic records or English proficiency.
- Late submission: Admissions are time-bound and non-extendable.
- Error in personal information: Incorrect name, date of birth, contact information may result in rejection of the application.
- Invalid financial proof: Insufficient balance, unclear documents, or incorrect student name.
- Lack of valid insurance: Not purchasing qualified health insurance or purchasing it within the wrong validity period.
How to avoid:
- Read the step-by-step instructions on the official websites carefully.
- Prepare documents at least 2 - 3 months before the submission deadline.
- Get help from experienced study abroad consulting centers or ask the embassy directly.
Conclusion
Studying in Finland offers more than just access to a high-quality education—it brings you into a safe, modern, and welcoming society that values equality and innovation. However, a successful study abroad journey requires thorough preparation: from academic and financial documents to language skills and everyday living knowledge.
