Studying in Finland will allow you to experience wild beauty and untouched natural landscapes. Explore Finnish modern design, irresistible summers, and winter magic that will mesmerise you. Finland has become the new "Mecca" for international students, especially Nigerian students, who want high-quality education, vibrant student life, and innovative learning environments.

Why Study in Finland?

Quality Education: International students have opportunities to study in highly ranked, globally recognised Finnish universities.
English-Taught Programs: Finland has over 500 English-taught programs.
Work Opportunities: As an international student, you have part-time job options, including pathways to post-graduation employment.
Innovative Learning Environment: Finland has made studying easier, emphasising critical thinking, creativity and research.
Vibrant student life: You have student-friendly cities like Helsinki, Turku, Tampere and others. Finland offers a vibrant international student life.
Affordability: Compared to countries like the United States and Canada, the Finnish education system is affordable.
Equality and Freedom: Finland offers equal opportunities to study with professors on a first-name basis.
Job Opportunities: Finnish universities provide international students with career services.

Here are some good Finnish universities:

Aalto University
University of Turku
University of Jyväskylä
LUT University
Metropolia University of Applied Sciences
University of Vaasa
Laurea University of Applied Sciences
Hanken School of Economics

The Finnish Educational System

Finland groups its academic institutions in:

Regular universities: This category of schools conducts scientific research and offers instruction and postgraduate-based education.
UAS (Universities of Applied Sciences): UAS equips students to meet the labour market's needs through research and development.

How to Choose the Right University in Finland?

Rankings and Accreditations: You should go for globally recognised Finnish schools.
Location Preference: Check the university's location, cultural offerings, size, and cost of living.
Identify Your Goals: Select a university and program that aligns with your career goals.
Scholarship Opportunities: Find schools offering financial aid options.

Finland Admission Requirements for International Students

Completed application form
Statement of Purpose / Application Essays where required
Academic transcripts and degree certificates
Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL)
Motivation letters and recommendation letters
Portfolio (if required for specific programs like design or architecture)

Tuition Fees in Finland

Tuition fees in Finland vary by university and program. However, international students can pay between €8,000 and €20,000 annually.

Scholarships: International students can use some of the Finnish universities’ merit-based scholarships.
PhD Programs: Regardless of nationality, PhD studies are tuition-free in Finland.

Student Union Fees

International students pay an annual student union fee of about €50-€70 per academic year. The fee offers students discounts in restaurants and public transport. However, the University of Applied Sciences (UAS) membership is optional.

Living Expenses

While Finland is a relatively expensive country, international students can spend approximately €900 – €1000 per month on accommodation, food, and travel. Meanwhile, international students must prove sufficient finances and insurance when applying for a student residence permit.

Part-Time Work Opportunities

International students can work up to 30 hours per week during their studies.

Finland University Scholarships

Many Finnish universities offer international students merit-based scholarships, which can cover full or partial tuition fees. You should consult your chosen university for some of these scholarships for non-EU/EEA students.

How to Apply?

International students should apply for a scholarship at the same time they are applying for admission.

Navigating Doctoral Funding Options

Doctoral students enjoy tuition-free in Finland, but you must finance your living expenses. EDUFI Fellowships are tailored for doctoral research in Finland but are managed and applied by the university departments on your behalf.

Types of Scholarships in Finland

University-Specific Scholarships: Most Finnish universities and universities of applied sciences (UAS) offer scholarships for non-EU/EEA students.
Finnish Government Scholarships: The government provides EDUFI scholarships to students pursuing their doctoral and post-doctoral studies through EDUFI (Finnish National Agency for Education).
Private and Organisation-Based Scholarships: These scholarships are offered by foundations and NGOs, such as The Finnish Cultural and The Fulbright Finland Foundation, to international students.

Scholarship application Finland

Start early and search for scholarships from university and government websites.
Prepare the necessary documents like your proof of language proficiency, academic transcripts, and motivation letters.
Apply and secure your admission first.
You must pay close attention to application deadlines.

Is there a difference between Universities of Applied Sciences in Finland and Polytechnics?

No. The Universities of Applied Sciences mean the same thing.

What are the tuition fees at the Universities of Applied Sciences in Finland?

Tuition fees in Finland vary by university and program. However, international students can pay between €8,000 and €20,000 annually.

Do UAS in Finland have specific admission requirements?

Yes. Finnish UAS requires an IELTS score of 6.0, whereas research universities ask for a score of 6.5 or higher. However, a Master's Degree is usually open to all applicants holding a Bachelor's degree.

Emerging Trends in Finnish Education

· Sustainability Focus

Most Finnish universities offer students hands-on experience in green innovation.

· AI Integration in Learning:

Several universities, like the University of Helsinki and Aalto University, are pioneering artificial intelligence in education.

Underexplored Universities and Programs

Åbo Akademi University: Specialises in biomedical sciences and offers unique research opportunities in neurosciences.
Savonia UAS: Known for its practical approach to education, particularly in fields like Industrial Internet of Things (IoT).

Hidden Gems: Regional Advantages

Lapland: Lapland is known for its Arctic research facilities. If you love environmental science and indigenous studies, you can study at the University of Lapland.
Turku: The city is a centre for biomedical and maritime research and is near the Baltic Sea.

Conclusion

Are you thinking of studying in Finland? The country offers you an opportunity to experience the best of studying abroad without breaking the bank. Finland is a happy country with robust financial aid, emerging fields, and a supportive student ecosystem. For application fee payments, use the Pay4Me App, as this is the fastest way to process your international transactions.

Read: Finland Student Visa Requirements For International Students (Including Nigerians)

Study in Finland: A 2025 Comprehensive Guide For International Students