AbijahThinking about studying in Finland? You’re not alone, this Nordic country has quietly become a favorite among international students. And it’s not just because of the fresh air, world-class education, and those dreamy northern lights. The real draw? Many scholarships can make your studies surprisingly affordable.
But here’s the big question: how do you actually get a scholarship to study in Finland as an international student? Let’s walk through it step by step with a few honest tips along the way.
Why Finland Is Worth the Effort
Finland has built a reputation for high-quality education and research. Universities like the University of Helsinki, Aalto University, and Tampere University consistently rank well globally. Plus, the learning environment is refreshingly open, professors are approachable, and classes often feel more like discussions than lectures.
And here’s the kicker: Finland’s tuition fees are reasonable compared to many other countries. If you get a scholarship, it can cover 50%, 75%, or even 100% of your tuition. Some programs even throw in a living allowance, which can make life a lot easier when you’re figuring out Helsinki’s coffee prices.
Step One: Know What Kind of Scholarship You Want
Different scholarships cover different things and you need to know what you’re aiming for.
Tuition Fee Waivers – The most common type. They can be partial or full and are awarded based on academic performance.
University Scholarships – Offered directly by Finnish universities. These can sometimes include living cost stipends.
Government or External Scholarships – Like the EDUFI Fellowship for research students.
Country-Specific Scholarships – Some governments have bilateral agreements with Finland for student exchange or funding.
It sounds obvious, but this is where many students slip up. They apply to “a scholarship” without realizing there are several types, and each one has slightly different requirements.
Step Two: Choose Your University Strategically
Here’s the thing: scholarships are tied to the program you apply to. If you pick a program where competition is fierce, you’ll be fighting for a very small number of scholarships.
Some universities are known for generous funding opportunities. For example:
Aalto University – Strong in technology, arts, and business. Their scholarship program is merit-based and quite competitive.
University of Oulu – Offers tuition fee waivers of 50% or 75% for international students.
Tampere University – Known for clear scholarship options and relatively accessible funding.
Tip: Look at the acceptance rates and funding data (many universities publish them). This can give you a sense of how selective they are.
Step Three: Get Your Documents (Really) Right
If there’s one thing that can make or break your scholarship application, it’s your paperwork. Finnish universities are detail-oriented they expect every document to be exactly as requested.
Here’s what you’ll typically need:
- Academic transcripts (translated and officially verified)
- Motivation letter — This is where you get to show why you care about your field and why Finland is the right place for you
- Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent)
- Recommendation letters (if required)
Don’t underestimate the motivation letter. It’s not just a formality. This is where you show personality, passion, and ambition. Tell a story. Make the committee believe you’ll contribute to the university community not just take a seat in the classroom.
Step Four: Apply Early (And Carefully)
The application window is usually in January for programs starting in the fall. That means you should start preparing your documents months earlier.
Why apply early? Because technical issues happen. Recommendation letters take time. And sometimes, universities have separate internal deadlines for scholarship consideration.
Step Five: Think Beyond Tuition
Many students focus only on tuition scholarships, but living costs in Finland can be significant around €700–€1,200 per month depending on where you live.
Here are a few ways students make it work:
Kela Benefits: Some students are eligible for Finnish social security (after a certain period).
Part-Time Jobs: You can work up to 30 hours per week on a student residence permit.
Student Housing: Affordable housing through HOAS (in Helsinki) or local student housing foundations can save you hundreds.
Final Thoughts
Getting a scholarship to study in Finland as an international student isn’t about luck it’s about preparation. Choose your program wisely, craft a strong application, and give yourself enough time to do it right.
And when you finally get that acceptance letter? You’ll know all the paperwork, late nights, and careful planning were worth it.
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