Admissions • Costs • Scholarships • Visas • Student Life
Study in Finland
Innovation-driven education in a progressive Nordic environment
Overview
Finland combines world-class education with a progressive, student-centered approach. The Finnish education system emphasises creativity, critical thinking, and practical application over rote learning, preparing graduates with skills valued globally.
The country offers extensive English-taught programmes across universities and universities of applied sciences. International students benefit from modern facilities, safe cities, excellent public services, and a welcoming multicultural environment. Finland's commitment to equality and innovation makes it an attractive destination for students seeking quality education and career opportunities.
Why Choose Finland
Top-ranked universities
Innovation hub
English-friendly
Generous work rights
Top Universities in Finland
University of Helsinki
Key Strengths
Aalto University
Key Strengths
Tampere University
Key Strengths
University of Turku
Key Strengths
Laurea University of Applied Sciences
Key Strengths
Popular Programmes & Focus Areas
Finland excels in technology, design, business, and sustainability. Programmes emphasise practical learning, research projects, and collaboration with industry.
Technology & Engineering
Strong programmes in software engineering, game development, telecommunications, and clean energy with industry partnerships.
Featured: Aalto University, Tampere University, University of Oulu
Design & Arts
World-renowned design programmes in architecture, industrial design, and visual arts at Aalto University and other institutions.
Featured: Aalto University, University of Lapland
Business & Innovation
Business programmes with focus on entrepreneurship, sustainability, and Nordic business models.
Featured: Aalto University, University of Helsinki, Laurea UAS
Admission Requirements
Applications are submitted through Studyinfo.fi (Joint Application for bachelor's) or directly to universities for master's programmes. Deadlines: January 8-22 for autumn intake.
undergraduate
- Upper secondary diploma equivalent to Finnish qualifications (Moroccan Baccalaureate recognised).
- Minimum GPA: 12/20 overall, 13/20 in mathematics (some universities prefer 13/20 overall).
- English proficiency: IELTS 6.0-6.5 or TOEFL iBT 80-90.
- Motivation letter and sometimes entrance exams or portfolios.
postgraduate
- Bachelor's degree in relevant field with strong academic record (minimum 2.5/4.0 GPA).
- English proficiency: IELTS 6.5/TOEFL 90 for most master's programmes.
- Statement of purpose, CV, two academic references, and transcripts.
- Work experience may be required for some programmes.
Language test benchmarks
IELTS Academic
6.0-6.5 (no band below 5.5)
TOEFL iBT
80-90
Finnish language (for Finnish-taught programmes)
YKI test level 4-5
Application Steps
Most bachelor's programmes use the Joint Application system (Studyinfo.fi) with deadlines in January. Master's programmes have individual deadlines and application processes.
1. Research programmes
Shortlist universities and programmes matching your academic background and career goals.
2. Prepare documents
Gather transcripts, diplomas, English test scores, CV, motivation letter, and references.
3. Submit application
Complete online application via Studyinfo.fi (bachelor's) or university portal (master's) and pay application fee (EUR 55-100).
4. Await decision
Universities review applications and notify candidates typically in March-June for autumn intake.
5. Accept offer & apply for residence permit
Accept admission, pay tuition deposit, and begin residence permit application with Migri.
12-9 months
- Research programmes, prepare IELTS/TOEFL, and gather academic documents.
- Explore scholarship opportunities (university-specific, ASEM, Erasmus+).
9-6 months
- Submit applications by January 8-22 (autumn intake) or August-October (spring intake).
- Request recommendation letters and prepare motivation statements.
6-3 months
- Receive admission decisions, accept offers, and pay tuition deposits.
- Begin residence permit application with financial proof and accommodation.
3-0 months
- Complete residence permit process, arrange travel, and prepare for arrival.
- Register with local municipality and obtain Finnish ID number (henkilötunnus).
Cost of Studying in Finland
Finland offers competitive tuition fees compared to other Nordic countries. Budget approximately EUR 700-900 per month for living costs (2025 requirement for residence permit).
bachelor programmes
EUR 5,000-15,000/year (≈ 52,550-157,650 MAD)
master programmes
EUR 7,000-18,000/year (≈ 73,570-189,180 MAD)
phd programmes
FREE for all students
Helsinki
EUR 945-1,620 (≈ 9,930-17,020 MAD)
Accommodation EUR 300-700; food EUR 200-300; transport EUR 50-80 with student discount.
Tampere
EUR 775-1,250 (≈ 8,140-13,140 MAD)
Lower costs than Helsinki; good student housing availability.
Turku
EUR 655-1,120 (≈ 6,880-11,770 MAD)
Affordable coastal city with strong student community.
Oulu
EUR 555-920 (≈ 5,830-9,670 MAD)
Most affordable option; excellent for technology and engineering programmes.
| Expense | EUR | MAD |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition (master's avg) | EUR 9,000-12,000 | 94,590-126,120 MAD |
| Accommodation | EUR 300-600 | 3,150-6,300 MAD |
| Food & groceries | EUR 200-250 | 2,100-2,630 MAD |
| Transport | EUR 50-70 | 525-735 MAD |
| Insurance & healthcare | EUR 35-60 | 370-630 MAD |
| Personal expenses | EUR 100-150 | 1,050-1,580 MAD |
Scholarships & Funding
Finland offers various scholarship programmes for international students, including university-specific awards, government scholarships, and Erasmus+ funding.
University scholarships
Aalto University Scholarships
25-100% tuition coverage
Merit-based awards for outstanding international students.
University of Helsinki International Study Grants
Tuition waiver + living cost support
Available for bachelor's and master's students demonstrating financial need and academic merit.
Tampere University Scholarships
Talent-based and need-based awards
Multiple schemes for international students.
Government & International
Finnish Government Scholarship Pool
Primarily for doctoral students and researchers, occasionally available for master's students.
ASEM Scholarships
Tuition + living costs
For master's students from Asian and North African countries.
Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters
Full tuition + EUR 1,400/month stipend
For selected master's programmes.
Student Life & Support
Finnish universities provide excellent student services, including affordable housing through student unions, subsidised meals, and comprehensive support for international students.
Housing
Student dormitories (EUR 300-500/month) are available but have waiting lists. Shared apartments (EUR 400-600) and private studios (EUR 600-900) are alternatives.
Food & culture
Campus canteens offer meals from EUR 2.95-5.60. Finnish cuisine includes fish, meat, and traditional dishes. Halal food available in major cities.
Transport
Student discounts on public transport (HSL monthly pass EUR 45-65 in Helsinki). City bikes available (EUR 5-10/week).
Health & wellbeing
Student health insurance (FSHS) costs EUR 35.60 per semester. Comprehensive healthcare coverage available after registration.
Working During Studies
Finland offers generous work rights for international students: 37.5 hours per week during term (increased from 30 hours in 2025) and unlimited hours during breaks.
Work hours: 37.5 hours/week during term; unlimited during breaks
Minimum wage: EUR 11-13/hour (typical student jobs) ≈ 115-137 MAD
Popular roles: Retail/Customer Service, Restaurant/Café, Cleaning, Tutoring, IT/Tech Support
Internships: Many programmes include paid internships or thesis projects with companies.
Post-Graduation Options
Graduates automatically receive a 2-year post-graduation work permit (no separate application needed) to find employment in Finland.
Post-graduation work permit
Duration: 2 years (automatic)
Completed degree in Finland; no separate application required.
Skilled worker permit
Duration: Up to 4 years (renewable)
Job offer with salary meeting threshold (EUR 3,000+/month).
Permanent residence
Available after 4 years of continuous residence with employment and Finnish language proficiency (A2-B1).
Visa & Residence Permit
Non-EEA students must apply for a residence permit for studies through the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) before travelling to Finland.
Step 1
Receive admission letter from Finnish institution.
Step 2
Prepare financial proof (EUR 700-900 per month), accommodation confirmation, and health insurance.
Step 3
Submit online application to Migri with supporting documents and pay application fee (EUR 350).
Step 4
Provide biometrics at Finnish embassy/VFS and await decision (typically 1-3 months).
Read the Finland visa guide
Essential Documents Checklist
Academic
- Diplomas and transcripts with certified translations.
- Admission letter from Finnish institution.
- English proficiency certificates (IELTS/TOEFL).
Financial
- Bank statements showing EUR 700-900 per month (minimum 6 months).
- Accommodation confirmation or housing guarantee.
- Health insurance covering entire stay.
Supporting
- Valid passport (minimum 12 months validity).
- Two passport photos.
- CV, motivation letter, and reference letters.
Application Timeline
12-9 months
- Research programmes, prepare English tests, and gather academic documents.
- Explore scholarship opportunities and application requirements.
9-6 months
- Submit applications by January 8-22 (autumn intake) or August-October (spring intake).
- Request recommendation letters and prepare motivation statements.
6-3 months
- Receive admission decisions, accept offers, and pay deposits.
- Begin residence permit application with Migri.
3-0 months
- Complete residence permit process, arrange travel, and prepare for arrival.
- Register with municipality and obtain Finnish ID number (henkilötunnus).
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to speak Finnish?
No, many programmes are taught in English. However, learning Finnish (A2-B1) improves job prospects and daily life.
How much money do I need for the residence permit?
You must show EUR 700-900 per month (≈ 7,360-9,460 MAD) in bank statements or scholarship proof.
Can I work while studying?
Yes, up to 37.5 hours per week during term and unlimited during breaks with a valid residence permit.
How long does the residence permit take?
Processing typically takes 1-3 months after biometrics. Migri aims to process complete applications within one month.
Are there scholarships available?
Yes, universities offer merit-based scholarships, and ASEM and Erasmus+ provide funding for eligible programmes.