Research universities
Research-led education, with academic and postgraduate pathways.
Find the right study path before you apply.
Finland’s higher-education system includes research universities and universities of applied sciences (UAS). Both offer bachelor’s and master’s programmes, but their focus and admission criteria differ. English-taught options span technology, business, design, education, health and other fields. Check each programme’s official listing for its language, tuition and deadlines.
Universities of applied sciences
Profession-focused programmes connected to working life and regional needs.
Plan the full budget
For a first study residence permit, Migri requires proof of living funds and valid insurance; tuition may be additional.
Sources: Studyinfo: Finnish higher education · Study in Finland: admissions
Start with these study destinations.
These are examples of Finnish higher-education institutions, not a ranking. Compare the exact programme, language, entry rules and application period in Studyinfo and on the institution’s own website.
University of Helsinki
Aalto University
Tampere University
University of Turku
How long are programmes?
Master’s degrees
A university master’s degree is typically 120 ECTS credits, or about two years of full-time study after a bachelor’s degree. Some fields take longer.
Bachelor’s degrees
A university bachelor’s degree is typically 180 ECTS credits, or about three years. UAS programme structures can differ, so confirm the course listing.
Source: Studyinfo, maintained by the Finnish National Agency for Education.
Check the programme’s exact entry criteria.
Bachelor’s entry
- Upper-secondary qualification that gives access to higher education in the applicant’s home country.
- Programme-specific entrance exam, SAT or other assessment may apply.
- Language evidence depends on the programme and any applicable exemption.
Master’s entry
- A relevant bachelor’s degree is generally required.
- UAS master’s programmes also require two years of relevant work experience.
- Subject prerequisites, portfolio, interview, GMAT or language test may apply depending on the course.
Source: Official admissions guidance. Always check the selected programme in Studyinfo.fi.
Scholarships are set by individual universities.
Finnish universities may offer competitive scholarships or tuition-fee waivers for eligible non-EU/EEA students. They typically support tuition rather than living costs. Finland’s official study guide warns that there are no general government scholarship programmes for bachelor’s and master’s studies; confirm current terms directly with the university.
Compare tuition support
Check whether the programme offers a waiver, whether it must be requested alongside admission, and what academic progress is required to renew it.
Official scholarship guidance →Do not assume living costs are covered
Plan your living funds and residence-permit evidence separately. A tuition scholarship does not automatically satisfy the living-funds requirement.
Migri: student income requirement →Prepare the application after you receive admission.
Non-EU/EEA students planning degree studies for more than 90 days usually need a Finnish residence permit for studies. Apply through the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) and follow its checklist for your individual case.
Common application items
- Valid passport and required identity documents
- Admission / study-place confirmation
- Proof of funds: currently at least €800 per month or €9,600 for a year, plus tuition funds if unpaid
- Valid private health insurance meeting Migri’s requirements
- Translations, legalisation, photo and other documents requested for your case
After graduation
Eligible graduates can apply for a residence permit to look for work or start a business for up to two years, subject to Migri’s conditions and sufficient funds.
Migri: permit to look for work →Immigration rules, evidence thresholds, insurance requirements and fees can change. This is a planning summary, not a visa decision. Confirm the latest requirements with Migri’s study-permit checklist before submitting an application.
Additional official sources: student insurance · Study in Finland: student residence permit.
Career prospects in Finland: sectors and employers to research.
Technology, engineering, games, clean energy, finance and research are among the fields students may explore. These example employers are not a hiring promise; language needs, vacancies and work eligibility vary by role.
NokiaKONESupercellRovioWärtsiläReaktor
Illustrative employer examples only. Check role requirements and current vacancies.
Work rules and pay in Finland.
A study residence permit allows paid work in any field for an average of up to 30 hours per week. Some weeks can exceed that limit if the average stays within Migri’s rule over the year. Course-related internship or thesis work may be treated differently under specified conditions.
Student services, library or university support positions.
Customer service, shops, cafés and restaurants.
Peer tutoring, research projects and academic support.
Checked 8 October 2026. Official sources: Migri student work rules · Finnish Occupational Safety and Health Administration: pay.
Compare cities as well as programmes.
Helsinki & Espoo
University of Helsinki and Aalto University; compare housing, commute and programme location.
Tampere & Turku
University-city options with research and applied-sciences pathways. Review current programmes and living costs before choosing.
Common questions about Finland.
How long does a master’s degree take?
A university master’s is typically 120 ECTS credits, or two years of full-time study after a bachelor’s degree; some fields take longer.
How much can an international student work?
With a study residence permit, paid employment is allowed for an average of up to 30 hours per week. Check Migri’s current guidance and your permit conditions.
Is there a Finland government scholarship for bachelor’s or master’s students?
The official Study in Finland guide says scholarships and tuition waivers are offered by individual universities and there are no general government scholarship programmes for these degrees.
What documents are usually needed for the residence permit?
Common items include a valid passport, admission confirmation, proof of sufficient living funds and valid insurance. Migri’s individual checklist is authoritative.
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