Finland has become one of the most attractive study destinations for international students seeking world-class education, innovative teaching methods, and a high standard of living. As one of Europe’s safest, cleanest, and most student-friendly countries, Finland offers outstanding academic opportunities — but many students wonder: How much does it actually cost to study abroad in Finland?

This comprehensive guide provides a detailed breakdown of tuition fees, living expenses, scholarships, visa costs, and tips for budgeting, helping you make informed decisions before applying.

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Understanding the Cost of Studying in Finland

Finland offers top-tier education with modern facilities, English-taught programs, and strong career prospects. But unlike EU/EEA students, non-EU international students are required to pay tuition fees for bachelor’s and master’s programs.

Below is a full overview of what you can expect.

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Tuition Fees for International Students in Finland

Average Tuition Fees (Non-EU Students)

Tuition fees vary according to university and program, but the general range is:

• Bachelor’s Degrees: €4,000 – €15,000 per year
• Master’s Degrees: €8,000 – €20,000 per year
• Engineering & Technology Programs: €10,000 – €18,000 per year
• Business & Management Programs: €8,000 – €16,000 per year
• Computer Science & IT: €10,000 – €18,000 per year
• Health & Nursing Programs: €9,000 – €16,000 per year

Many institutions require first-year tuition fee payment in advance before issuing the admission confirmation.

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Living Costs for Students in Finland

Finland is known for its high-quality lifestyle, which comes with expenses that need to be planned. However, students benefit from several discounted services, including meals, transportation, and housing.

Average Monthly Living Costs

Expense Type	Estimated Monthly Cost
Student Housing	€250 – €500
Food & Groceries	€200 – €300
Transportation	€30 – €60 (student discount)
Insurance	€20 – €40
Internet & Mobile	€20 – €30
Study Materials	€40 – €60
Other Personal Costs	€100 – €200

Total Monthly Cost:

€650 – €1,200

Total Annual Living Cost:

€8,000 – €12,000

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Accommodation Options in Finland

Students can choose from multiple housing types:

1. Student Housing (Most Affordable)

Offered by student housing foundations such as HOAS.

• Cost: €250 – €500/month
• Shared kitchens, private rooms, fully furnished options.

2. Private Rentals (Higher Cost)

Ideal for students wanting more privacy.

• Cost: €500 – €900/month depending on city
• Big cities like Helsinki, Espoo, Tampere, and Turku are more expensive.

3. Shared Apartments

Popular among international students.

• Cost: €300 – €600/month

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Cost of Food and Daily Meals

Finland offers subsidized meals for students:

• University cafeteria meals: €2.95 – €5.00
• Monthly groceries: €200 – €300
• Eating out: €10 – €15 per meal

Meal prep and cooking at home significantly reduce monthly expenses.

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Transportation Costs for Students

Finland offers one of the most efficient transportation systems in Europe.

• Student travel pass: €30 – €60/month
• Bicycles are popular: €50 – €150 (one-time)
• Walking is safe and common in smaller cities.

Many universities provide free campus bus services and discounted travel passes.

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Health Insurance and Medical Costs

Health insurance is mandatory for non-EU students.

Insurance Cost:

• Approximately €200 – €400 per year

Finland’s healthcare system is extremely advanced, and students receive access to Finnish Student Health Service (FSHS) at subsidized rates.

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Residence Permit (Student Visa) Costs

International students from outside the EU must apply for a Finnish residence permit.

Fees (2025)

• Online application: €350
• Paper application: €450

Financial Proof Requirements

Students must show at least:

• €560 per month
• €6,720 per year

Plus enough to cover first-year tuition fees, which must be paid before receiving the residence permit.

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City-Wise Cost Breakdown

Studying in Finland varies in cost depending on location:

1. Helsinki (Most Expensive)

• Total Monthly: €900 – €1,400

2. Tampere & Turku (Moderate)

• Total Monthly: €700 – €1,000

3. Oulu, Vaasa, Joensuu (Budget-Friendly)

• Total Monthly: €650 – €900

Choosing a smaller city lowers living expenses significantly.

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Scholarships for International Students in Finland

Many Finnish universities offer scholarships to reduce tuition costs.

Popular Scholarship Types

1. 50% to 100% Tuition Fee Waivers

Based on academic merit.

2. Early Bird Discounts

For paying tuition early (5% – 10%).

3. Full Scholarships

Cover:

• Tuition fees
• Living expenses
• Housing in some cases

4. University-specific scholarships

Examples:

• Aalto University Scholarship
• University of Helsinki Grants
• University of Oulu Scholarship Programme
• Jyväskylä University Scholarships

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Part-Time Work Opportunities for Students

Finland allows international students to work:

• Up to 30 hours per week during semesters
• Full time during holidays

Average student part-time salary:
€9 – €13 per hour

Working part-time helps cover living expenses but should not be relied on to pay tuition.

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Total Estimated Cost of Studying in Finland

Here is a combined estimation:

Annual Tuition Fee:

€6,000 – €18,000

Annual Living Expenses:

€8,000 – €12,000

Total Yearly Cost:

€14,000 – €30,000 per year

With scholarships and part-time jobs, this cost can be reduced significantly.

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How to Reduce the Cost of Studying in Finland

Here are practical tips:

• Apply early for scholarships
• Choose smaller, affordable cities
• Apply for student housing immediately
• Use student meal discounts
• Use bicycles or walking
• Buy used textbooks
• Take advantage of university facilities like free libraries, gyms, and study rooms

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Conclusion

Studying abroad in Finland offers unmatched educational quality, innovative teaching, and a safe, modern lifestyle. Although the cost may seem high initially, scholarships, low-cost student housing, and part-time jobs make studying in Finland more affordable than many other European countries.

With smart planning and early applications, international students can enjoy a world-class education while managing their expenses effectively.