Tuition Fees in Finland for International Students
In Finland, a diverse range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral courses are available, each with varying tuition fees depending on the institution. Moreover, the cost of studying these programs can fluctuate significantly across Finnish universities.
Various scholarships are offered by universities, the Finnish government, and private organizations to support deserving international students with their tuition fees in Finland.
The total cost of your education will primarily depend on your choice of program and the specific university you opt for. Generally, tuition for colleges and universities in Finland can range from EUR 4,000 to EUR 18,000 per year.
To find out the exact expenses associated with studying in Finland and to explore courses that are more affordable, consider disciplines such as humanities, social sciences, and education.
However, if you are not constrained by tuition fees in Finland, you might consider enrolling in programs such as medicine, engineering, or business, which typically come with higher tuition fees.
The table below shows how much it can cost to study in Finland:
| Courses for International Students | Average annual fees (EUR) | Average annual fees (NPR) |
| Undergraduate courses | €6,000 to €12,000 per year | Rs 8,64,000 to Rs 17,28,000 per year |
| Postgraduate courses (Master’s) | €8,000 to €15,000 per year | Rs 11,52,000 to Rs 21,60,000 per year |
| PhD courses (often tuition-free) | €0 to €10,000 per year | Rs 0 to Rs 14,40,000 per year |
| Master of Business Administration | €12,000 to €18,000 per year average | Rs 17,28,000 to Rs 25,92,000 per year |
- Undergraduate Tuition Fees in Finland
Finland’s average tuition fees for undergraduate international students range from €6,000 to €12,000 per year, depending on the university and program.
You can expect to pay tuition fees between €4,000 and €18,000 annually based on the course and the institution you choose. However, programs like Bachelor’s in Medicine, Engineering, and Business are generally more expensive.
Undergraduate degrees in the humanities and social sciences are among the most affordable in Finland, with tuition fees starting at around €4,000 to €6,000 per year.
Meanwhile, courses in engineering and medical sciences are typically the most expensive, with fees going up to €15,000 or more per year.
Furthermore, undergraduate programs in business and economics in Finland generally cost around €8,000 to €12,000 per year, depending on the university.
- Postgraduate Tuition Fees in Finland
If you want to study a master’s degree in Finland, the cost of education is often more affordable compared to many other countries around the world. So, what will it cost to study a master’s in Finland?
The average tuition fees for postgraduate programs in Finland typically range from €8,000 to €15,000 per year for international students.
The average annual fee for executive MBA programs in Finland can be higher, ranging between €20,000 and €35,000, whereas regular MBA programs generally cost between €12,000 and €18,000 per year.
Please keep in mind that tuition fees vary depending on the university and the specific program you choose.
- Ph.D. Courses in Finland
Similar to other degrees, the cost of a Ph.D. in Finland varies depending on the university and the program. Generally, many Finnish universities offer Ph.D. programs tuition-free, even for international students, as education is publicly funded. However, some specialized programs or universities may charge tuition fees.
For example, at the University of Helsinki, Ph.D. programs are usually tuition-free for international students, with only minor administrative fees. On the other hand, some universities might charge fees up to €10,000 per year for certain professional doctoral programs.
Unlike many other countries, Finland treats Ph.D. students more like researchers, often providing stipends or funding, which helps reduce the overall cost of study.
Total Cost to Study in Finland from Nepal
Denmark is one of the emerging and attractive study destinations in Europe. It is known for its innovative learning environment, high-quality education, and welcoming attitude towards international students.
The universities in Denmark consistently rank among the best in Europe. Their programs emphasize real-world applications and problem-solving, making Danish degrees highly valued globally.
Finland is one of the most attractive study destinations in Europe. It is very welcoming towards international students and offers many opportunities for academic and personal growth.
The universities in Finland are among the highest-ranking in the world. The programs they offer are designed with a focus on innovation and real-world applications.
For this reason, degrees awarded by Finnish universities are highly respected globally.
Finland is a land of opportunity, and if you are looking to study abroad, Finland is one of the best options.
It boasts some of the top universities in Europe and provides excellent support to international students.
Many scholarships are dedicated to international students, including those from developing countries like Nepal. Finland is known not only for its high-quality education but also for job opportunities available to international students during and after their studies.
The table below outlines the approximate costs to study in Finland:
| Total Cost to Study in Finland from Nepal | Expenses (approx.) | Expenses in NPR (approx.) |
| On-campus accommodation | €7,000 – €10,000 per year | Rs 10,08,000 – Rs 14,40,000 per year |
| Shared apartment | €250 – €600 per month | Rs 36,000 – Rs 86,400 per month |
| University-arranged homestay | €350 – €700 per month | Rs 50,400 – Rs 1,00,800 per month |
| Student residence | €200 – €550 per month | Rs 28,800 – Rs 79,200 per month |
| Cost of your student permit and visa | €350 | Rs 50,400 |
| Telephone | €15 – €25 per month | Rs 2,160 – Rs 3,600 per month |
| Books | €200 – €300 | Rs 28,800 – Rs 43,200 |
| Personal expenses | €250 – €450 | Rs 36,000 – Rs 64,800 |
| Health insurance | €600 – €900 per year | Rs 86,400 – Rs 1,29,600 per year |
Expenses to Study in Finland
1. Book Materials
Depending on the university, textbooks can be expensive in Finland. Textbook costs for engineering courses typically range from €200 to €300 on average.
Textbooks for fields like law, medicine, and pharmacy tend to cost more. One way to reduce expenses is to buy used books or use digital textbook apps. Another option is to get a library card, as most Finnish universities have well-stocked libraries that offer free access to textbooks and academic resources.
2. Accommodation Costs
Finland offers a wide variety of housing options, including student residences, university-arranged homestays, shared apartments, and studio or one-room apartments. The cost of utilities varies depending on location and facilities.
If you have a friend or relative in Finland to stay with, you’re in a fortunate position. Otherwise, you will likely need to rent accommodation. Typical housing options in Finland include:
- Student Residences: €200 – €550 per month
- University-Arranged Homestays: €350 – €700 per month
- Rent & Share an Apartment: €250 – €600 per month
- Studio/One-room Apartment: approximately €800 – €1,200 per month
Housing rents depend on the location and the facilities provided. If you use electricity, water, and heating, you may have to pay around €100 to €150 per month for these utilities. Internet costs are typically €20 to €40 per month.
3. Transportation Costs
Transportation in Finland is affordable and efficient. A one-way public transport ticket usually costs around €3, while a monthly transport pass is approximately €50 to €70.
Students often get discounted monthly transport passes. Taxi rides average about €1.50 to €2.50 per kilometer.
4. Health Expenses and Insurance
International students planning to study in Finland must have valid health insurance. EU/EEA students can use the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), but non-EU students must purchase private health insurance.
Health insurance is mandatory for all international students in Finland and typically costs between €600 and €900 per year.
5. Taxes and Work
International students in Finland with a valid residence permit can work part-time during their studies. If you work, you are required to pay taxes according to Finnish law.
To study in Finland, you must obtain a residence permit for studies, which requires submitting several documents such as an acceptance letter from a Finnish university and proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition fees and living expenses.
Applications can be submitted online via the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri).
Finland Student Visa and Study Permit Costs
A student residence permit application fee is approximately €350.
To apply, you’ll need:
- An acceptance letter from a recognized Finnish university
- Proof of financial resources to cover living expenses (around €560 per month)
- Proof of valid health insurance
- A valid passport and other identity documents
You must convince the immigration authorities that you intend to return to Nepal after completing your studies.
To learn more about the cost of studying in Finland and application procedures, you can contact Goreto Educational Consultancy in Nepal, one of the best consultancies for Finland study guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is English proficiency required for undergraduate and postgraduate admissions in Finland?
Yes, most programs taught in English require proof of English proficiency through tests like IELTS or TOEFL. Some universities may accept other equivalent qualifications or waive the requirement if you have prior education in English.
Are there tuition fees for postgraduate studies in Finland?
Yes, tuition fees apply for most Master’s programs for non-EU/EEA students, usually ranging from €8,000 to €20,000 per year depending on the field and university. Scholarships and grants are often available to help reduce the cost.
Are scholarships available for international students in Finland?
Yes, many Finnish universities offer scholarships specifically for non-EU/EEA students. These scholarships can cover tuition fees partially or fully and may include living allowances for outstanding students.
Can I get permanent residency (PR) in Finland after completing my PhD?
Yes, after completing your PhD in Finland, you may apply for a residence permit for employment if you find a job. Long-term residence permits and permanent residency are possible after meeting certain residence duration and employment criteria. Finland encourages highly educated individuals to stay and contribute to the economy.
What are the tuition fees for undergraduate studies in Finland?
For non-EU/EEA students, tuition fees vary depending on the university and program, typically ranging from €6,000 to €18,000 per year. Some universities offer scholarships to international students which can cover part or all of the tuition fees.
How long is an undergraduate degree in Finland?
An undergraduate degree (Bachelor’s) in Finland typically takes 3 years to complete. Some fields, like engineering or architecture, may require 4 years. These programs combine theoretical studies with practical skills.
