Study in Finland: Check the Programme, Scholarship and Real Costs Together
A tuition scholarship is not the same as full funding. Use this practical checklist to compare Finnish degree programmes, admission rules and living costs before applying.
A Finnish degree programme may look affordable when its website mentions a scholarship. But before applying, ask a more useful question: What would I still need to pay if I received that scholarship?
Finland’s official Study in Finland service says universities may offer scholarships or tuition fee waivers for international bachelor’s and master’s students. These awards are competitive and generally concern tuition fees—not living costs. Build your study plan around the complete cost, not the word “scholarship” alone.
1. Find the actual degree programme
Start with the official Study in Finland admissions guide. When you find a programme, read its entry on Studyinfo.fi and the institution’s own admissions page.
Record the degree level, language of instruction, entry requirements, documents and application period. Application dates and selection methods can differ by programme, so a general social-media deadline is not enough.
2. Read the scholarship conditions separately
Open the university’s scholarship page for that specific programme or degree level. Check whether you apply for funding together with admission or through a separate process. Find out what percentage of tuition may be covered and whether the award continues after the first year.
Finland’s official scholarship guidance says there is no Finnish government scholarship programme for bachelor’s or master’s studies. Treat advertisements promising a universal “fully funded Finland government scholarship” with caution.
3. Calculate the costs that remain
Make two columns: costs covered and costs you must fund yourself. Include any remaining tuition, accommodation, food, transport, insurance or healthcare requirements, travel and initial settling-in expenses.
Use the official fees and cost-of-living guide as a starting point, then check current requirements with the institution and the relevant Finnish authorities. A tuition waiver does not automatically pay your rent.
4. Apply through the stated route
Finland’s official guidance directs applicants to Studyinfo.fi when the programme’s application period is open. Check the programme and university pages for the exact instructions before submitting anything. If an eligibility or scholarship condition is unclear, contact the institution’s admissions service.
Muglan+ tip: Compare three programmes in one table. Add columns for eligibility, tuition, possible scholarship, estimated living costs, application period and official link. The best option is the one you can qualify for andrealistically finance.
Official sources: Study in Finland — Admissions · Bachelor’s and master’s scholarships · Fees and cost of living