Cost of Higher Education in Finland Without a Scholarship in 2024?

Last updated Jan 20, 2024

Considering pursuing higher education in Finland in 2024 as an international student without the aid of a scholarship? The prospect entails navigating through a spectrum of expenses, mainly comprising tuition fees and living costs. This guide meticulously dissects the essential financial components, addressing tuition fees for both undergraduate and postgraduate programs offered by diverse Finnish universities. Furthermore, it intricately outlines living costs in various cities and explores the potential assistance that scholarships can provide. In essence, this succinct overview is designed to offer you a comprehensive understanding of the financial aspects integral to your educational venture in Finland.

Cost of Undergrad and Postgrad Education in Finnish Universities

The cost of undergraduate and postgraduate education in Finnish universities varies based on factors such as the level of study and the specific institution. Here is an overview of the costs:

Undergraduate Programs:

Tuition fees typically range from €6,000 to €15,000 per year.
For instance, Aalto University charges approximately €12,000 to €15,000 annually, while Arcada University of Applied Sciences has fees ranging from €5,000 to €9,000 per year.

Postgraduate Programs:

The cost for postgraduate programs generally falls within the same range, although certain specialized programs might have higher fees.
For example, the University of Helsinki charges between €13,000 to €18,000 per year for its postgraduate programs.

Variations Across Universities: Different universities have varying tuition fees, with top institutions like the University of Oulu and Aalto University having average tuition fees around €10,000 to €16,000 per year.

Cost of Living in Finnish Cities

Accommodation: Rent costs can vary widely. In cities like Helsinki, students may spend between €700 to €1,000 per month, while other cities, such as Oulu, may have somewhat lower costs.
Food and Groceries: Monthly expenses for food can range from €200 to €300, depending on personal habits and dietary preferences.
Books and Study Materials: Students should budget around €100 to €200 per academic year for books and other study materials.
Travel and Transportation: Monthly expenses for a public transport pass can range from €30 to €50, depending on the city.
Utility Bills: Utility expenses, including internet, can add up to around €50 to €100 per month.
Overall Living Expenses: The total living expenses, including accommodation, can vary from €700 to €1,580 per month. These costs cover accommodation, food, transportation, books, and utilities, offering a comprehensive overview of the financial commitments associated with living in Finnish cities.

Costs Covered by Finland Scholarships

Finland scholarships play a pivotal role in alleviating the financial burden for international students studying in the country. These scholarships can cover various costs, offering substantial support. Here are the key areas covered by Finland scholarships:

Tuition Fees: Many scholarships provide partial or complete coverage of tuition fees. For instance, some universities offer scholarships that cover 50% to 100% of tuition costs.
Living Expenses: Some scholarships extend support by offering a stipend to assist with living expenses. This stipend may cover accommodation, food, and transportation, contributing significantly to the overall cost of living.
Other Expenses: While less common, certain Finnish scholarships might also cover additional expenses such as books and study materials. This additional support can further ease the financial strain on students.

For the 2024 batch, seek Finland scholarships and submit applications with necessary documents. Note, these figures are estimates; verify details on university sites and tools like Opintopolku for precise and current information.

Are there any tuition-free Universities in Finland for international students?

While Finland doesn’t universally offer tuition-free education for all international students, there are specific circumstances under which tuition fees may be waived or reduced. Here are some situations where international students may experience tuition-free education in Finland:

PhD Programs: Generally, PhD programs in Finland are tuition-free for all international students. Additionally, there may be additional funding opportunities available to support doctoral research.
Exchange Programs: If a student is already enrolled in a university that has a partnership with a Finnish institution, they might be eligible for tuition-free exchange studies. This allows students to study in Finland for a specific period as part of an exchange program.
For EU/EEA and Swiss Students: Public universities in Finland offer tuition-free education at the Bachelor’s and Master’s levels for students from European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA), and Swiss nationals. However, it’s essential to note that certain specialized programs within these universities might have tuition fees.