- Many people choose to study a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Finland thanks to the high quality of education.
- Local students and students from the EU/EEA benefit from free tuition if they enrol at Finnish public universities.
- For international students from other parts of the world, the cheapest Master’s degrees on our portals start at around EUR 4,000 per year of study.
Finland is globally celebrated for its world-class education system and exceptional quality of life, consistently attracting ambitious international students. While the country offers a premium academic experience, it is important to note that tuition fees vary significantly between public and private higher education institutions.
On our portals, you can explore and offering a wide range of academic options to suit various interests and career goals.
Public universities generally offer tuition-free degree programmes for EU/EEA students, while non-EU/EEA students are required to pay tuition. If you are a non-EU/EEA citizen looking to study in Finland on a budget, you might wonder if it's possible. The answer is a resounding 'yes,' and we have compiled a list of local higher education institutions that provide high-value, affordable study options.
Most affordable universities in Finland, according to our data:
Below is a list of Finnish universities featured on our portals that offer competitive tuition fees for both Bachelor's and Master's levels, catering to the needs of domestic and international students:
While many institutions provide cost-effective degrees, the following universities stand out for their wide selection of affordable programmes. Here is a closer look at each:
1. Aalto University
Aalto University, located in Espoo, is one of Finland’s premier public universities, celebrated for its excellence in technology, business, and design. Formed through the merger of three historical institutions, Aalto is a hub for research and innovation. It offers tuition-free education for EU/EEA students and competitive rates for non-EU students, supported by robust scholarship opportunities. Its modern campus and proximity to Helsinki offer a vibrant, career-focused student experience.
2. Tampere University
Tampere University, based in the heart of Finland, is renowned for its multidisciplinary approach, particularly in technology, health sciences, and social sciences. As a public institution, it provides tuition-free paths for EU/EEA students and affordable fees with diverse scholarship schemes for non-EU students. The city of Tampere offers a perfect blend of a dynamic urban culture and beautiful lakeside scenery.
3. University of Turku
The University of Turku, situated in Finland’s oldest city, is a leading research institution known for medicine, humanities, and the natural sciences. EU/EEA students benefit from free tuition, while non-EU students enjoy competitive fees and access to numerous scholarships. The historic campus, combined with the charm of Turku, creates an ideal environment for academic growth.
4. University of Oulu
The University of Oulu, located in the northern region, is highly respected for its research in technology, health, and environmental studies. It maintains a commitment to accessibility with tuition-free programmes for EU/EEA students and affordable options for non-EU citizens. Oulu’s unique Arctic setting and modern campus provide a truly distinct educational experience.
5. University of Jyväskylä
The University of Jyväskylä is recognized for its specialized focus on education, sports science, and natural sciences. This public institution offers free tuition for EU/EEA students and affordable tuition for international students, accompanied by various scholarships. Students enjoy a supportive community and the picturesque landscapes of Central Finland.
6. LUT University,
LUT University, with campuses in Lappeenranta and Lahti, is a leader in engineering, business, and sustainability research. It offers tuition-free education for EU/EEA students and affordable fee structures for non-EU applicants. Its strong ties to industry and focus on green technology make it a top choice for forward-thinking students.
7. University of Eastern Finland
The University of Eastern Finland, with locations in Joensuu and Kuopio, is known for its multidisciplinary excellence in education, health, and environmental sciences. It provides tuition-free access for EU/EEA students and competitive fees for non-EU students, supported by a range of scholarships. The university is celebrated for its close-knit academic community and focus on student wellbeing.
8. Laurea University of Applied Sciences
Metropolia University of Applied Sciences operates multiple campuses across the Helsinki metropolitan area. It excels in practical, industry-linked programmes such as healthcare, business, and social services. It offers tuition-free studies for EU/EEA students and affordable fees with scholarship options for non-EU students, emphasizing real-world employability.
9. Häme University of Applied Sciences
Häme University of Applied Sciences (HAMK), with campuses in cities like Hämeenlinna and Riihimäki, focuses on practical technology, business, and health science training. It provides a tuition-free model for EU/EEA students and affordable tuition for non-EU students, backed by strong local industry connections and a hands-on learning environment.
Scholarships for international students in Finland
We have great news: non-EU/EEA students subject to tuition fees are eligible to apply for various scholarships offered by both traditional universities and Universities of Applied Sciences (UAS).
Every university or UAS manages its own internal scholarship system and sets unique eligibility criteria. Students should apply for financial aid simultaneously with their regular application. If you have questions about specific requirements, we recommend reaching out directly to the university's admissions office.
Regardless of tuition status, all students must factor in the cost of living in Finland. Monthly expenses typically range from 700 to 1,000 EUR, though this can exceed 1,500 EUR in major metropolitan areas. Discover more about managing your living costs in Finland.
Affordable degrees for non-EU/EEA International students
Finland implements tuition fees for students residing outside the European Union and the European Economic Area. However, many institutions provide generous financial aid and scholarship packages to support international talent.
- The cheapest Bachelor’s degrees for non-EU/EEA international students in Finland have yearly tuition fees ranging between EUR 8,000 and EUR 9,500.
- The cheapest Master’s programs for non-EU/EEA international students in Finland start at approximately EUR 4,000 and reach up to EUR 10,000 per year.
- When comparing MA study programmes from Finland, international student tuition fees between EUR 10,000 and EUR 12,000 can be considered moderately affordable.
NOTE: The tuition fee information provided here reflects data from our portals at the time of publication and is subject to change.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Finland remains a top-tier destination for international students, offering high-quality education and a high standard of living. While EU/EEA students enjoy tuition-free education at public institutions, non-EU/EEA students can leverage scholarships and financial aid to make their studies more affordable. With its diverse range of academic programmes and vibrant student culture, Finland provides an incredibly rewarding experience.
Methodology
- We used real data from Online Result analysts to compile the list of universities and yearly tuition fees for affordable degrees.
- All tuition fees mentioned in this article are for 1 year of study.
- We examined all full-time Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Finland that are listed on our portals for both domestic and international students.
- In this article, "cheap" or "affordable" means that the tuition fees are lower than what 75% of other university degrees listed on our website.
- Sometimes, we use the term “moderately affordable,” which means the tuition fees are cheaper than what half of the university degrees, but more expensive than the lowest 25% degrees listed on our website.
- For practical reasons, we've rounded up (or down) all tuition fee values.
Disclaimer: The information provided is subject to update. We strongly advise checking the latest tuition fees and scholarship policies directly on the official websites of the universities you are applying to.
Other resources
- Best English-Taught Universities in Finland
- Top 6 Reasons to Study a Master’s Degree in Finland
- How to Study, Work, and Live in Finland: The Complete Bachelor’s Student’s Guide
- Study in Finland: Tuition Fees and Living Costs
- How to Get a Student Visa for Finland
- How to Apply to an International University in Finland
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. Are tuition fees free for international students in Finland?
Tuition is free for all EU/EEA students in Finland, whereas students from outside the EU/EEA must pay tuition fees for their degree programmes.
2. How much are the living costs for students in Finland?
Living expenses in Finland generally average between 700 and 1,000 EUR per month, covering housing, nutrition, transit, and health insurance. Costs in larger cities may be higher, often exceeding 1,500 EUR.
3. Do public universities in Finland charge tuition fees for EU/EEA students?
Yes, public universities in Finland provide tuition-free higher education to all EU/EEA citizens.
4. Can international students get financial aid in Finland?
Yes, many Finnish universities offer scholarships and financial aid packages specifically designed to assist international students with tuition and living costs.