Finland is a dream destination for students worldwide, offering high-quality education, a stunning natural landscape, and a welcoming, inclusive society. With tuition-free opportunities for EU/EEA students and a world-class academic environment, it remains a top choice for international scholars.
Applying to a Finnish university involves several specific stages to ensure your application meets international standards. We have broken down the entire process to help you navigate your journey to Finland with confidence.
1. Decide on a Finnish university for your studies
To get started, here are several key resources and institutional types we recommend exploring:
2. Prepare to apply
Before you begin, it is important to understand that Finland distinguishes between two main types of higher education institutions:
- UAS (Universities of Applied Sciences), that train professionals in response to labour market needs and conduct research and development, which support instruction and promotes regional development.
- Regular universities, that conduct scientific research and provide instruction and postgraduate education based on it.
Finland is one of the European countries that offer free education for EU/EEA citizens; however, if you are a non-EU student, you should research tuition costs and look for scholarship opportunities. If your program involves fees, you can search for a variety of funding options. Additionally, explore the Online Result Scholarship to help manage your living and study expenses abroad.
We highly recommend visiting the official international admission website of Finland, which serves as the primary hub for all official application procedures, program requirements, and deadlines.
3. How to apply for a Finnish Master’s degree?
When initiating your application process, you generally have two distinct pathways to follow:
- apply on the official websites of universities
- apply on the official websites of Universities of Applied Sciences (UAS)
- apply through Studyinfo, the official website for Finnish applications
Every Finnish higher education institution provides dedicated support via its admission office. While specific entry requirements vary by university or University of Applied Sciences (UAS), there is a standard framework for applications. You will generally navigate through one of these two enrollment methods:
- Joint application
- Separate application
The joint application system allows you to apply for up to six different study programs using a single form. You must rank these programs by preference; keep in mind that this ranking is legally binding once the application window closes, so select your order carefully.
Alternatively, separate application forms are used to apply directly to a specific institution’s study program. This method allows you to apply to multiple institutions individually without the limitations of the joint application preference ranking.
4. Check the language requirements
Proficiency in English is essential for a smooth academic and social life in Finland. While some programs may be available in Swedish or Finnish, the vast majority of international degree programs are conducted entirely in English.
If English is not your native language, you will likely need to provide proof of language proficiency. Universities of Applied Sciences may host their own language assessments or interviews, while traditional research universities typically require official English language certification.
If your previous education was completed in English, you may be exempt from testing. Otherwise, we recommend preparing for globally recognized tests, as they are universally accepted across all Finnish institutions:
- PTE Academic
- IELTS Academic
- TOEFL iBT
- Duolingo (some universities accept Duolingo as well, but double check)
Additionally, if you are already in the country or require an alternative, Finland offers the National Certificate of Language Proficiency, which serves as a reliable and accessible option.
5. Gather the required application documents
Document requirements can vary significantly depending on whether you are applying to a research university or a University of Applied Sciences.
Universities of Applied Sciences generally require specific documentation regarding your previous academic transcripts and relevant work experience.
- Copies of completed or soon-to-be completed qualifications documents
- Official translations of all documents
- Original diplomas and original official translations
- Employment certificates
- Applications for special arrangements for entrance examinations
Traditional universities maintain a more academic-focused documentation process, which will be detailed clearly in your personal portal once you begin the online application.
6. Mind the university application deadlines
Admission windows for Master’s programs typically fall between early December and late January. Keep in mind that some Universities of Applied Sciences may offer extended application periods stretching into March.
Because application timelines can vary by institution, always verify the specific calendar on your chosen study program’s website. Some programs also offer rolling admissions or additional application rounds outside the standard main period.
In general, the spring application cycle follows these typical deadlines:
- end of January: Application period 1 (for Master’s degrees in English)
- start of February: Required certificates must be submitted
- mid-March: Application period 2 (for Master’s degrees in Finnish or Swedish)
- mid-April: Required certificates must be submitted
- end of June: Student selection results will be published
- mid-July: Deadline for the acceptance of a study place
- start of July – end of August: Supplementary application round
- September: Studies start
Meanwhile, if you are targeting the autumn intake, keep these application deadlines in mind:
- September: Application period ends
- end of September: Required certificates must be submitted
- November: Student selection results will be published
- start of December: Deadline for the acceptance of a study place
- mid-December: Acceptance from the wait-list ends
- end of November – mid-December: Additional applications
- January: Studies start
7. Final steps after receiving your acceptance letter
Once you receive your acceptance letter, congratulations! Your next priority is to research the Finnish residence permit, as this is a legal requirement for any study stay exceeding 90 days. Short-term study visits may only require a standard visa.
Finally, utilize the student support services at your university. Most institutions offer excellent assistance with housing, orientation, and integration, ensuring you have a seamless transition to student life in Finland.
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