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Study in Finland: Scholarships, Admissions, Visa, Costs & Jobs for International Students

Study in Finland: Scholarships, Admissions, Visa, Costs & Jobs for International Students

Why Finland?

Finland’s Government offers over 400 study programs and is home to more than 20,000 International Students Studying in Several Locations around Finland. All Universities have Finland Scholarship Opportunities for International Students. There are almost 13 Universitiesand 22 Universities of Applied Sciences in Finland, and almost all academic fields are available.

Admission Procedure & Requirements

? Application Options
1. Joint Application System: This platform allows you to submit one application for multiple programs during the same period. You can apply to up to six programs through the Joint Application System in January for studies starting in the fall (September) via Studyinfo.fi.
2. Separate Application: This application system is for programs that fall outside the joint application periods. In the separate application process, you will need to submit your application directly to the university or university of applied sciences (UAS), following the specific instructions and deadlines provided by each institution.

 

? Joint Application Process

Applying to universities in Finland is a straightforward process, starting with finding the right program and ending with preparing for your move once you’re accepted.

1. To apply for a university program in Finland, start by exploring degree options onStudyinfo.fi and selecting a program that matches your academic and career aspirations.
2. Once you have chosen a program, carefully review its admission requirements, including academic qualifications, language proficiency, and any additional criteria specified by the university.
3. The application process is conducted online through Studyinfo.fi during the designated application period, you can apply upto 6 courses in one application and if scholarships are available, they should be applied for simultaneously.
4. After submitting your application, the university will evaluate your credentials and notify you of the admission decision. If you receive an offer, it is essential to confirm your acceptance before the given deadline.
5. For students from outside the EU/EEA, securing a residence permit should be a priority after receiving admission confirmation. Additionally, it is important to arrange accommodation, health insurance, and travel plans before relocating to Finland.

 

? Separate Application Process

The process for applying involves the following steps:

1. To apply, start by using the search engine on Studyinfo.fi to find programs. The program descriptions will tell you when to apply and give more details.
2. Next, check the application instructions in the program description. You'll find the link to the application form or the university’s admissions page by clicking "Fill in application form."
3. Fill out the application form carefully and submit it. If you need to make changes later, use the link you received in your confirmation email .
4. After receiving your admission results, you must confirm your place by the given deadline, choosing only one program if admitted to multiple. Once confirmed, the offer is final and cannot be changed, so follow the university's instructions to complete your registration as a student.
5. For students from outside the EU/EEA, securing a residence permit should be a priority after receiving admission confirmation. Additionally, it is important to arrange accommodation, health insurance, and travel plans before relocating to Finland.

 

? Documents Required for Admission

Here are the common documents required for admission to universities in Finland:

1. Passport size photograph
2. Proof of Language Proficiency
3. Academic Transcripts and Certificates
4. Passport
5. Recommendation Letters
6. Motivation Letter
7. Curriculum Vitae (CV)
8. Additional Documents (e.g., portfolio, work experience proof)

Note: It's important to check the specific requirements for each program you apply to, as they may ask for additional documents or have specific formatting guidelines.

Intakes & Deadlines

? How many intakes are there?

There are two ways to apply to a higher education degree program in Finland: joint application or separate application.

? What are the deadlines for joint applications?

The opening and closing dates for admission are 3 January- 17 January.

? How many courses I can apply for in the joint application program?

You can apply for 6 courses with one application form.

? How much does the processing of my application cost?

There is no application fee, applying is always free.

? What are the deadlines for separate admissions?

Mostly opening and closing date for separate admission is 30 Nov-3 January depending on the university and you can confirm from ‘studyfi.info’.

? How can I apply for separate admissions?

You have to apply separately in every course and there is no limitation to apply in several courses.

Fee Structure

? What is the average tuition fee annually?

Tuition fees for non-EU/EEA students in Finland vary by university and program, typically ranging from €8,000 to €20,000 per year.

? Student Union Fee?

A yearly student union charge, usually between €50 and €70, is mandatory for university students. Access to several advantages, such as cheaper meals at student cafeterias and lower public transportation prices, is made possible by this fee.

? Student Healthcare Fee?

Students pursuing a bachelor's or master's degree are required to pay an annual healthcare fee to utilize the services of the Finnish Student Health Service (FSHS). This fee is approximately €35 per semester, amounting to around €70 for the entire year.

Scholarships:

? How can I apply for a Scholarship?

Typically, you apply for a scholarship in parallel with your admissions application to a Finnish university. Once you've decided on a course of study, find out if the university offers scholarships for non-EU/EEA students. Admission requirements often include information and directions for applying.

? Are there scholarships available in Finland for international students?

Yes, there are scholarships available for international students.

? Which scholarships are available?

The most popular scholarship is ‘Finland Government Scholarship’ despite there being many university scholarships that may have different criteria and requirements.

? Are these scholarships fully funded?

It depends on your profile such as your CV and motivational letter. You can get a fully funded or partially funded scholarship.

? What is Finland government scholarship?

The scholarship is funded by the Ministry of Education and Culture. Anyone from any country can apply that exists outside the EU/EEA.

? What are the benefits of this scholarship?
? First-year tuition fee and a relocation grant of 5000 euros as a minimum.
? All the universities in Finland offer various percentages of the tuition fee waiver scholarship or the tuition fee + monthly stipend scholarship.
? There is No Separate Application Required for the Finland Government Scholarship. By default, your application will be considered for a scholarship.

Visa Process

? When should I apply for a visa?

Apply as early as possible after getting the admission letter.

? Step-by-Step Visa Process for Finland?

To study in Finland for more than 90 days, non-EU/EEA students must apply for a residence permit for studies.

1. First, secure admission from a Finnish university
2. Prepare proof of sufficient funds (€800/month or €9,600/year) along with valid health insurance.
3. Then, create an account on Enter Finland and submit your application online.
4. Pay the €350 application fee. Applications are usually processed within a month.
5. After submitting your application online, schedule an appointment to visit a Finnish mission (embassy or consulate) to verify your identity and present original documents.
6. Await for decision

Note: Apply for a D Visa (if applicable): If you wish to travel to Finland immediately after receiving your residence permit, you can apply for a D visa simultaneously. This visa allows you to enter Finland without waiting for the residence permit card to be delivered abroad.

? Documents Required for a Visa

 

? Valid Passport.
? Passport-Size Photo.
? Visa application form
? Offer Letter from a Finnish Educational Institute.
? Tuition Fee Details and Information on Scholarships.
? Proof of sufficient funds (bank statement showing at least €6,720–€9,600 per year)
? Health Insurance Documentation.
? Educational certificates and transcripts

Note: If your documents are in a language other than Finnish, Swedish, or English, you must get them translated into one of these languages.

 

? How many countries can I travel?

You can visit 26-30 other Schengen member states with your student visa.

? How long can I stay on a student visa?

You'll have the option for this two-year post-study permit for five years after graduation, and you can also take the permit in parts if you like.

? What are the penalties for overstaying?

Overstaying poses risks of fines, deportation, and future visa restrictions, so always adhere to visa regulations.

? Can I apply for my family visa?

Yes, you can apply for your family visa. Terms and conditions apply.

Part-time Job

? How many hours can I work part-time?

You can work 30 hours per week and full-time on vacation.

? Can part-time work cover all expenses in Finland?

Part-time work in Finland typically can't cover all expenses, so it's essential to have sufficient financial resources before starting your studies.

Monthly Expenditures

Monthly expenses can vary based on factors like the city and individual lifestyle. However, the following are approximate monthly expenditure figures.

? Total estimated Expense

Students should budget €800 to €1,000 per month for living expenses, including accommodation, food, and travel.

Accommodation

It costs up to 200-400 euros for a single room in shared apartments.

Transport

It costs between 35-50 euros.

Grocery

It can range up to 80-100 euros.

Internet

It costs up to 20-25 euros.

 

 

 

 

 

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