Finland Government Scholarships 2025: Find Your Finding in Finland

The Finland Government Scholarships 2025-2026 offer an incredible opportunity for international students to pursue higher education in Finland’s world-class universities. This guide breaks down the scholarship details, eligibility, benefits, and application process to help you seize this opportunity! You can also checkout University of Melbourne Graduate Scholarships.

What Are Finland Government Scholarships?

The Finland Government Scholarships, funded by the Finnish Ministry of Education and Culture, support international students from non-EU/EEA countries pursuing Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD programs at Finnish universities and Universities of Applied Sciences (UAS).

These scholarships aim to make Finland’s high-quality education accessible by covering tuition fees and other expenses, allowing students to focus on their studies in a vibrant, innovative, and multicultural environment.

Why Study in Finland?

• Top-Ranked Education: Finland is home to globally recognized universities, with 9 ranked in the QS World University Rankings 2025, including Aalto University (#113) and University of Helsinki (#117).
• No IELTS Required: Many universities accept alternative English proficiency tests (e.g., TOEFL, PTE Academic) or waive language tests if you’ve studied in English before.
• Work Opportunities: International students can work up to 30 hours per week during studies and apply for a 2-year post-graduation residence permit to seek employment in fields like technology, healthcare, and engineering.
• Cultural Experience: Study in a country known for its stunning northern lights, thousand lakes, and welcoming, diverse culture.

Scholarship Benefits

The Finland Government Scholarships provide comprehensive financial support, which may include:

• Full Tuition Fee Waiver: Covers 100% of tuition fees for eligible programs.
• Relocation Grant: A one-time payment of €5,000 to help with moving costs (offered by some universities, e.g., University of Helsinki and Aalto University).
• Living Expenses: Some programs include a monthly stipend or living allowance.
• Additional Support: May cover travel costs, health insurance, and accommodation, depending on the university and program.

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Scholarships are typically awarded for one academic year but can be renewed for a second year based on academic performance (e.g., completing at least 55 credits in the first year for Master’s programs at the University of Helsinki).

Eligibility Criteria

• Nationality: Open to international students from non-EU/EEA countries, with a focus on those from developing countries.
• Academic Qualifications:
  • Bachelor’s Programs: Completion of upper secondary education or equivalent (e.g., school-leaving certificates).
  • Master’s Programs: A recognized Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in a relevant field.
  • PhD Programs: A Master’s degree or equivalent, often with a research proposal.
• English Proficiency: A good command of English is required, as most programs are taught in English. Accepted tests include:
  • IELTS, TOEFL, PTE Academic, or Cambridge English (e.g., B2 First or C1 Advanced, typically scores of 169 or above).
  • Exemptions may apply if your previous education was in English or from countries like Australia, Canada, the UK, the US, or others listed by universities (e.g., University of Eastern Finland).
• Program-Specific Requirements: Each university and program may have additional criteria, such as a strong academic record or specific prerequisites. Check the university’s website for details.

See also: Tongareva International Scholarship

Note: Students with permanent residence in Finland, EU/EEA citizens, or those under Erasmus Mundus programs may be exempt from tuition fees and have different scholarship options.

Application Process

Applying for the Finland Government Scholarships is straightforward, as no separate scholarship application is required. Your admission application is automatically considered for scholarships. Here’s how to apply:

Check also: Monash University Scholarships 2025-2026

1. Choose Your Program: Browse available programs on Studyinfo.fi or individual university websites (e.g., University of Helsinki, Aalto University, University of Turku). You can apply for up to six programs in one joint application.
2. Check Deadlines: Some universities have intakes (e.g., September 1–November 30, 2025, for certain programs). Always confirm deadlines with your chosen university.
3. Prepare Documents:
   • Academic transcripts and certificates.
   • Letter of motivation explaining your goals and why you deserve the scholarship.
   • Two recommendation letters from professors or employers.
   • Proof of English proficiency (if required).
   • A research plan (for PhD applicants).
   • A valid passport and other program-specific documents.
4. Submit Online: Apply through the Studyinfo.fi portal or the university’s admission system. Upload all documents in PDF format, naming files clearly (e.g., “YourName_Transcript.pdf”).
5. Pay Application Fee: Non-EU/EEA/Swiss applicants must pay an application fee. Check the university’s website for the exact amount. Some programs have no application fee.
6. Await Results: If accepted, you’ll receive an admission letter and scholarship details. Confirm your study place by the university’s deadline.

Not sure how to apply? I have created a video on How to apply for Finland Government Scholarships. Watch it here

Key Universities Offering Scholarships

Several top Finnish universities participate in the Finland Government Scholarships program, including:

• University of Helsinki: Offers 50–100% tuition fee waivers and Finland Scholarships with a €5,000 relocation grant. Tuition fees range from €13,000–€18,000 per year.
• Aalto University: Provides merit-based scholarships with 100% tuition fee waivers and a €5,000 relocation grant for Master’s students.
• University of Turku: Offers Finland Scholarships for top Master’s applicants and tuition waivers for up to 30% of Bachelor’s and Master’s students.
• LUT University: Provides full or partial tuition waivers and a €7,000 annual living stipend for exceptional Master’s applicants.
• University of Eastern Finland (UEF): Offers 500 scholarship places across 25 programs with tuition waivers for Bachelor’s and Master’s students.

Check also: 15 Fully Funded PhD Scholarship Opportunities at University of Bergen, Norway

Disclaimer: Always verify eligibility and deadlines on official university or government websites, as requirements may vary.