Known as the ‘Happiest Country In the World’, Finland is a safe and welcoming destination for Indian students who wish to study in this Nordic paradise. Apart from offering spectacular Northern Lights views and soothing saunas, Finland offers high-quality education to aspiring students like you! As of 2024, the Finland student visa success rate is over 95%.
Also, graduating from a Finnish university such as the University of Helsinki or the University of Oulu can help you earn over 22L per annum as your starting salary! Interested in flying to Santa Claus’s official hometown?
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Then, explore this guide on Finland study visas. It exhaustively mentions Finland’s study visa process, fees, processing time, etc. Dive in for details.
Also Read: Study in Finland 2024: Universities, Visa and Costs
Key Highlights
Here is a summary of some important information you will come across in this blog.
| Section | Highlights |
| Finland Study Visa Cost | INR 32,000 – INR 41,000 |
| Finland Study Visa Processing Time | A few weeks to a couple of months typically. |
| Finland Study Visa Validity | Program duration + 3 months initially. |
| Top Universities | University of HelsinkiAalto UniversityUniversity of TurkuUniversity of Oulu |
| Scholarships | Finnish Government Scholarship University-specific scholarshipsErasmus+ scholarships |
| Main Intakes | Spring Intake (Oct-Nov deadlines)Summer Intake (Feb-Apr deadlines)Fall Intake (Apr-Jul deadlines) |
| Post-Study Work Opportunity | Average Starting salary: INR 22 LPA. |
Why Study In Finland?
Do you want to graduate from a world-class university with amazing job prospects and skills?
Well, Finland is the right destination for you. As of 2024, there are 7 universities in Finland among the top 500 universities in the world, such as The University of Helsinki, Aalto University and the University of Oulu. Finland ranks among the world’s safest countries, having a Global Peace Index of 1.33 as of 2024. The nation maintains a robust reputation for safety, reflecting its commitment to ensuring secure environments. The Global Employability University Ranking of the University of Helsinki is 71, reflecting the high employment rate in the country.
World-Class Education System
Finland has consistently ranked among the top nations in the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) conducted by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). The average student scored 516 in reading, mathematics, and science, which is higher than the average score of 488 for 38 countries, including Australia and The United States.
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High Graduate Employment Rates
As of 2023, the employment rate for graduates from Finnish universities is around 90% within one year of graduation. Additionally, data from Statistics Finland shows that the average starting salary for a Master’s degree holder in Finland is around INR 3L per month. You could be earning a high-salary by graduating from top Finnish universities – isn’t that a big reason to consider this country?
Affordable Higher Education
You will be surprised to know that higher education was free for Indian students in Finland till 2017. However, as of 2024, the average annual tuition fee at the University of Helsinki, the highest-ranked university in Finland, ranges from INR 12L to 16L for most programs. The high employment rate makes it easy to make up for the cost of education in a short span of time.
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Safe and Welcoming Environment
Finland is consistently ranked as one of the safest countries in the world. In the Global Peace Index 2023, Finland secured 13th globally and 8th in Europe. This is a great advantage for female Indian students studying in Finland, as the nightlife and crime rates are safe. Furthermore, as of 2023, Finland granted residence permits to over 6,000 Indian students, reflecting its welcoming attitude toward international students.
Innovative and Sustainable Approach
Finland is a global leader in innovation and sustainable practices. It ranked 6th in the Global Innovation Index 2023. Additionally, Finland topped the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Report 2023, showcasing its commitment to sustainable development goals. This innovative and eco-friendly approach permeates Finnish universities, providing students with valuable exposure.
Types of Finland Study Visas
There are two main visa types for international students in Finland, depending on the length of your studies:
1. Residence Permit for Studies (A Permit): This is the primary visa for most international students pursuing higher education (Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctoral) in Finland. It’s a national permit valid for your studies if your passport remains valid. An A Permit allows you to work part-time for up to 30 hours per week. However, this is a flexible permit – if your work is directly related to your studies (like internships or thesis research), you can work more than 30 hours without restrictions.
2. Schengen Visa (C Permit): This visa is suitable if your study program is shorter than 90 days. There are three variations of the Schengen visa:
- Single-entry: This allows you to enter Finland once and stay for a maximum of 90 days within a 180-day period.
- Double-entry: This allows you two entries to Finland and may be valid within the Schengen area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period.
- Multiple-entry: This visa grants you permission for multiple visits to the Schengen area, potentially valid for up to 5 years.
Finland Study Visa Requirements
Preparing your visa application documents for Finland is like assembling a puzzle, where each piece plays a crucial role in completing the picture of your academic journey.
Here are the essential documents you’ll need.
- Completed visa application form
- Valid passport with a minimum validity of six months beyond the intended stay
- Letter of Acceptance from a Finnish educational institution
- Proof of financial means, including a minimum bank balance of INR 10L, bank statements, and scholarship details (if applicable)
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- 2 passport-size photographs of dimensions 36X47mm having a grey background
- Cover letter outlining your study intentions in Finland
- Medical certificate and health insurance proof (minimum INR 10,000)
Finland Study Visa IELTS Requirements
It is not mandatory to know English to study in Finnish universities. However, if you want to study in an English program in Finland, you must demonstrate your language proficiency. The requirements vary depending on whether you are pursuing a bachelor’s or master’s program.
Some Finnish universities do not require you to take language proficiency exams if a part of your previous academic degree was taught in English and if that degree was obtained at a Finnish university. The following scores are required in English proficiency exams to get admission to Finnish universities.
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Application Process for Finland Study Visa
Thinking of studying in the land of a thousand lakes and endless opportunities? Buckle up. We’re mapping your voyage to the Finnish dream! You would be happy to know that as of 2024, over 1,500 Indian students are studying in Finland.
Let’s also give you a walkthrough of how to ace the visa game.
- Obtain a Letter of Acceptance from a Finnish Educational Institution – Your first step towards studying in Finland is securing a Letter of Acceptance from a recognised Finnish university or college, such as the University of Helsinki, Aalto University, etc. This document confirms your admission to a study program and is essential for the visa application process
- Submit Visa Application Documents to the Finnish Embassy or Consulate. Once you have received your Letter of Acceptance, gather the required documents, including a valid passport, completed visa application form, proof of financial means, and other supporting papers. Submit these documents to the nearest Finnish Embassy or Consulate in India
- Attend a Visa Interview, if Necessary – In some cases, you may be required to attend a visa interview at the Finnish Embassy or Consulate. Be prepared to discuss your study plans, financial situation, and intentions during your stay in Finland
- Provide Biometric Information – As part of the visa application process, you may need to provide biometric information, such as fingerprints and a photograph, at a designated application centre
- Pay the Applicable Finland Study Visa Fees for Indian Students – Ensure you pay the required fee for your Finland study visa application. The fee typically ranges from INR 32,000 to INR 41,000, depending on the type of study program and duration
Processing Time and Visa Validity for Finland Study Visa
The processing time for a Finland study visa application can vary, typically from weeks to months. Once approved, the initial visa is granted for the duration of the study program plus an additional 3 months, allowing for a smooth transition and potential extensions if needed.
Finland Study Visa Cost
Preparing to immerse yourself in the Finnish education system involves financial considerations. To afford your education in Finland, you need a bank balance of at least INR 6L per year. Here’s a breakdown of the typical costs of Finland study visa fees for Indian students.
- Visa application fee: INR 32,000 to INR 41,000
- Other potential fees: Medical examination, translation, and document attestation fees (approximately INR 1,000)
Note: Visa costs are subject to change, and it is advisable to verify the latest fee structure with the Finnish Embassy or Consulate in India.
Duration of Finland Student Visas
The validity of a Finland study visa aligns with the duration of the enrolled educational program, with an additional 3-month grace period. Whether pursuing undergraduate, graduate, or language studies, the visa duration caters to your academic journey in Finland.
| Parameters | Details |
| For Undergraduate Programs (3-4 years) | Valid for the duration of the program plus 3 months |
| For Graduate Programs (1-2 years) | Granted for the duration of the program plus 3 months |
| For Language Studies or Preparatory Courses | Duration is typically 1 year or the length of the program, whichever is shorter |
It is important to note that Finland study visas can be extended if you must continue your studies beyond the initial duration, provided you meet the necessary requirements.
Intakes and Admission Deadlines in Finland
Like the changing seasons in Finland, Finnish Universities offer students the opportunity to begin their studies at different times of the year. There are primarily two intakes for each academic year. Generally, students opt for the fall intakes but can opt for the summer intakes if they miss the fall intake deadlines. However, the availability of courses is limited for the spring intake. Some universities that offer spring intakes are the University of Vaasa and the University of the Arts, Helsinki.
| Intakes | Deadlines |
| Spring Intake | October and November |
| Fall Intake | April and July |
Prospective students must meticulously research and adhere to the specific admission deadlines established by their desired educational institutions, as these deadlines may vary depending on the program and university.
Top 5 Universities in Finland
The top educational institutions in Finland have nurtured exceptional talents, such as Linus Torvalds, the lead developer of Linux and the University of Helsinki alumnus. From engineering to humanities, these universities offer diverse programs to cater to students’ academic aspirations. These universities offer top courses in law, medicine, social sciences, engineering, business, health sciences, technology, and natural sciences.
| University and QS World Ranking 2024 | Approximate Annual Tuition Fees (INR) |
| University of Helsinki (QS World Rank: 115) | INR12L – INR 16L |
| Aalto University (QS World Rank: 109) | INR 11L – INR 14L |
| University of Turku (QS World Rank: 315) | INR 7L – INR 14L |
| University of Oulu (QS World Rank: 313) | INR 9L – INR 12L |
| Tampere University (QS World Rank: 436) | INR 7L – INR 11L |
Top 5 Scholarships to Study in Finland
Do you know that as an Indian student, you are eligible for a 100% tuition fee waiver by the Finnish government? The Finnish government actively supports deserving international students through programs like the Finnish Government Scholarship, providing substantial financial aid to admitted students. Finland extends a warm welcome to international students through various scholarship opportunities designed to support their academic pursuits. These scholarships provide financial assistance to deserving students, enabling them to pursue their educational goals in Finland. You can avail of scholarships up to INR 15L per year.
| Scholarship | Offered by |
| Finnish Government Scholarship | Awarded by the Finnish National Agency for Education (EDUFI) |
| University Scholarships | Offered by individual Finnish universities |
| Joint Studies Scholarships | Offered by joint Finnish universities |
| Erasmus Mundus Scholarships | Funded by the European Commission |
| EDUFI Fellowships | Funded by the Finnish National Agency for Education |
1. Finnish Government Scholarship
This scholarship by the Finnish National Agency for Education (EDUFI) amounts to INR 10L—INR 21L per academic year and covers tuition fees, living costs, and other expenses.
- Opening date: November 2023 for the 2024-2025 academic year
- Closing date: February 2024 for the 2024-2025 academic year
Scholarship Details
- It’s offered annually
- It’s granted to around 500 students per year
- It’s provided for Master’s and Doctoral programs
2. University of Helsinki International Master’s Scholarships
This scholarship by the University of Helsinki amounts to INR 9L – 14L, covering tuition fees.
- Opening date: Typically in late fall (e.g., November 2023 for the 2024-2025 academic year)
- Closing date: Varies by program, but usually in early winter (e.g., January 2024 for the 2024-2025 academic year)
Scholarship Details
- It’s offered annually
- It’s granted to around 100 students per year
- It’s provided for selected Master’s programs
3. Aalto University Scholarships
This scholarship by Aalto University amounts to INR 9 lakhs per academic year, covering tuition fees
- Opening date: November 2023 for the 2024-2025 academic year
- Closing date: January 2024 for the 2024-2025 academic year
Scholarship Details
- It’s offered annually.
- It’s granted to around 50 students per year
- It’s provided for selected Master’s programs
4. Erasmus Mundus Scholarships
This scholarship by the European Commission amounts to up to INR 42L for 2-year programs, covering tuition fees, living costs, and travel expenses
- Opening date: Varies by program, but typically in late fall/early winter
- Closing date: Varies by program, but usually in early spring
Scholarship Details
- It’s offered annually
- It’s granted to around 1,500 students globally per year
- It’s provided for Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s programs
5. EDUFI Fellowships
This fellowship by the Finnish National Agency for Education (EDUFI) amounts to INR 2L per month, covering living costs for 3-12 months
- Opening date: November 2023 for the 2024-2025 academic year
- Closing date: February 2024 for the 2024-2025 academic year
Scholarship Details
- It’s offered annually
- It’s granted to around 100 Doctoral students and researchers per year
- It’s provided for Doctoral studies and research projects
Also Read: Top Finland Scholarship for Indian Students: Online Guide to Avail Them
How to Extend a Finland Study Visa?
If you need to extend your Finland study visa, apply for an extension before the expiration date. The good news is that you do not need to undergo medical examinations to obtain a visa extension. You also don’t need to set up any restricted bank account, which restricts the amount of money you can withdraw monthly. Please apply for the extension at least 3 months before your Finland study visa expires.
The required documents may include the following:
- A completed application form
- Valid passport
- Residence card
- Transcript or enrollment certificate from your educational institution
- Proof of sufficient financial means
- Any other documents specified by the Immigration Bureau
How to Convert a Finland Student Visa to a Work Visa?
Elite companies in Finland, like Nokia, Kone, and Rovio Entertainment (creators of Angry Birds!), are renowned for innovation and attracting top global talent. But be prepared: their hiring processes are rigorous. One key step? Have your visa squared away. Finland offers a strong job market for those with the right skills, so follow these steps and submit the required documents to transition from your student visa to a work visa smoothly, maximising your chances of landing your dream job.
- Apply for a Change of Status of Residence at the Immigration Bureau
- Obtain a Job Offer from a Company in Finland
- Gather the Required Documents, which may include the following
- Completed application form
- Valid passport
- Residence card
- Certificate of Graduation or Completion
- Job contract or employment certificate
- Proof of sufficient financial means (A minimum bank balance of INR 10 lakhs is required)
- Any other documents specified by the Immigration Bureau
Summing Up
Understanding the Finnish student visa requirements requires careful planning, attention to detail, and adherence to the requirements set forth by the Finnish authorities. This blog covers:
- The Finland study visa process involves obtaining a Letter of Acceptance, submitting required documents, attending an interview (if required), and paying the applicable Finland study visa fee
- The duration of the student visa is tied to the length of the academic program, ranging from 1 to 4 years or more, with the possibility of extension
- Finland offers a wide range of top-ranked universities with tuition fees ranging from INR 4L to INR 10L per year for Indian students
- Scholarships like the Finnish Government Scholarship, University-specific Scholarships, and Erasmus+ Scholarships provide financial support to outstanding students
By following these guidelines and meeting the necessary requirements, you can set off on a rewarding academic journey in Finland, exploring a blend of top-notch education and cultural experiences in the heart of Scandinavia.
Also Read: Top 10 Part-Time Jobs in Finland for Students: Minimum Wage per Hour
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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Q: Can I work while studying in Finland on a student visa?
A: International students in Finland are permitted to work part-time for up to 30 hours per week during academic terms and full-time during holidays. There is no minimum hourly wage for part-time jobs in Finland. However, you must obtain a residence permit with the right to work from the Finnish Immigration Service.
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Q: Can I work while studying in Finland on a student visa?
A: You must demonstrate sufficient funds to cover your living expenses and tuition fees in Finland. The minimum requirement is INR 6L per year, but this amount may vary depending on your specific circumstances and the institution you plan to attend.
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Q: Is it necessary to have Finnish or English language proficiency for studying in Finland?
A: While not always mandatory, proficiency in Finnish or English can be beneficial, especially for certain programs or universities. Many programs, such as Economics, Business Studies, and Computer Science, are taught in English in Finland, and you may need to provide English language test scores like IELTS or TOEFL as part of your application. The minimum IELTS score required is 6.0, and the minimum TOEFL required is 92.
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Q: How can I extend my Finland study visa?
A: To extend your Finland student visa, you must apply at the Finnish Immigration Service before the expiration date of your current visa. You must provide proof of continued enrollment, academic progress, and sufficient financial resources.
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Q: Can my spouse and children accompany me on a Finland study visa?
A: Yes, your spouse and children may apply for a residence permit as your dependents, allowing them to reside in Finland for the duration of your studies. Additional documentation will be required, such as proof of relationship and financial support. The cost of a dependent visa is approx. INR 23,000.
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Q: What is the validity period of a Finland study visa?
A: The validity period of a Finland study visa is typically the duration of your academic program, with a maximum initial validity of two years. Extensions are possible to complete your studies, but you must apply for an extension before your visa expires. The extended visa is usually granted for the remaining duration of your program. It’s crucial to keep track of your visa’s expiration date and apply for an extension well in advance to avoid any lapse in your legal status.
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Q: Can I change my educational institution while holding a Finland study visa?
A: Yes, changing your educational institution after arriving in Finland on a student visa is possible. However, you must obtain a new Certificate of Admission from the new institution and apply for a residence permit extension or change accordingly.
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Q: What happens if I discontinue my studies in Finland?
A: If you discontinue your studies in Finland, you must inform the Finnish Immigration Service and take appropriate action regarding your Finland study visa status. Failure to do so may result in overstaying penalties and complications with future visa applications.
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Q: Can I travel abroad while on a Finland student visa?
A: You can travel outside Finland with a valid student visa. However, there are a few important considerations.
1. If you plan to leave Finland for an extended period, you may need to obtain a re-entry permit from the Finnish Immigration Service to maintain your resident status and return within the validity period.
2. When applying for the re-entry permit, you may need to provide documentation, such as a letter from your educational institution confirming your enrollment and expected return date. -
Q: Is there a minimum age requirement for obtaining a Finland study visa for Indian students?
A: The Finnish government has no minimum age requirement for obtaining a student visa. However, certain professional or vocational programs, such as those in the medical or engineering fields, might have age requirements to ensure that students can complete the program and enter the workforce within a reasonable timeframe. It’s advisable to check with your chosen institution regarding any age-related considerations for the specific program you are interested in.
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Q: What are the living costs for students in Finland?
A: The overall cost of living in Finland for students can vary depending on factors such as the city of study and individual lifestyle. However, as of 2024, a single student’s estimated monthly living expenses in Finland range from INR 63,000 to INR 90,000. This includes accommodation, food, transportation, and other miscellaneous expenses. Indian students should budget around INR 8L to 12L per year to cover tuition fees and living costs in Finland.
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Q: Are any scholarships or financial aid available for Indian students studying in Finland?
A: Yes, there are several scholarship opportunities available for Indian students pursuing higher education in Finland. One notable scholarship is the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) Scholarship, offered by the Government of India in collaboration with the Government of Finland. This scholarship covers tuition fees, living expenses, and other allowances up to INR 50,000 per month for Indian students admitted to specific programs in Finnish universities. Additionally, many Finnish universities offer their own scholarships and grants to outstanding international students, including those from India.
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