Students opting for Finland Study is becoming popular because Finland provides a high-quality education system, modern universities, and globally recognized degrees. If you are planning to study abroad in Finland, then you have to secure a Finland student visa, which is known as Finland Residence Permit for Studies.
So, if you are wondering about how you can secure a Finland Visa then this blog is the right place to be at. Here you will explore Finland study visa, including requirements, the application process, timeline, documents, scholarship, etc.
Also check out ‘Engineering in Germany’ and ‘MBA in France’.
Why Study in Finland?
1. The Universities rank among the top in Europe
2. You can get affordable tuition compared to other EU countries
3. Various scholarships available for international students
4. There are English-taught bachelor’s and master’s degrees
5.You will get strong job opportunities and post-study work rights
6. There is high quality of life and a welcoming society
Types of Finland Student Visa
A) Short Term Study Visa: It is for less than 90 days, i.e. For short courses, exchange programs, language training. It is usually processed as a Schengen Visa
B) Residence Permit for Study Visa: It is for more than 90 days and is required for Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctorate programs. It can be renewed yearly and allows part-time work (up to 30 hours per week). Internationally Students mostly require this type of Visa.
Finland Student Visa Application Step-By-Step Guide
A) Get Admission to a Finland University:
You must find an official acceptance letter from a Finland University.
Popular Universities are:
- University of Helsinki
- University of Turku
- Aalto University
- University of Tampere
- LUT University
- University of Oulu
B) Gather Required Documents:
Following are the important documents that you will require:
| Required Document | Details |
|---|---|
| Valid Passport | Must be valid for your entire stay |
| University Admission Letter | Mandatory for acceptance |
| Passport-size Photos | As per Finland photo guidelines |
| Proof of Funds | Minimum €7,000/year (~₹6,30,000) |
| Tuition Fee Payment Receipt | At least first installment |
| Health Insurance | Coverage €120,000 minimum |
| Academic Documents | Transcripts, certificates |
| Statement of Purpose | Why you want to study in Finland |
| Accommodation Proof | University housing or rental agreement |
C) Create an account on Enter Finland
Enter Finland is the official service of the Finnish immigration service and here individuals can apply for and manage various permits and citizenship matters
1. Go to the official website
2. Create an account
3. Select Residence Permit for Studies
4. Fill out the online application form
5. Upload all your documents online
D) Visit the Finland Embassy/ VFS for Biometrics
After online submission
- Book an appointment at VFS (Visa Facilitation Services) Global based on your country
- Submit biometrics (fingerprints & photo)
- Pay visa application fee
- Online Application fees: €350
- Paper application fees: €450
- Health Insurance fees: Depends on provider
E) Wait for the Processing
- Online application takes 1 or 2 months for processing
- Paper application take 2 to 3 months for processing
F) Receive Permit Card and Travel to Finland
Once approved:
- You will receive residence permit card
- Make travel arrangements
- Register with local Finnish authorities after arrival
Cost of Studying and Living in Finland
A) Cost of Studying in Finland:
| Program | Approx Tuition Fees (per year) |
|---|---|
| Bachelor’s Degree | €4,000–€10,000 (₹3.6–₹9 lakh) |
| Master’s Degree | €8,000–€18,000 (₹7.2–₹16.2 lakh) |
| MBA Programs | €12,000–€25,000 (₹11–₹22.5 lakh) |
B) Cost of Living in Finland
| Expense | Monthly Cost (in INR) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | ₹30,000–₹60,000 |
| Food & Groceries | ₹12,000–₹18,000 |
| Transportation | ₹3,000–₹5,000 |
| Health Insurance | ₹4,000–₹7,000 |
| Miscellaneous | ₹5,000–₹10,000 |
Scholarships for Studying In Finland
1. University of Helsinki International Scholarship: Covers 50%–100% tuition fee
2. Aalto University Scholarships: Merit-based, awarded during admission
3. Erasmus+ Europe Scholarships: For exchange studies and joint master's degrees
4. Finland Government Scholarship Pool: For postgraduate research-level students
5. University of Tampere Scholarships: Covers up to 100% tuition
Post Study Work Opportunities in FInland:
After completing your degree, you can apply for a Job-Seeking Residence Permit which is applicable for 2 years and lets you look for jobs or start a business
Industries that Finland has grown in:
- IT & Software
- Healthcare
- Engineering
- Biotechnology
- Renewable Energy
- Business & Management
Application Timeline for Finland Student Visa
| Stage | Best Time to Apply |
|---|---|
| University Admissions | January–March |
| Scholarship Applications | January–April |
| Visa Application | April–June |
| Travel to Finland | August |
| Academic Year begins | September |
FAQ’s
1. How can we apply for a Finland visa?
Ans: You must apply through the Enter Finland portal, upload documents, book a biometrics appointment at VFS, and wait for the decision.
2. Is Finland good for international students?
Ans: Yes. Finland offers excellent education, safety, low corruption, job opportunities, and English-taught programs.
3. How long does a Finland student visa take?
Ans: Online applications usually take 1–2 months, while paper applications may take longer.
4. Do I need IELTS for Finland?
Ans: Some universities may waive IELTS if you studied previously in English, but many require standardized proof of English proficiency.
5. Does Finland offer scholarships to Indian students?
Ans: Yes, almost every university in Finland offers merit-based scholarships covering 50%–100% of tuition fees.