As an international student, studying at a university in Finland can offer access to research-based higher education and English-taught degree options. Tuition costs depend on the student’s nationality and program: students from outside the EU/EEA generally pay tuition fees for English-taught bachelor’s and master’s programs, while EU/EEA students usually study tuition-free. Doctoral programs do not charge tuition fees, regardless of nationality. Students should review universities in Finland and compare tuition costs before applying.
International students can also take part in campus life and student activities. This article introduces universities in Finland for international students interested in pursuing higher education in the country.
Top Public Universities in Finland
1. University of Helsinki
Founded in 1640, the University of Helsinki is the oldest university in Finland. It operates on four campuses in Helsinki and provides multidisciplinary teaching and research through 11 faculties.
The University of Helsinki can be a suitable study-abroad choice for students interested in academic research and sustainable development. The university states that it contributes to a sustainable society through research, teaching, public engagement, and responsible everyday actions.
Before applying, students planning to study at the university should check program-specific tuition fees and budget for the study costs and living expenses they may incur during their stay. Tuition obligations vary by nationality and program.
2. Aalto University
Established in 2010, Aalto University is a foundation-based university formed through the merger of the Helsinki School of Economics, the Helsinki University of Technology, and the University of Art and Design Helsinki. Its multidisciplinary community covers science, business, art, and design.
Aalto University is an option for students interested in multidisciplinary study. Its Master’s Program in Creative Sustainability brings together fields such as design, business, materials, and chemical engineering. The program has tracks organized through the School of Business, the School of Arts, Design and Architecture, and the School of Chemical Engineering.
3. University of Turku
The University of Turku was established in 1920. It has eight faculties covering education, humanities, law, medicine, science, social sciences, technology, and business and economics.
Finnish is the university’s primary language, but the University of Turku also offers international degree programs taught in English. Scholarship options are available for students who are required to pay tuition fees. Applicants should check the current eligibility requirements and coverage before applying.
4. Tampere University
Tampere University began operating in its current foundation-based form in 2019 following the merger of the University of Tampere and Tampere University of Technology. It combines research and education in technology, health, and society and offers programs at different academic levels.
Tampere University provides a multidisciplinary academic environment and collaborates with industry. Prospective students should review program pages and career services for current information about practical learning and career-support opportunities.
5. University of Oulu
Founded in 1958, the University of Oulu offers English-taught international programs in several fields. Its Master’s in Environmental Engineering develops students’ understanding of environmental challenges and the technical solutions used to address them.
The Master’s in Wireless Communications Engineering covers wireless communications at the signal, radio, and network layers and prepares students to help design and develop 6G and future networks and systems.
International students interested in the University of Oulu should review its current international-program pages and student services when choosing a program.
6. University of Jyväskylä
The University of Jyväskylä traces its roots to a teacher-training seminary. The College of Education was established in 1934, and the University of Jyväskylä began operating as a university in 1966. It offers English-taught master’s programs in fields including educational sciences, sport and health sciences, mathematics and natural sciences, information technology, business and economics, humanities, and social sciences.
The university’s history in teacher education and its current focus on learning, well-being, and basic natural phenomena make it a relevant option for students interested in educational research or teaching.
7. University of Eastern Finland
The University of Eastern Finland was founded in 2010 through the merger of the University of Joensuu and the University of Kuopio. It has campuses in Joensuu and Kuopio and four faculties: the Philosophical Faculty; the Faculty of Science, Forestry and Technology; the Faculty of Health Sciences; and the Faculty of Social Sciences and Business Studies. The university states that its interdisciplinary research responds to global challenges and contributes to a sustainable future.
UEF collaborates with Finnish and international partners, including research institutes, universities, educational institutions, businesses, public-sector organizations, and alumni. These networks can support academic exchange and research collaboration.
FAQs: Studying in Finnish Public Universities
Can International Students Enroll in Public Universities in Finland?
Yes. Finland has universities that accept international students, including universities organized as corporations under public law and foundation universities. Many offer English-taught programs. One example is the University of Helsinki, which is Finland’s oldest and largest university. Another institution that accepts international students is Aalto University. It is a foundation-based university with fields in technology, business, art, and design.
Finland offers research-based higher education and a range of study options. Students should check tuition rules carefully: EU/EEA students usually study tuition-free, while non-EU/EEA students generally pay tuition fees for English-taught bachelor’s and master’s programs. These fees usually range from €8,000 to €20,000 per year, depending on the university and program. Doctoral programs do not charge tuition fees, regardless of nationality. Individual universities may offer competitive scholarships and tuition-fee waivers, which typically cover tuition costs only partially. Review our guide to affordable education and our overview of scholarship opportunities for international students.
If you are planning to study in Finland, check out our Study in Finland Page for more information. It has helpful tips for first-time international students. You can also review the Available Programs for International Students and learn more about studying abroad.
