Finland is one of the northernmost countries in the world and is known for its northern lights, clean air, Lapland, and vast forests. Beyond its natural scenery, Finland is also known for its strong education system and wide range of study options for international students.
If you want a high-quality education and the Nordic lifestyle at the same time, consider studying in Finland, which has ranked as one of the happiest countries in the world. In this article, we will look at the best universities in Finland for international students.
Top Universities in Finland for International Students
1. University of Helsinki
The University of Helsinki is one of the best public universities in Finland for international students. It ranks among the top 1% of universities worldwide and offers a wide range of study areas across four campuses. This long-established institution has 11 faculties and several independent institutes, libraries, museums, and national institutions, such as the National Library of Finland and the Finnish Museum of Natural History.
UH offers globally recognized programs for international students. The university offers study programs in several languages. It is also bilingual, with Finnish and Swedish as official languages of instruction, while English is widely used in many international master’s and doctoral-level options.
2. Aalto University
Aalto University was established in 2010 through a merger of three institutions focused on economics, technology, and art and design. Today, the university has six schools and a community of about 16,000 students and 5,200 employees. This top university in Finland has also defined key research areas, including art and design, ICT, business, technology, sustainability, and materials.
Aalto University is primarily located in Espoo, with its main campus in Otaniemi. The university is named after Finnish architect and designer Alvar Aalto. Most undergraduate programs are in Finnish or Swedish, but Aalto also offers several study programs conducted entirely in English, especially at the master’s level. The university is also known for its international postgraduate community.
3. University of Oulu
The University of Oulu is a public, multidisciplinary university and one of the best universities in Finland for international students. Founded in 1958, it has about 14,800 students and eight faculties. It is known for research and education in areas such as technology, science, medicine, business, education, and the humanities.
As one of the northernmost multidisciplinary universities in the world, the University of Oulu has strong expertise in northern and Arctic-related themes, including changing climate, northern environments, health, digitalization, and sustainability. Its location in Oulu also connects students with one of Finland’s important technology and innovation hubs.
4. Tampere University
Tampere University is a young university established in 2019 through a merger of the University of Tampere and Tampere University of Technology. Through this official consolidation, the new institution offers programs through seven faculties: information technology and communication sciences, education and culture, management and business, medicine and health technology, social sciences, engineering and natural sciences, and the built environment.
This top university in Finland is also globally recognized for research that combines health, technology, and society. International students have a variety of specialist subjects to focus on, including fields connected to health technology, game studies, and social sciences. Some studies may include online or blended elements, but students should check each program page for the current delivery mode.
5. University of Turku
The University of Turku, a top university in Finland, is a major higher education institution in southwest Finland. The university has more than 23,000 students and over 4,000 staff members. Its academic community studies and works across eight faculties and four independent units, with strengths in areas such as economics, social sciences, humanities, medicine, technology, and natural sciences.
The main campus of UTU is in the city of Turku, where students can access complete facilities, including libraries, restaurants, shops, nearby transport connections, and the Turku University Hospital area. There is also a student village that welcomes both local and international students.
6. University of Jyväskylä
The University of Jyväskylä is a multidisciplinary research university with over 15,200 students and nearly 2,850 experts. It has been ranked among the top 3% of universities in the world and is known for teaching and research in learning, well-being, natural sciences, humanities, social sciences, and sport and health sciences. It has also been recognized globally in fields such as education, sport and health sciences, psychology, communication and media studies, and linguistics. For these reasons, it is one of the top universities in Finland for international students.
The University of Jyväskylä welcomes international students from all over the world and helps them adjust and feel at home in Finland. Upon arrival, international students can participate in an orientation program that introduces them to the university and other students. There are also tutors available to give students help when needed.
7. Lappeenranta-Lahti University of Technology LUT
Lappeenranta-Lahti University of Technology LUT is a university focused on technology, business, and social sciences. LUT University ranked among the top 300 universities in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026. In 2025, the university had 9,127 enrolled students. Its three schools are the School of Energy Systems, the School of Engineering Science, and the LUT Business School.
LUT University has campuses in Lappeenranta and Lahti, and both offer events, clubs, and activities for students. The university offers support for incoming students through orientation activities and student tutors who help newcomers register for courses and become familiar with campus life. The school year is divided into four teaching periods, with two in the autumn semester and two in the spring semester.
8. Metropolia University of Applied Sciences
Metropolia University of Applied Sciences is the largest university of applied sciences in Finland. In 2025, it had 19,261 students and 81 degree programs, making it one of the best universities in Finland for international students in terms of diversity and applied learning opportunities. It also has thousands of foreign degree students from more than 100 nationalities.
Its degrees are available in the fields of technology, health care, social services, culture, and business. Through each of these fields, the aim is to educate professionals who can improve society as a whole.
9. University of Vaasa
The University of Vaasa excels in the fields of business, technology, management, administrative sciences, and communication studies. It is located in Palosaari, close to the city center of Vaasa, and had 7,017 students in 2025. The university has a strong international community, and international staff make up 30% of its personnel.
The university offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees, with several master’s programs taught entirely in English. Each student can receive guidance through their studies, and the university provides a support network to help students feel at home and make new friends.
10. Laurea University of Applied Sciences
Laurea University of Applied Sciences has six campuses in the Uusimaa region. The Laurea community includes approximately 9,900 students, 660 staff members, and 34,700 alumni. It offers seven bachelor’s degree programs and five master’s degree programs in English.
Laurea University of Applied Sciences offers online classes in Finland, work placements, project work, and work-based learning. It has a Learning by Developing model in which students learn through workplace-related research, investigation, and various projects. Students gain knowledge in real-world settings and constantly put new skills into practice.
11. Hanken School of Economics
Hanken School of Economics is a leading research and education institution specializing in economics and business administration. It holds three prominent international business school accreditations: AACSB, AMBA, and EQUIS. With these accreditations, the school is not only one of the best business schools in the country but also one of the top Finland universities for international students interested in business and economics.
Hanken School of Economics has an international academic environment and places strong emphasis on global networks, international experience, and career development. This way, students can build international networks that last throughout their careers.
12. Häme University of Applied Sciences
Häme University of Applied Sciences is a workplace-oriented university of applied sciences with seven campuses in Kanta-Häme and Pirkanmaa. HAMK describes itself as a team of over 10,000 people working in fields such as bioeconomy, business, design, education, health, and technology. It offers bachelor’s and master’s studies, as well as professional teacher education.
This university has many international students and supports practical, team-based, and workplace-connected learning. Students can build their own learning paths, take part in projects, and develop professional skills that support employment or entrepreneurship after graduation.
13. Vaasa University of Applied Sciences
Vaasa University of Applied Sciences is an international university of applied sciences with around 4,000 students, including about 700 international degree students from more than 45 nationalities. It offers degrees in the fields of business, health care and social services, technology, and design. In addition, the university offers bachelor’s and professional master’s degrees taught in English, Finnish, and other formats depending on the program.
Vaasa University of Applied Sciences prides itself on its internationality, providing opportunities for students to study abroad and gain international experience on campus. International projects, visiting lecturers, and a global network of partner universities help students develop a multicultural worldview.
14. South-Eastern Finland University of Applied Sciences
South-Eastern Finland University of Applied Sciences, also known as Xamk, offers several English-taught bachelor’s and master’s degree options that are open to international students. This university is committed to practical education, entrepreneurship, and working-life connections. Xamk is a community of over 12,000 students and staff members.
In addition to regular coursework, students participate in RDI (research, development, and innovation) to bring a real-world perspective to their studies. Through RDI, Xamk focuses particularly on the Digital Economy; Sustainable Wellbeing; Circular Economy, Energy, and Logistics; and Forest Bioeconomy, Environment, and Materials. It undertakes about 250 ongoing projects annually and collaborates with businesses, other universities and research institutes, public bodies, and other organizations.
15. Centria University of Applied Sciences
Centria University of Applied Sciences has three campuses in Kokkola, Pietarsaari, and Ylivieska. It is one of Finland’s most international universities of applied sciences and offers English-taught degree options in fields such as business, engineering, and health care. Its English-conducted programs may be offered on campus, in blended formats, or online, depending on the program.
Centria University of Applied Sciences is proud of the close-knit community it has built on its campuses. Each student has support to guide them through their classes and university life. Studies may be available as full-time, blended, or online studies, depending on the degree program. Applicants should always check the current program page for the latest study mode and campus information.
FAQs about Studying in Finland
Is Finland a Good Place to Study for International Students?
Finland’s higher education is sought after by many international students for several good reasons. Finland has 13 universities and 22 universities of applied sciences, and they offer more than 600 English-taught bachelor’s and master’s degree programs. However, higher education is not tuition-free for all international students. Non-EU/EEA students usually pay tuition fees for English-taught bachelor’s and master’s programs, while doctoral programs do not charge tuition fees. Scholarships may be available, but they are competitive and often cover tuition fees rather than living costs.
Students can choose from several degree programs, including business, medicine, and engineering. They can also pursue technology and information systems, areas in which Finland has been globally recognized in recent years.
International students can feel at home in Finland, especially if they love the outdoors. There are many nature activities and sports to try, as well as good food and beautiful scenery. Living costs in the country can be relatively high, and students are advised to budget approximately €900 to €1,200 per month, depending on location and lifestyle. Even so, Finland can be worth considering if you want to live in a country known for safety, nature, and quality of life.
Can International Students Work in Finland While Studying?
Foreign students in Finland can gain valuable experience, as well as some extra income, by having a part-time job. EU/EEA students generally have broad access to work in Finland, while non-EU/EEA students must follow the conditions of their residence permit.
Non-EU/EEA students usually need a residence permit for studies lasting more than 90 days. If you have been granted a residence permit for studies, you may work in paid employment in any field for an average of 30 hours per week. Work that is part of your degree, such as practical training or thesis work, may have different rules. Always check the current Finnish Immigration Service instructions before making work plans.
Can International Students Stay in Finland after Graduation?
After graduation, foreign nationals who wish to stay in Finland can do so by seeking employment in their field of expertise. EU/EEA nationals generally face fewer residence restrictions. Non-EU/EEA graduates can apply for a residence permit to look for work or start a business after completing a degree in Finland.
A residence permit to look for work can be granted for a maximum of two years. Graduates may apply right after graduation or within the time frame allowed by the Finnish Immigration Service. Once you find a job, you may apply for a residence permit for work based on a degree completed in Finland. Permanent residence may be possible after four years on a continuous residence permit, including your study period, if you meet the conditions.
We hope that this article helps you decide which school in Finland you would like to enroll in. If you want to learn more about studying requirements in Finland, make sure to check out the Study in Finland page. If you are interested, you can also check Available Programs for International Students!
