Study in Finland
Finland's world-leading higher education system currently offers English-taught bachelor’s and master’s degree programmes in 13 universities and 23 universities of applied sciences.(Link to another website.) Doctoral study and research options are available, too. In Finland, there are two types of higher education institutions:
Universities
Universities focus on scientific research and the education they provide is based on it. Doctoral programmes are offered by the universities. Most of the master’s programmes taught in English are offered by universities.
Universities of Applied Sciences
Universities of Applied Sciences (UAS) offer professionally oriented higher education and have strong ties with working life and regional development. Most of the bachelor’s degree programmes taught in English are offered by Universities of Applied Sciences.
Student Exchange
The Embassy has a written a student exchange guide for students already accepted into an exchange program in Finland. The guide details everything you need know such as preparing for the weather, student accommodation, and even the importance of sauna. Please note, Australian nationals will require a residence permit(Link to another website.) if your study period in Finland is longer than 90 days. To apply for student exchange opportunities in Finland please contact your university’s study abroad office.
Here is a list of Australian institutions with student exchange partners in Finland:
Bachelor, Master & Doctoral Programmes
Finnish higher education institutions offer over 400 degree programmes in English.
Studyinfo.fi(Link to another website.) website provides information on all English-taught degree programmes. While international students are eligible to study in Finnish or Swedish, you need to be fluent in these languages when applying.
Application Periods
You apply for degrees studies in Finland online(Link to another website.). There are two main application periods a year for studies commencing in autumn:
Applications for bachelor’s programmes are made in January
Applications for university master's programmes are made between late November/early December and mid/late January.
More information about the application process can be found at Studyinfinland.fi(Link to another website.)
Fees & Scholarships
Australian nationals are required to pay tuition fees(Link to another website.) for programmes taught in English. Some exceptions may apply. Remember that if you are required to pay tuition fees, you are also eligible to apply for the institution’s scholarships. Students are usually required to cover everyday living costs and are required to pay an annual administration fee.
Universities offer a range of options for scholarships both for bachelor's and master's level international students. Scholarships are often based on student’s academic performance and may be offered in the form of either full or partial fee waivers. Some scholarship options may also include a living cost allowance. Students apply for a scholarship from an institution, usually at the same time as they apply for admission.
Here is a list of each institution’s fee and scholarship policy.