Finland is renowned for its high-quality education system and offers a variety of scholarships to attract international students for the 2025-2026 academic year. These scholarships in Finland provide financial assistance to help cover tuition fees and living expenses, making Finnish education more accessible to students worldwide. Whether you’re pursuing undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral studies, various funding opportunities are available to support your academic journey in Finland.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top scholarships in Finland for international students for the 2025-2026 academic year. We’ll provide detailed information on each scholarship, including host institutions, program levels, scholarship durations, application deadlines, benefits, eligibility criteria, application procedures, and required documents. This resource aims to equip you with the knowledge needed to navigate the application process successfully and secure financial support for your studies in Finland.
List of Scholarships in Finland for International students 2025-2026
1. Finnish Government Scholarship Pool
- Host Institutions: Various Finnish universities and research institutes.
- Program Level: PhD degrees
- Scholarship Duration:3 to 9 months.
- Deadlines: Typically in mid-February each year.
Benefits
- Monthly allowance to cover living expenses.
- Travel expenses are usually not covered.
Eligibility Criteria
- Applicants must hold a master’s degree.
- Proficiency in English or Finnish is required.
- Applicants should not have resided in Finland for more than one year prior to the intended scholarship period.
How to Apply
- Contact the Finnish National Agency for Education (EDUFI) or your home country’s relevant authorities for application details.
- Submit the completed application form along with the required documents before the deadline.
Documents Required
- Completed application form.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Research plan or study proposal.
- Two letters of recommendation.
2. University-Specific Scholarships
Many Finnish universities offer scholarships to international students enrolled in their programs. Below are some notable examples:
University of Helsinki Scholarships
- Host Institutions: University of Helsinki.
- Program Level: Master’s programs.
- Scholarship Duration: Duration of the master’s program (2 years), subject to academic performance.
- Deadlines: Align with the university’s admission deadlines, typically in January.
Benefits
- Full tuition fee grant and a €10,000 relocation grant.
Eligibility Criteria
- Non-EU/EEA students liable for tuition fees.
- Outstanding academic performance.
How to Apply
- Apply for the desired master’s program at the University of Helsinki.
- Indicate your interest in the scholarship during the admission application process.
Documents Required
- Completed admission application.
- Academic transcripts.
University of Oulu International Scholarships
- Host Institutions: University of Oulu.
- Program Level: Bachelor’s and Master’s programs.
- Scholarship Duration: Covers the first academic year; continuation depends on academic performance.
- Deadlines: Coincide with the university’s admission deadlines, usually in January.
Benefits
- Tuition fee waivers ranging from 50% to 100%.
Eligibility Criteria
- Non-EU/EEA students subject to tuition fees.
- Excellent academic records.
How to Apply
- Apply for admission to the University of Oulu.
- Indicate your interest in the scholarship within the admission application.
Documents Required
- Admission application form.
- Educational certificates.
University of Eastern Finland Scholarships
- Host Institutions: University of Eastern Finland
- Program Level: Bachelor’s and Master’s programs.
- Scholarship Duration: Covers the duration of the program, subject to annual review.
- Deadlines: Typically in January, aligning with admission deadlines.
Benefits
- Tuition fee waivers of 50% to 100%.
Eligibility Criteria
- Non-EU/EEA students liable for tuition fees.
- Strong academic background.
How to Apply
- Submit an application for admission to the University of Eastern Finland.
- Apply for the scholarship concurrently with the admission application.
Documents Required
- Completed admission application.
- Academic transcripts.
3. Erasmus+ Program Scholarships
The Erasmus+ Program is a European Union initiative aimed at enhancing education, training, youth, and sport across Europe.
- Host Institutions: Various Finnish universities
- Program Level: Master’s degree programs.
- Scholarship Duration: 1 to 2 academic years
- Deadlines: October and January for courses starting in the following academic year.
Benefits
- Full Scholarship: Covers tuition fees, travel expenses, visa costs, and provides a monthly living allowance.
Eligibility Criteria
- Educational Background: Applicants must possess a bachelor’s degree or be in the final year of their undergraduate studies.
- Language Proficiency: Proficiency in the language of instruction, usually English, is required. Specific language requirements vary by program.
How to Apply
- Program Selection
- Application Submission
Documents Required
- Completed Application Form
- Academic Transcripts and Diplomas
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Motivation Letter
- Letters of Recommendation:
- Proof of Language Proficiency
4. Helsinki Graduate School of Economics Scholarships
The Helsinki Graduate School of Economics (HGSE) is a collaborative initiative between Aalto University, Hanken School of Economics, and the University of Helsinki, aiming to provide top-tier education and research opportunities in economics.
- Host Institutions: University of Helsinki
- Program Level: Master’s degree programs.
- Scholarship Duration: Typically covers the full duration of the Master’s program, usually two years, subject to academic performance.
- Deadlines: The application period for studies starting in autumn 2026 closed on January 16, 2026.
Benefits
- University of Helsinki Scholarships:
- Tuition fee waivers covering 50% to 100% of tuition fees.
- Hanken Premium Scholarship:
- Full tuition fee coverage (equivalent to €15,000 per year).
- Aalto University Scholarships:
- Tuition fee waivers and potential grants for living expenses.
Eligibility
- University of Helsinki:
- Non-EU/EEA students liable for tuition fee
- Hanken School of Economics:
- Students or alumni of GBSN member schools in developing countries.
- Aalto University:
- Non-EU/EEA students subject to tuition fees.
How to Apply
- University of Helsinki:
- Select a Master’s program of interest.
- Hanken School of Economics:
- Choose a relevant Master’s program.
- Aalto University:
- Identify the desired Master’s program.
Documents Required
- Completed application form.
- Academic transcripts and diplomas.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV).
5. The EduFI Fellowship Program
The EDUFI Fellowship Program, administered by the Finnish National Agency for Education (EDUFI), offers financial support to international doctoral students and young researchers aiming to undertake research in Finland.
- Host Institutions: All Finnish universities
- Program Level: Doctoral research.
- Scholarship Duration: 3 to 12 months.
- Deadlines: It is advisable to submit applications at least five months before the intended start date of the fellowship.
Benefits
- Monthly Grant: A stipend of EUR 1,900 per month to cover living expenses in Finland.
- Coverage: The grant is intended to cover living costs; it does not include additional allowances for housing, travel, visa, residence permit, or insurance expenses.
Eligibility Criteria
- Applicant: The application must be submitted by a Finnish university department hosting the international doctoral student or researcher.
- Candidate Requirements:
- Non-Finnish citizens who have not resided in Finland for more than one year prior to the application.
- Candidates should be pursuing doctoral studies or research.
- Fields of Study: Open to all academic disciplines.
How to Apply
- Establish Contact
- Application Submission
- Application Components
- Submission Method
Documents Required
- Application Form
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Research Plan
- Motivation Letter
6. Finnish Business Scholarships for International Students
Finland offers a range of scholarships tailored for international students pursuing studies in business disciplines. These scholarships aim to attract talented individuals worldwide, providing financial assistance to support their academic endeavors in Finnish institutions.
- Host Institutions: Various Finnish universities
- Program Level: Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral levels
- Scholarship Duration: Depending upon the programs
- Deadlines: Application deadlines vary by institution and program.
Benefits
- Tuition Fee Waivers: Many institutions offer partial or full tuition fee waivers to non-EU/EEA students based on academic merit.
- Living Expense Grants: Some scholarships may include stipends to assist with living costs, although this varies by program and institution.
Eligibility Criteria
- Nationality: Primarily targeted at non-EU/EEA students liable to pay tuition fees.
- Academic Excellence: Strong academic performance is a common criterion.
- Program-Specific Requirements: Additional criteria may include relevant work experience, language proficiency, and specific qualifications related to the business field.
How to Apply
- Identify Programs
- Check Scholarship Availability
- Prepare Application Materials
- Submit Applications
Documents Required
- Completed Application Forms
- Academic Transcripts and Certificates
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Motivation Letter
- Language Proficiency Proof
7. Aalto University Finland Fellowships for International Students
Aalto University, a leading Finnish institution, offers the Aalto University Scholarship Programme to recognize talented non-EU/EEA students by awarding academic excellence.
- Host Institutions: Aalto University, Finland.
- Program Level: Bachelor’s and Master’s degree programs
- Scholarship Duration: Depending upon the programs
- Deadlines: Application deadlines vary by institution and program.
Benefits
- Tuition Fee Waivers: Scholarships may cover 50% or 100% of tuition fees, depending on the category awarded.
- Finland Scholarship for Master’s Students: Includes a 5,000 EUR grant in addition to the tuition fee waiver.
Eligibility Criteria
- Tuition Fee Liability
- Academic Merit
- Program Admission
How to Apply
- Program Application
- Scholarship Application
- Submission
Documents Required
- Completed Application Form
- Academic Transcripts and Certificates
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Motivation Letter
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the best scholarships in Finland for international students?
Several top scholarships in Finland for international students include the Finnish Government Scholarship Pool, Erasmus+ Program Scholarships, Aalto University Finland Fellowships, and University-Specific Scholarships offered by Finnish institutions.
Who is eligible for scholarships in Finland for international students?
Eligibility criteria vary by scholarship, but most scholarships in Finland require applicants to be non-EU/EEA students, have outstanding academic records, and meet language proficiency requirements.
How can I apply for scholarships in Finland for international students?
To apply for scholarships in Finland, research the eligibility criteria, prepare the necessary documents (such as transcripts and recommendation letters), and submit applications through the respective university or scholarship provider’s website before the deadline.
What documents are required for scholarships in Finland for international students?
Common documents needed for scholarships in Finland include a completed application form, academic transcripts, CV, statement of purpose, recommendation letters, and proof of language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL).
How competitive are scholarships in Finland for international students?
Competition for scholarships in Finland is high due to limited spots and a large number of applicants. Strong academic performance and well-prepared applications improve chances of selection.
Which universities offer scholarships in Finland for international students?
Many Finnish universities provide scholarships in Finland, including the University of Helsinki, Aalto University, University of Turku, University of Eastern Finland, and Tampere University.
Are there business scholarships in Finland for international students?
Yes, Finnish business scholarships in Finland for international students are available at universities like Hanken School of Economics and Aalto University. These scholarships often cover tuition fees and, in some cases, provide living stipends.
