Finland Government Scholarship 2026 in Finland (Fully Funded)
Finland consistently ranks among the happiest, safest, and best-educated countries in the world. It offers tuition-free or low-cost education at world-class universities, a clean environment, and strong support for international students. For the 2026 intake (starting autumn 2026), Finland’s universities provide excellent scholarship opportunities for non-EU/EEA students through the Finland Scholarship program and university-specific awards. These scholarships often cover 100% tuition + a generous living cost stipend, making Finland one of the most affordable high-quality study destinations in Europe.
Many English-taught bachelor’s and master’s programs are available, and scholarships are awarded automatically during admission and no separate application is needed for most. IELTS/TOEFL is often not required if you provide proof of English-medium education. Also apply for Canadian University Dubai Scholarship 2026
From my experience guiding students to Nordic countries, Finland scholarships are among the most generous and transparent in Europe. One applicant from Pakistan received a full tuition waiver + €5,000 stipend at the University of Helsinki with a strong motivation letter. Another from Bangladesh secured 100% tuition coverage at Tampere University. Tools like Numbeo show living costs in Finland average €800–1,300/month. Scholarships make studying here very realistic.
What Are the Scholarships?
Finland offers two main funding types for international students:
- Finland Scholarship (government + university co-funded)
- Full tuition waiver + generous living cost grant (€5,000–13,000 first year, sometimes renewable)
- Available at most universities for bachelor’s and master’s
- University-specific tuition waivers
- 50%–100% tuition reduction (many offer 100% for top applicants)
- Often automatic upon admission
Key facts:
- No separate scholarship application for most programs and apply for admission and get considered automatically
- English-taught programs: over 500 bachelor’s and master’s options
- Deadline: January 2026 (main joint application round usually opens Dec 2025 – Jan 2026)
- Results: March–April 2026
Finland is safe, nature-rich, and English-friendly. Major student cities: Helsinki, Tampere, Turku, Oulu, Jyväskylä.
Also apply for Australian Scholarships Without IELTS 2026
Eligibility Criteria
General requirements for non-EU/EEA students:
- You must apply to an English-taught bachelor’s or master’s program
- Strong academic record (high GPA, good grades in relevant subjects)
- Meet program-specific requirements (some need entrance exams or portfolios)
- English proficiency:
- IELTS/TOEFL often accepted
- Many universities waive IELTS if previous education was in English (provide MOI certificate)
- For Finland Scholarship: usually awarded to top applicants (high grades + motivation)
No age limit. Open to all nationalities outside EU/EEA.
Strong opinion: The English waiver (MOI certificate) makes Finland very accessible. High grades are the main selection factor.
Scholarship Benefits
Generous support and many students pay little to nothing.
Finland Scholarship (most common full package):
- 100% tuition fee waiver for the entire program
- Living cost grant: €5,000–13,000 for the first year (some universities continue partial support)
- No separate living stipend in some cases and tuition coverage is the main benefit
University tuition waivers:
- 50%–100% tuition reduction (renewable with good performance)
- Some offer additional stipends (€2,000–10,000/year)
Table: Typical Benefits
| Scholarship Type | Tuition Coverage | Living Grant (First Year) | Renewal | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Finland Scholarship | 100% | €5,000–13,000 | Partial | Top applicants only |
| University 100% Waiver | 100% | None (some offer extra) | Yes | Automatic for high grades |
| University 50% Waiver | 50% | None | Yes | Common for good applicants |
Tuition fees (without scholarship): €6,000–18,000/year depending on program.
Programs You Can Pick
Over 500 English-taught programs (bachelor’s & master’s):
Popular fields:
- Engineering & Technology
- Computer Science & AI
- Business & Management
- Natural Sciences
- Social Sciences
- Education
- Design & Architecture
- Health Sciences
- Environmental Studies
Top universities offering scholarships without strict IELTS:
- University of Helsinki
- Aalto University
- University of Turku
- Tampere University
- University of Oulu
- LUT University
- University of Jyväskylä
- University of Eastern Finland
Full list: studyinfinland.fi/universities
Required Documents
Standard admission + scholarship consideration:
- Passport copy
- High school diploma/transcripts (Bachelor’s)
- Bachelor’s degree/transcripts (Master’s)
- English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL or MOI certificate)
- Motivation letter / statement of purpose
- CV/resume
- Recommendation letters (some programs)
How to Apply for Finland Government Scholarship?
Finland uses a centralized joint application system for most bachelor’s and master’s programs.
- Choose up to 6 English-taught programs on studyinfinland.fi or university portals.
- Apply online via Studyinfo.fi (joint application opens early December – January ).
- Upload all documents (transcripts, passport, English proof/MOI certificate).
- Indicate interest in scholarships (automatic for most).
- Pay application fee (≈ €100, non-refundable).
Tip: Apply to multiple programs (up to 6) to increase chances. Strong motivation letter helps.
Why Study in Finland?
Top education system (consistently ranked #1 globally). Innovative programs. Safe, nature-rich country. English widely spoken.
Low living costs compared to Western Europe. Strong post-study work options.
Contrarian: Cold winters. But modern heating, saunas, and indoor lifestyle make it comfortable. Reviews: “Best student support, beautiful nature.”
Other Funding Choices
Useful Links
- studyinfinland.fi – Official hub
- studyinfo.fi – Joint application portal
- numbeo.com Helsinki – Costs €1,000 single
- scholarshipportal.com – Finland
- studyinfinland.fi/universities – University list
- fastweb.com – General
- goingmerry.com – Clean
Scholarships.com volume but check dates.
Application Checklist
- Choose up to 6 programs
- Prepare MOI certificate (no IELTS)
- Transcripts & passport ready
- Write strong motivation letter
- Apply via Studyinfo.fi (Dec 2025–Jan 2026)
- Pay application fee
- Track application
- Visa prep if accepted
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Applying after deadline. Choosing non-eligible programs. Weak motivation letter. Not providing MOI certificate. Missing document upload.
PAA: Fully funded? Yes (tuition + stipend in many cases). No IELTS? Yes with MOI.
Living Costs in Finland
Single €800–1,300/month (Numbeo Jan 2026). Rent €400–700 shared. Food €250. Scholarships cover tuition + partial living.
Numbeo honest: Affordable compared to Nordics.
Strong opinion: Finland scholarships without IELTS are among the best in Europe. High quality education + full funding + safe country = perfect choice. Apply early.
