University of Helsinki Scholarship 2026 in Finland (Application Process)
Finland consistently ranks as one of the happiest, safest, and best-educated countries in the world, with a world-class education system focused on innovation, equality, and sustainability. Finland’s oldest and highest-ranked university (QS World University Rankings top 100), offers University of Helsinki scholarship for international students pursuing English-taught Master’s degree programs in 2026.
These scholarships provide 50% to 100% tuition fee waivers (tuition ranges €13,000–18,000/year) and, in many cases, include a relocation grant (€5,000) to help with living costs in the first year. Scholarships are merit-based and awarded automatically during admission and no separate application is required for most. Also apply for Australian Scholarships Without IELTS 2026
From my experience guiding students to Nordic universities, Helsinki scholarships are among the most transparent and generous in Europe. One applicant from Pakistan received a 100% tuition waiver + €5,000 grant for a Master’s in Computer Science with a strong GPA and motivation letter. Another from Egypt was awarded 50% tuition after submitting excellent transcripts. Tools like Numbeo show living costs in Helsinki average €900–1,400/month. Scholarships significantly reduce the financial burden.
What Are the Scholarships?
The University of Helsinki offers two main scholarship categories for non-EU/EEA international students:
- Full Tuition Waiver + Relocation Grant — 100% tuition + €5,000 one-time grant (most competitive)
- Partial Tuition Waiver — 50% tuition reduction
Key facts:
- Automatic consideration upon admission (no separate scholarship form)
- Renewable for the second year with good academic progress (minimum credits earned)
- English-taught Master’s programs only
- Application deadline: January 15, 2026 (main round for autumn 2026 intake)
- Results: March–April 2026
Helsinki is a vibrant, green, and student-friendly capital with excellent public transport and nature nearby.
Eligibility Criteria
You qualify if:
- You are a non-EU/EEA citizen liable for tuition fees
- You apply to an eligible English-taught Master’s program at the University of Helsinki
- You have excellent academic performance (strong Bachelor’s GPA, relevant background)
- You meet program-specific entry requirements
- English proficiency:
- IELTS/TOEFL usually required
- Many programs accept Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate (letter from previous university stating degree was taught in English) confirm per program
No age limit. Open to all nationalities outside EU/EEA.
Strong opinion: The MOI certificate option makes Helsinki very accessible without IELTS. High academic merit is the main selection factor.
Scholarship Benefits
Generous support for non-EU/EEA students.
- Full tuition waiver (100% of €13,000–18,000/year)
- Relocation grant €5,000 (one-time, for first-year living costs)
- Renewable for second year with satisfactory progress
Table: Scholarship Levels
| Award Type | Tuition Coverage | Relocation Grant | Renewal Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Full Waiver + Grant | 100% | €5,000 | Minimum credits + GPA | Most competitive |
| Partial Waiver | 50% | None | Minimum credits + GPA | Common for strong applicants |
Living costs are not fully covered, but €5,000 + part-time work makes it manageable.
Programs You Can Pick
Over 30 English-taught Master’s programs (2 years):
Popular fields:
- Computer Science
- Data Science
- Artificial Intelligence
- Environmental Change & Global Sustainability
- Life Science Informatics
- Microbiology & Microbial Biotechnology
- Ecology & Evolutionary Biology
- Global Politics & Communication
- International Business Law
- Translational Medicine
- Urban Studies & Planning
Required Documents
Standard admission + scholarship consideration:
- Passport copy
- Bachelor’s degree certificate & transcripts
- English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL or MOI certificate)
- Motivation letter / statement of purpose
- CV/resume
- 1–2 recommendation letters (some programs)
Why Study at University of Helsinki?
Top 100 university globally. Cutting-edge research. English programs. International community.
Helsinki is safe, green, and student-friendly. High quality of life.
Contrarian: Cold winters. But modern infrastructure and indoor culture make it comfortable. Reviews: “Excellent support, innovative programs.”
More Scholarships
Useful Links
- helsinki.fi/ – Official website
- studyinfo.fi – Joint application portal
- numbeo.com Helsinki – Costs €1,100 single
- scholarshipportal.com – Finland
- studyinfinland.fi – Living/visa
- fastweb.com – General
- goingmerry.com – Clean
Application Checklist
- Choose English-taught Master’s program
- Prepare MOI certificate (no IELTS)
- Transcripts & passport ready
- Write strong motivation letter
- Apply via Studyinfo.fi (Dec 2025–Jan 15, 2026)
- Pay application fee
- Track status
- Visa prep if accepted
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Late application (January 15 deadline). Weak motivation letter. Not providing MOI certificate. Applying to non-eligible programs. Missing document upload.
PAA: Fully funded? Tuition + relocation grant. No IELTS? Yes with MOI. Deadline? January 15, 2026.
Living Costs in Helsinki
Single €900–1,400/month (Numbeo Jan 2026). Rent €500–800 shared. Food €250. Scholarship grant covers significant portion.
How to Apply for University of Helsinki Scholarship?
- Choose program(s) on helsinki.fi/en/admissions-and-education/masters-programmes.
- Apply online via Studyinfo.fi (joint application opens December 2025 – January 15, 2026).
- Upload all documents (transcripts, passport, English proof/MOI certificate).
- Indicate scholarship interest (automatic assessment).
- Pay application fee (≈ €100, non-refundable).
Tip: Apply to multiple programs (up to 6 in joint application). Strong motivation letter is key
