Finland, known for its high-quality education system, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, has become an increasingly attractive destination for international students. While the cost of living in Finland can be relatively high, there are several universities that offer affordable education options for students from around the world. In this article, we’ll explore some of the cheapest universities in Finland, providing insights into the cost of tuition and the overall living expenses.
1. University of Eastern Finland (UEF)
The University of Eastern Finland (UEF) is a multidisciplinary university located in the eastern part of Finland. Established in 2010 through the merger of the University of Joensuu and the University of Kuopio, UEF is known for its commitment to high-quality education, cutting-edge research, and a strong emphasis on international collaboration. UEF offers a wide range of bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs across various disciplines, including natural sciences, health sciences, social sciences, humanities, and forestry. The university is recognized for its strong focus on research, innovation, and interdisciplinary studies. UEF operates on multiple campuses, with major locations in Joensuu and Kuopio.
Both campuses offer modern facilities, state-of-the-art laboratories, and a conducive learning environment. The campuses are surrounded by Finland’s pristine nature, providing students with a unique and inspiring setting for their studies. The university has partnerships with numerous institutions worldwide, fostering academic exchanges, joint research projects, and international student mobility. Tuition fees for non-EU/EEA students are applicable, but UEF provides scholarship opportunities to support international students. Scholarships are often based on academic merit and cover either partial or full tuition costs. While the primary language of instruction is Finnish, many programs, particularly at the master’s and doctoral levels, are offered in English to accommodate international students. The university provides support services for international students, including orientation programs, counseling, and assistance with practical matters such as accommodation and residence permits.
2. Tampere University
Tampere University is a leading institution of higher education located in Tampere, Finland. Formed in 2019 through the merger of the University of Tampere and Tampere University of Technology, the university is known for its commitment to fostering multidisciplinary research, innovation, and providing high-quality education. Tampere University embraces a multidisciplinary approach, offering a wide range of programs that span various fields, including technology, health sciences, social sciences, and humanities. The university provides programs at all levels, from bachelor’s to doctoral degrees, catering to both domestic and international students. When it comes to Research Excellence Tampere University is recognized for its strong commitment to research excellence. The university actively participates in national and international research projects, contributing to advancements in various disciplines. The university fosters innovation through its collaboration with local industries and businesses.
Tampere has become known as a hub for technological and creative industries, and the university plays a key role in this ecosystem. Tampere University operates on multiple campuses, with the main campuses situated in the city of Tampere. The campuses provide modern facilities, state-of-the-art laboratories, and a vibrant environment for academic and extracurricular activities. A significant number of programs at Tampere University are offered in English, attracting a diverse student body from around the world. Tuition fees for non-EU/EEA students are applicable, but Tampere University offers scholarships to support international students. The scholarships are often merit-based. The university provides information and guidance on available financial support options, including scholarships and grants.
3. University of Oulu
The University of Oulu, located in the city of Oulu in northern Finland, is a renowned institution known for its commitment to high-quality education, impactful research, and innovation. The University of Oulu is recognized for its strong emphasis on academic excellence and research-driven education. The university offers a wide range of programs at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels across various disciplines. Oulu has a strong focus on technology and innovation, with a reputation as a center for information and communications technology (ICT) research. The university actively engages in projects that promote technological advancements and entrepreneurship.
The university has a network of international partners, fostering collaborations in research and student exchange programs. A wide variety of bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs are available in English, enabling international students to pursue their academic goals. English-taught programs cover fields such as technology, business, natural sciences, and humanities. The University of Oulu offers various scholarships and funding options for both domestic and international students. Scholarships may be based on academic merit, financial need, or specific criteria related to the field of study.
4. University of Jyväskylä
The University of Jyväskylä, located in the city of Jyväskylä in central Finland, is a prestigious institution known for its strong academic tradition, innovative research, and commitment to providing a high-quality learning environment. The University of Jyväskylä is recognized for its academic excellence and research contributions across various disciplines. The university offers a diverse range of programs at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels, providing students with a comprehensive and multidisciplinary education. The University of Jyväskylä is committed to internationalization, offering a variety of programs in English to cater to an international student body.
The university actively engages in international collaboration through research projects, exchange programs, and partnerships with universities around the world. The university operates on multiple campuses, each offering modern facilities, well-equipped libraries, laboratories, and recreational spaces. The Mattilanniemi Campus, Ylistönrinne Campus, and others collectively provide a vibrant and dynamic learning environment. A significant number of bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs are offered in English, making education accessible to a global audience. The University of Jyväskylä offers various scholarships and financial aid options to support students in their academic journey.
5. Lappeenranta-Lahti University of Technology (LUT)
The Lappeenranta-Lahti University of Technology (LUT) is a leading Finnish university with a strong focus on technology, business, and sustainable solutions. Formed through the merger of Lappeenranta University of Technology (LUT) and Lahti University of Applied Sciences (Lahti UAS), LUT emphasizes innovation, interdisciplinary research, and preparing students for challenges in the modern world. LUT is renowned for its emphasis on technology and business education, offering a range of programs in engineering, business administration, and environmental technology. The university combines technological expertise with business knowledge, preparing students for careers at the intersection of technology and commerce. While Finnish is the official language, many programs, especially at the master’s and doctoral levels, are offered in English to accommodate international students. LUT is dedicated to internationalization, offering programs in English to attract students from around the world.
The university actively participates in international research collaborations, student exchange programs, and joint projects with global partners. LUT operates on two main campuses, one in Lappeenranta and the other in Lahti. Both campuses are equipped with modern facilities, laboratories, and collaborative spaces. The campuses provide a dynamic and supportive environment for learning and research. A significant number of bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs are offered in English, allowing international students to pursue their academic goals. LUT encourages entrepreneurship and innovation among its students. The university supports startup initiatives and provides resources for students interested in creating their own ventures.
6. University of Turku
The University of Turku, situated in the city of Turku on the southwest coast of Finland, is a multidisciplinary institution known for its academic excellence, research contributions, and commitment to fostering a vibrant and international learning environment. The University of Turku is recognized for its high academic standards and offers a diverse range of programs at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. The university has a strong reputation for research-led teaching and interdisciplinary studies. The university operates on multiple campuses in Turku, with modern facilities, libraries, laboratories, and collaborative spaces. The campuses provide a conducive environment for learning, research, and extracurricular activities. A wide range of bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs is offered in English, allowing international students to pursue their academic goals. English-taught programs cover various fields, including humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and technology.
7. Helsinki Metropolia University of Applied Sciences
Helsinki Metropolia University of Applied Sciences, commonly known as Metropolia, is one of the largest and most diverse universities of applied sciences in Finland. Located in the capital city of Helsinki, Metropolia offers a range of programs designed to provide students with practical skills and knowledge for the workforce. Metropolia has strong ties with industries and businesses in the Helsinki metropolitan area. Collaboration with these partners enhances the relevance of education and provides students with valuable networking opportunities. Metropolia operates on multiple campuses across Helsinki, each equipped with modern facilities, laboratories, and collaborative spaces. A variety of bachelor’s and master’s programs are offered in English, catering to international students. English-taught programs cover fields such as business, technology, health care, and social services. Metropolia is committed to internationalization and offers programs in English to attract a diverse student body.
8. Åbo Akademi University
Åbo Akademi University, located in the city of Turku, Finland, is a Swedish-language university with a strong focus on research, academic excellence, and maintaining a high-quality educational environment. Åbo Akademi University is known for its strong emphasis on multidisciplinary research. The university engages in research across various fields, including natural sciences, humanities, social sciences, and technology. Research centers and institutes at Åbo Akademi contribute to advancements in knowledge and address societal challenges. Åbo Akademi University operates on multiple campuses, including the main campus in Turku and smaller campuses in Vaasa and Pori.
The campuses provide modern facilities, libraries, laboratories, and spaces for research and learning. A selection of master’s programs and doctoral studies are offered in English, providing opportunities for international students to pursue advanced degrees. English-taught programs cover various disciplines, including natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities. Despite being a Swedish-language institution, Åbo Akademi is committed to internationalization. The university offers selected programs in English to attract international students. The university actively participates in international research collaborations, exchange programs, and projects with global partners.
Finland’s commitment to quality education, combined with affordable options at these universities, makes it an enticing destination for international students seeking a world-class education without breaking the bank. Before making a decision, it’s advisable to research individual programs, consider scholarship opportunities, and plan for living expenses to ensure a successful and financially sustainable academic journey in Finland.