Study in Finland — Education Guide

✅ Education in Finland is Free

Finland offers free education at all levels for EU residents. Even as an immigrant, you can access free Finnish language courses, vocational training, and university education. International students check University pages for the tuition fees. Students can apply for scholarships.

Types of Education in Finland

Vocational Education (AMK / Ammattikoulu) — practical training for specific careers (nursing, IT, construction, hospitality). Usually 2–3 years.
University of Applied Sciences (Ammattikorkeakoulu) — bachelor's degrees in applied fields. 3.5–4 years.
University (Yliopisto) — academic bachelor's and master's degrees. Research-focused.
Free Finnish Language Courses — available through TE-toimisto (integration training) and adult education centres (kansalaisopisto).
Integration Training (Kotoutumiskoulutus) — free Finnish language + life skills training for newcomers. Register via TE-toimisto.

How to Apply for Vocational College or University

Visit studyinfo.fi

All Finnish educational institutions use the same application portal — studyinfo.fi. Browse programmes, check requirements, and apply online.

Check the application periods

Joint application periods run twice a year — spring (January–March) and autumn (August–September). Some programmes have rolling admissions.

Prepare your documents

Previous education certificates (translated if needed), passport, residence permit, and language test results if required.

Apply for student benefits from Kela

Once accepted, apply for opintotuki (study grant) and housing supplement from Kela. Students also get discounted public transport. International students check your nearest KELA if you are entitled for the benefits. Log in with your bank details to process online.

Free Finnish Language Courses

Check our sister site www.survivalfinnish.com for free basics Finnish Language. The app also availaible as SURFI in APPSTORES. If you are registered as unemployed with TE-toimisto, you are entitled to free Finnish language courses (integration training / kotoutumiskoulutus). These courses run full-time and include Finnish language, Finnish culture, and job search skills. Contact your local TE-toimisto to register.

Adult education centres (kansalaisopisto) also offer affordable Finnish courses open to everyone, including working immigrants.

Student Benefits from Kela - Check online

Opintotuki — monthly study grant ( for higher education)
Housing supplement — monthly monetary supplements towards rent
Student meal subsidy — discounted meals at student restaurants
Discounted public transport — 50% discount on long-distance trains and buses