University of Helsinki 2026: Study in Finland for Free with Full Scholarships & Tuition Waivers — Complete International Students Guide
Finland stands among the world’s most advanced, innovative, and education-driven nations — and at the heart of this excellence is the University of Helsinki, the oldest and highest-ranked university in the country. Although tuition-free education in Finland is mainly available to EU/EEA students, non-EU international students can still study for FREE through the generous scholarship and full tuition waiver programs offered by the university.
In today’s post, we break down everything you need to know about studying at the University of Helsinki in 2026 — programs, application timelines, visa requirements, tuition waivers, full scholarships, benefits of living in Finland, and much more.
Useful references:
🌍 Why Choose the University of Helsinki? (Top Reasons for International Students)
The University of Helsinki (UH), founded in 1640, is consistently ranked among the Top 100 universities in the world. Choosing UH gives students access to:
✅ World-Class Research & Innovation
Finland is known globally for innovation, technology, and science. UH is a leader in AI, climate science, biotechnology, medicine, and digital transformation.
✅ High Quality of Life
Finland is ranked the Happiest Country in the World (for multiple years). Students enjoy safety, freedom, equality, and incredible natural beauty.
✅ English-Taught Programs
Over 60+ master’s programs are fully taught in English — ideal for international students who want world-class education without language barriers.
✅ Full Scholarships for Non-EU Students
Although tuition fees apply to non-EU/EEA students, the university offers:
- 100% Tuition Fee Waivers
- Scholarship options covering living expenses
With these opportunities, studying in Finland becomes completely tuition-free.
🎓 Programs Available at the University of Helsinki (English-Taught)
The University offers diverse English-taught programs in key fields. Some popular ones include:
Science & Technology
- Data Science
- Computer Science
- Life Science & Informatics
- Chemistry & Molecular Sciences
- Environmental Change & Global Sustainability
Medicine & Health
- Translational Medicine
- Neuroscience
- Genetics & Molecular Biosciences
- Ecology & Evolutionary Biology
Humanities & Social Sciences
- Intercultural Encounters
- Linguistic Diversity & Digital Humanities
- Global Politics & Communication
Agriculture, Forestry & Environment
- Agricultural Sciences
- Forest Sciences
- Food Sciences
Business & Economics
- Economics
- Agricultural Economics
A full list of programs can be found on the university website.
💸 Tuition Fees for Non-EU/EEA Students
Tuition fees range between:
€13,000 – €18,000 per academic year
However…
With the University of Helsinki Scholarship Program, you can study for FREE through:
🎓 Full Tuition Waiver (100%)
Covers all tuition fees for the entire duration of the program (2 years).
🎓 Finland Scholarship (Tuition + €5000 Grant)
Covers:
- 100% of tuition, and
- A €5000 relocation/living grant for the first year
This effectively makes education at UH tuition-free for international students.
📝 Admission Requirements for Master’s Applicants (2026)
Each program has specific criteria, but common requirements include:
📌 Academic Requirements
- A bachelor’s degree (equivalent to a Finnish bachelor’s degree)
- Strong academic record
- Related field of study
📌 Document Requirements
- Copy of valid passport
- Degree certificate(s)
- Transcripts
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Motivation letter
- Recommendation letters (varies by program)
- English proficiency test (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE)
📚 English Language Requirements
You must prove English proficiency through one of the following:
- IELTS: Overall 6.5 (no band below 6.0)
- TOEFL iBT: 90+
- PTE Academic: 62+
- Cambridge C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency
Some exemptions exist if your previous studies were fully taught in English.
⏳ Application Timeline for 2026 Intake
Below is the typical timeline (may vary slightly each year):
October–December
- Explore programs
- Begin preparing documents
January
- Main application window opens
- Submit scholarship applications simultaneously
February–March
- Document verification
- Interview (certain programs only)
April–May
- Admission decisions released
June–July
- Apply for student residence permit
- Arrange housing and travel
August
- Arrival in Finland
- Orientation begins
🎓 University of Helsinki Scholarships (Full Explanation)
The scholarship system is designed to help international students study at UH with ease. The three major types include:
1️⃣ Full Tuition Fee Scholarship (100% Waiver)
This scholarship covers ALL tuition fees for the entire program (2 years).
Best for academically strong students with no funding.
2️⃣ Finland Scholarship (Full Tuition + €5000 Grant)
Funded by the Finnish government.
Covers:
- 100% of the tuition fee for the first year
- A €5000 relocation grant
- Option to extend tuition coverage in year 2
This is the best option for students who need living support.
3️⃣ University of Helsinki Grant
A small grant that offers partial support.
🌐 How to Apply for the Scholarships
You must apply for the scholarship at the same time as the degree program.
Steps:
- Select an eligible master’s program
- Prepare all required documents
- Apply online via the university portal
- Choose the scholarship option
- Submit the motivation letter for scholarship
- Wait for decision
Scholarships are awarded on academic merit, motivation, and potential for impact.
🇫🇮 Cost of Living in Finland (For Planning Purposes)
Estimated monthly costs:
- Accommodation: €300 – €700
- Food: €200 – €350
- Transport: €50 – €70
- Personal expenses: €100 – €200
Average total: €700 – €1,200 per month
The €5000 Finland Scholarship significantly reduces these expenses for the first year.
🛂 Finland Study Visa Requirements (Residence Permit)
To study in Finland, you will need a student residence permit.
Requirements include:
- Acceptance letter from University of Helsinki
- Proof of funds (€560 per month = €6720 per year)
- Health insurance
- Passport
- Tuition fee payment or scholarship proof
After graduation, students can apply for a 2-year post-study work permit.
📍 Why Finland Is a Perfect Study Destination
❤️ Safe and peaceful
📚 World-leading education
🧬 Technology and innovation hub
🌲 Clean environment
🧑🎓 Opportunities for work during and after studies
🌟 Easy pathway to residency
📝 Final Thoughts: Why You Should Apply to the University of Helsinki
For non-EU international students, getting a full scholarship at the University of Helsinki is one of the best opportunities in Europe. With full tuition waivers, additional financial support, world-class programs, and a high quality of life, Finland offers everything needed for academic and personal growth.
If you are ambitious, academically strong, and passionate about contributing to global development, the University of Helsinki should be at the top of your list in 2026.
