Checklist · Finland
Documents you need to study in Finland
What Finnish universities and universities of applied sciences typically ask for — Bachelor's or Master's, from application to the residence permit. Tick items off as you go; your progress stays in this browser. Requirements differ by programme, so compare with your programme's page on Studyinfo. Each item links to the official source.
Checked against official sources: October 2026
0 of 12 done
Before you apply
0/3Most English-taught programmes starting in autumn 2027 take applications once, around New Year — and each university sets its own dates. For international Master's programmes, the University of Helsinki's period is 5–19 January 2027; Aalto University's is 7 December 2026 – 5 January 2027. Each programme page on Studyinfo shows its exact dates.
Source: Study in Finland · University of Helsinki · Aalto University
English-taught programmes require proof of English; Finnish- or Swedish-taught programmes require those languages. Each programme lists the accepted tests and scores.
Source: Study in Finland
Application documents
0/5Your school-leaving certificate or degree and transcripts, uploaded as the programme instructs. Some countries' documents need official translations.
Source: Study in Finland
The English (or Finnish/Swedish) test result your programme accepts.
Source: Study in Finland
Needed to prove your identity and nationality — and later for the residence permit.
Source: Migri
If requested
Motivation letter
Many Master's programmes ask for a motivation letter, and some use entrance exams or pre-assignments. Finnish committees value a clear, specific letter.
Only if it applies to you
If you are not an EU/EEA or Swiss citizen, you pay €100 when you apply to a Bachelor's or Master's programme — once per term, however many rounds you apply in. The request comes by email after you submit.
Source: Studyinfo
After admission: residence permit and money
0/4Only for students from outside the EU, the EEA and Switzerland.
At least €800 a month for living costs: for studies of a year or longer, €9,600 in your bank account when you apply. Free housing from your institution lowers the amount.
Source: Migri
A certificate of private health insurance covering medical and pharmaceutical costs is attached to the application.
Source: Migri
Apply online in Enter Finland with your letter of acceptance, then prove your identity at a Finnish mission. Apply as soon as you are admitted.
Source: Migri
Questions
Do EU citizens pay fees in Finland?
No. EU, EEA and Swiss citizens pay neither the application fee nor tuition and need no residence permit.
How much money do I need for the residence permit?
At least €800 a month — €9,600 for studies of a year or longer — plus the tuition fee if you have not paid it yet.
Is this list complete for my programme?
No list can be. Some programmes add entrance exams, pre-assignments or interviews. Always check your programme's page on Studyinfo.