How to Study Abroad in Finland: A Guide

Incredible food, modern cities, and a cozy culture - what more could you want in a study abroad experience?

Finland is a popular place to study abroad; after all, it continuously ranks among the highest in the world when it comes to happiness.

If you're considering studying abroad in Finland, or you've already made up your mind, this guide is for you.

We're going to take a look at the steps you will need to complete to take your dream and transform it into your real life: studying abroad in Europe!

From study abroad programs to visas/permits and how to apply, we'll cover a little bit of everything to give you the information you need.

🇺🇸 Please note that this guide was written for US citizens looking to study abroad in Finland. Processes and options may differ for citizens of other countries.

How to study abroad in Finland

Studying abroad in Finland can be a reality; there are just a few things you will need to do to get there.

We're going to take a look at the general timeline, and then talk about some of the steps in more detail to give you the information that you need to know.

• Find a study abroad course or program in Finland. Keep in mind that there will likely be admission requirements that you need to meet, such as GPA.
• Make sure that you can meet the Finnish residence permit minimum requirements. We will talk more about what these requirements are in a later section. There are a couple of types of residence permits for students, and you need to make sure you choose the one that reflects your situation.
• Apply for admission. You'll need proof of enrollment when you apply for your residence permit.
• Apply for your Finnish residence after you have received your acceptance letter. Applying for residence is a multi-step process. We will take a look at it in the next couple of sections.
• Move to Finland!

How to find a program in Finland

The most popular way to study abroad in Finland is to go through your current university - though this only works if you actually are currently enrolled in a university back home.

Universities typically have study abroad departments that have relationships and connections with universities abroad. This can simplify the process for students since there will be a department that can walk them through the process.

With that said, not all universities have programs in every country, so it's possible an option for Finland isn't available.

Now, if you are not a current university student, the official Study in Finland website has trustworthy and accurate information about the different programs offered.

Finland residence permit requirements

The other important part of your trip is making sure that you meet the qualifications to apply for residency.

Finland offers different types of permits for different scenarios, including specialized residence permits for foreign students.

In order to qualify, you must:

• Have a valid passport.
• Prove that you can financially sustain yourself while in Finland. Specific monthly minimums will be required, or a total amount in a bank account.
• Make sure your "study place" (school) is on the list of approved types.
• Take out private health insurance that is valid in Finland.
• Not be "a danger to public order and security".
• Not be "a danger to public health".
• Not be "a danger to Finland's public relations".
• Not have been "prescribed a prohibition of entry".

How to apply for a student residence permit in Finland

The application process is fairly straightforward and involves the following steps:

• Make sure you meet the residence permit requirements.
• Begin collecting all of the necessary documentation. This includes your admission letter, bank statements, etc. You will also need to take out private health insurance before you apply since proof is mandatory.
• Fill out the online application on the "Enter Finland" official site.
• Pay the processing fee(s) online.
• Book an in-person appointment at a Finnish diplomatic mission. This is mandatory in order to confirm your identity.
• Wait for a decision to be made!

Tips for studying abroad in Finland

Finland is a cold country in the winter and a cool one in the summer. Make sure you research the climate and pack accordingly!

Download the 112 Suomi app. It will allow you to make official emergency calls through it and will automatically share your location for the quickest emergency services. This app is recommended by the government.

In warmer months, watch for the Kyy. Even though it's a cold location, Finland does have one venomous snake, a viper (Kyy in Finnish). The government says to wear boots that cover your ankles when hiking in the summer and to seek emergency medical attention immediately if you are bitten.

24 hours of sunlight. It can be a big adjustment for those used to a Southern climate. At the peak of long summer days, the sun doesn't set at all. Oppositely, the winter months are very dark.

Sauna culture. Saunas are at the heart of Finnish culture. While there, you should definitely indulge!