Finland is one of the most attractive study destinations in Europe for international students due to its world-class education system, innovative research environment, and high quality of life. Every year, students from around the world search for fully funded scholarships in Finland to study Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD programs without worrying about high tuition fees or living costs. For the 2026 academic year, Finland offers several fully funded and highly funded scholarship opportunities through the Finnish government, universities, and international research funding bodies.
This guide provides a complete and updated list of fully funded scholarships in Finland for international students in 2026, along with clear information about eligibility, benefits, and the step-by-step application process. Most scholarships in Finland focus on Master’s and PhD studies and cover tuition fees, monthly living allowances, and research costs. By following this guide, students can understand how to plan their studies in Finland and apply for the most suitable funding opportunities.
1. Finnish Government Scholarship Pool
The Finnish Government Scholarship Pool is designed for international students pursuing doctoral-level studies and research in Finland.
Eligibility
- Open to international students
- Available mainly for PhD and research-level studies
- Must be admitted to a Finnish university or research institution
- Strong academic and research background required
What It Covers
- Monthly living allowance
- Partial funding for research duration
- Academic and institutional support
- Click here for deadlines and step by step application process
2. University of Helsinki Scholarships
The University of Helsinki offers generous scholarships to high-achieving international students enrolling in Master’s programs.
Eligibility
- Open to international students from all countries
- Admission to a Master’s program required
- Strong academic performance
- English language proficiency required
What It Covers
- 50 percent or 100 percent tuition fee waiver
- Living cost grants in selected cases
- Academic and research support
- Click here for deadlines and step by step application process
3. Aalto University Scholarships
Aalto University provides scholarships to international students studying in technology, business, and arts.
Eligibility
- Open to non-EU and non-EEA students
- Applicable for Bachelor’s and Master’s programs
- Admission to an Aalto University program required
- Academic merit considered
What It Covers
- Full or partial tuition fee waiver
- Merit-based financial support
- Access to research and innovation facilities
- Click here for deadlines and step by step application process
4. University of Turku Scholarships
The University of Turku offers scholarships to support international students pursuing postgraduate studies.
Eligibility
- Open to international students
- Available for Master’s and PhD programs
- Admission offer required
- Strong academic background
What It Covers
- Tuition fee waiver
- Living allowance for selected candidates
- Research and academic resources
- Click here for deadlines and step by step application process
5. Tampere University Scholarships
Tampere University provides scholarships to international students enrolled in English-taught degree programs.
Eligibility
- Open to international students
- Applicable for Bachelor’s and Master’s programs
- Academic excellence required
- Enrollment in a full-time program
What It Covers
- Tuition fee reduction or full waiver
- Merit-based financial support
- Study and research assistance
- Click here for deadlines and step by step application process
6. EDUFI Fellowships
EDUFI Fellowships support international doctoral students and researchers conducting research in Finland.
Eligibility
- Open to international PhD students and researchers
- Must have a confirmed host institution in Finland
- Research proposal required
- Academic recommendation required
What It Covers
- Monthly allowance
- Research funding support
- Short-term research mobility funding
- Click here for deadlines and step by step application process
7. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees in Finland
Several Finnish universities participate in Erasmus Mundus programs, which are fully funded and highly competitive.
Eligibility
- Open to students from all countries
- Bachelor’s degree required
- Strong academic background
- English language proficiency required
What It Covers
- Full tuition fees
- Monthly stipend
- Travel and relocation allowance
- Health insurance
8. Finnish Business Scholarships for International Students
Several leading Finnish business schools offer scholarships to international students who wish to pursue Master’s degrees in business-related fields. Institutions such as Hanken School of Economics and Aalto University School of Business provide financial support to academically strong candidates in areas including business administration, economics, and finance. These scholarships are highly competitive and are awarded based on academic merit and program relevance.
Eligibility
- Open to international students from non-EU and non-EEA countries
- Must apply for a Master’s degree in business, economics, or finance
- Strong academic background required
- Admission to a participating Finnish business school is mandatory
What It Covers
- Full or partial tuition fee waiver
- Monthly living stipend in selected cases
- Academic and career development supportClick here for deadlines and step by step application process
Frequently Asked Questions About Scholarships in Finland
Are there fully funded scholarships in Finland for international students?
Yes, Finland offers fully funded and highly funded scholarships for international students, mainly at the Master’s and PhD levels. These scholarships are provided by the Finnish government, universities, and research institutions.
Can international students study in Finland for free?
Many scholarships in Finland cover full tuition fees, and some also provide living allowances. While not all programs are completely free, fully funded options make studying in Finland very affordable.
What is the most popular scholarship in Finland?
The Finland Scholarship Program and EDUFI Fellowships are among the most popular scholarships for international students, along with Erasmus Mundus programs offered by Finnish universities.
Are scholarships in Finland available for Bachelor’s degree students?
Most scholarships are offered for Master’s and PhD programs. However, some universities provide tuition fee waivers and merit-based scholarships for Bachelor’s degree international students.
Do I need IELTS to apply for scholarships in Finland?
Not always. Many Finnish universities accept alternative English language proof, such as previous education completed in English. Some programs may still require IELTS or an equivalent test.
How much is the monthly stipend for scholarships in Finland?
For fully funded PhD and research scholarships, the monthly stipend usually ranges between €900 and €1,500, depending on the funding body and location.
Is Finland expensive for international students?
Finland has a high standard of living, but students benefit from affordable housing, student discounts, and subsidized services. Scholarships significantly reduce overall expenses.
When should I apply for Finland scholarships for 2026?
Most applications open between November and January for studies starting in autumn 2026. Students are advised to start preparing their documents at least six months in advance.
Can I work while studying in Finland on a scholarship?
Yes, international students in Finland are allowed to work part-time during their studies, usually up to 30 hours per week, as per current regulations.
Are Finland scholarships competitive?
Yes, fully funded scholarships in Finland are highly competitive. Selection is based on academic performance, research potential, and program relevance.
Can I stay in Finland after completing my studies?
Finland offers post-study residence permits that allow international graduates to stay and look for work or start a business after completing their degree.
Do I need to apply separately for university admission and scholarships?
In most cases, yes. Students must apply for university admission first and then apply for scholarships through the university or funding body.
