Scholarships in Finland Without IELTS are becoming one of the best opportunities for international students who want to study in Europe without taking expensive English tests. Many Finnish universities do not strictly require IELTS if you can provide other English proficiency proof such as a Medium of Instruction letter, previous English taught degree, Duolingo, TOEFL, or an internal interview. This makes Finland an attractive and affordable study destination.

Scholarships in Finland Without IELTS also provide excellent benefits. Students can receive tuition fee waivers, monthly stipends, accommodation support, and research funding. Finland is known for high quality education, modern technology, safe cities, and strong career opportunities after graduation.

If you carefully select programs, prepare your documents properly, and use alternatives like MOI, you can easily study in Finland without IELTS. This guide explains everything step-by-step and lists more than 20 scholarships you can apply for in 2026.

What “Without IELTS” Really Means in Finland

IELTS is not always mandatory

Most Finnish universities simply ask for proof of English proficiency. IELTS is only one option. You can submit alternatives.

Accepted alternatives include

• Medium of Instruction (MOI) letter
• English-taught previous degree
• TOEFL
• Duolingo English Test
• PTE
• University interview or waiver

Important reminder

Always check each program’s website. Some departments accept MOI easily, while others prefer formal tests.

List of Scholarships in Finland Without IELTS (20+ Opportunities)

Below are major funding options that many students successfully apply for without IELTS.

1. Finnish National Agency for Education EDUFI Doctoral Scholarships

Government-funded research scholarships mainly for PhD students.
Funding: Monthly grant support
Without IELTS angle: MOI or university proof often accepted

2. University of Helsinki International Scholarship Programme

Level: Master’s
Funding: 50–100% tuition waiver
Without IELTS: MOI or other accepted tests

3. Aalto University Excellence Scholarships

Level: Bachelor/Master
Funding: Full or partial tuition waiver
Without IELTS: Previous English education often enough

4. Tampere University Global Student Awards

Level: Master’s
Funding: Tuition reduction + possible grants
Without IELTS: Alternative proof accepted

5. University of Turku UTU Scholarships

Level: Master’s
Funding: 50–100% fee waiver
Without IELTS: MOI commonly accepted

6. University of Eastern Finland UEF Tuition Scholarships

Level: Master’s
Funding: Partial/full tuition
Without IELTS: English degree evidence allowed

7. University of Oulu International Scholarships

Level: Master’s
Funding: Tuition coverage
Without IELTS: Interview or MOI may work

8. Åbo Akademi University Merit Scholarships

Level: Master’s
Funding: Tuition waivers
Without IELTS: Flexible language requirements

9. LUT University Early Bird Scholarships

Level: Bachelor/Master
Funding: Tuition discounts
Without IELTS: MOI accepted

10. Metropolia University of Applied Sciences Tuition Scholarships

Level: Bachelor/Master
Funding: Fee reduction
Without IELTS: Alternative proof allowed

11. Arcada University of Applied Sciences Merit Awards

Level: Bachelor/Master
Funding: Tuition waivers
Without IELTS: MOI accepted

12. Häme University of Applied Sciences HAMK Scholarships

Funding: Tuition discounts
Without IELTS: Flexible requirements

13. LAB University of Applied Sciences Tuition Support Grants

Funding: Fee waivers
Without IELTS: MOI accepted

14. Savonia University of Applied Sciences Savonia Scholarships

Funding: Tuition reduction
Without IELTS: Alternatives accepted

15. Seinäjoki University of Applied Sciences SeAMK Awards

Funding: Partial tuition
Without IELTS: English education proof allowed

16. Karelia University of Applied Sciences Karelia Scholarships

Funding: Tuition waiver
Without IELTS: MOI accepted

17. Centria University of Applied Sciences Centria Financial Aid

Funding: Tuition discounts
Without IELTS: Language waiver possible

18. Oulu University of Applied Sciences OAMK Scholarships

Funding: Tuition support
Without IELTS: Alternative English tests allowe

19. Kajaani University of Applied Sciences KAMK Grants

Funding: Partial fee coverage
Without IELTS: MOI accepted

20. South-Eastern Finland University of Applied Sciences XAMK Scholarships

Funding: Tuition waiver
Without IELTS: Flexible English proof

21. Department Research Assistantships (All Universities)

Many Master’s and PhD students get paid research positions.
Funding: Monthly salary
Without IELTS: Supervisor approval often enough

Step-by-Step: How to Apply for Scholarships in Finland Without IELTS

Step 1: Choose your level and program

Decide Bachelor, Master, or PhD

Select your field like IT, business, engineering, nursing, or health sciences

Focus on 3 to 5 universities only. This improves your chances.

Step 2: Check language policy first

Confirm MOI or alternatives are accepted

Email admission office if unclear

Never assume IELTS is required without checking.

Step 3: Prepare documents

Required documents usually include

• Passport
• Academic transcripts
• SOP
• CV
• Recommendation letters
• MOI letter

Step 4: Write a strong SOP

Explain clearly

• Why Finland
• Why this program
• Your career goals
• Your achievements

Step 5: Apply early

Most deadlines are January to March

Early applications increase scholarship chances.

Step 6: Apply for tuition waivers together

Many Finnish universities automatically consider you for scholarships when you apply for admission. No separate form is needed.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Thinking “without IELTS” means no English proof
• Submitting weak MOI letters
• Applying to too many programs randomly
• Missing deadlines
• Poor SOP

Why Study in Finland

• High quality education
• Safe environment
• Modern technology
• English-friendly society
• Affordable living compared to other EU countries
• Work opportunities during studies
• Finland consistently ranks among the best countries for students.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)