Finland Government Scholarship 2026 – Complete Application Guide
What is the Finland Government Scholarship 2026?
The term “Finland Government Scholarship 2026” is widely used online, but it often causes confusion.
Finland does not have one single, fully funded government scholarship for all international students.
Instead, scholarships are mostly offered by individual Finnish universities for bachelor’s and master’s level studies.
For doctoral or research-level students, there is a specific program funded by the Finnish government, called the EDUFI Fellowship.
So, when people talk about the “Finland Government Scholarship 2026,” they may mean one of two things:
University-based scholarships for bachelor’s and master’s students.
EDUFI Fellowships for doctoral or research students.
1. University Scholarships in Finland (2026 Intake)
Overview
Most Finnish universities offer scholarships or tuition fee waivers for non-EU/EEA international students.
These scholarships are based on academic excellence and are awarded automatically during the admission process.
They mainly cover tuition fees — not living costs.
The scholarship options, coverage, and selection rules differ by university.
Common Features
Open to non-EU/EEA international students.
Awarded based on academic performance or motivation letter.
Cover tuition fees fully or partially (30% to 100%).
Duration usually equals the length of the degree program.
Some universities offer renewal if students maintain good grades.
Applications are submitted together with the degree application through the Studyinfo.fi portal.
Examples of University Scholarships
1. University of Helsinki Scholarship Programme
Covers 100% of tuition fees.
Includes a €10,000 living grant per academic year for some students.
Duration: 2 years (Master’s programs).
Selection: Based on academic merit and motivation letter.
Website: helsinki.fi
2. Aalto University Scholarship
Covers 50% or 100% of tuition fees.
Based on academic excellence.
Does not cover living expenses.
Renewal possible for the second year if student meets progress requirements.
Website: aalto.fi
3. University of Eastern Finland (UEF) Scholarship
100% tuition fee waiver for top applicants.
Other students may receive 50% or 30% waivers.
Scholarships are awarded for the first study year.
Continuation depends on maintaining academic progress.
Website: uef.fi
4. Tampere University Scholarships
Up to 100% tuition coverage.
Awarded based on academic excellence and motivation.
Also offers an Early Bird discount for students who pay early.
Website: tuni.fi
5. LUT University Scholarship Programme
Covers 50% or 100% of tuition fees.
Based on academic results and motivation.
Renewal depends on yearly performance.
Website: lut.fi
6. University of Oulu International Scholarship
Covers 50% or 75% of tuition fees.
Does not cover living costs.
Available for master’s students.
Renewal based on GPA.
Website: oulu.fi
7. Åbo Akademi University Scholarship
100% tuition fee coverage for excellent students.
No separate application needed.
Website: abo.fi
2. EDUFI Fellowship (Finnish Government Scholarship Pool)
The EDUFI Fellowship is the only official government-funded scholarship program in Finland.
It supports doctoral students, researchers, and teachers from outside Finland.
Key Details
Managed by: Finnish National Agency for Education (EDUFI).
Type: Short-term research fellowship (3–12 months).
Monthly allowance: About €1,900.
Covers: Living expenses only (not travel or insurance).
Target: PhD students or researchers conducting part of their research in Finland.
Application: Submitted by a Finnish university department on behalf of the applicant.
Website: oph.fi – EDUFI Fellowship
3. Eligibility Criteria
Although requirements differ by university and program, most scholarships need:
A valid bachelor’s degree (for master’s programs).
Excellent academic record.
English language proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent).
A motivation letter explaining why you want to study in Finland.
For PhD scholarships: proof of research plan and academic supervision in Finland.
4. How to Apply for Finland Scholarships 2026
Here is the step-by-step process:
Select a Degree Program
Visit Study in Finland and explore programs taught in English.
Check Tuition and Scholarships
Read each university’s scholarship policy carefully.
Prepare Documents
Passport
Educational transcripts
Degree certificate
English test result
Letters of recommendation (if required)
Apply Online
Submit your application through Studyinfo.fi.
Indicate that you want to apply for a scholarship within the same form.
Wait for Results
Results are announced by universities, usually in March–April for the autumn intake.
Apply for a Residence Permit
After receiving the scholarship and admission letter, apply for a residence permit in Finland.
5. Application Timeline for 2026
| Stage | Expected Dates |
|---|---|
| Program search & document preparation | June – November 2025 |
| Online applications open | December 2025 |
| Application deadline | January 2026 |
| Admission & scholarship results | March – April 2026 |
| Visa/residence permit process | May – July 2026 |
| Semester start | August – September 2026 |
6. Cost of Living in Finland
Even if you receive a scholarship, you must show you can afford to live in Finland.
Average monthly expenses:
Accommodation: €350 – €700
Food: €250 – €400
Transportation: €50 – €100
Miscellaneous: €100 – €150
You must show proof of funds (around €560 per month) when applying for a residence permit.
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