Top 10 Universities to Study in Finland for Pakistani Students (2025–2026)

1. Tampere University (Tampere)

• Top Programs: Information Technology, Electrical Engineering, Medicine, Business, Social Sciences

• Tuition Fees: €6,000–€12,000 per year for most programs

• Language of Instruction: English for many Master’s programs; most Bachelor’s in Finnish

• Official website: tuni.fi

• Note: Relatively affordable fees make Tampere University a good choice for Pakistani students looking to study in Finland.

2. University of Turku (Turku)

• Top Programs: Biological and Medical Sciences, Information Technology, Economics, Social Sciences

• Tuition Fees: €8,000–€12,000 per year for English-taught programs

• Language of Instruction: English for many Master’s; most Bachelor’s in Finnish/Swedish

• Official website: utu.fi

• Note: Offers a wide range of multidisciplinary courses suitable for international students.

3. LUT University (Lappeenranta-Lahti University of Technology)

• Top Programs: Energy Technology, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Business (MBA)

• Tuition Fees: Approx. €10,000 per year for most Master’s programs; Bachelor’s ~€9,500 per year

• Language of Instruction: English for most Master’s and some Bachelor’s programs; Finnish for others

• Official website: lut.fi

• Note: Known for clean tech and renewable energy research; scholarships and discounts available.

4. University of Oulu (Oulu)

• Top Programs: Wireless Communications, Computer Science, Environmental Engineering, Business, Education

• Tuition Fees: €10,000–€13,000 per year for international programs

• Language of Instruction: English for several Master’s and some Bachelor’s; most Bachelor’s in Finnish

• Official website: oulu.fi

• Note: Strong ICT and environmental sciences focus.

5. University of Jyväskylä (Jyväskylä)

• Top Programs: Education and Teacher Training, Sports Sciences, Mathematics, Psychology

• Tuition Fees: €8,000–€12,000 per year for Master’s programs

• Language of Instruction: English for select Master’s; mostly Finnish for Bachelor’s

• Official website: jyu.fi

• Note: Especially good for education and natural sciences.

6. University of Eastern Finland (Joensuu & Kuopio)

• Top Programs: Forestry, Environmental Science, Medicine, Pharmacy, Education

• Tuition Fees: €8,000–€10,000 per year for Master’s programs

• Language of Instruction: English for Master’s; Bachelor’s mainly Finnish

• Official website: uef.fi

• Note: Offers scholarships with fee waivers up to 50%.

7. Haaga-Helia University of Applied Sciences (Helsinki & other campuses)

• Top Programs: Business Administration, Hospitality Management, Tourism, Computer Science

• Tuition Fees: €9,500–€10,500 per year for English Bachelor’s and Master’s programs

• Language of Instruction: English for many programs

• Official website: uwasa.fi

• Note: Scholarships linked to credits and Finnish language ability.

8. Tampere University of Applied Sciences (TAMK)

• Top Programs: Media and Arts, Business Information Systems, Nursing, Engineering

• Tuition Fees: Approx. €9,800 per year for English Bachelor’s programs

• Language of Instruction: English for most programs

• Official website: ulapland.fi

• Note: Scholarships for good academic progress (25%–50% tuition waivers).

9. Laurea University of Applied Sciences (Vantaa/Helsinki region)

• Top Programs: Nursing, Business Management, Hospitality Security Management

• Tuition Fees: €8,000–€10,000 per year for English-taught degrees

• Language of Instruction: English for some programs

• Official website: metropolia.fi

• Note: Scholarships with 50% tuition waiver for meeting credit requirements.

10. Arcada University of Applied Sciences (Helsinki)

• Top Programs: International Business, Mechanical Engineering, Nursing, Data Analytics

• Tuition Fees: €5,500–€11,000 per year (lowest starting tuition around €5,500)

• Language of Instruction: English for several programs

• Official website: haaga-helia.fi

• Note: One of the most affordable options for international students.

Related : Study in Greece Guide

10 Top Scholarships for Pakistani & International Students to Study in Finland

Finland offers many scholarships for international students, including Pakistani applicants, to support their studies. These scholarships come from universities, government programs, and organizations. Here are 10 important scholarships to consider:

1. University of Helsinki International Scholarship (Master’s)
   For non-EU Master’s students with strong academics. Covers full tuition + €10,000 grant or 50% tuition waiver. Awarded for 2 years based on progress.
   More info

2. Tampere University Scholarships (Master’s)
   Full tuition waiver for 2 years or full tuition + €7,000 stipend for top students. Also offers 50% waivers for others.
   More info

3. University of Oulu International Scholarship
   Tuition waivers from 50% up to 100% based on academic performance for Bachelor’s and Master’s students.
   More info

4. Aalto University Scholarship (Bachelor/Master)
   Full or half tuition waiver for non-EU students in English-taught programs, plus some living cost scholarships for top applicants.
   More info

5. Finland Government Scholarship Pool (Doctoral Research)
   Monthly €1,500 grant for 3–9 months for young researchers with Master’s degree and invitation from Finnish university.
   More info

6. EDUFI Fellowship (Doctoral Students)
   €1,500/month stipend for 3–12 months for doctoral research students hosted by Finnish professors.
   More info

7. University of Turku Finland Fellowship (Doctoral/Postdoc)
   Provides monthly salary and possible relocation allowance for one-year doctoral or postdoctoral studies, mainly in science and medicine.
   More info

8. University of Vaasa International Excellence Scholarships
   100% tuition waiver first year for top Master’s students; 50% waiver in second year if academic progress is good.
   More info

9. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Scholarships
   Fully funded scholarships for joint Master’s programs involving Finnish universities, including tuition, stipend, and travel costs.
   More info

10. HEC Pakistan Overseas Scholarship (Finland)
    Fully funded scholarships for high-achieving Pakistani students applying to top-ranked Finnish universities. Check HEC website for updates.
    More info

Pakistani students are advised to consult PakEuro  consultants for the latest, best scholarship options and application guidance for studying in Finland.

Related : Study in Portugal Guide

Academic Requirements for Pakistani Students to Study in Finland

Bachelor’s Admissions:

• Eligibility: Completion of Higher Secondary School Certificate (HSSC) or Intermediate (preferably First Division, >60%). For UK system students, at least 3 A-Levels with IBCC equivalence certificate.

• Entrance Exams: Most universities of applied sciences (UAS) require the International UAS entrance exam (online with group interviews). Academic universities may require SAT (aim for 1200+ score, Aalto University’s cutoff ~1300+).

• Documents: Intermediate certificate, O/A Level transcripts (with IBCC equivalence), passport copy, and proof of English (IELTS or O-level English accepted by some). Motivation letter if requested.

Master’s Admissions:

• Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree (ideally 4-year) or equivalent (e.g., 2-year Bachelor + 2-year Master from Pakistan accepted as 16 years education). Preferred CGPA 3.0/4.0 (75%) or higher.

• Documents: Attested Bachelor’s degree and transcripts, CV, Statement of Purpose (SOP), and recommendation letters.

• Portfolio/Interview: Required for creative fields; some programs conduct interviews.

• Application: Submit via Studyinfo.fi with a €100 fee; conditional offers possible for final-year students.

PhD Admissions:

• Eligibility: Master’s degree in relevant field; research experience and thesis/publications preferred.

• Application Process: Find advertised funded PhD positions or contact supervisors with research proposals. Submit research plan, CV, transcripts (HEC attested), motivation letter, and references.

• Funding: Many PhD positions are salaried (no tuition fee). Students pay only a small student union fee (~€70/year).

• Application Portals: Doctoral applications handled via individual university portals, not Studyinfo.

Language Requirements for Studying in Finland

Studying in Finland requires proficiency in one of the official languages — English, Finnish, or Swedish — depending on the program you choose. Below are the key details about language tests, minimum score requirements, and exemptions specifically relevant for Pakistani students.

English Language Requirements

Most English-taught programs require Pakistani students to demonstrate their English proficiency through recognized standardized tests:

• Accepted Tests:
  IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced, and C2 Proficiency. Some universities, such as the University of Helsinki, also accept the Duolingo English Test, though policies vary, so always verify with the specific university.

• Minimum Score Requirements:

  • IELTS: Generally, a minimum overall band score of 6.5 is required for Master’s programs, with no individual section below 5.5 or 6.0 depending on the university. For Bachelor’s programs, some universities accept an overall score of 6.0.

  • TOEFL iBT: Typically ranges from 79 to 92. Master’s programs often require a score of 90 or above.

  • PTE Academic: Usually a score of around 62 is considered equivalent to IELTS 6.5.

Part-Time Job Options for Pakistani Students in Finland

International students in Finland, including Pakistani students, are allowed to work part-time during their studies under specific rules. Here’s everything you need to know about part-time jobs in Finland:

Work Hours Allowed

• Students can work up to 30 hours per week on average during the academic term (updated rule since 2022).

• You can work more some weeks and less others, as long as the overall average stays at or below 30 hours per week.

• During holidays (summer break, Christmas), full-time work (40+ hours per week) is allowed.

Common Part-Time Jobs

• Cleaning Jobs: Office, school, mall cleaning. Companies like ISS, SOL, and RTK hire students. Pay is around €11–€13 per hour. Finnish is not mandatory but basic English helps.

• Restaurant & Kitchen Jobs: Kitchen assistant, dishwasher, waiter/server in English-speaking or ethnic restaurants. Pay around €10–€12 per hour, sometimes with free meals.

• Food Delivery: Work as a courier for apps like Wolt or Foodora. Flexible hours with earnings between €8–€15 per hour depending on workload and tips.

• Retail & Customer Service: Shelf stocking, warehouse work, call centers that operate in English. Finnish knowledge may be needed for cashier roles.

• University Jobs: Teaching assistant, research assistant, event helper. These usually pay higher (€13–€15 per hour) and are available mostly for Master’s or PhD students.

• Paid Internships: Part-time internships related to your field, often available after first year. Full-time summer internships can pay around €2000/month (pro-rated).

• Gig & Odd Jobs: Tutoring (English, Urdu, Punjabi), pet sitting, photography, and other freelance jobs.

Average Hourly Wages

• Cleaning: ~€11/hour

• Restaurant kitchen: ~€10–€12/hour

• Delivery: ~€10/hour (average)

• Retail: ~€12/hour

• University assistant jobs: ~€13–€15/hour

Taxes and Legal Requirements

• Obtain a Finnish tax card before starting work.

• If you earn less than about €10,000 per year, your tax might be very low or zero after deductions.

• Always sign a legal employment contract for worker protections.

• For gig work like food delivery, you might be considered self-employed and should handle taxes accordingly.

Living Expenses Breakdown for Pakistani Students in Finland

• Monthly living costs range between €700–€1,200 depending on city and lifestyle.

• Housing is the largest expense:

  • Helsinki student housing: €300–€600; private rent €700–€1,000.

  • Tampere/Turku: €250–€600.

  • Smaller cities: €250–€350 (student rooms).

  • Apply early for cheaper student housing and consider shared apartments to reduce costs.

• Utilities (electricity, water, internet) often included in rent; otherwise budget around €50/month.

• Food expenses are about €150–€250/month; subsidized university meals cost ~€3 each and help lower food costs.

• Transportation with student discounts costs roughly €30–€55/month; biking and walking are common and free.

• Health insurance and medical fees total about €70/year; minor additional costs for medicines or dental care.

• Study materials budget around €30–€50/month; many resources are free via libraries.

• Personal expenses include mobile phone (~€15/month), winter clothing (€200–€300 one-time), leisure, and toiletries.

• Costs vary by city, with Helsinki being the most expensive and smaller towns more affordable.

Post-Study Work & Permanent Residence (PR) Options in Finland for Pakistani Students

1. Post-Study Work Visa (Extended Residence Permit):

   • After graduation, you can apply for a 2-year job search permit (post-study work visa).

   • Allows full-time work without hourly limits.

   • Apply before your student permit expires, with proof of degree and funds (~€560/month).

   • This permit supports job hunting or starting a business.

2. Direct Work Permit After Graduation:

   • If you get a job offer, apply for a Continuous (A) residence permit for employment.

   • Requires a job in your field; salary threshold usually ~€3,000/month for specialists.

   • Time on A permit counts fully towards PR eligibility.

3. Permanent Residence (PR):

   • Eligible after 4 years of continuous residence on a Continuous (A) permit.

   • Student permit time does not count towards PR.

   • Must have lived in Finland at least half the time physically.

   • No language requirement for PR.

4. Citizenship:

   • Apply after 5 years of continuous residence (student time counts as half).

   • Requires Finnish or Swedish language proficiency (B1 level).

   • Must be financially independent.

5. Fields with Better Employment Prospects:

   • IT/Software Development: High demand, faster permits, some companies offer EU Blue Card.

   • Engineering: Good opportunities, especially in tech and manufacturing.

   • Healthcare (Nursing, Medicine): Acute shortage; requires Finnish language for patient care.

   • Business/Admin: Jobs available, Finnish language skills improve chances.

   • Academia/Research: Postdoc and researcher roles often offer continuous permits.

   • Entrepreneurship: Start-up permits available with viable business plans.

6. Employers Hiring International Graduates:

   • Major tech companies: Nokia, Ericsson, Supercell, Microsoft R&D, startups.

   • Manufacturing firms: KONE, Wärtsilä, ABB, Metso Outotec.

   • Universities and research institutes.

   • Business and finance firms with English-speaking roles.

7. Retention & Integration:

   • Over 90% of international students want to stay; 50-60% find jobs within 1-2 years.

   • Government policies support retention via 2-year post-study permits and streamlined work permits.

   • Learning Finnish (even basic) boosts employment opportunities outside IT.

8. Benefits of PR:

   • Freedom to live and work indefinitely without renewing permits.

   • Easier travel and access to social benefits.

   • Next step towards citizenship.

Admission Process (Bachelor, Master, PhD) for Pakistani Students — Finland

1. Find a Program:

   • Use Studyinfo.fi or university websites.

   • About 600 English-taught programs available (2025).

   • Choose programs matching your education and interests.

2. Check Eligibility:

   • Bachelor’s: Requires Intermediate (F.Sc/FA) or A-levels (Matric alone NOT sufficient).

   • Master’s: Requires a relevant 16-year Bachelor’s degree (4-year bachelor Pakistan).

   • PhD: Requires relevant Master’s degree (18 years education).

   • Strong academic record needed; competitive programs expect ~70%+ or CGPA ≥ 3.0/4.0.

3. Entrance Exams / Tests:

   • Bachelor’s (especially UAS): May require International UAS Exam (online logical reasoning, math, English), or SAT for some universities.

   • Master’s: Usually based on GPA, motivation letter, references; rarely GMAT/GRE.

   • PhD: Based on research proposal and supervisor interview; no standardized test.

4. English Language Requirements:

   • IELTS (usually 6.0 for Bachelor, 6.5 for Master), TOEFL or equivalent.

   • Some universities waive tests if previous degree was in English.

   • Finnish-taught programs require Finnish language skills (YKI B2).

   • It’s safest to take IELTS/TOEFL to avoid rejection.

5. Prepare Documents:

   • Attested educational certificates (IBCC for Matric/Inter, HEC for Bachelor/Master).

   • Passport scan.

   • English proficiency test scores.

   • CV (especially for Master’s and PhD).

   • Statement of Purpose / Motivation Letter.

   • Letters of Recommendation (1–2 for Master’s, 2–3 for PhD).

   • Additional (portfolios, GMAT/GRE) if required.

6. Apply Online via Studyinfo.fi:

   • Centralized joint application for Bachelor and Master’s (apply up to 6 programs per round).

   • Application fee: €100 for non-EU applicants (starting 2025).

   • Some programs have separate applications—always follow official instructions.

7. Submit and Send Documents:

   • Upload scanned documents during application.

   • Send officially attested hard copies if requested.

   • If degree is in progress, submit interim transcripts and final degree later.

8. Entrance Exam/Interview (If Required):

   • UAS exams online in March-April for Bachelor’s.

   • Master’s or PhD interviews may be via Skype/Zoom.

   • Prepare by practicing sample questions and be ready to explain motivation.

9. Admission Results:

   • Announced between March and May for January applications.

   • Accept offers via Studyinfo within the deadline.

   • You can only accept one offer in joint applications.

10. Tuition Payment & Scholarship:

    • Pay tuition fees before enrollment and residence permit application.

    • Tuition invoices sent after admission; payment deadlines apply.

    • Scholarships (if awarded) will reduce fees.

    • Partial payments may be allowed but first installment usually mandatory.

Finland Student Visa (Residence Permit) Process for Pakistani Students

1. Type of Permit

• You need a First Residence Permit for Studies (Category B), valid for the duration of your degree (usually 2 years for Master’s, possibly 4 years for PhD).

• Short exchanges (<90 days) may use a Schengen visa, but degree students must get the residence permit.

• After graduation, you can apply for a 2-year job-seeker permit.

2. When to Apply

• Apply after getting official admission letter AND paying tuition fees (with receipt).

• Ideally apply 3 months before studies start (e.g., May–June for August start).

• Early application recommended due to processing times.

3. How to Apply

• Use the Enter Finland e-service portal: enterfinland.fi

• Create an account, complete the student residence permit form, upload documents, and pay €450 application fee online (paper applications cost more).

4. Required Documents

• Valid Passport: Must cover the study period. Upload bio page scan.

• Passport Photo: Follow Finnish/Schengen specs (47x36mm, neutral expression).

• Admission Letter: Official “Certificate of student status” with program name and duration.

• Proof of Funds: Minimum €800/month for living costs (~€9,600/year). For longer permits, show proportional funds or tuition payment receipt.

  • Bank statements of last 3–6 months required, money should be stable in your own account.

  • If sponsored, show affidavit, sponsor’s bank statements, and relationship proof.

• Proof of Tuition Payment: Either receipt or show tuition amount in your funds if not paid yet.

• Health Insurance: Coverage of at least €40,000 for medical costs (valid for duration of permit).

• Academic Documents: Usually admission letter suffices; attach diplomas optionally.

• Optional: Cover letter for clarifications, police clearance certificate (not mandatory), medical fitness certificate including TB test (recommended).

5. Submit Application

• Fill form carefully, upload scanned docs with clear file names (e.g., AdmissionLetter.pdf).

• Pay fee online.

• Receive confirmation and application number.

6. Biometrics Appointment

• Book appointment at Gerry’s Visa Centers in Islamabad, Karachi, or Lahore.

• Bring originals: passport, admission letter, bank proof, insurance, photo, fee receipt.

• Fingerprints and photo taken; sometimes brief interview on study plans and funding.

• Answer honestly and confidently.

7. Processing Time

• Usually 2–4 weeks if documents are complete.

• Peak times (summer) may take 6–8 weeks.

• Track status via EnterFinland portal.

• Respond promptly if additional info requested.

8. Approval & Residence Permit Card

• If approved, you get an email and can collect your biometric residence permit card from Gerry’s or via courier.

• Card acts as your visa and allows travel in Schengen Area for up to 90 days per 180 days.

9. Travel & After Arrival

• Travel to Finland anytime after permit is issued.

• Register local address and get Finnish personal ID upon arrival.

• Renew permit before expiry for continued studies.

Most Popular Study Fields in Finland for International Students

1. Information Technology (IT) & Computer Science

• Programs: Software Engineering, AI, Data Science, Cyber Security, Cloud Computing.

• Strong ICT sector: Nokia, Linux origin, gaming giants (Supercell, Rovio).

• Career: High demand; entry salary €3,200–3,500/month in Helsinki region.

• Language: English common in IT workplaces.

• Pakistani students often succeed here.

2. Engineering (Various Disciplines)

• Fields: Electrical, Mechanical, Environmental, Energy, Telecommunications, Automation/Robotics, Industrial Engineering, Civil Engineering.

• Focus on green energy, renewable tech (e.g., wind power), sustainable tech.

• Career: Good demand due to retiring workforce and tech growth.

• Salaries: €2,800–3,500/month starting, varies by discipline.

3. Business & Management

• Degrees: MBA, International Business, Finance, Marketing, Supply Chain.

• Popular universities: Aalto, Hanken, Oulu.

• Career: More competitive without Finnish language; better in finance, IT management, entrepreneurship.

• Salary: €2,500–3,000/month starting (business analyst).

• Pakistani students often pursue MBA or International Business but should prepare for networking and language challenges.

4. Health Sciences & Nursing

• Degrees: Nursing (RN), Public Health, Biomedical Sciences, Global Health.

• Huge demand for nurses; nursing on Finland’s critical shortage list.

• Career: Nurses with Finnish language have excellent prospects; some hospitals accept English speakers initially.

• Salary: Starting around €2,300–2,500/month.

• Medical doctor programs mainly in Finnish/Swedish; research roles available in English.

5. Data Science & Artificial Intelligence

• Emerging and highly popular subfield of IT.

• Programs: Data Science, AI, Machine Learning, Big Data Analytics.

• Career: Very strong demand; salaries ~€3,500–4,000/month entry level.

• Good prospects for skilled international graduates.

6. Electronics, Embedded Systems & 5G/6G Tech

• Finland is a global leader in wireless communications (Nokia HQ in Oulu).

• Focus: Wireless engineering, IoT, embedded systems.

• Career: Telecom R&D jobs; many teams operate in English.

7. Game Development & Creative Digital Fields

• Finland’s gaming industry is world-renowned (Angry Birds, Clash of Clans).

• Universities offering Game Design and Development: Aalto, Kajaani, TAMK.

• Career: Competitive but rewarding; roles for programmers, designers, artists.

8. Environmental Science & Sustainability

• Fields: Renewable Energy, Sustainable Energy Tech, Forestry, Climate Change.

• Universities: LUT (sustainable tech), University of Eastern Finland (forestry).

• Career: Growing demand in green tech, consulting, environmental agencies.

• Finnish language sometimes needed for government roles; multinationals often English-speaking.

9. Architecture & Built Environment

• Finnish architecture is renowned globally.

• Programs: Architecture, Urban Planning.

• Career: Competitive without Finnish; better in international firms or with language skills.

10. Education & Pedagogy

• Famous Finnish education system.

• Programs: M.Ed., Learning Sciences, Early Childhood Education.

• Career: Teaching public schools requires Finnish; international schools and EdTech companies offer English roles.

Growing Industries & Job Market Overview in Finland

• ICT & Digital Tech: Software, AI, data science, gaming – strong growth.

• Clean Tech & Renewable Energy: Battery tech, biofuels, wind power.

• Healthcare & Biotechnology: High demand for nurses, researchers.

• Advanced Manufacturing & Robotics: Industry 4.0 needs engineers.

• Business Services & Startups: Vibrant Helsinki startup scene.

Salary & Employment Insights