Why the system is different
In most countries you apply to each university separately. Finland runs a central national system: you apply once, upload documents once, and rank up to six programmes.
The upside is less work and one fee. The risk is that missing the window costs a full year.
Key dates and fees
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| First joint application (autumn 2027 start) | 7–21 January 2027 |
| Maximum programmes per application | 6 |
| Application fee (non-EU/EEA) | EUR 100 |
| Tuition | Typically EUR 8,000–13,000 a year |
| Scholarships | University-specific, often 50–100% |
⚠️ Dates and fees change. Verify on Studyinfo and studyinfinland.fi before applying — both official sources are linked below.
The priority order, which is widely misunderstood
You rank your six programmes 1 to 6. When results are published, you receive an offer only from the highest-ranked programme you qualify for — not from the lower ones, even if you also qualify there.
So the strategy is:
- 1Put what you actually want at number 1, even if the odds are lower. The order does not reduce your chances; it only decides which offer you get
- 2Put realistic choices in the middle
- 3Put safe choices last — where admission is most likely
Use all six slots. Six chances for the same fee.
Entrance exams and selection
Many Finnish programmes run a selection exam, often held online for international applicants. It is more common at bachelor's level; master's selection is frequently document-based, sometimes with an interview.
Read the programme page's "selection criteria" section carefully — it states what percentage is decided by what.
English requirements
Finland typically asks for IELTS 6.0–6.5 depending on the programme. Some exemptions exist — for example where a previous degree was taught in English — but the conditions are specific and stated on the programme page. Do not assume; an MOI certificate does not work everywhere.
After applying
- Results usually arrive in spring
- If you receive an offer you must accept within a set period or lose it
- Then comes tuition or scholarship confirmation, then the residence permit application
⚠️ Finland requires a residence permit, not a visa. You apply online through Migri and then attend in person — not in Dhaka but in New Delhi — for biometrics and identity verification. Full steps in the Finland guide.
Planning your year
| When | What |
|---|---|
| Aug–Oct | Research programmes, sit IELTS, collect documents |
| Nov–Dec | Finalise your six, write motivation letters |
| 7–21 January | Submit and pay |
| Feb–Apr | Selection exams and interviews |
| Spring | Results, accept offer, scholarship |
| Summer | Residence permit, funds, flights |
Official sources — check for yourself
Rules and figures change. We review these articles periodically and show the date above, but always confirm the current requirement with the official source before you act on it.
Common questions
How many programmes can I apply to in Finland?+
Up to six in a single joint application. Use all six — the same EUR 100 fee covers them all, so applying to fewer gains nothing.
How does the priority order work?+
You receive an offer only from the highest-ranked programme you qualify for, not from lower ones even if you also qualify there. So put what you genuinely want at number 1 — the order does not reduce your chances, it only decides which offer you get.
When do I apply for an autumn 2027 start?+
The first joint application runs 7–21 January 2027. The window is only two weeks, so have documents and IELTS ready by the end of the previous year. Verify the dates on Studyinfo before applying.
Want this checked against your own profile?
Send us your results, IELTS status and budget. We will tell you honestly which countries are realistic and what your application is missing. The first consultation is free.
Talk to us on WhatsApp