Study Abroad: Why Finland is a Top Choice for Indian Students?

For the seventh year in a row, Finland has been named the happiest country in the world. This reputation, combined with its high-quality education system, makes Finland a popular choice for Indian students looking to study abroad. Despite recent discussions about increasing tuition fees, Finland remains an attractive destination because of its safe, clean environment and excellent job opportunities.

High-Quality Education

The Finnish universities are known for their excellent facilities and strong educational programs. For students from outside the European Union (EU) or European Economic Area (EEA), there are several scholarships available that can help cover tuition fees. Many scholarships cover at least the first year’s tuition and offer additional support, such as relocation grants.

For example, the University of Vaasa provides International Excellence Scholarships to students with a high academic record. If you have a GPA of 4/5 or higher, you might qualify for a tuition fee waiver of EUR 3,000 (about Rs 2.73 lakh) for programs like Finance, or EUR 1,000 (about Rs 91,116) for programs such as Industrial Management. This financial aid makes studying in Finland more affordable.

Top Programs and Opportunities in Finland

Finland is especially well-regarded for its master’s programs in areas like Business and Management, Engineering and Technology, and Computer Science and IT. The University of Vaasa, for instance, has business programs that rank in the top 20% globally, according to the Shanghai Rankings. This high ranking indicates the strong reputation and quality of Finnish higher education.

Another major advantage of studying in Finland is the job opportunities available to international students. The EnergyVaasa region, for example, is home to the largest Nordic energy cluster, with 180 companies and around 13,000 employees. This creates a promising job market for graduates, especially those in the energy sector.

Number of Work and Stay Options in Finland

International students in Finland can work part-time during their studies, up to 25-30 hours per week, and full-time during vacation periods. This allows students to gain valuable work experience and earn extra money. After graduation, students can apply for a flexible two-year post-study visa, which lets them stay in Finland to look for work or start their own business. This visa flexibility also extends to doctoral graduates and researchers.

Also Read: All You Need to Know About Part-Time Jobs in Finland for International Students

Cost of Living in Finland

The cost of living in Finland is relatively low compared to other Western European countries. Students should budget between 500 and 800 euros per month for basic expenses, such as accommodation and food. Additionally, living in Vaasa is generally cheaper than in other Finnish cities, making it a cost-effective option for students.

Recent Changes in Tuition Fee Laws

In May of this year, the Finnish government proposed changes to the tuition fee structure for students from outside the EU and EEA. If these changes are approved, students from these regions might need to pay the full cost of their education and an application fee. This proposal aims to help universities improve their financial situation and to encourage international students to stay in Finland longer.

Expanding Opportunities in Finland

Currently, over 2,000 Indian students are studying in Finland. The country is working on expanding its capacity to welcome even more students in the future. This expansion is part of Finland’s ongoing effort to attract talented international students and offer them high-quality education and opportunities.

For Indian students interested in studying abroad, Finland offers an appealing mix of high-quality education, job opportunities, and a welcoming environment. 

Although tuition fees might increase in the future, the current scholarships and financial aid options make it an attractive destination. With its strong academic programs, excellent job prospects, and relatively low cost of living, Finland remains a top choice for students seeking a rewarding study experience.

Also Read: Study in Finland for Indian Students

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