Study in Finland from Pakistan

Checked October 9, 2026 against official sources

Finland appeals to Pakistani students looking for a high-quality, practical education in one of the world's most innovative countries. Its universities focus on research, while universities of applied sciences offer career-oriented degrees with strong links to working life. Around 600 bachelor's and master's programmes are taught in English, and everything is applied for through one national portal, Studyinfo.fi. Graduates can also stay on to look for work or start a business.

Money to show (visa)800 EUR / monthabout PKR 248,370
Student visa feesabout PKR 186,278
Work while studyingUp to 30 hours per week on average during the academic year; full-time during holidays (work that is part of the degree may be exempt)
Work after graduationResidence permit to look for work or start a business: up to 2 years after completing a Finnish degree

Why Pakistani students choose Finland

  • Around 600 English-taught bachelor's and master's programmes
  • One national application portal: Studyinfo.fi
  • Two types of institution: research universities and practical universities of applied sciences (UAS)
  • Work up to 30 hours per week on average during studies
  • Post-study residence permit of up to two years to find work or start a business
  • Doctoral programmes are tuition-free regardless of nationality

What it costs

Minimum living funds for the student residence permit (Migri requirement)
Equals EUR 9,600 per year; Study in Finland recommends budgeting EUR 900-1,200 per month. Tuition fees must be covered separately.
800 EUR per month
about PKR 248,370

Living costs: Helsinki (daily food, transport and rent estimates).

Work out the money to show in PKR → · Tuition is listed on each university page below.

Universities in Finland

All 3 →

Scholarships in Finland

All 4 →

Student visa and English

  • Finland student visa: requirements, documents and fees
  • About 600 bachelor's and master's programmes are taught in English; English test requirements (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, Cambridge) and exemptions vary by university, and some fields such as medicine are only in Finnish or Swedish.
  • You must have valid insurance to get the student residence permit, and degree students pay an annual student healthcare fee (about EUR 70 per year) to use the Finnish Student Health Service.

Steps to study in Finland

  1. Find your programme on Studyinfo.fi and check its application period, eligibility and English language requirements.
  2. Apply on Studyinfo.fi, usually in the January joint application for autumn intake, and pay the EUR 100 application fee for non-EU/EEA applicants.
  3. Take any entrance exam or interview the programme requires and apply for university scholarships or tuition waivers.
  4. Accept your study place (only one per term) once you receive the admission letter through Studyinfo.fi.
  5. Prepare proof of funds (at least EUR 800 per month plus tuition) and valid insurance.
  6. Apply for the student residence permit through the Enter Finland portal of the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri).
  7. Visit the nearest Finnish embassy or consulate for identity verification, then follow your application status in Enter Finland.
  8. Travel to Finland once the permit is granted and follow your university's arrival and registration instructions.

Frequently asked questions

Can I study in Finland without IELTS?

It depends on the programme. Finnish universities accept tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, PTE or Cambridge English, but some applicants can qualify through other evidence or exemptions. Requirements differ by university and programme, so check the programme description on Studyinfo.fi and the university's website.

Is Finland free for Pakistani students?

No. Non-EU/EEA students usually pay tuition for English-taught bachelor's and master's programmes, typically EUR 9,000 to 20,000 a year. Programmes taught in Finnish or Swedish and all doctoral programmes are tuition-free. Universities offer scholarships and fee waivers, but there are no Finnish government scholarships.

How much money do I need for a Finnish student residence permit?

The Finnish Immigration Service's minimum is EUR 800 per month (EUR 9,600 per year) for living costs, in addition to tuition fees. Study in Finland recommends planning for EUR 900 to 1,200 per month depending on the city. You also need valid insurance.

Can my family join me in Finland?

Yes, eligible family members can apply for a residence permit to join a student. They must meet Migri's financial requirements, which depend on family size and location. Family members granted a permit can work and study without restriction. Check the latest rules on Migri.fi.

Can I stay in Finland after graduation?

Yes. After completing a Finnish degree you may apply for a residence permit to look for work or start a business, granted for up to two years, subject to Migri's requirements. If you already have a job, a different permit based on your Finnish degree may suit you.

Official study portal

Amounts in PKR use today's exchange rate. Rules change; always confirm on the official pages linked here before you apply.