University of Helsinki Scholarship 2026 For international students

Are you looking for a fully funded scholarship to study at one of the top universities in Europe? The University of Helsinki Scholarship offers a golden opportunity for international students to pursue master’s degrees in Finland.

Overview of the University of Helsinki Scholarship

The University of Helsinki provides scholarships for talented international students from outside the EU/EEA. These scholarships are designed to cover tuition fees and offer support for living costs.

• Available for non-EU/EEA students only
• Covers full tuition or full tuition + living grant
• Duration: 2 years (entire Master’s program)
• Language of instruction: English
• Awarded based on academic excellence
• Includes the Finland Fellowship for research-minded students
• Application via the University’s online portal
• No separate application; scholarship form integrated
• Must be applying to a Master’s program
• Only available during the admissions process

Apply also: University of Turku Scholarship

Types of Scholarships Offered

Applicants can choose from three types of scholarships depending on their financial needs and academic profile.

• Fully funded (tuition fee + 10,000 EUR grant)
• Tuition fee only
• Finland Fellowship (targeted at research students)
• Non-renewable after the initial two years
• Can be combined with part-time work in Finland
• Intended to ease the transition into Finnish society
• Prior academic performance is a major factor
• Motivation letter required in application
• Must remain enrolled and perform well to retain funding
• Encourages post-graduation employment in Finland

Apply also: University of Oulu Scholarship

Eligibility Criteria for University of Helsinki Scholarship

Meeting the eligibility criteria is essential to be considered for the scholarship. Here’s what you need to qualify:

• Be a non-EU/EEA citizen
• Apply to an English-taught Master’s program
• Have excellent academic credentials
• Hold a relevant Bachelor’s degree
• Meet all academic program requirements
• Submit application during official admissions period
• Provide motivation letter and supporting documents
• Language proficiency in English (IELTS, TOEFL, etc.)
• Not already residing in Finland permanently
• Have no other tuition fee waiver in Finland

Apply also: Tampere Polytechnic Scholarship

How to Apply for the University of Helsinki Scholarship

Applying for this scholarship is integrated with the Master’s degree application. No additional forms or platforms are needed.

• Choose a suitable Master’s program
• Start the online application at Studyinfo.fi
• Indicate your wish to apply for a scholarship
• Upload required documents (transcripts, CV, motivation letter)
• Submit proof of English language proficiency
• Pay the application fee (if applicable)
• Meet the deadline (typically January each year)
• Wait for admission and scholarship results together
• Prepare to move to Finland upon acceptance
• Start visa and residence permit application after confirmation

Apply also: University of Tampere Scholarship

Required Documents for Scholarship Application

You’ll need to upload specific documents when submitting your scholarship and degree program application.

• Bachelor’s degree certificate
• Academic transcripts in English
• Proof of English language proficiency
• CV with academic and work history
• Motivation letter (why Finland, why Helsinki University)
• Passport or other official ID
• Recommendation letters (optional but beneficial)
• Proof of funding (only if partial scholarship)
• Work experience certificate (if relevant)
• Portfolio (for specific programs like arts/design)

Apply also: University of Vaasa Scholarship

University of Helsinki Master’s Programs Eligible for Scholarship

Only select Master’s degree programs taught in English are eligible for this scholarship. These programs cover a wide range of fields.

• Environmental Change and Global Sustainability
• Data Science
• Computer Science
• Agricultural, Environmental and Resource Economics
• Neuroscience
• Translational Medicine
• Atmospheric Sciences
• International Business Law
• Global Politics and Communication
• Food and Nutrition

Apply also: University of Lapland Scholarship

Benefits of the University of Helsinki Scholarship

The scholarship doesn’t just cover tuition; it also helps students settle and thrive in Finland.

• Full or partial tuition fee waiver
• 10,000 EUR annual grant (for fully funded)
• Supports accommodation and living costs
• Health care through Finnish Student Health Services
• Access to all university facilities and labs
• Integration into international student community
• Free Finnish language courses
• Career support and job search assistance
• Eligible for residence permit
• Possibility to work part-time during studies

Apply also: University of Joensuu Scholarship

Living in Helsinki as an International Student

Helsinki offers a high quality of life with excellent infrastructure and student services.

• Safe and modern capital city
• Efficient public transportation system
• Student discounts on transport, meals, and events
• Affordable student housing options
• Multicultural and welcoming environment
• English widely spoken
• Plenty of outdoor activities and green spaces
• Vibrant tech and startup scene
• Access to libraries and research centers
• Close to other European cities

Apply also: Sibelius Academy Scholarship

Important Deadlines and Timeline

Knowing the application timeline is crucial to submitting a successful application.

• Applications open: December each year
• Deadline for submissions: Mid-January
• Results announced: March–April
• Accept offer: by end of April
• Apply for residence permit: April–May
• Arrive in Finland: August
• Semester begins: September
• Orientation for new students: Late August
• Grant payments begin: September

Apply also: Lappeenranta University of Technology Scholarship

University of Helsinki Scholarship Success Rate

Competition is high, but students with strong applications stand a good chance.

• Acceptance rate around 10–15%
• Over 80 countries represented among applicants
• Programs with highest success: Science, Law, and Social Sciences
• Motivation letter plays a key role
• Higher GPA improves chances
• Early application submission is recommended
• Recommendations enhance credibility
• Realistic career goals improve appeal
• Show commitment to study in Finland
• Language skills are a bonus

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

The University of Helsinki Scholarship opens doors to world-class education in a vibrant European capital. It’s competitive but worth the effort for ambitious students.