Study in Finland: Complete Application Guide for International Students

Study in Finland

Application Criteria

• You are at least 18 years of age (no upper age limit)

• You have a high school certificate or general school-leaving certificate

• Minimum Duolingo English test score of 85

• Good IT skills and access to your own computer/laptop

• Good physical and mental health to study and work in your chosen field

• Sufficient funds for living expenses (proof required for residence permit)

Language Requirements

All applicants must have a Duolingo English test score of at least 85 points, submitted during the application process. Only the Duolingo test is accepted. Other tests, diplomas, or qualifications will not be accepted.

Application Process

• Apply only during the open admission period (only one program per period)

• Complete the official application form (email applications are not accepted)

• Attach required documents: school/work certificates, Duolingo certificate, motivational video

• Take the online aptitude/entrance test

• If shortlisted, attend an interview via Microsoft Teams

• If accepted, confirm your study place and apply for a residence permit and accommodation

Benefits of Residence Permit

Residence Permit Types:

• A Permit – Continuous Residence Permit (for higher education degrees)

• B Permit – Temporary Residence Permit (for other degrees or exchange students)

Upgrade from B to A permit possible if studying higher education and meeting requirements.

Working Rights:

• Work up to 30 hours/week on average (can exceed in some weeks if annual average remains 30)

• Full-time work allowed during holidays

• No hour restrictions for internships/diploma work earning credits

• Employers must verify working hours; compliance monitored by Occupational Safety and Health Administration

Steps to Apply for a Residence Permit in Finland

• Fill in the application via Enter Finland online service

• Pay the application fee online or at a Finnish mission abroad

• Prove your identity at a Finnish embassy or consulate

• Wait for the decision – notifications sent via email/text

Government & Processing Fees

First Residence Permit Fee: KWD 162 / INR 44,300

Processing Fee: KWD 300 / INR 35,000

General Requirements (Vocational Education Act 531/2017)

• Necessary qualifications for the field

• Educational need and motivation to study

• Suitability for field tasks

• Sufficient health requirements

• Adequate language proficiency

Specific Requirements for English-language Vocational Programs

• At least 18 years old (no upper age limit)

• Education equivalent to 9 years of Finnish basic education

• Original or translated certificates in English, Finnish, or Swedish (translations must be notarized)

• Duolingo English test score meeting minimum requirement

• Valid passport or personal ID-card attached to application

Application Periods

• November 2025 – Cook, Waiter/Waitress, Machinist (Programs start August 2026)

• April 2025 – Cook, Waiter/Waitress (Programs start January 2027)

• November 2026 – Cook, Waiter/Waitress, Plater-welder (Programs start August 2027)

Application Procedure

• Upload all required documents during the application period (preferably in PDF)

• Work/Employment certificate not mandatory

• Motivational letter not required

• Top applicants invited to Teams interviews

• Final selection based on interview performance

• 20–25 students selected per program

• Results announced 2–3 months after closing date

• Admission letter includes health document requirements

• Apply for residence permit as soon as study place is confirmed

• Visit doctor in home country for required health checks

• Send required medical test results to school nurse before arrival