The University of Helsinki, one of the top universities in Finland, offers a range of scholarships for international students pursuing master’s degree programs. These scholarships provide an opportunity for academically outstanding students to study in one of Europe’s leading research institutions while easing the financial burden of tuition fees and living expenses.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the University of Helsinki international scholarships, covering eligibility requirements, application procedures, required documents, deadlines, and tips for securing a scholarship.
Why Apply for a University of Helsinki International Scholarship?
Studying at the University of Helsinki is a great opportunity for international students, offering access to world-class education and research facilities. However, tuition fees for non-EU/EEA students can be expensive.
To help with this, the University of Helsinki offers merit-based scholarships to cover tuition fees and, in some cases, provide a living allowance.
Key Benefits of University of Helsinki Scholarships
✔ Full or partial tuition fee coverage for master’s programs.
✔ Living allowance up to €10,000 per year for selected scholarship recipients.
✔ Opportunities for academic development, research projects, and networking.
✔ Study in Finland with access to globally ranked faculty and research centers.
✔ No separate application fee required for scholarship applications.
Winning a University of Helsinki international scholarship significantly reduces study costs and enhances career opportunities.
Types of Scholarships Available at the University of Helsinki
The University of Helsinki provides several scholarship options for international students pursuing a master’s degree program.
1. University of Helsinki Scholarship
✔ Covers full tuition fees for the two-year duration of the master’s program.
✔ Awarded to exceptionally talented students based on academic merit.
✔ Some students may also receive a living allowance of €10,000 per year.
Eligibility:
✔ Must be a non-EU/EEA student.
✔ Must be applying for a master’s program at the University of Helsinki.
✔ Must demonstrate excellent academic performance.
✔ Separate scholarship application required during the master’s program application process.
2. University of Helsinki Partial Tuition Fee Scholarship
✔ Covers up to 50% of tuition fees.
✔ Available for students who demonstrate strong academic merit but do not receive full funding.
Eligibility:
✔ Must be a non-EU/EEA student.
✔ Must have an outstanding academic record.
✔ Must meet the English language proficiency requirements.
✔ Separate scholarship application required.
3. Finland Scholarship (For Non-EU/EEA Students)
✔ A prestigious scholarship offered by the Finnish government and the University of Helsinki.
✔ Covers full tuition fees plus a €5,000–€10,000 relocation grant for living expenses.
Eligibility:
✔ Must be a non-EU/EEA student applying for a master’s degree at the University of Helsinki.
✔ Must have excellent academic performance.
✔ All applicants are automatically considered when applying for a master’s program.
4. The University of Helsinki Honors Scholarship
✔ A merit-based tuition fee reduction scholarship for top-performing students.
✔ Covers 25% to 50% of tuition fees.
Eligibility:
✔ Must be a non-EU/EEA student.
✔ Must demonstrate strong academic achievement.
✔ No separate application required – automatically considered upon admission.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a University of Helsinki International Scholarship
To successfully secure a scholarship, follow these step-by-step instructions.
Step 1: Choose an Eligible Master’s Program
✔ Research the available master’s degree programs at the University of Helsinki.
✔ Ensure that your chosen program aligns with your academic and career goals.
✔ Check if the program qualifies for a scholarship.
Tip: Visit the University of Helsinki’s official website to find a complete list of master’s programs.
Step 2: Check Scholarship Eligibility and Application Requirements
✔ Determine which scholarship suits your academic profile and financial needs.
✔ Ensure that you meet all eligibility criteria for the scholarship.
✔ Prepare to apply for both admission and a scholarship at the same time.
Step 3: Prepare Required Documents for the Scholarship Application
To strengthen your application, you need to submit the following:
✔ Online Application Form – Available through the University of Helsinki’s admissions portal.
✔ Academic Transcripts and Certificates – Official copies of your bachelor’s degree and other academic qualifications.
✔ Curriculum Vitae (CV) – A well-structured CV highlighting your academic and professional achievements.
✔ Motivation Letter – An essay explaining:
- Your academic background.
- Your career goals.
- Why you chose the University of Helsinki.
- Why you deserve the scholarship.
✔ Proof of English Language Proficiency – TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE scores.
✔ Letters of Recommendation – At least two strong reference letters from professors or employers.
✔ Research Proposal (If required) – If applying for a research-based program, include a detailed study plan or research proposal.
✔ All documents must be translated into English or Finnish, if necessary.
Step 4: Submit the Scholarship and Admission Application
✔ Log in to the University of Helsinki application portal.
✔ Fill out the application for admission to your chosen master’s program.
✔ Indicate your interest in the scholarship within the application form.
✔ Upload all required documents in the correct format.
✔ Review your application carefully before submission.
✔ Scholarship applications must be submitted at the same time as the degree program application.
Step 5: Wait for the Admission and Scholarship Decision
✔ The University of Helsinki’s scholarship committee evaluates applications based on:
- Academic excellence.
- Motivation and leadership potential.
- Relevance of chosen study program.
✔ If awarded a scholarship, you will receive an official email notification.
✔ Scholarship results are announced along with admission decisions.
Deadlines for University of Helsinki Scholarships
✔ Application for master’s programs and scholarships: December – January (Exact dates vary each year).
✔ Results announced: By April.
Applying early and ensuring that all documents are complete improves your chances of securing a scholarship.
Tips for a Successful University of Helsinki Scholarship Application
✔ Start Early – Prepare documents and essays well in advance.
✔ Maintain High Academic Performance – Strong GPA and academic records are essential.
✔ Write a Strong Motivation Letter – Clearly explain your academic goals, career vision, and why you deserve the scholarship.
✔ Get Strong Letters of Recommendation – Choose professors, mentors, or employers who can highlight your strengths.
✔ Submit a Well-Organized Application – Ensure all documents are complete and well-formatted.
✔ Check the official website for updates – Requirements may change each year.
What to Do If You Don’t Get a Scholarship?
If you are not awarded a University of Helsinki scholarship, consider these alternative funding options:
✔ Look for external scholarships – Many organizations and governments offer scholarships for studying in Finland.
✔ Apply for student loans or grants – Some international students qualify for education loans or sponsorships.
✔ Consider part-time work – International students in Finland can work up to 30 hours per week to support themselves.
Applying for multiple funding options increases the chances of securing financial support.
Final Thoughts on University of Helsinki International Scholarships
The University of Helsinki offers generous merit-based scholarships to support talented international master’s students. By following this step-by-step guide, students can successfully apply for and secure funding, making their dream of studying in Finland a reality.
Key Takeaways:
✔ Scholarships available for full and partial tuition coverage.
✔ Applications must be submitted along with the master’s program application.
✔ Strong academic performance and motivation letter improve selection chances.
✔ Scholarship decisions are announced by April each year.
With proper preparation, securing a University of Helsinki International Scholarship is possible!