Living and studying in Finland

Thinking about studying in Finland? Start your journey by discovering what makes Finland one of the world's most popular study destinations.

Finland has consistently ranked as one of the top countries to study in. The Finnish education system is famous for its high quality, and employers around the world value Finnish qualifications. Students appreciate the modern learning environments, as well as the wide range of support and career services. Finland offers an excellent environment to develop the knowledge, skills, and international perspective needed to succeed in a rapidly changing world. At the same time, its safe society, clean natural surroundings, and balanced way of life create an ideal setting for student life.

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Photo of a frozen lake in the winter, with three people walking a dog in the distance and the sun is shining in the background.

Key facts about Finland

Population: 5,6 million
Capital: Helsinki
Official languages: Finnish, Swedish
Location: Northern Europe
Currency: Euro (€)

A happy and safe country with clean nature and four distinct seasons

Finland is the happiest country in the world according to the World Happiness Report 2026, having topped the rankings for nine consecutive years. The high level of happiness is linked to factors such as strong social trust, optimism about the future, confidence in public institutions, and solid support from family and friends. Finnish society is stable and well-functioning, and Finland has also been recognised as the safest place in the world.

Finland is known for its clean and accessible natural environment. The country has 188 000 lakes, which are among the cleanest in the world, and approximately 70% of the land area is covered by forests. In northern Finland, you can experience the midnight sun during summer, when the sun does not set for over two months, as well as the aurora borealis, also known as the northern lights.

Finland has four distinct seasons with significant temperature variations depending on the season and region. Winters in Finland are snowy, especially in the north, where snow typically covers the ground from late October until April. In the southern parts of the country, winters are generally shorter and milder. Summers in Finland are warm and bright, with average temperatures around 20°C, but in the hottest days, it can get much warmer.

Do you need to speak Finnish to study in Finland?

Finland is one of the world’s leading countries in English language proficiency, so even if you do not speak Finnish or Swedish, you will have no difficulty communicating in everyday situations. However, learning Finnish is highly encouraged, especially if you plan to build your career in Finland after graduation, as Finnish language skills are required for many job opportunities. Knowing the language can also help you integrate into the local culture and community.

LAB provides a wide range of language courses and language counselling to support your learning. In some degree programmes, Finnish language studies are included as compulsory courses.

Three people sitting around a square table at campus

Finnish language courses at LAB

Article: Finnish language – do you have to master it?

Low hierarchy, work-life balance and personal responsibility

Finnish culture values low hierarchies, work-life balance, and personal responsibility, which is reflected in everyday student life. Teachers are approachable and typically addressed by their first names, independent thinking is encouraged, and there is time to enjoy life beyond your studies.

Punctuality, honesty, and personal responsibility are also highly valued in Finland, both in academic settings and working life. As a student, you are expected to take responsibility for the progress of your studies, as well as general living arrangements. Fortunately, a wide range of support services is available to help you along the way.

Visit eLAB to learn more about living in Finland

Finnish student culture and student life

The Finnish student culture is unique. One of its most visible features is the colourful, badge-decorated overalls that students wear to various events and celebrations. Student events are an essential part of student life, and there are many traditions associated with them.

At LAB, the student union KOE and student associations make sure that you have plenty of opportunities to get involved and connect with fellow students outside the classroom. Active participation in student organisations is also a great way to develop valuable career skills, build your network, and demonstrate initiative that can benefit you when applying for jobs after graduation.

Photo of students who are wearing overalls at campus. There are balloons in the foreground of the picture.

Student Union KOE

What are student overalls?

The ABCs of Finnish student events

Student accommodation in Lahti and Lappeenranta

Finland does not have a campus dormitory system, but students have access to affordable and safe accommodation through dedicated student housing providers in both Lahti and Lappeenranta. Higher education students typically live in studios, one-bedroom apartments or shared apartments, and there are many accommodation options located near campuses or within easy public transportation access. Please note that students are responsible for arranging their own accommodation.

Student accommodation in Lahti and Lappeenranta

Students’ living costs in Finland

According to the Finnish Immigration Service, international students in Finland should have a minimum of €800 per month at their disposal to be able to pay for accommodation, food, and other living costs. However, actual living costs can vary a lot depending on your location, accommodation type, and individual lifestyle, and therefore, we recommend budgeting approximately 900-1,200€ per month for your living expenses (excluding tuition fees).

Good news for students choosing LAB: Lappeenranta, one of our campus cities, has been ranked as the most affordable student city in Finland!

Living costs in Finland

Employment and funding your studies

During your studies at LAB, you will have opportunities to build professional connections, for example, through the work placement included in all bachelor's degree programmes. You can also connect with local companies through practical projects, guest lectures, thesis work, and networking events.

Non-EU/EEA students with a student residence permit are allowed to work up to 30 hours a week during their studies. However, finding employment as a student is not guaranteed and can be challenging, especially without Finnish language skills. For this reason, you should not rely on it to cover your living expenses or tuition fees. Before starting your studies, make sure you have sufficient funding to support yourself throughout your degree. This will also allow you to focus on making the most of your studies and student experience at LAB.

LAB's Career Services provide guidance to support students' smooth transition into the labour market, including career counselling, webinars, and workshops.