Finland is a strong place to study environmental science if you want clean technology, nature protection, climate work, or sustainability careers. You can usually find both bachelor’s and master’s options, and many programmes are taught in English. The exact rules, costs, and deadlines change by university, so always check the programme page and the university’s admissions site.
What you can study
Environmental science can be a full degree or a special track inside subjects like biology, chemistry, geography, forestry, or sustainability. In Finland, you will often see these study levels:
- Bachelor’s level - usually 3 years and 180 ECTS.
- Master’s level - usually 2 years and 120 ECTS.
- Pathway or foundation study - sometimes offered, but not at every university.
Many bachelor’s programmes are in Finnish or Swedish. English-taught bachelor’s options exist, but they are fewer. Master’s programmes in environmental science and related fields are more common in English.
Typical entry requirements
For a bachelor’s programme, you usually need a secondary school qualification that gives access to higher education in your country. Some universities also use an entrance exam, a SAT result, or a selection based on grades. For a master’s programme, you normally need a relevant bachelor’s degree in environmental science or a related field.
Common requirements can include:
- school diploma or degree certificate
- transcripts
- proof of English, if the programme is in English
- motivation letter or statement of purpose
- CV for some master’s programmes
- portfolio or extra documents, if the programme asks for them
Check the university’s admissions page for the exact degree background they accept. Some programmes want specific study credits in science, maths, or statistics.
English and language options
Many international students choose English-taught programmes. That said, not every environmental science course in Finland is in English, especially at bachelor’s level. If you want to study in English, look for the programme language on the official page before you apply.
You may be asked to show English ability with one of these:
- IELTS
- TOEFL iBT
- PTE Academic
- other accepted tests listed by the university
Some universities waive the test if your previous degree was taught fully in English, but this is not automatic. The university decides, so check its language policy.
Costs: tuition and living
Tuition depends on whether you are an EU or EEA student, or from outside the EU or EEA. In Finland, public higher education is usually free for EU and EEA students in degree programmes, but you should always confirm the current rule on the university and national study pages. Non-EU and non-EEA students usually pay tuition fees for English-taught degrees.
Typical tuition for non-EU students is often in the range of about 8,000 to 18,000 euros per year, but some programmes are lower and some are higher. Do not assume the same fee across universities. The exact amount is always on the programme page.
Living costs depend on the city and your spending style. A realistic student budget is often about 700 to 1,200 euros per month for housing, food, transport, phone, and basic personal costs. Helsinki and other larger cities are usually more expensive than smaller university towns.
Other costs to plan for:
- application fee, if your nationality must pay one
- health insurance, if required for your residence permit
- books and study materials
- first rent payment and possible deposit
Timeline and how to apply
Finnish universities often have an annual application round for many English-taught degrees, commonly in early winter for studies starting in autumn. But dates vary by programme, so do not rely on a general calendar. Always check the university admissions page and the joint application system if the programme uses it.
A simple application plan looks like this:
- Choose 3 to 5 programmes that match your background.
- Check entry rules, fees, and required documents.
- Book your English test early, if needed.
- Collect transcripts, degree copies, and translations if required.
- Apply before the deadline.
- Wait for the result and then read the next steps carefully.
If you are admitted, you may need to prove funds for your residence permit. The exact amount and rules come from the Finnish Immigration Service, also called Migri. Check Migri’s official website before you apply for a permit.
How universities choose candidates
In Finland, admissions are usually based on a clear set of criteria. Universities often compare your grades, your previous study background, your motivation, and sometimes your entrance exam or test score. For competitive programmes, strong documents matter a lot.
To improve your chances, make your application clean and specific:
- show that your previous studies fit environmental science
- explain why Finland and why this programme
- highlight project work, lab work, fieldwork, or volunteer experience
- follow every document format instruction exactly
If the programme has a selection test, prepare early. If it asks for a motivation letter, be direct. Say what you want to study and what you can bring to the class.
Common questions
Can I study environmental science in Finland in English?
Yes, many master’s programmes are in English, and some bachelor’s programmes are too. The number of English-taught options is smaller at bachelor’s level, so check each programme page carefully.
Do I need work experience to apply?
Usually no for a bachelor’s degree. For a master’s degree, work experience is not always required, but internships, lab work, fieldwork, or research can help if the programme values practical experience.
Can I get a scholarship?
Some universities offer scholarships, especially for non-EU students, but they are competitive and limited. Check the university scholarship page or the scholarship’s own site for the current rules and deadlines.
How Eduuro helps
Create a free profile with your field, education, English level, and documents. Admissions offices that search for exactly that can find you and write first.
Rules, fees and deadlines change. Check the university's own admissions page and the official immigration site of the country before you act on anything here.