Finland is a good option if you want a calm study environment, strong universities, and many English-taught programmes at master's level. International relations is usually offered inside political science, social sciences, global studies, or international politics. Start by checking the university's programme page, because entry rules and tuition can change from year to year.
What you can study
International relations is not always a separate degree. In Finland, you may find it as part of a wider field, such as political science, world politics, or international studies.
- Bachelor's level: fewer English-taught options. Many bachelor's degrees are in Finnish or Swedish.
- Master's level: more English-taught options. This is often the main entry point for international students.
- Related subjects: public policy, political science, peace and conflict studies, area studies, and global development.
If you are unsure which programme fits you, search the university's admissions page and the programme page. Look for the exact name of the degree, not just the subject area.
Typical entry requirements
Requirements depend on the level and the university. The same subject can have different rules at different schools, so always read the official admissions instructions.
- For bachelor's studies: you usually need a secondary school certificate, proof of language level, and sometimes an entrance exam or selection based on grades.
- For master's studies: you usually need a relevant bachelor's degree, transcript, diploma, language proof, and sometimes a motivation letter or CV.
- English level: many programmes ask for proof such as IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or another accepted test. Some universities may accept previous English-medium study.
- Other documents: passport copy, references, portfolio or writing sample if the programme asks for one.
Some programmes are selective. A strong application does not mean admission, because places can be limited.
Tuition fees and living costs
In Finland, tuition depends on your citizenship and the university. EU, EEA, and Swiss students often study without tuition in public universities for degree programmes, but this is not universal, so always check the programme page. Non-EU and non-EEA students usually pay tuition for English-taught degrees.
- Tuition for non-EU students: typically several thousand euros per year, and often in the range of about EUR 8,000 to EUR 18,000, sometimes more for some programmes.
- EU, EEA, and Swiss students: often no tuition for degree studies at public universities, but there may still be small fees or costs for materials, membership, or services.
- Living costs: budget for housing, food, transport, insurance, phone, and study materials. A realistic student budget is often around EUR 700 to EUR 1,200 per month, depending on the city and your housing choice.
For visa and residence permit questions, use the Finnish Immigration Service and the university's own guidance. Do not rely on old forum posts.
Application timeline
Most Finnish universities have a clear annual cycle, but dates differ by programme. Many master's applications open in winter or early spring for studies starting in autumn.
- 6 to 12 months before study start: shortlist programmes, check entry rules, and prepare language tests.
- 3 to 6 months before the deadline: gather transcripts, diploma, passport, references, and translation if needed.
- During the application period: submit online through the university or Studyinfo.fi if the programme uses it.
- After the decision: accept the place, arrange housing, and start your residence permit process if needed.
If you need a scholarship, check the university's scholarship page and the scholarship provider's own site. Deadlines are often tied to the admission round.
How universities choose candidates
Admission offices usually compare applications based on academic fit and the documents you submit. They may also use entrance exams, interviews, writing samples, or ranking criteria.
- Academic background: your previous studies should match the field.
- Grades: some programmes use grade-based selection.
- Motivation: a clear statement can help if the programme asks for one.
- Language skills: you must meet the minimum English requirement.
There is no general rule that one profile is always better than another. The exact selection method is always on the official admissions page.
Where to start
Begin with a short list of Finnish universities that offer international relations or a close subject in English. Compare the curriculum, entry requirements, tuition, scholarship options, and city costs.
- Check the university's admissions page for entry rules and deadlines.
- Check the programme page for course content and language requirements.
- Check Studyinfo.fi for many Finnish study options and application details.
- Check the Finnish Immigration Service if you need a residence permit.
It also helps to prepare one clean set of documents early. That makes it easier to apply when you find a programme that fits you.
Common questions
Is international relations easy to find in English in Finland?
At master's level, yes, there are more English-taught options. At bachelor's level, English options are more limited, so check each university carefully.
Can I study in Finland without speaking Finnish?
For many international programmes, yes. But you still need to meet the English requirement, and everyday life is easier if you learn some Finnish later.
Can I work while studying?
International students often can work part-time, but the rules depend on your permit and situation. Check the Finnish Immigration Service for the current work rules before you rely on them.
How Eduuro helps
Create a free profile with your field, education, English level and documents, and admissions offices that search for exactly that can find you and write first.
This way, you do not have to wait for the right programme page to notice you.
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.