If you want to study mechanical engineering in Finland, you usually start by choosing between a bachelor's or a master's path. Most programmes are taught in English at master's level, while bachelor's options in English are fewer, so it is important to check each university's admissions page early.
What study levels exist
In Finland, mechanical engineering is offered at two main levels:
- Bachelor's level - usually 3 to 4 years, depending on the institution and programme structure.
- Master's level - usually 2 years, for students who already have a relevant bachelor's degree.
Some universities of applied sciences focus more on practical engineering studies, while universities often focus more on theory, research and design. The right choice depends on your background and your goals.
Typical entry requirements
Requirements vary by university, but for mechanical engineering you often need strong maths and physics. For master's studies, schools usually ask for a suitable bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a closely related field.
- Secondary school diploma for bachelor's admission.
- Relevant bachelor's degree for master's admission.
- Proof of English, usually with IELTS, TOEFL or another accepted test.
- Academic records, transcripts and sometimes a motivation letter.
- In some cases, an entrance exam, interview or portfolio of previous projects.
Admission rules can change, so always check the university's admissions page and the exact programme page before you apply.
English-taught options in Finland
Many Finnish universities offer engineering programmes in English, especially at master's level. Bachelor's options in English exist too, but they are less common, so do not assume every university has one.
Useful things to check on each programme page:
- Language of instruction.
- Whether the degree is a bachelor's, master's or a polytechnic degree.
- Special focus areas such as manufacturing, energy systems, automation, materials or product development.
- Whether the programme has a practical internship or thesis.
If you want to work in Finland after graduation, also check whether the programme includes industry contacts, because that can help you meet employers later.
Tuition and living costs
Tuition in Finland depends on your citizenship and the university. EU, EEA and Swiss students often study tuition-free in public higher education, but they still need to check the current rules on the university site. Non-EU students usually pay tuition fees, and the amount varies by programme and university.
For non-EU students, tuition for English-taught degree programmes is often in the range of several thousand euros per year, and in many cases around the middle to upper part of that range for engineering. Do not rely on a random number from a blog - check the programme page for the exact fee and any scholarship option.
Living costs also matter. In many Finnish cities, students should plan for rent, food, transport, books and personal costs. A realistic monthly budget is often around:
- Housing: one of the biggest costs, especially in larger cities.
- Food: moderate if you cook often.
- Transport and phone: usually manageable, but still important.
- Miscellaneous costs: study materials, health care and everyday expenses.
Always check the university's own cost estimate and Finland's official immigration or study pages if you need proof of funds for a residence permit.
When to apply and what to prepare
Finnish universities often have fixed annual application periods, and many international degree applications are submitted months before the study starts. Some programmes also use a joint application system, while others use separate admission rounds.
A simple timeline can look like this:
- 6 to 12 months before start: search programmes and compare admission rules.
- Several months before the deadline: take an English test if needed.
- Before the deadline: prepare transcripts, diploma copies and any extra documents.
- After applying: follow email updates and admission results.
- After admission: confirm your place, pay any tuition deposit if required, and start the residence permit process if needed.
Because deadlines and document rules can change, the safest source is the university admissions page. For visa or residence permit questions, use the national immigration authority's website.
How universities find candidates
Finnish universities do not only wait for applicants to search them. They also look for students with the right subject background, English level and documents. This is especially useful if you have a clear profile in mechanical engineering.
They may search for:
- Students with a matching field, such as mechanical engineering, industrial engineering or materials engineering.
- Applicants with the right education level.
- Students who already meet the English requirement.
- People with project work, internships or lab experience.
This means it helps if your information is complete and easy to understand. A clear profile can make it easier for admissions teams to contact you first.
Common questions
Can I study mechanical engineering in Finland in English?
Yes, many master's programmes are in English, and some bachelor's options exist too. Always check the individual programme page, because availability changes by university.
Do I need work experience?
Usually not for bachelor's admission. For master's programmes, work experience is sometimes helpful but not always required. The programme page will say whether it is needed.
Will I get a scholarship?
Maybe, but never assume it. Scholarship rules are different for each university and programme, so check the scholarship page and apply on time if there is one.
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 can save time if you are comparing several Finnish programmes and want universities to notice your profile directly.
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.