If you want to study business administration in Finland, you usually choose between a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree. Many programmes are in English, and the application process is clear, but it is still competitive. The exact rules depend on the university and programme, so always check the official admissions page.
Which study levels exist?
In Finland, business administration is often offered as:
- Bachelor’s degree - usually for students who are finishing secondary school or already have a relevant qualification.
- Master’s degree - usually for students who already have a bachelor’s degree in business or a related field.
- Universities of applied sciences - practice-oriented programmes, often called UAS or polytechnics.
- Research universities - more academic programmes, often with a stronger theory focus.
Some programmes are called business, management, international business, or business administration. Read the programme description carefully, because the name alone does not tell you everything.
English-taught options
Many Finnish universities offer English-taught business programmes, especially at master’s level and in international business. At bachelor’s level, there are also English programmes, but places can be limited.
- Check the programme language on the university website.
- Look for the required English test or proof of previous study in English.
- Some programmes ask for both language proof and academic background proof.
If you are applying in English, you do not usually need Finnish for admission. But learning some Finnish can help in daily life and later jobs.
Typical entry requirements
Most universities ask for a completed school or degree qualification, plus documents that prove your academic level. For a bachelor’s programme, this is often a secondary school qualification. For a master’s programme, it is usually a recognised bachelor’s degree.
Common requirements include:
- School leaving certificate or degree diploma
- Transcript of records
- Proof of English level, such as IELTS, TOEFL, or another accepted test
- Motivation letter or statement of purpose, if the programme asks for it
- CV, for many master’s programmes
- Sometimes GMAT, GRE, or entrance exam results
Some universities use an entrance exam or selection task. Others admit students mainly on documents and scores. The official programme page is the best place to see the exact selection method.
Tuition and living costs
EU, EEA and Swiss students often study in Finland without tuition fees in many public degree programmes, but there can be exceptions. Non-EU and non-EEA students usually pay tuition fees for English-taught degree programmes. The amount depends on the university and the programme, so check the programme page and the university’s fee policy.
As a realistic guide, tuition for non-EU students in Finland is often in the range of a few thousand euros per year and can go much higher depending on the programme. Do not rely on a blog number alone. The official university page is the only safe source.
Living costs depend on the city and your lifestyle. A common student budget includes:
- Rent and utilities
- Food
- Local transport
- Books and study materials
- Phone and personal costs
Many students plan for several hundred euros per month, and larger cities can cost more. In addition, non-EU students usually need to show enough funds for a residence permit. Check the Finnish Immigration Service, Migri, for the current requirement.
Application timeline and documents
Finnish universities often have one main application period each year, but some programmes have separate rounds. Deadlines can change, so check the university admissions calendar early.
A practical timeline looks like this:
- 6 to 12 months before start - shortlist programmes and check requirements.
- 3 to 6 months before - prepare documents, language test, CV, and motivation letter.
- During the application period - submit your application and upload all required files.
- After applying - follow any interview, entrance exam, or additional document request.
- After admission - arrange tuition payment, housing, insurance, and residence permit if needed.
Keep your documents in clear PDF form and make sure names and dates match across all files. If documents are not in English, Finnish, or Swedish, you may need certified translations. The university will say what it accepts.
How universities find candidates
Finnish universities and admissions offices often search student profiles, databases, and application platforms for people who match a programme. They may look for your field, degree level, grades, English level, and documents.
If you want to be easier to find, make your profile clear:
- Say that you want business administration, international business, management, or a related field.
- Add your current education level and expected graduation date.
- List your English test or other language proof.
- Upload the documents you already have.
- Write what country you are from and where you want to study.
Some universities also use their own application portals and some use national systems. Always read the university admissions page to see where and how to apply.
Common questions
Do I need Finnish to study business administration in Finland?
Not always. Many English-taught programmes accept international students without Finnish at admission stage. But Finnish can help with jobs, internships, and daily life.
Can I study business administration in Finland after secondary school?
Yes, if you meet the programme’s entry requirements. For bachelor’s studies, your school qualification and English level matter most. Some programmes also use an entrance exam or selection process.
Is Finland cheap for international students?
It can be manageable, but it is not free for everyone. Tuition rules and living costs depend on your status, city, and programme. Always check the university’s official fee page and Migri for residence permit funds.
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.