If you want to study electrical engineering in Finland, you will usually look at either a bachelor’s or a master’s programme. Finland has good English-taught options, but entry rules, tuition, and costs depend on the university and the programme page.
This guide gives you the practical basics: what levels exist, what schools usually ask for, what it may cost, and how to start. Always check the university’s admissions page and the Finnish Immigration Service if you need a residence permit.
What study levels exist
In Finland, electrical engineering is often part of a wider degree area such as technology, electronics, automation, communications, or computer engineering. The exact name can change from university to university.
- Bachelor’s degree - usually 3 years, often 180 ECTS.
- Master’s degree - usually 2 years, often 120 ECTS.
- Integrated path - some students start in a bachelor’s programme and continue to a master’s later.
Many English-taught bachelor’s programmes in Finland are more limited than master’s programmes. At master’s level, there are more options for international students. Some programmes focus on electrical power engineering, some on electronics, and others on embedded systems or communications.
Typical admission requirements
Universities in Finland set their own rules, but there are common patterns. For bachelor’s studies, they usually want proof of completed secondary education, such as an upper secondary diploma or another qualification that gives access to higher education in your country.
For master’s studies, you normally need a relevant bachelor’s degree in engineering or a close field. Some universities also want proof of mathematics, physics, or programming in your previous studies.
- School diploma or bachelor’s degree, depending on level
- Official transcripts and degree certificates
- Proof of English language ability
- Passport or ID copy
- Motivation letter, CV, or study plan, if asked
- Possible entrance exam, interview, or online assessment
English test requirements vary. Universities may accept IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or other proof. Some may waive the test if you studied in English before, but this depends on the university. Always check the programme page for the accepted tests and minimum scores.
English-taught options in Finland
Many Finnish universities of applied sciences and universities offer English-taught programmes in technology. Electrical engineering may appear under a broader title, so search for related words like electronics, automation, energy technology, telecommunications, and embedded systems.
When you compare programmes, look at more than the title. Check:
- Whether the whole degree is taught in English
- The focus area, such as power systems or electronics
- Whether you need work experience
- Whether there is an entrance exam
- Whether the degree is a university degree or a university of applied sciences degree
Universities of applied sciences are usually more practice-oriented. Research universities are usually more theory-focused. Both can lead to good careers, but the study style is different.
Tuition fees and living costs
In Finland, students from EU and EEA countries usually do not pay tuition fees for degree studies at public universities. Non-EU and non-EEA students often pay tuition fees for English-taught degree programmes. The exact fee depends on the university and programme, so check the official programme page.
For non-EU students, tuition is typically in the range of several thousand euros per year and can be higher in some programmes. Many universities also offer scholarship options, but these are competitive and rules change by institution. Check the scholarship page of each university.
Living costs also matter. Finland is not a low-cost country, especially in larger cities such as Helsinki, Tampere, Turku, or Oulu.
- Student housing may be cheaper than private rent
- Food, transport, books, and phone costs add up
- A monthly budget often needs careful planning
- Health insurance may be needed for residence permit rules
If you need a residence permit, the Finnish Immigration Service is the official source for financial proof, insurance, and permit rules. Do not use old forum posts for this.
Timeline: when to start
Plan early. Many Finnish universities open applications once a year for autumn intake, and the application period is often in the first months of the year. Some programmes may also have other rounds, but you must check each university’s calendar.
A simple timeline looks like this:
- 6 to 12 months before start - research programmes and entry requirements
- 4 to 6 months before start - prepare documents and English proof
- During the application window - submit your application online
- After the deadline - wait for results, possible exam, or interview
- After admission - accept the offer, arrange housing, and apply for a residence permit if needed
Always use the university admissions page for the exact dates. Deadlines can differ a lot between schools and between bachelor’s and master’s routes.
How universities find candidates
Finnish universities do not only wait for paper applications. Many admissions teams also search student databases and international student profiles to find people who match a programme. If you have a clear profile, you can become easier to find.
They usually look for:
- Your field of interest
- Your highest education level
- Your English level
- Your documents and grades
- Your country and study goals
That means your profile should be clear and complete. If you want to study electrical engineering, write related interests such as electronics, energy systems, automation, or telecommunications. This helps the right admissions office understand what fits you.
Common questions
Can I study electrical engineering in Finland in English?
Yes, many programmes are taught in English, especially at master’s level and at universities of applied sciences. Availability changes by university, so check the programme page carefully.
Do I need to know Finnish?
Not always. Many degree programmes for international students are in English. But Finnish can help you in daily life, part-time work, and long-term career plans.
Can I get a scholarship?
Maybe. Some universities offer tuition waivers or scholarships, mostly for non-EU students. Read the scholarship rules on the university or scholarship website, because the support is never automatic.
How Eduuro helps
Create a free profile with your field, education, English level, and documents, so admissions offices that search for exactly that can find you. Then they can write first, and you stay in control of who contacts 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.