If you want to study nursing in Finland, you usually start with a bachelor level degree in nursing, then later you can move to master level study if you already have a relevant degree and work experience. Finland has some English-taught options, but many programmes are in Finnish, so language is a key part of the plan.
This guide gives you a practical overview of admission, costs, and the usual timeline. Always check the university or university of applied sciences programme page, the Finnish Immigration Service, and the school's own admissions instructions for the latest rules.
What nursing study levels exist in Finland?
In Finland, nursing is usually studied at a university of applied sciences. The main study routes are:
- Bachelor level - a professional degree in nursing, often called a Bachelor of Health Care or similar. This is the usual first step if you want to become a nurse.
- Master level - for students who already have a suitable higher education degree. These programmes are usually more advanced and may focus on leadership, development, or specialist health topics.
Some schools also offer separate health care programmes related to nursing, such as public health nursing or gerontological nursing. The exact title and structure depend on the institution.
Are there English-taught nursing programmes?
Yes, but not everywhere. English-taught bachelor programmes exist, yet many Finnish nursing programmes still use Finnish because clinical practice usually needs strong local language skills.
Before you apply, check these points on the programme page:
- Is the whole programme in English, or only part of it?
- Do you need Finnish language skills before practice placements?
- Does the school expect you to study Finnish during the degree?
- Is the programme open to EU and non-EU applicants alike?
If you want to work as a nurse in Finland after graduation, Finnish language ability is usually very important. For licence and professional practice rules, check the Finnish health care authority and the National Supervisory Authority for Welfare and Health, known as Valvira.
Typical admission requirements
Entry rules vary by school, but nursing programmes in Finland often ask for a mix of school grades, language proof, and sometimes an entrance exam or interview.
Common requirements include:
- Upper secondary school completion or an equivalent qualification for bachelor level study
- Proof of English, such as IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or another accepted test, if the programme is in English
- Good grades in biology, chemistry, maths, or related subjects may help, depending on the programme
- Entrance exam, online test, interview, or motivation check
- For master level, a relevant bachelor degree and often work experience
Some programmes use the national joint application system, while others have their own application process. The university or university of applied sciences admissions page is the official place to check.
Tuition and other costs
For EU, EEA, and Swiss students, public higher education in Finland is usually tuition free for degree programmes, but you should still check the exact rules for your case and programme.
For non-EU and non-EEA students, tuition fees are usually charged for English-taught degree programmes. The exact amount depends on the school and programme, and it is often in the range of several thousand euros per year. Check the programme page for the current fee.
Other costs you should plan for:
- Living costs - housing, food, transport, phone, study materials, and daily needs. A realistic student budget is often around 700 to 1,200 euros per month, but this depends on the city and your lifestyle.
- Accommodation - student housing can be cheaper than private rent, but places can be limited.
- Insurance and residence permit costs - especially for non-EU students. Check the Finnish Immigration Service for the current rules.
- Books and equipment - some courses may need extra materials.
Scholarships may exist, especially for non-EU applicants, but they are not automatic. Check the scholarship page of the university or university of applied sciences for exact conditions.
When to apply and how the timeline usually works
Application rounds in Finland are often planned months in advance, and the schedule can change from year to year. Many programmes open for autumn intake, but some also have spring intake or separate rolling admissions.
A simple timeline looks like this:
- 6 to 12 months before start - choose programmes, check language rules, and prepare documents
- Several months before deadline - take language tests and collect transcripts, diplomas, and copies of your passport
- Application period - submit your form and upload documents on time
- After application - complete entrance exam, interview, or extra task if required
- After admission - apply for housing, residence permit if needed, and travel planning
If you are a non-EU student, do not leave the residence permit step too late. Check the Finnish Immigration Service for document rules and processing guidance.
Where universities find candidates
Finnish universities and universities of applied sciences usually find applicants through their own admissions systems, joint application rounds, and sometimes partner recruitment channels. They also look at international applicant databases and student profiles.
This means your profile matters. A clear profile helps admissions offices see:
- What you want to study
- Your current education level
- Your English level
- Your documents and achievements
- Which country you are from and when you want to start
Many schools will contact you only if they can match your profile to a programme they are recruiting for, so keep your information complete and up to date.
Common questions
Do I need Finnish to study nursing in Finland?
Not always for admission, because some programmes are in English. But Finnish is often needed for clinical practice and later work, so it is smart to start learning early.
Can I work while studying?
Many international students can work part time, but the rules depend on your residence permit and study type. Check the Finnish Immigration Service for the current work conditions.
Is nursing a good route to stay and work in Finland?
It can be, but it depends on your degree, language skills, licence recognition, and job market needs. No study route gives a guaranteed job or visa extension.
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 gives you a simple way to show interest in nursing in Finland without applying everywhere one by one.
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.