PhD in Finland 2024: Scope, Universities & Scholarships

Latest Update University of Helsinki: University of Helsinki: The application period is from August 29 to September 12, 2025. Åbo Akademi University: The application opens on December 9, 2025, for the spring 2026 intake.  University of Jyväskylä: Applications for the autumn 2025 intake open on September 1, 2025.  University of Eastern Finland & Tampere University: The application window will be closed on May 31, 2025 . Next application cycle: 1 August – 30 November.

Finland has become a popular destination for international PhD students, offering strong research opportunities with a focus on innovation. Finland invests 2.9% of its GDP in research, fostering an excellent environment for academic development. With over 20,000 international students, Finland provides a diverse and welcoming research community.

Top universities like the University of Helsinki and Aalto University are known for their high-quality programs. Finnish PhD graduates enjoy a high employment rate of 96%, reflecting the value of their education. 

A PhD in Finland offers zero tuition fees for EU/EEA students and affordable rates for others. The country also promotes gender equality, with women making up nearly 60% of doctoral graduates. 

 PhD Program in Finland: Overview

Understanding a PhD in Finland, aligned with the Bologna Process, helps you plan your journey, from program length and supervision to language and fees. Knowing about the 60 ECTS coursework and thesis defense reduces uncertainty. This clarity helps you prepare a strong application and choose the right university.

Here are some key highlights of a PhD in Finland for Indian students:

Aspect	Details
Duration	4 years (full-time); extensions may be possible depending on research progress
Supervision	Individual or joint supervision, sometimes involving industry or partner institutions
Tuition Fees	Free or Self-funded
Coursework	Typically, 60 ECTS credits are focused on providing a strong theoretical foundation.
Research Focus	Independent, original research (240 ECTS credits total)
Assessment	Thesis defense (public examination)
Entry Requirements	Master's degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field; prior research experience preferred
Language	English or Finnish (English proficiency required for English-taught PhDs)

Now that you've covered the basics of the PhD program, let's take a look at the top universities offering a PhD in Finland for Indian students.

Top 9 Universities to Study for a PhD in Finland

Finland is home to 13 world-class universities like Aalto University, the University of Helsinki and 22 universities of applied sciences, offering a diverse range of PhD opportunities. These institutions offer a high-quality education, flexible study options, and excellent research programs, making them perfect for anyone looking to pursue advanced studies.

Here's a snapshot of the top nine universities for a PhD in Finland for Indian students, along with their approximate tuition fees:

University Name	QS World University Ranking 2025	Key Research Strengths
Aalto University	113	Art and Design Architecture Economics and Business Administration
University of Helsinki	117	Environmental, food, and biological sciences Health sciences Social sciences
Lappeenranta-Lahti University of Technology (LUT)	336	Technology Economics and Business Administration Social Sciences
University of Oulu	344	Human Sciences Technology and Natural Sciences Health and Biosciences
University of Turku	375	Medicine Law Technology
Tampere University	462	Education Engineering Social sciences
University of Jyväskylä	489	Mathematics Psychology Sport & Health Science
University of Eastern Finland	535	Philosophy Health Sciences Science, Forestry, and Technology
Åbo Akademi University	621	Psychology and Theology Education and Welfare Studies Social Sciences

Having identified the top universities, let's move on to the qualifications you'll need to apply for a PhD in Finland.

Eligibility Criteria for PhD in Finland

PhD programs in Finland have a 75% acceptance rate for qualified applicants. To apply, you need a relevant master's degree and research potential. Meeting these criteria makes the process competitive but achievable.

Here's a quick overview of the main eligibility requirements for PhD programs in Finland:

Parameter	Requirement
Academic Qualifications	Must have completed a Master's degree or an equivalent qualification in a relevant field of study.
Entrance Exam	Not typically required.
Language Proficiency	English: IELTS = 6.5, TOEFL iBT = 92, or equivalent. Finnish/Swedish is required for programs taught in these languages.
Research Proposal	A well-prepared research proposal is a critical part of the application.
Supervisors	Applicants must have at least two supervisors for their PhD research, with one being the main supervisor.
Application Process	Applications are typically submitted through the national portal Studyinfo, with required documentation.
Funding	Doctoral students need to secure their own funding as there are no tuition fees or scholarships available.
Application Documents	Include academic transcripts, Statement of Purpose, supervisor's confirmation, and proof of language proficiency.
Visa Requirements	Non-EU students must apply for a student visa once accepted. The process requires proof of financial means and health insurance.

Now that you know what's required, let's discuss the application process that will help you secure your spot in a Belgian medical school.

Application Process for PhD in Finland

Understanding the application process is crucial to submitting a strong, complete application and increasing your chances of admission.

The application process for PhD studies in Finland involves submitting academic documents and reaching out to potential supervisors prior to applying and obtaining their approval for the research plan.

Here's a detailed guide to help you through the application process for a PhD in Finland for Indian students:

Step 1: Choose Your Doctoral Programme

Select a program that closely matches your research interests and academic background.

Step 2: Find a Supervisor

Contact potential supervisors early to get their approval for your research plan.

Step 3: Prepare Research Proposal

Draft a clear, focused research proposal outlining your research goals and methods in collaboration with your supervisor.

Step 4: Demonstrate Language Proficiency

Applicants must show their language skills in Finnish, Swedish, or English. For English proficiency, the university may accept IELTS (6.5), TOEFL (92), or other equivalent language tests. 

Step 5: Submit Application and Documents

Apply via the Studyinfo portal with all necessary academic and program-specific documents.

Step 6: Review and Selection

Your application will be evaluated based on academic merit, research proposal, and supervisor confirmation.

Step 7: Accept Offer and Enroll

Confirm your acceptance and complete enrollment formalities promptly.

Step 8: Visa and Funding

Apply for a student visa if required and secure funding early in consultation with your supervisor.

Once you've completed the application process, it's time to explore the various specializations within the PhD program in Finland.

PhD in Finland: Program Overview & Specializations

A PhD in Finland usually takes about four years and starts with 60 ECTS credits of coursework to build a strong research foundation. Finnish universities offer various specializations and flexible options to align your studies with your career goals. 

Structure of the PhD Program in Finland

Finland follows the European Bologna Process, structuring doctoral studies into two main phases: coursework and research. The program usually spans four years of full-time study and concludes with a publicly defended dissertation.

Here’s a breakdown of the key components and timeline of the program:

Program	Duration	Description
Coursework	1 year	Completion of 60 ECTS credits, covering research methodology, philosophy of science, and subject-specific knowledge.
Doctoral Thesis	4 years	A significant research project that forms the core of the doctoral degree. Students must produce original research and contribute to their field of study.
Teaching Experience	Optional	Many PhD students gain experience by teaching courses and supervising undergraduate students.
Annual Progress Reviews	Ongoing	Regular evaluations are conducted to monitor research progress, provide feedback, and refine the research direction.
Final Defense	3–6 months	Public defense of the dissertation, evaluated by external examiners and an academic committee.

Here's a visual outlining the journey to complete a PhD in Finland for Indian students:

 

With an understanding of the program structure, let's move on to the specialization options available to PhD students in Finland.

Specializations in the Medical Program

Choosing the right PhD specialization can be overwhelming, especially when options like Business Administration and Corporate Social Responsibility each demand different skills and research focus. You need clear insights on how these programs align with your career goals and the academic support available.

Here are the available specializations:

Specialization Area	University	PhD Programme
Business Administration	Aalto University	Doctoral Programme in Business, Economics and Finance
	Åbo Akademi University	Doctoral Programme in Business Administration
Finance	Aalto University	Doctoral Programme in Business, Economics and Finance
	University of Oulu	Economics and Business Administration
	University of Jyväskylä	Doctoral Programme in Business Studies
Economics	University of Helsinki	Doctoral Programme in Economics
	University of Turku	Doctoral Programme in Economics
	University of Jyväskylä	Doctoral Programme in Economics
Management	Aalto University	Doctoral Programme in Business, Economics and Finance
	University of Jyväskylä	Doctoral Programme in Business Studies (Management and Leadership)
Marketing	Aalto University	Doctoral Programme in Business, Economics and Finance
	University of Jyväskylä	Doctoral Programme in Business Studies (Marketing)
Supply Chain Management	LUT University	Doctoral Programme in Business and Management (Supply Chain and Logistics)
	Aalto University	Doctoral Programme in Business, Economics and Finance
Accounting	Aalto University	Doctoral Programme in Business, Economics and Finance (Accounting)
	University of Jyväskylä	Doctoral Programme in Business Studies (Accounting and Corporate Finance)
Entrepreneurship	Aalto University	Doctoral Programme in Business, Economics and Finance (Entrepreneurship)
	University of Jyväskylä	Doctoral Programme in Business Studies (Strategy and Entrepreneurship)
Business Analytics	LUT University	Doctoral Programme in Business and Management (Business Analytics)
	Aalto University	Doctoral Programme in Business, Economics and Finance (Business Analytics)
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)	Aalto University	Doctoral Programme in Business, Economics and Finance (Sustainability and CSR)
	Hanken School of Economics	PhD in Supply Chain Management and Social Responsibility

After understanding specializations, let's move on to the financial commitments involved in studying a PhD in Finland.

PhD in Finland: Tuition Fees & Living Costs

When considering a PhD in Finland, it's essential to understand the costs involved. While tuition fees for non-EU/EEA students range from INR 63.1K – 1.14L per month, living expenses can also add up. Proper planning for both tuition and living costs will help ensure a smooth academic journey in Finland.

Below is a breakdown of the estimated monthly costs for studying a PhD in Finland:

Cost Category	Amount Per Month (EUR)	Amount Per Month (INR)
Accommodation	250 – 450	24K – 43K
Food	170 – 320	16K – 31K
Transport	30 – 60	2.8K – 5.7K
Phone	20 – 40	1.9K – 3.8K
Internet	30	2.9K
Sports	10 – 25	0.9K – 2.4K
Clothing	30 – 50	2.9K – 4.8K
Entertainment	50	4.8K
Travel/Sightseeing	50	4.8K
Miscellaneous (spontaneous activities, one-off purchases)	50 – 100	4.8K – 9.5K
Total	660 – 1200	63.1K – 1.14L

Note: 

• The INR amounts are approximate, based on the current exchange rate.
• These costs are approximate and may vary depending on personal preferences and the specific location. 
• Additional expenses, such as a rent deposit or study materials, may arise during the initial months.

Having explored the costs, it's essential to understand how financial aid and scholarships can support your journey.

PhD in Finland: Financial Aid and Scholarships

Financing your PhD in Finland can be tough, as only about 5% of researchers get scholarships. But fully funded scholarships, including Fulbright Scholarships, plus research assistantships and project grants, offer valuable support. With smart planning, you can secure the funding you need.

Below is a breakdown of the key funding options for PhD students:

Scholarship Name	Type	Benefits (Cost Covered)
Finnish Government Scholarship Pool	Government	€1,500–€2,000/month (INR 1.35L–1.8L) living allowance + travel grants for non-EU students
EDUFI Fellowships	Government	12-month stipend (€1,900/month or ₹1.8L) for initial research phase
Doctoral Researcher Grant (University of Helsinki)	University	€2,000/month (INR 1.8L) + travel grants for conferences
UTU Graduate School Funding (University of Turku)	University	€1,200/month (INR 1.15L) + tuition-free study
Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (EU)	EU-funded	Funding for all research areas, with Doctoral Networks lasting up to 4 years (5 years for Joint Doctorates)
Nokia Foundation Grants	Industry-funded	€15,000 (INR 13.5L) for ICT/engineering research
Kone Foundation Grants	Private Foundation	€2,700-€3,800/month (INR 2.6L-INR 3.6L) for humanities/social sciences research

To further support your PhD journey, consider the various employment opportunities at Finnish universities that can help you fund your research and living expenses.

PhD Funding and Employment Opportunities at Finnish Universities

PhD funding and employment opportunities at Finnish universities can be a challenge. Around 33% of doctoral candidates are employed by the university itself. Scholarships, grants, and part-time work options are available to support you during your studies.

Below is a summary of how some key Finnish universities provide funding through these positions:

University	Funding Type / Position	Benefits (Cost Covered)
University of Helsinki	Salaried Doctoral Candidate Positions	Employment contract with competitive salary and research support.
Aalto University	Funded Doctoral Positions / Departmental Grants	Salary according to the university pay scale, and access to the advanced research environment.
Tampere University	Funded Doctoral Researcher Positions	Employment contract with salary, research infrastructure, and doctoral training.
University of Turku	Salaried PhD Positions / Doctoral Program Funding	Salary is based on the university's collective agreement and research support.
Åbo Akademi University	Funded Doctoral Researcher Positions	Employment contract with salary, research support.
University of Oulu	Funded Doctoral Positions / Project-Based Funding	Salary or grant for living expenses, depending on the program.

Also Read: How to Apply for a PhD Abroad

With university scholarships in mind, let's now discuss the potential career opportunities available after completing your PhD in Finland.

Potential Job Opportunities after a PhD in Finland

Upon finishing your PhD in Finland, you'll find various career options available in both academic and industry settings. On average, PhD graduates earn around €49,000 (approximately INR 43.5L) within the first year of graduation. Finland offers strong career prospects, whether in research, teaching, or the private sector.

Here's an overview of potential job roles for PhD graduates in Finland, including approximate average annual salaries:

Job Role	Approximate Average Monthly Salary	Description
University Professor	€7,000 (INR 6.6L)	Conducts academic research, teaches, and mentors students at the university level.
Researcher (Private Sector)	€3,945 (INR 3.8L)	Conducts industry-specific research and applies academic findings in practical, real-world scenarios.
Postdoctoral Researcher	€3,600 (INR 3.4L)	Works under the supervision of senior researchers, often at universities or research institutions.
Data Scientist / Analyst	€4,729 (INR 4.5L)	Utilizes statistical models and computational techniques to analyze data, often in sectors like finance, tech, or healthcare.
Policy Analyst / Advisor	€3,006 (INR 2.9L)	Works in governmental or international organizations to evaluate and develop public policies based on research.
Corporate R&D Specialist	$3799 (INR 3.3L)	Works in private sector research and development, focusing on product innovation, development, and improvement.
Consultant	€4,296 (INR 3.7L)	Provides expert advice to organizations, utilizing academic research and specialized knowledge.

Source: Glassdoor

Note: Salary figures are approximate and may differ depending on experience, industry, and location.

After understanding the job market, let's explore the top recruiters in Finland that offer promising career paths for PhD graduates.

Top Recruiters for PhD Graduates in Finland

In Finland, PhD graduates enjoy a high employability rate, with 96% securing positions in their fields. Top recruiters include renowned academic institutions, research organizations, and private sector companies, offering diverse career opportunities.

Below are some of the leading employers and industries that frequently hire PhD graduates:

Recruiter Type	Examples & Opportunities
University & Academic Institutions	University of Helsinki  Aalto University University of Jyväskylä
Research Institutes	VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL) Finnish Environment Institute (SYKE)
Private Sector (Technology & R&D)	Nokia Rovio
Government and Public Sector	Finnish National Agency for Education (EDUFI) Finnish Ministry of Education and Culture, Other public research institutions
Pharmaceutical & Biotechnology Firms	Orion Pharma Bayer GlaxoSmithKline
Consulting & Advisory Firms	McKinsey & Company Deloitte PwC
International Organizations	WHO EU institutions NGOs based in Finland

With job opportunities in mind, let's discuss why studying for a PhD in Finland is a strategic choice for your medical career.

Why Opt for a PhD Program in Finland?

Finland offers top-quality doctoral education with no tuition fees, excellent research infrastructure, and a high standard of living. Over 85% of international PhD graduates find work in Finland’s academia or industry within a year of completing their degree.

Here's why you should consider pursuing a PhD in Finland:

1. Leading Universities & Research Excellence

• Global Rankings: Finnish universities, such as the University of Helsinki (#106 QS 2024) and Aalto University (#116), excel in fields such as AI, environmental sciences, and health technology.
• Advanced Facilities: Access to EU-funded laboratories (e.g., Helsinki Institute of Life Science) and collaboration with companies like Nokia and Fortum.
• Cross-Disciplinary Research: Opportunities to work on projects in areas like sustainability, digital humanities, and quantum computing.

2. Tuition-Free Education & Generous Funding

• No Tuition Fees: PhD programs are free for all students, including those from outside the EU.
• Scholarships & Salaries:
  • Finnish Government Scholarships: €1,500–€2,000/month (INR 1.45L–0.93L).
  • University Employment: Many PhD students work as paid researchers (€2,300–€4,000/month or INR 2.2L–3.8L).
  • Industry Grants: Companies like Kone Foundation support humanities projects (up to €2,000/month or INR 1.92L).

3. English-Taught Programs & Diverse Community

• Language Flexibility: 90% of PhD programs are available in English.
• International Community: 12% of doctoral students are from abroad, creating strong global networks.
• Work-Life Balance: Finland is ranked #1 in work-life balance, with flexible study hours.

4. Post-Study Opportunities & EU Mobility

• Job Market: 82% of PhD graduates secure positions in R&D, academia, or the tech industry.
• Salary Potential:
  • Academia: €45,000–€70,000/year (INR 43L–67L).
  • Industry: €60,000–€100,000/year (INR 58L–97L) in fields such as AI and clean energy.
• Post-Study Work Visa: Non-EU graduates can apply for a 2-year residence permit to search for work.

5. Focus on Sustainability & Innovation

• Green Technology: Work on projects related to renewable energy (e.g., LUT University's solar technology research).
• Health Sciences: Collaborate with institutions like the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare on public health innovations.
• Social Impact: Finland prioritizes research in education, equality, and climate policy.

6. Simple Application Process

• No Entrance Exams: Admission is based on research proposals, academic merit, and supervisor approval.
• Support Services: Universities provide relocation assistance, language courses, and career counseling.

Now that you know the benefits of studying for a PhD in Finland, let's discuss how upGrad can guide you through the process.

How Can upGrad Help You Prepare for a PhD in Finland?

Pursuing a PhD in Finland offers access to top-tier research and academic opportunities. Universities like Aalto University and the University of Helsinki are known for their innovative research, expert faculty, and advanced facilities, providing a strong foundation for doctoral studies.

Although the application process can be competitive, upGrad provides personalized guidance throughout. Our experts support you with university selection, application preparation, and scholarship opportunities to help you secure a place at Finland's top institutions.

Begin your PhD journey in Finland today by booking a free 1:1 counselling session with upGrad’s expert advisors. Receive personalized guidance, insider tips, and tailored strategies designed to help you secure a spot in one of the world’s leading research programs. Your future as a global scholar starts here!