Study in Finland Without IELTS in 2025

Latest update: In 2025, Finland’s University of Helsinki and Aalto University now accept Duolingo English Test (DET) scores (minimum 120) for MS programs, bypassing IELTS, with 97% of applicants using DET or MOI certificates.

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a standardized test used to assess English proficiency for non-native speakers. It is commonly required for university admissions in English-speaking countries. However, not all universities mandate IELTS, and Finland is one such destination offering alternative options for proving English proficiency.

Finland has gained global recognition for its high-quality education system, innovative teaching methods, and strong focus on research and sustainability. Known for its student-friendly policies, the country offers excellent opportunities for international students without the stress of mandatory language proficiency exams like  IELTS or TOEFL.

Now, you might be wondering—can you study in Finland without IELTS? The answer is yes! Many Finnish universities allow students to apply without IELTS by accepting alternative English proficiency proofs,

The following are the benefits of studying in Finland for international students: 

• No IELTS Requirement – Many universities offer alternative ways to prove English proficiency.
• Globally Recognized Education – High academic standards and innovative teaching methods.
• Affordable Tuition & Scholarships  – Opportunities for financial aid and low-cost education.
• Work While Studying – International students can work part-time and explore post-study work visas.
• Safe & Inclusive Environment – Finland is one of the world’s safest and happiest countries.
• Research & Career Opportunities – Strong emphasis on technology, research, and sustainability.

In this blog, we will explore how to study in Finland without IELTS, the alternative English proficiency requirements, the benefits of studying in Finland, and key admission insights for international students.

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How to Study in Finland Without an IELTS Score

If you're asking, "Can I study in Finland without IELTS?", the answer is yes! Many universities in Finland for international students without IELTS offer alternative pathways for proving English proficiency. Instead of IELTS, students can submit previous education certificates, university-specific English tests, or attend online interviews as proof of language skills.

To help you navigate the admission process for universities in Finland without IELTS, here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to applying successfully.

1. Choose Your Program

Selecting the right course is the first and most crucial step in your journey to studying in Finland without IELTS. 

Here’s how you can make the best choice:

• Research the Finland university list without IELTS and identify institutions that align with your academic background.
• Explore various programs offered at universities in Finland for international students without IELTS based on your field of interest.
• Check the program’s curriculum, duration, career prospects, and internship opportunities.
• Ensure that the selected program is available for non-EU/EEA students.

Some top universities in Finland without IELTS include the University of Helsinki, Tampere University, and LUT University.

2. Check Entry Requirements

Each university in Finland without IELTS has its own set of admission criteria. Therefore, it is essential to check the official university website for updated requirements. Common alternative English proficiency proofs include:

✔ Previous Education in English – If you have completed prior education (high school or bachelor’s) in English, many universities accept this as proof.
✔ English Proficiency Letter from Your Institution – Some Finnish universities accept an official letter from your previous school stating that your education was in English.
✔ University-Specific English Tests –Certain schools in Finland without IELTS conduct their own English language tests as an alternative to IELTS or TOEFL. These tests evaluate your proficiency based on the university's standards, and successful completion of the test allows you to bypass IELTS.
✔ Online Interviews – Some universities assess applicants' language skills through virtual interviews instead of standardized tests.

Each institution may have different requirements, so make sure to confirm the details before applying.

3. Prepare Your Documents

Once you have selected your program and checked the entry requirements, the next step is gathering the required documents. A complete and well-organized application increases your chances of acceptance at a Finland university without IELTS.

Here’s a checklist of essential documents you will need:

• Academic Transcripts & Degree Certificates – Official copies of previous qualifications.
• Proof of English Proficiency – A certificate, letter, or document confirming your English language skills.
• Statement of Purpose (SOP) – A well-written SOP explaining your academic goals, career aspirations, and why you chose Finland.
• Letters of Recommendation (LORs) – Academic or professional references supporting your application.
• CV/Resume – Highlighting your educational background, work experience, and achievements.
•  Passport Copy – A valid passport for international travel and student visa processing.
•  Financial Proof – Some universities may require bank statements to confirm your ability to cover tuition and living expenses.

Ensure that all documents meet the university’s formatting and submission guidelines to avoid delays in processing.

4. Submit Your Application

After preparing your documents, the next step is to complete the application process at your chosen university. Follow these steps:

• Visit the university's official website and locate the online application portal.
• Fill out the application form with accurate details.
• Upload all required documents in the specified format.
• Double-check for errors before final submission.

Most universities in Finland without IELTS have two major intakes – Fall (August/September) and Spring (January/February). Applying early increases your chances of securing admission.

5. Pay the Application Fee

Many universities in Finland for international students without IELTS charge a non-refundable application fee. Here’s what you should know:

• Non-EU/EEA students applying for Bachelor's or Master's programs in Finland must pay an INR 9450 / 100 euro application fee.
• Payment is usually made through credit/debit cards or bank transfers.
• Some universities waive application fees for specific scholarship applicants, so check if you qualify.

6. Wait for the Admission Decision

Once you’ve submitted your application, the university will review your documents and assess your eligibility. Here’s what happens next:

• Application Processing – This can take 4 to 8 weeks, depending on the university.
• Additional Interviews – If required, some universities may invite you for an online interview to assess your English proficiency.
• Offer Letter – If accepted, you will receive an official admission offer via email.
• Student Visa Process – After securing admission, you need to apply for a Finland student visa to study in the country.

If you don’t receive an immediate response, don’t worry! You can check the application portal or contact the admissions office for updates

Read: Education system in Finland

Top Universities in Finland That Accept Students Without IELTS

Finland is home to nearly 20,000 international students pursuing various professional courses, and it continues to attract new students seeking to enhance their educational journey. While it may be challenging to find universities with top QS rankings that offer admissions without an IELTS score, several renowned institutions in Finland do not require it. 

This list showcases some of the top universities in Finland that accept international students without the IELTS requirement, along with their specific English proficiency criteria for admissions.

Top Universities	QS Ranking 2025	English Proficiency Requirement
Aalto University	#113	- TOEFL iBT: 92 (minimum 22 for Writing) - PTE A: 62 (minimum 54 for Writing) - No Cambridge tests other than C1 Advanced (CAE) and C2 Proficiency (CPE)
University of Helsinki	#117	- TOEFL iBT: 92 (minimum 22 in Writing) - PTE: 62 (minimum 54 in each communicative skill section) - C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency accepted
LUT University	#336	- TOEFL iBT: 90 - PTE Academic: 62 - C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency (Pass levels A, B, or C)
University of Oulu	#344	- TOEFL iBT: 92 (minimum 20 in Writing) - PTE: 62 (minimum 52 in Writing) - C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency accepted
University of Turku	#375	- TOEFL iBT: 90 (minimum 20 in Writing) - PTE: 62 - C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency: Pass grade "C" or higher
Tampere University	#462	- TOEFL iBT: 92 (no section below 20) - PTE: 62 (no section below 42) - C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency: Pass grade "C" or higher

Also Read: Finland Universities Fees

Student Visa Requirements to Study in Finland Without IELTS 

The Finland student visa fee is INR 33k  /  EUR 350 if you apply online, and INR 42k / EUR 450 if you apply through a paper application. It’s important to note this fee must be paid when submitting your visa application. 

While many universities in Finland accept students without IELTS, you will still need to fulfill certain visa requirements to study in Finland. Below is a guide to the necessary documentation and process:

• Acceptance Letter: You will need an official admission letter from a Finnish university or educational institution.
• Proof of Financial Support: You must demonstrate you have sufficient funds to cover living expenses in Finland, such as a bank statement or sponsorship letter.
• Valid Passport: Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay in Finland.
• Health Insurance: You must have valid health insurance that covers your stay in Finland.
• Proof of English Proficiency: Even though IELTS is not required, you may need to submit alternative proof of your English proficiency, such as a certificate from your previous institution or an interview.
• Visa Application Form: Complete the visa application form, available from the Finnish consulate or embassy.
• Visa Interview: Some applicants may be asked to attend an interview at the Finnish embassy or consulate.

Scholarships for International Students in Finland

These scholarships provide an excellent opportunity for international students to study in Finland without IELTS, as many of the scholarships don't require IELTS for application, especially if previous studies were conducted in English.

Here’s a list of scholarships available for international students to study in Finland, including those who wish to study in Finland without IELTS.

Scholarship Name	Eligibility Criteria	Benefits
Erasmus Mundus Scholarship Programs	Open to international students at the Master's level.	Full tuition coverage, travel expenses, and living allowance.
University of Helsinki Scholarship	Available for Master's candidates from outside the EU/EEA.	100% tuition fee coverage INR 5L ( EUR 5000)  relocation grant (two years).
Finland Government Scholarship	Non-EU/EEA students applying for Master's degrees.	Tuition fee coverage + living support.
EDUFI Doctoral Fellowships in Finland	For young researchers and doctoral students from outside Finland.	INR 1L (EUR 1,500) per month for research funding, 3-12 month duration.
Finnish Government Scholarship Pool	For non-EU/EEA nationals pursuing Doctoral studies.	Full funding for Doctoral studies.
CIMO Scholarships	For international students, researchers, and teachers.	Covers tuition, travel, and living expenses.
Fulbright Finland Foundation Grants	For U.S. citizens for research, study, or teaching in Finland.	Supports U.S. citizens to study, research, or teach in Finland.
Finnish Cultural Foundation Grants	For students with artistic, cultural, or scientific projects.	Grants for artistic and cultural projects.
Finnish Society of Sciences and Letters	For students in scientific research and education in Finland.	Scholarships and awards to promote scientific research and education.

Read More about Studying in Finland for free.

Cost of Studying in Finland 

Finland offers free education for students from the EU/EEA and Switzerland. However, international students applying to study in Finland are required to pay tuition fees. These fees vary across universities and programs, with the average range being between approx. INR 8L - INR 19L (EUR 8,000 - EUR 20,000 ) per year, excluding general living expenses. 

Students who are subject to tuition fees may also be eligible for various scholarships offered by the universities. Prospective students need to explore available scholarship opportunities when selecting a university in Finland.

Below is an outline of the estimated tuition fees for international students.

Public Universities in Finland and Fees

Public universities in Finland offer a high standard of education with affordable tuition fees, especially for students coming from EU/EEA countries. However, students from outside the EU/EEA are subject to tuition fees. 

Here's an overview of the fees:

• Bachelor’s Programs: INR 4L - INR 17L /   EUR 4,000 – EUR 18,000 per year
• Master’s Programs: INR 4L - INR 17L /   EUR 4,000 – EUR 18,000 per year 
• Doctoral Programs: Generally, no tuition fees for non-EU/EEA students. However, some universities may charge administrative fees or small application fees.

Private Universities in Finland and Fees

Private universities in Finland generally have higher tuition fees compared to public institutions. They may also provide more specialized programs or courses, which attract higher costs.

 Here’s what you can expect:

• Bachelor’s Programs: INR 8L - INR 19L / EUR 8,000 - EUR 20,000 per year
• Master’s Programs: INR 9L - INR 24L / EUR 10,000 – EUR 25,000 per year
• Doctoral Programs: INR 11L - INR 28L / EUR 12,000 – EUR 30,000 per year

Cost of Living in Finland

Finland offers a high standard of living, with modern amenities and excellent healthcare services. The estimated monthly cost of living for a single person in Finland is INR 88k / EUR  938, excluding rent.

 However, it’s important to be prepared for the cost of living, which can vary depending on the city and lifestyle. Major expenses include accommodation, food, transportation, and utilities, which are essential to consider when planning your budget.

Below is an outline of the estimated tuition fees for international students.

Expenses	Amt Yearly (INR & EUR)
Housing City Center	INR 9L  EUR 9,324
Housing Outside Center	INR 7L  EUR 7,560
Food	INR 91k EUR 960
Transportation	Inr 68k EUR 720
Utilities	INR 1L  EUR 1464
Miscellaneous Costs	INR 53k EUR 564

Source: Numbeo 

Career Opportunities After You Study in Finland Without IELTS

Studying in Finland opens up a wide range of career opportunities, even for students who have pursued their studies without an IELTS score. With its strong economy, innovation-driven industries, and emphasis on sustainability.

Finland offers an array of job profiles across various sectors. Here's a look at some of the popular job profiles and their average annual salaries that you can expect after completing your studies in Finland.

Job Profile	Average Annual Salary (INR, EUR)
Software Engineer	INR 45,53,760 - INR 56,92,200 EUR 48,000 - EUR 60,000
Data Scientist	INR 45,53,760 - INR 56,92,200  EUR 48,000 - EUR 60,000
Mechanical Engineer	INR 34,15,320 - INR 45,53,760  EUR 36,000 - EUR 48,000
Business Analyst	INR 45,53,760  EUR 48,000
Marketing Manager	INR 45,53,760 - INR 68,30,640  EUR 48,000 - EUR 72,000

Note: The current exchange rate is 1 EUR = INR 94.87.

Read More about Work Life in Finland: Exploring Lucrative Job Opportunities in Finland

Challenges of Studying in Finland Without IELTS and How to Overcome Them

Studying in Finland without IELTS can present a few challenges, but with the right approach, they can be easily managed. Here are some common obstacles and their solutions:

Challenge	Solution
Language Barriers	Provide proof of prior education in English or take tests like TOEFL, PTE, or Cambridge English.
Limited Program Options	Choose universities in Finland that accept alternative English proficiency tests.
Visa and Documentation	Submit necessary documents including proof of English proficiency on time.
Adapting to the Finnish System	Take preparatory courses or workshops to familiarize yourself with the system.

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Choose Your Dream Career with upGrad

A degree from Finland offers not only academic prestige but also a rich, diverse student experience. For those aspiring to study in Finland without IELTS, upGrad provides a unique opportunity to gain access to top universities with flexible entry requirements. With a range of fully-funded scholarships and a world-class education system, Indian students can confidently pursue their dreams abroad. Don't let IELTS be a barrier—leap and apply to study in Finland without IELTS with upGrad’s support.

Unlock your future and study in Finland without IELTS with upGrad! Explore world-class universities, scholarship opportunities, and flexible entry requirements. Start your journey today and make your dream education a reality.