Studies

Apply for student financial aid (opintotuki)

Full-time students in Finland can get study grant, housing allowance, and a government-guaranteed student loan from Kela.

As soon as your study place is confirmed

Kela student financial aid

Why this matters

Student financial aid can cover a significant portion of your living costs. The study grant alone is about 268 euros per month, and the loan guarantee gives access to cheap financing.

How it goes

Apply at kela.fi. The student financial aid package includes: study grant (opintoraha, about 268 euros per month), general housing allowance (separate application), and a government-guaranteed student loan (up to 650 euros per month with very low interest). EU/EEA students who work at least 18 hours per week may qualify. Check eligibility requirements at Kela.

Good to know

Apply before the start of the academic year for the first payment in September
The student loan has a very low interest rate and partial government forgiveness if you graduate on time
Housing allowance is a separate application from opintotuki
Keep your study credits on track to maintain eligibility