Everything you need to know about Autumn Intake in Finland
Finland is globally emerging as one of the most preferred destinations for international students. It provides a distinctive learning experience through the implementation of innovative teaching methods and offers great opportunities with a globally recognized education system. Autumn intake is the major time to enroll in Finland, as it marks the commencement of the academic calendar.
This article will give you a proper overview of the autumn intake and will give necessary guidelines on how to prepare for your academic journey in Finland.
What is the Autumn Intake?
The September intake, or the autumn intake, refers to the teaching term that opens in August or September annually. It is Finland’s main period of intake, and thus, most degree programs, especially the ones offered in English, welcome new students at this time.
The autumn intake clashes with the Finnish academic calendar, which normally lasts between late August/early September and May, with breaks in between. The autumn intake in Finland for international students is suitable because :
- Most universities admit the broadest choice of programs during this term.
- Orientation weeks and student support are designed to assist new students in settling.
- The term is compatible with international academic calendars.
Finland Universities Application Deadline for 2026
If you are targeting the autumn intake, planning is the key. Here’s a rough timeline to remember:
- September to December (Previous Year): Begin researching programs and universities.
- January: Joint application time starts. You can apply for a maximum of six programs with a single application.
- End of January: Final date to submit applications.
- February to April: Entrance examinations and interviews (if necessary).
- April to June: Admission decisions are released.
- July: Complete residence permit applications and reserve accommodation.
- August: Orientation and arrival week.
Tip: Individual application periods might be applicable in certain universities, so it is necessary to check individual university websites for exact dates.
Why Finland for Autumn Intake?
- Quality Education: Finland is always highly ranked when it comes to education. The University of Applied Sciences (UAS) emphasizes practical skills, whereas the traditional universities emphasize academic and research-oriented education.
- English-Taught Programs: There are hundreds of English-taught programs offered, from engineering and IT to social sciences and business. This is made accessible to non-Finnish speakers.
- Low Cost of Education: Although Finland implemented tuition fees for non-EU/EEA students in 2017, most universities provide excellent scholarships that can even pay up to 100% of the fees.
- Safe and Student-Friendly Environment: Finland is renowned for being one of the safest nations on Earth, boasting top-notch healthcare, a crime rate that is very low, and high standards of living.
Most Popular Universities for Autumn Intake
A few of the most popular universities in Finland for autumn intake are:
- University of Helsinki
- Aalto University
- Tampere University
- University of Turku
- University of Oulu
- LAB University of Applied Sciences
- Haaga-Helia University of Applied Sciences
Visa and Residence Permit Application
Apply for a residence permit for students from the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) after getting an offer of admission. The documents needed are
- Acceptance letter
- Evidence of sufficient funds (min. €560/month)
- Health insurance
- Passport and biometric information
It is recommended to get your permit as early as possible, ideally by June or early July, to avoid problems.
Student Life in Finland
Beginning university in the autumn intake provides the opportunity to experience Finnish culture in its most vibrant form – when campuses are filled with students and cities hum with life.
- Orientation Week
Orientation week is organized by the majority of universities for foreign students to acclimatize. This includes campus tours, city tours, academic counseling, and social activities
- Housing
Student accommodation is usually provided by local student housing companies such as HOAS (Helsinki) or TOAS (Tampere). Apply early, as they fill up rapidly.
- Part-Time Work
Part-time work is available for 30 hours of work per week during the semester, which is an opportunity to earn additional money and acquire experience in work. Hospitality, logistics, and IT are sectors with job opportunities available for English-speaking students.
Finland Autumn: An Experience to Cherish
The Finnish autumn season is pure magic. With foliage and northern lights, it is the best time to visit and witness the beauty of the country. It is also the beginning of student events such as:
- Welcome parties organized by student unions
- Preparations for Vappu (spring student festival)
- Sauna nights and forest walks
- University sports societies and clubs
Adapting to the reduced daylight and chilly temperatures may prove difficult for a few, but most students appreciate snuggly cafes, indoor sports, and Finnish culture, such as sauna culture.
Tips for Preparing for Autumn Intake
- Start Early: Start looking at programs and documents at least one year ahead of time.
- Learn Basic Finnish: Although everyone speaks English, it is useful to know some Finnish for everyday life.
- Budget Wisely: The cost of living is between €700–€1,200/month, depending on the city.
- Network: Become a member of student forums and social media groups to meet peers.
- Pack Smart: Autumn can be cold and rainy. Pack waterproof shoes and a warm coat!
Conclusion
The autumn intake in Finland is the perfect time for international students to start their academic life in one of the most progressive and open societies in Europe. From world-class universities to breathtaking autumn landscapes, the autumn intake offers a smooth integration into Finnish life both academically and socially. Finland also provides a spring intake, typically starting in January, with limited program availability compared to the main autumn semester.
If Finland is on your mind for your higher studies, do not wait – prepare now and begin a fruitful and unforgettable journey by contacting the best study abroad consultants in Kerala.