Spring Intake in Finland 2026

Finland is quickly gaining popularity among students from around the world for its top-notch education system, progressive society, and secure living atmosphere. The spring intake in Finland is a wonderful alternative for students who missed fall enrollments or those who prefer a fresh start in the new year.

This guide goes deep into the spring intake in Finland, such as which universities provide January intakes, how to apply, visa details, advantages, disadvantages, and major tips for success.

Feel free to connect with our experts to learn more about the opportunities in Finland.

Why should you choose Finland for higher studies?

Finland is always rated among the leading nations in education, and that makes it a popular destination for foreign students. Its dedication to high-quality, innovative, and inclusive education systems makes it stand out. Here are some reasons why you might want to think about Finland for your higher education:

High-Quality Education: Finland is famous for its top-level education system focused on critical thinking, creativity, and innovation.
English-Taught Programs: A wide range of degree programs taught in English means that Finland is open to foreign students in different fields.
Affordable Education: Finland has comparably low study fees compared to other favorite countries to study in, with plenty of scholarship possibilities.
High Quality of Life: Finland is repeatedly ranked as one of the happiest and safest nations, with a high standard of living.
Excellent Job Market: Finland’s robust job market, particularly in technology, sustainability, and engineering, offers great career opportunities for graduates.

Spring Intake in Finland: A Brief Overview

The spring intake, or the January intake as it is popularly referred to in Finland, is the period of study beginning in January or February. While most degree programs in Finland start in August/September (fall intake), there are a few universities that offer some programs for commencement in the spring semester as well.

The spring intake allows flexibility for the students who :

Missed the fall intake deadline
Completed previous studies mid-year
Want to stay clear of stiff fall competition
Are transferring from other institutions

While choices might be fewer, the quality of academics and format is still the same as in the fall term.

Benefits of Spring Intake in Finland

Quicker Admission to University – In case you did not make it for the fall intake, spring provides a quicker option than having to wait for a whole year.
Lower Competition – Spring intake tends to have fewer candidates, raising your chances of being admitted.
Less Difficulty in Accommodation – With fewer new students joining in January, accommodation tends to be less hectic.
More Flexibility in Scheduling – Better for students graduating from high school or undergraduate programs in december.

Top Universities Offering Spring Intake Programmes

Not all Finnish universities provide a spring intake, but many have planned specific programs to accommodate students in January. Some of the popular universities and UASs that provide a spring intake are:

LUT University (Lappeenranta-Lahti University of Technology)

Provides master’s courses in energy, sustainability, and technology.
It is popular for its engineering and business programs.

University of Eastern Finland (UEF)

Provides master’s degrees in health sciences, IT, and education.
Two campuses: Joensuu and Kuopio.

Hanken School of Economics

One of Finland’s oldest business schools.
Provides international master’s programs with spring intakes.

Tampere University of Applied Sciences (TAMK)

Provides Bachelor’s and Master’s in business, engineering, and social services.

Arcada University of Applied Sciences

Specializes in IT, business, media, and healthcare.

University of Helsinki

Offers courses in environmental sciences and computer science
It is known for its research-driven approach and diverse course offerings.

Universities of Applied Sciences:

Several UAs have spring starts for bachelor’s and master’s degrees, including Vaasa University of Applied Sciences (VAMK) and LAB University.

Important Dates and Deadlines for Spring Intake in Finland 2026

To effectively apply for the spring intake in Finland, it is essential to monitor important dates. Although every university will have its deadlines, the following timeline presents a general guideline for the spring intake in Finland:

October to December 2025: Opening of application period.
December 2025 to January 2026: Required document submission.
January 2026: Announcement of admission results.
January to February 2026: Classes start.

Make sure that you visit each university’s website for the most precise and current deadlines.

How to apply for the spring intake in 2026

The process of applying for the spring intake in Finland is centralized, easy, and largely online. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Research Available Programs

Search for programs that have a January intake using studyinfo.fi .
Choose programs that match your academic interests and career aspirations.

Step 2: Prepare Required Documents

Most universities require the following:

Academic transcripts and certificates
English language proficiency proof (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent)
CV/resume
Letter of motivation or statement of purpose
Passport or national ID
Reference letters (sometimes obligatory)
Portfolio (needed for creative programs)

Step 3: Application Period

Applications typically open from September–October for January intake.
Application deadlines are usually at the end of September or the beginning of October.

Step 4: Submit Your Application

Applications are made online via studyinfo.fi .
Some universities impose a tiny application fee (approximately €50 per program).

Step 5: Receive Admission Results

Admission results typically become available in November or early December.
Once accepted, you can then go ahead and apply for a Finland student visa or residence permit.

Visa and Residence Permit Process for Finland

If you are a non-EU/EEA student, obtaining a residence permit is essential for studying in Finland. Start this process as soon as you receive your admission letter.

Steps to Apply for a Residence Permit

Prepare your documents:
- Admission letter from the university
- Passport
- Proof of sufficient funds (~€7,000 per year)
- Health insurance
Apply online through EnterFinland.fi:
- Submit your application with the required documents via the official portal.
- Pay the application fee.
Attend a biometric appointment:
- If required, visit the nearest Finnish embassy or consulate for biometric verification.
Processing time:
- The processing time for a residence permit is approximately 4-8 weeks, so it’s important to apply as early as possible.

Tuition Fees and Scholarships

Tuition fees for the spring intake in Finland vary by university and program, typically ranging from €6,000 to €18,000 per year. However, many institutions offer scholarships for international students.

Available Scholarships:

University-specific scholarships: Many universities provide tuition waivers or scholarships based on academic performance.
Finnish Government Scholarships: Available for select programs and fields of study.
Early Bird Discounts: Some universities offer discounts for students who accept admission offers early.

Exploring scholarship opportunities can significantly reduce your financial burden during your studies.

Accommodation and Living Costs in Finland

Living in Finland is generally affordable compared to many other European countries. Here is an estimate of your monthly expenses while studying during the spring intake in Finland:

Accommodation: €300 – €600 per month
Food and groceries: €250 – €300 per month
Public transport: €50 per month (student discounts available)
Health insurance: Approximately €150 per year

Tips for Finding Accommodation

Apply for student housing early through platforms like Hoas.fi (Helsinki region) or TOAS.fi (Tampere region) to secure affordable accommodation.

Working While Studying in Finland

As an international student in Finland, you are allowed to work part-time (up to 20 hours per week) during the academic year and full-time during holidays. After graduation, you can apply for a post-study work visa, allowing you to stay in Finland and seek full-time employment.

Key Points About Working While Studying:

Many universities offer on-campus job opportunities for students.
Knowing basic Finnish can enhance your chances of finding part-time work.
Post-graduation, you can apply for a post-study work visa to explore job opportunities.

Tips for a Successful Application

To improve your chances of securing a spot during the spring intake in Finland, consider the following tips:

Start early: Begin researching programs and preparing documents well ahead of the deadlines.
Write a compelling motivation letter: Clearly outline your career goals and reasons for choosing Finland as your study destination.
Apply for multiple programs: To increase your chances of acceptance, apply to more than one university or program.
Monitor your email regularly: Stay updated on university communications and respond promptly to any requests.
Explore scholarship options: Apply for scholarships as soon as you receive your admission offer to maximize your financial aid.

Conclusion

The spring intake in Finland for 2026 presents a remarkable opportunity to embark on your academic journey in one of the most innovative and welcoming countries in Europe. With careful preparation, timely application submission, and an understanding of the requirements, you can successfully navigate the admission process and begin an exciting new chapter in your life.

If you have any questions or need further assistance, don’t hesitate to visit Studyinfo.fi or the official websites of your preferred universities. Best of luck with your application, and welcome to Finland!