When you think of study abroad destinations, Finland may not be the first country that comes to mind. But that’s changing fast—especially for students from Kerala. In fact, more and more Indian students are discovering the charm of Finland’s education system, its vibrant culture, and the life-changing opportunities that come along.
As Mr. Erik Af Hällström, Finland’s Consul General in Mumbai, recently said, the growing Indian diaspora in Finland—now about 22,000 strong—is not only building careers but also enriching Finnish society.
But what exactly makes Finland stand out as a study destination, especially compared to more familiar options like the UK, Australia, or Canada?
A Happier Place to Study and Live
Dr. Eva Nilsson, Finland’s Deputy Consul General, shared a simple but powerful fact: Finland has ranked the happiest country in the world for eight consecutive years. And that happiness isn’t limited to citizens—it reflects strongly in student life as well.
Finland doesn’t just talk about education. It focuses on student well-being, mental health, and a balanced lifestyle. The “student life balance” is a real thing here—giving students the space to study hard while enjoying life, culture, and nature.
Practical Perks That Make a Big Difference
Let’s talk numbers and facts because they matter when planning your future.
- Wide Course Options: Over 600 degree programmes fully taught in English, at both bachelor’s and master’s levels, covering everything from business and engineering to information technology and design.
- Affordable Tuition: Depending on the course, tuition fees typically range from 8,000 to 20,000 Euros per year—much more affordable compared to the traditional Western destinations.
- Living Costs That Don’t Break the Bank: Students benefit from free healthcare, affordable housing, discounted meals, and public transport passes that keep day-to-day expenses low.
This means more money in your pocket for exploring the beauty of Finland, traveling around Europe, or investing in personal growth.
Safety and Gender Equality Matter
For many parents—and especially young women—safety is a top concern when studying abroad. Finland stands out for being one of the safest countries in the world, with a strong reputation for gender equality.
Dr. Nilsson shared that many female Indian alumni specifically chose Finland because they found it an environment where women study and work on equal footing with men—without fear, bias, or unnecessary hurdles.
Industry Links, Internships, and Work Opportunities
Finland is not just about classroom learning. It’s a hub of innovation, especially in fields like ICT and engineering. The strong link between universities and industry means students get real chances to do internships, collaborative projects, and part-time jobs.
Moreover, many universities offer scholarships directly, making the entire process smoother for Indian students.
And here’s something every graduate dreams of: Finland’s post-study residence permit system is very competitive, allowing students to stay and explore job opportunities in the country after graduation.
Growing Interest from India
The numbers say it all. Between 2022 and 2024, applications from Indian students to Finnish universities have risen by 68%. Currently, around 2,000 Indian students are already studying there, mainly choosing Business, ICT, and Engineering programs.
This trend isn’t accidental—it’s a reflection of how Finland is positioning itself as an affordable, high-quality, and student-friendly alternative in the European education landscape.
Should Finland Be Your Next Study Destination?
If you’re still wondering whether to go for the usual study destinations or consider Finland, here’s the advice:
- Don’t overlook a country that offers
- Top-notch quality education
- Affordable living and tuition
- Incredible freedom to explore Europe
- A safe, supportive environment
- Work opportunities after graduation
At IRS Study Abroad, we’re proud to help students from Kerala discover the perfect study programme in Finland. From selecting the right course to guiding you through the application and visa process, we’re here to make your study abroad journey smooth and stress-free.
Your global future is waiting. Let’s explore Finland together!