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Tuition fees

The tuition fee is charged to third-country nationals who have arrived or are arriving in Finland for the purpose of studying. Third-country nationals are citizens of countries other than the member states of the European Union or Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland.

Tuition fees in vocational education will come into effect starting from August 1, 2026.

Who needs to pay the tuition fee?

Tuition fees apply to students:

  • who are citizens of non-EU countries
  • who have been granted a residence permit in Finland for studies
  • or whose residence permit is based on a family member’s studies

The tuition fee must be paid before the start of studies.

Who does not need to pay?

You do not need to pay the tuition fee if:

  • you are a citizen of an EU country
  • you are a citizen of Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway or Switzerland
  • you have a permanent residence permit in Finland
  • you are an exchange student
  • you are subject to compulsory education
  • you have been granted international or temporary protection

Ukrainian citizens are exempt from tuition fees during the validity of temporary protection (currently until 4 March 2027).

What does the tuition fee include?

The tuition fee charged by Lappia covers:

  • teaching and guidance
  • student welfare services (e.g. healthcare and counselling services)
  • learning support and special support
  • student lunches (for students in vocational qualifications only)
  • study materials

The tuition fee does not cover:

  • accommodation or other personal living expenses

Tuition fee amount

See the amounts of the tuition fees here.

More information

For more information, please visit the website of Finnish Immigration Service – Studying in Finland